Ethical Hacking in 12 Hours - Full Course - Learn to Hack!

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of ethical hacking based on the full course by The Cyber Mentor. It covers various concepts, tools, and techniques essential for aspiring ethical hackers, including networking basics, tools installation, programming, and penetration testing methodologies. By following these steps, you will gain foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue a career in ethical hacking.

Step 1: Understand Ethical Hacking

• Learn about the role of ethical hackers and their responsibilities.
• Familiarize yourself with the various phases of ethical hacking:
  • Reconnaissance
  • Scanning
  • Gaining Access
  • Maintaining Access
  • Covering Tracks

Step 2: Take Effective Notes

• Use a structured note-taking method to document your learning.
• Include key concepts, tools, and commands that you find useful.

Step 3: Install Virtualization Software

• Choose between VMware or VirtualBox for setting up virtual machines.
• Follow these steps to install:
  • Download the installer from the official website.
  • Run the installer and follow the prompts to complete the installation.

Step 4: Install Kali Linux

• Download the Kali Linux ISO from the official website.
• Create a new virtual machine in your virtualization software:
  • Allocate at least 2GB of RAM and 20GB of disk space.
  • Attach the Kali Linux ISO as boot media.
• Start the VM and follow the installation prompts.

Step 5: Configure Kali Linux

• After installation, update Kali Linux:

  sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
  

• Familiarize yourself with the file system and common commands:
  • Navigate using cd, list files with ls, and view file contents with cat.

Step 6: Learn Basic Networking Concepts

• Understand IP addresses, MAC addresses, and the OSI model.
• Review TCP, UDP, and the three-way handshake.
• Learn about common ports and protocols used in networking.

Step 7: Master Common Network Commands

• Get comfortable with commands like:
  • ifconfig or ip addr to view network interfaces.
  • ping for testing connectivity.
  • traceroute to trace the path to a destination.

Step 8: Install and Update Hacking Tools

• Use package managers like apt to install tools:

  sudo apt install nmap
  sudo apt install burpsuite
  

• Regularly update your tools to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.

Step 9: Learn Scripting Basics

• Start with Bash scripting:
  • Create a new script file:

    nano script.sh
    

  • Write simple commands and run the script using bash script.sh.
• Transition to Python for more advanced scripting:
  • Learn about variables, functions, and libraries.

Step 10: Conduct Reconnaissance

• Use tools like Nmap and Burp Suite for scanning and enumeration.
• Identify targets and gather information:
  • Discover email addresses and domains using online resources.
  • Perform scans to identify open ports and services.

Step 11: Explore Vulnerability Assessment

• Use Nessus for scanning vulnerabilities:
  • Install Nessus and configure it to scan your target.
  • Analyze the scan results to identify potential exploits.

Step 12: Practice Exploitation Techniques

• Learn how to gain access using Metasploit.
• Understand the differences between reverse shells and bind shells.
• Practice manual exploitation techniques for a hands-on experience.

Step 13: Complete the Capstone Projects

• Engage in practical exercises through capstone projects.
• Set up various environments (like Blue and Black Pearl) to solidify your skills.

Conclusion

By following this tutorial, you will have a strong foundation in ethical hacking principles and practices. Continue to explore advanced topics, participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges, and engage with the ethical hacking community to enhance your skills. Consider taking formal courses for certification to validate your proficiency and advance your career in cybersecurity.