What is Ethical Hacking?
The term “ethical hacking” was coined by hackers who performed penetration testing for companies that wanted to assess their security before making public announcements about new products or services. These early ethical hackers would try to break into a company’s system the same way a malicious hacker would, but instead of stealing data or causing damage, they would report their findings to the company so that they could fix the security flaws. As technology advances and more businesses move online, the risk of cyber attacks increases.
What is a Certified Ethical Hacker?
A Certified Ethical Hacker is a professional who is responsible for testing and assessing the security of computer systems and networks. They use their hacking skills to protect organizations from potential cyberattacks by identifying vulnerabilities and implementing security measures.
To become a certified ethical hacker, one must first pass an exam administered by the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). The Certified Ethical Hacker (C|EH v12) curriculum is one of the most prestigious in the cyber security industry. It provides certifiers with the ability to strike the uncertainties and weak points of system networks while also protecting them from unauthorised hacking. CEH v12’s new 4-phase learning structure includes training, hands-on learning laboratories, assessments, practice examinations, cyber contests, and so on. This new learning framework is an improved version of what was previously available.
Some of the most well-known certifications for ethical hackers are:
- EC Council: Certified Ethical Hacking Certification
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Certification
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco’s CCNA Security
- SANS GIAC
Top skills of Ethical Hacking
In the age of digitalization, the skills of ethical hacking are in high demand. With hacking becoming more and more sophisticated, organisations are looking for talented individuals who can help them protect their systems and data.
Networking Skills
Knowing network models, internet protocols, and IP addresses will help you master ethical hacking techniques and become a competent hacker. You should also be familiar with routers, servers, clients, Transmission Media, access points, Shared Data, and Network Interface Cards, among other concepts.
Some of the most important networking skills for ethical hackers include:
- IP Addressing
- Subnetting
- Network Scanning
- Packet Analysis
Computer Skills
You need to be proficient in various programming languages, as well as have a strong understanding of computer networks and security to become an ethical hacker. Some of the most popular programming languages used in ethical hacking include Python, Perl, and Java.
A good understanding of computer networks, including knowledge of how to set up and configure network devices, as well as how to troubleshoot networking issues, are added skills in this area.
Linux Skills
Linux is a powerful operating system that is widely used in the world of ethical hacking. Many professionals prefer to use Linux for its stability and security features.
Some of the key Linux skills that every ethical hacker should have include:
- Basic Linux Commands
- Networking
- Security
- Scripting
- Reverse Engineering
Programming Skills
Ethical hackers need to have strong programming skills. They should be able to code in multiple languages and understand how different types of software work.
The most important language for ethical hacking is Python. Python is a versatile scripting language that can be used for everything from automating tasks to building complex applications. It’s also relatively easy to learn, making it a good choice for beginners. Other popular languages used are SQL, C, JavaScript, PHP, C++, Java, Ruby, and Perl.
SQL Skills
SQL is a powerful tool for ethical hackers. SQL skills allow access to sensitive data that would otherwise be inaccessible. For ethical hacking, an ethical hacker must have the following SQL skills:
- Discover how to execute a SQL injection against a login.
- Discover how to incorporate the information into SQL injection results.
- Recognize the objective of error-based SQL injection.
- Create the SQL injection syntax for loading a file into a web page.
- Show how to use SQL injection to write to a file.
- Discover SQL injection attack automation tools.
Hardware Knowledge
Fundamental hardware knowledge is essential to becoming an ethical hacker. If someone wants to hack a computer-controlled machine, he must first learn about the device and how it operates. Hardware knowledge allows ethical hackers to develop custom tools and hardware devices that can be used to attack systems.
Knowledge of Reverse Engineering
Reverse engineering is the process of taking something apart and understanding how it works to be able to recreate it or build upon it. It is not simply a case of taking something apart and putting it back together again; you need to be able to understand what you are seeing and how it all fits together. There must be some essential skills for an ethical hacker, and good ethical hackers should have a good working knowledge of tools and techniques used in reverse engineering.
Some of the most important skills for reverse engineers include:
- The ability to read and understand assembly language.
- The ability to use a disassembler
- The ability to use a debugger
- A good understanding of networking concepts.
Cryptography
Cryptography is the practice of secure communication in the presence of third parties. It is used in many different applications, including email, file sharing, and encrypted messaging. Cryptography is a critical tool for keeping information safe from unauthorised access.
Database Skills
Database hacking is the process of exploiting weaknesses in a database to gain access to sensitive data. It can be used to obtain confidential information, such as credit card numbers or customer records. It can also be used to modify data, such as adding or deleting records. To be successful at database hacking, an ethical hacker needs to have a good understanding of how databases work and how they are secured.
Problem-solving Skills
Ethical hacking is not simply about running automated tools or following step-by-step instructions; it requires a great deal of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The ability to think like a hacker, to see the world through the eyes of someone who wants to harm, is essential for identifying potential security risks. Once these risks have been identified, it then becomes a matter of finding ways to mitigate them.
Summing Up…
Often, the most effective solution is not always obvious, which is why creative thinking is so important in ethical hacking. To be successful, you must be willing to experiment and try out new ideas. So if you’re the kind of person who likes solving puzzles and isn’t afraid of a little trial and error, then you just might have what it takes to be an ethical hacker.
