Top Hacking Books for 2023

Summary

In this insightful video, Occupy The Web shares his expert recommendations on essential books for those starting out in the cybersecurity, hacking, and pentesting fields. From foundational texts like 'Linux Basics for Hackers' to more advanced resources, he provides a roadmap for beginners and highlights key skills. He also addresses the evolving role of programming languages like Python and Go in the industry, discusses the importance of networking knowledge, and critiques popular hacking books. Viewers are encouraged to engage and share their own recommendations, creating a dynamic exchange of ideas.

Takeaways

• 😀 'Linux Basics for Hackers' is the recommended starting point for newcomers to hacking, especially for those unfamiliar with Linux.
• 😀 A diverse set of books are recommended to gain different perspectives on the hacking and pentesting industry.
• 😀 Networking is a crucial area in hacking; 'Network Basics for Hackers' provides a hacker-focused view on vulnerabilities and how they can be exploited.
• 😀 'The Web Application Hacker's Handbook' is considered outdated, with many of its concepts being over a decade old, despite its early impact in the field.
• 😀 Python remains the dominant language in the hacking community, though Go is gaining traction for cutting-edge developments.
• 😀 A new book, 'Network Basics for Hackers,' is designed to teach networking concepts specifically through a hacker's lens, highlighting vulnerabilities and exploits.
• 😀 Books like 'The Hacker Playbook' are considered less effective due to their scattered approach and lack of depth in any single topic.
• 😀 While there are many books available, it's not necessary to read them all; prioritizing foundational books like 'Linux Basics for Hackers' is a solid approach.
• 😀 It's important to pace oneself when diving into the hacking world. The books listed don't need to be consumed within a short time but rather incorporated gradually into one's learning path.
• 😀 The hacking field is ever-evolving, and staying updated on the latest tools, techniques, and languages (such as Go) is key to staying competitive in the industry.

Q & A

What is the first book recommended for beginners in the cybersecurity and hacking industry?

The first book recommended for beginners is 'Linux Basics for Hackers'. It’s suggested to start here if you're new to the industry and unfamiliar with Linux.

Why is 'Linux Basics for Hackers' considered a good starting point for beginners?

'Linux Basics for Hackers' is designed for those who are new to Linux, which is a crucial part of the cybersecurity and hacking field. It provides foundational knowledge of Linux systems, making it easier for beginners to understand more advanced topics in the industry.

How does Occupy The Web suggest approaching the collection of cybersecurity books?

Occupy The Web suggests that beginners don't need to read all the books at once. Instead, they should start with key books like 'Linux Basics for Hackers' and 'The Pentester's Blueprint', and gradually add more books to their reading list as they develop their interests and skills.

What is the focus of 'Network Basics for Hackers' compared to traditional networking books?

'Network Basics for Hackers' focuses on how hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in various types of networks (e.g., TCP/IP, cellular, automobile) rather than simply teaching network engineering. It provides a hacker’s perspective on finding flaws in network protocols.

How does 'The Web Application Hackers Handbook' fare in terms of relevance in the current cybersecurity landscape?

While 'The Web Application Hackers Handbook' was once a great resource, it is now considered outdated. It focuses on web application vulnerabilities and technologies that are over a decade old, which makes it less useful today due to the advancement of new technologies.

What are the advantages of learning Go programming language for cybersecurity, according to Occupy The Web?

Go is becoming more popular in the cybersecurity field due to its speed and efficiency, and many new tools are being developed using it. However, Python remains the dominant scripting language for now, with Go expected to grow in usage in the future.

What is Occupy The Web's opinion on the 'Hacker Playbook' series?

Occupy The Web finds the 'Hacker Playbook' series lacking in depth. While many people recommend it, he believes that the books offer scattered, shallow hacks without focusing on any one approach in detail.

What advice does Occupy The Web give regarding the overwhelming amount of books and resources available?

He advises beginners not to feel pressured to read everything at once. Instead, focus on a couple of key books to build a solid foundation and add more as needed. The idea is to pace your learning and not get overwhelmed.

What is the primary difference between 'The TCP/IP Guide' and 'Network Basics for Hackers'?

'The TCP/IP Guide' is a comprehensive reference book that goes into great detail about networking protocols. In contrast, 'Network Basics for Hackers' takes a more specialized approach, teaching how to exploit vulnerabilities in networks, with a focus on hacking rather than engineering.

What is the recommended approach to learning new skills in cybersecurity and hacking, according to the discussion?

The recommended approach is to start with foundational knowledge, such as understanding Linux and basic networking, then gradually build on that knowledge. It’s important to focus on skills that are directly applicable to your area of interest, such as penetration testing or network exploitation.