How to Become an Ethical Hacker in 2022

 

Originally, the term "hacker" referred to a skilled programmer skilled in machine code and computer operating systems. A 'hacker' is now defined as someone who regularly engages in hacking activities and has adopted hacking as a lifestyle and philosophy of choice. Hacking is the practice of modifying the features of a system in order to achieve a goal that is not intended by the creator.

Before we get into how to become an ethical hacker, let us first define the role.

What is Ethical Hacking?

The term "hacking" has very negative connotations, but this will only be true until the role of an ethical hacker is fully understood. Ethical hackers are the "good guys" of the hacking world, wearing the "white hat." So, what exactly is the role of an ethical hacker? Instead of using their advanced computer knowledge for criminal purposes, ethical hackers identify weaknesses in data computer security for businesses and organizations all over the world in order to protect them from hackers with less than honorable intentions.

10 Steps To Become An Ethical Hacker

Get Your Hands on LINUX/UNIX:-

LINUX/UNIX, an open-source operating system, improves computer system security. As an ethical hacker, you should be familiar with LINUX because it is one of the most popular operating systems for hacking. It provides a plethora of tools for hackers. Red Hat Linux, Ubuntu, Kali Linux, BackTrack, and other popular Linux distributions are examples. Among these, Kali Linux is the most popular Linux system specifically designed for hacking.

Opt for the Mother of all Programming Languages:-

C, one of the earliest programming languages, is also known as the "mother of all programming languages." Because the UNIX/LINUX operating system is written entirely in C, this programming language serves as the foundation for learning it. As a result, hackers must master C programming in order to fully utilise the open-source operating system Linux.

To gain an advantage, try to learn more than one programming language. An ethical hacker who is well-versed in two to three programming languages can dissect and analyse code. The following are some of the best programming languages for hackers:

• Python: Etensively used for exploit writing.
• JavaScript: Suitable for web application hacking
• PHP: Aids in the fight against malicious attackers.
• SQL: best language for hacking large databases.

Discover the Art of Being Anonymous:-

The most important step in ethical hacking is learning how to be anonymous and hide your identity online so that no trace is left and no one can track you down. Often, an ethical hacker is unaware of who else is on the network, and if a Black hat hacker discovers that there is someone else on the network, they may attempt to hack their system. As a result, anonymity is essential for ethical hackers as well. The three most promising methods for protecting your identity are Anonsurf, Proxychains, and MacChanger.

Learn About Networking Concepts:-

Ethical hackers must understand networking concepts and how they are created. Learning about various networks and protocols can help you exploit vulnerabilities. An ethical hacker with extensive knowledge of networking tools such as Nmap, Wireshark, and others can overcome field challenges. Some key networking concepts are:

• TCP/IP Network
• Subnetting
• Network Masks and CIDR
• Simple Network Management Protocol
• Server Message Block
• Domain Name Service (DNS)
• Address Resolution Protocol
• Wireless Networks
• Bluetooth Networks
• SCADA Networks (Modbus)
• Automobile Networks (CAN)

Traverse the Hidden Web:-

The dark web refers to the portion of the internet that is hidden or not visible to search engines. Access requires special authorization or software. Tor, an anonymizing browser, can provide access to the dark web. It is a hotbed of criminal activity, but not everything on the dark web is illegal. It also has a legitimate side, and ethical hackers must understand how the dark web works.

Add Secret Writing to your Skill Set:-

Cryptography, or secret writing, is a valuable skill for an ethical hacker. Encryption and decryption are essential skills in hacking. Encryption is used in a variety of aspects of information security, including authentication, data integrity, confidentiality, and others. Passwords and other sensitive information are always encrypted on a network. A hacker must learn how to identify and break encryption.

Expand Your Knowledge of Hacking:-

Once you've mastered the previous topics, delve into hacking concepts and learn about SQL injections, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and more. Keep up to date on the latest system security changes, as well as the latest tools and methods for hacking and securing a system.

Explore Vulnerabilities:-

Vulnerabilities are flaws or gaps in the system. Learn how to scan systems and networks for vulnerabilities that could result in a security breach. Ethical hackers may also attempt to write vulnerabilities in order to exploit the system. The following are some vulnerability detection tools included in the Kali Linux operating system:

• Nessus Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies vulnerabilities on web applications and multiple systems
• OpenVAS Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies vulnerabilities on devices within a network
• Nikto Vulnerability Scanner: Acknowledges vulnerabilities on web servers
• Nmap Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies vulnerabilities across multiple targets
• Wapiti Vulnerability Scanner: Identifies web application issues like XSS and SQLi

Experiment and Practice to Ace Hacking:-

The keys to success in the field of hacking are practice and experimentation. Ethical hackers must apply what they've learned in a variety of environments and scenarios. Experiment with various attacks, tools, and other features.

Participate in discussions and meet with expert hackers:-

Create a community or join forums for discussions with other hackers all over the world to exchange and share knowledge and collaborate. Discord, Facebook, Telegram, and other platforms all have communities.

If you want to pursue a career in ethical hacking, you should first enroll in an online ethical hacking course to properly learn everything. You have the opportunity to use your skills to break into computer systems and get paid well for it.