the CHEAPEST path to becoming an ethical hacker

Summary

In this informative video, The Cyber Mentor, Heath Adams, guides viewers on the most cost-effective path to becoming an ethical hacker. He introduces free or low-cost resources, including certifications, workshops, and online courses, covering essential skills from basic computer knowledge to advanced hacking techniques. Adams emphasizes the importance of understanding networking, security, Linux, coding, and ethical hacking concepts, recommending specific platforms and courses to build a strong foundation in cybersecurity.

Takeaways

• 💻 The video aims to outline the most cost-effective path to becoming an ethical hacker, focusing on free resources or those under $30.
• 🎓 It emphasizes the importance of foundational computer knowledge, equivalent to the CompTIA A+ certification, for understanding computer parts and basic troubleshooting.
• 🌐 Computer networking knowledge is crucial, including understanding the OSI model, port services, and concepts like CIDR notation and the three-way handshake.
• 🔒 The CompTIA Security Plus certification is recommended for building upon networking knowledge with a focus on security, often referred to as 'Network Plus Plus'.
• 🐧 Linux knowledge is essential, particularly with Kali Linux, and the speaker suggests immersing oneself in the Linux environment to effectively learn.
• 🐍 Coding skills, particularly Python, are necessary for ethical hackers to understand and analyze code, though not necessarily to become a developer.
• 👨‍🏫 Professor Messer and Mike Myers are highlighted as valuable resources for learning CompTIA certifications, with their content often being free or affordable.
• 🎮 Interactive learning platforms like TryHackMe and Hack The Box provide practical, gamified experience in ethical hacking.
• 🛠️ The video promotes the idea that ethical hacking is about finding and reporting vulnerabilities ethically, not causing chaos.
• 📈 The speaker suggests a roadmap from basic computer knowledge to advanced hacking skills, including active directory hacking and web application pen testing.
• 📝 The importance of understanding the OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities for web application pen testing is stressed, as this knowledge is often tested in interviews.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video focuses on providing a roadmap to becoming an ethical hacker using free or inexpensive resources.

Why is the video about ethical hacking being made?

The video is made to show how to become an ethical hacker affordably, using resources that are either free or cost no more than $30.

What misconception about ethical hacking does the speaker address?

The speaker addresses the misconception that ethical hacking is about breaking into systems and causing chaos, when in reality, it is about finding vulnerabilities and reporting them responsibly.

What is the first foundational skill mentioned in the roadmap?

The first foundational skill mentioned is basic computer knowledge, equivalent to the CompTIA A+ certification.

What resources are recommended for learning basic computer knowledge?

Professor Messer’s free videos and Mike Myers’ courses on Udemy, which can often be found at discounted rates, are recommended for learning basic computer knowledge.

What is the importance of computer networking knowledge for ethical hackers?

Computer networking knowledge is crucial because many ethical hacking activities involve understanding and exploiting networks.

What resources are suggested for learning computer networking?

Professor Messer's free materials, Mike Myers’ courses on Udemy, and Cisco Packet Tracer are suggested resources for learning computer networking.

What is the 'CompTIA Triad' mentioned in the video?

The 'CompTIA Triad' refers to the combination of A+, Network+, and Security+ certifications, which provide a solid foundation in IT and cybersecurity.

Why is Linux knowledge important for ethical hackers?

Linux knowledge is important because many ethical hacking tools and environments, like Kali Linux, are based on Linux, and understanding how to use and navigate Linux is essential for ethical hackers.

What are some resources mentioned for learning Linux?

Resources mentioned for learning Linux include Linux Journey, OverTheWire’s Bandit game, and TCM Security Academy’s Linux 101 course.

Is advanced coding knowledge necessary to become an ethical hacker?

No, advanced coding knowledge is not necessary, but being able to read and understand code, especially Python, is important for ethical hacking.

What free resources are recommended for learning Python?

FreeCodeCamp and Codeacademy, which offers a seven-day free trial, are recommended for learning Python.

What are the two platforms mentioned for practicing ethical hacking skills?

TryHackMe and Hack The Box are mentioned as platforms for practicing ethical hacking skills through Capture the Flag-style challenges.

What is emphasized about learning ethical hacking in the video?

It is emphasized that learning ethical hacking involves starting with foundational knowledge and progressing through practical hands-on experience, using mostly free or inexpensive resources.

What specific types of hacking knowledge are considered advanced?

Advanced hacking knowledge includes skills like Active Directory hacking and web application penetration testing.

What resource is highly recommended for learning web application penetration testing?

PortSwigger Academy, which offers free modules and hands-on exercises, is highly recommended for learning web application penetration testing.

What is the OWASP Top 10, and why is it important?

The OWASP Top 10 is a list of the ten most critical web application security risks, and it is important because understanding these vulnerabilities is crucial for web application penetration testing.

What is the speaker's advice for anyone interested in becoming an ethical hacker?

The speaker advises starting with free training to see if ethical hacking interests you and to build foundational knowledge that can be applied in various cybersecurity roles.