Getting Started with Penetration Testing: A Roadmap for 2025#

The demand for skilled penetration testers and ethical hackers is at an all-time high. As cyber threats evolve, organizations need professionals who can think like attackers to secure their systems. If you're looking to break into this exciting field in 2025, this roadmap is for you.

Phase 1: The Fundamentals#

Before you can break systems, you need to understand how they work.

Networking#

• OSI Model: Understand how data moves across layers.
• Protocols: TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, SSH, FTP.
• Tools: Wireshark, Nmap.

Operating Systems#

• Linux: Master the command line (Bash). Kali Linux or Parrot OS should be your daily driver.
• Windows: Understand Active Directory, PowerShell, and the Registry.

Programming/Scripting#

You don't need to be a software engineer, but you must be able to read code and write scripts.

• Python: For automating attacks and writing exploits.
• Bash: For system administration and quick scripts.
• JavaScript: Crucial for web application security.

Phase 2: Security Core#

Web Application Security#

• OWASP Top 10: Memorize and understand every vulnerability.
• Burp Suite: The industry-standard tool for web app testing. Learn to intercept, modify, and replay requests.

Network Security#

• Enumeration: Finding live hosts and open ports.
• Vulnerability Scanning: Using tools like Nessus or OpenVAS.
• Exploitation: Using Metasploit (but learn manual exploitation too!).

Phase 3: Certifications#

Certifications validate your skills and get you past HR filters.

• eJPT (eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester): A great practical starting point.
• OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): The gold standard. It's a grueling 24-hour practical exam that proves you can "Try Harder."
• PNPT (Practical Network Penetration Tester): A modern, realistic certification gaining rapid popularity.

Phase 4: Practice, Practice, Practice#

Theory is useless without practice. Use these platforms to hone your skills:

• Hack The Box (HTB): Gamified penetration testing labs.
• TryHackMe: Guided learning paths for beginners.
• PortSwigger Web Security Academy: The best free resource for web app security.

Phase 5: Building Your Brand#

• GitHub: Share your custom tools and scripts.
• Blog: Write about what you learn (like this!).
• Twitter/LinkedIn: Connect with the infosec community.

Conclusion#

Becoming a penetration tester is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires continuous learning, curiosity, and persistence. Start with the basics, get your hands dirty in labs, and never stop exploring. The world needs more white hats!

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Ready to start your journey? Check out my other posts for deep dives into specific tools and techniques.