Getting Started with Penetration Testing

Penetration testing, or pentesting, is the practice of testing computer systems, networks, and applications to find security vulnerabilities that an attacker could exploit.

What is Penetration Testing?

Penetration testing is an authorized simulated cyber attack on a computer system, performed to evaluate the security of the system. This is different from a real attack because you have permission from the system owner.

Essential Skills

To become a successful penetration tester, you need:

  1. Networking fundamentals - Understanding TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS
  2. Operating systems - Linux and Windows administration
  3. Programming - Python, Bash scripting, PowerShell
  4. Web technologies - HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL

Getting Started

1. Learn the Basics

Start with understanding how networks and web applications work. Free resources like:

  • OWASP Top 10
  • Hack The Box
  • TryHackMe

2. Set Up Your Lab

Create a safe environment to practice:

  • Install VirtualBox or VMware
  • Set up Kali Linux
  • Deploy vulnerable machines (DVWA, Metasploitable)

3. Learn Essential Tools

Master these fundamental tools:

  • Nmap - Network scanning
  • Burp Suite - Web application testing
  • Metasploit - Exploitation framework
  • Wireshark - Network analysis

IMPORTANT: Only test systems you own or have explicit written permission to test. Unauthorized access is illegal and unethical.

Always follow responsible disclosure practices when finding vulnerabilities.

Next Steps

  1. Practice on legal platforms (HTB, THM, VulnHub)
  2. Learn about different attack vectors
  3. Study for certifications (CEH, OSCP)
  4. Join the security community

Stay tuned for more in-depth tutorials on specific pentesting techniques!