Where to Start Hacking, Advanced Resources

Ready to Take Your Hacking Skills to the Next Level?

If you’re already familiar with the fundamentals of hacking and looking for advanced platforms to challenge your skills, you’re in the right place. Once you understand the basics of Networking and Operating Systems, the best way to learn is by doing!

Here are some advanced resources where you can refine your hacking techniques safely and legally:

1. Hack The Box (HTB)

HTB offers an extensive range of real-world challenges and Capture The Flag (CTF) Challenges. It’s a platform designed to test your skills, earn points, and climb the ranks. If you’re up for a challenge, HTB has a vast array of complex scenarios waiting for you. It ranges from beginner-friendly “Starting Point” machines to incredibly difficult retired boxes.

2. TryHackMe

TryHackMe caters to both beginners and advanced users. It offers various rooms and guided tutorials for hacking enthusiasts. The platform includes advanced rooms that will put your skills to the test, but its primary strength is in its structured learning paths. Whether you want to learn web exploitation, network security, or forensics, TryHackMe has a path for you.

3. OverTheWire

OverTheWire hosts a wide selection of wargames that dive deep into security concepts and hacking techniques. The challenges here are designed to be more complex, making it an excellent resource for those looking to take their skills to the next level. A great starting point is the Bandit wargame, which will teach you everything you need to know about the Linux Shell and basic command-line navigation.

4. VulnHub

VulnHub is a platform for downloading intentionally vulnerable virtual machines. These VMs are packed with vulnerabilities that you can exploit to hone your penetration testing and ethical hacking skills. It’s a valuable resource for those seeking hands-on practice with realistic targets without the gamification of HTB. You can download these and run them locally in your own Virtual Machine setup.

5. Metasploitable

Metasploitable is a purposely vulnerable Linux virtual machine that’s perfect for advanced penetration testing. It’s a great environment for exploiting and experimenting with various security vulnerabilities. We highly recommend starting here and exploring our Metasploitable VM Setup Guide and our introduction to the Metasploit Framework.

Embrace the Challenge

These advanced resources offer a challenging environment for those looking to take their hacking skills to the next level. Whether you’re aiming to become a penetration tester, a cybersecurity professional, or a white-hat hacker, these platforms will provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.

Remember that Ethical Hacking is all about responsible and legal learning. Always ensure you have the right permissions before testing your skills on any system or network.

Now, it’s time to dive into these platforms, embrace the challenge, and continue your journey towards becoming a seasoned ethical hacker!