In today’s world, cybersecurity is of utmost importance. As more and more businesses and individuals store their sensitive information online, it is imperative to keep this information secure from hackers. Ethical hacking is an important skill that can help individuals identify potential vulnerabilities in computer systems and prevent cyber attacks. In this article, we will discuss the steps that one can take to become an ethical hacker after 12th.
What is Ethical Hacking?
Ethical hacking, also known as penetration testing, is the practice of testing computer systems and networks to find vulnerabilities that a malicious hacker could exploit. Ethical hackers use the same techniques and tools that a hacker would use, but with the permission and knowledge of the system owner. They aim to find vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do, and then report them to the system owner so that they can be fixed.
Benefits of Ethical Hacking
There are many benefits to becoming an ethical hacker. Firstly, it is a high demand and well-paying job. As more and more businesses move online, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is only going to increase. Secondly, ethical hacking provides an opportunity to learn about different computer systems and networks. It is a challenging and rewarding career that requires continuous learning and growth.
Requirements to Become an Ethical Hacker
To become an ethical hacker, you need to have a good understanding of computer systems and networks. You should be familiar with programming languages such as Python, C, C++, and Java. You should also have knowledge of networking protocols and operating systems such as Linux and Windows. Good communication and problem-solving skills are also important.
Ethical Hacking Certifications
There are many certifications available for ethical hackers. Some of the most popular ones are:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
How to Become an Ethical Hacker After 12th
To become an ethical hacker after 12th, you can follow these steps:
- Choose a Relevant Course: After completing 12th, you can pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Some colleges also offer specific courses in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
- Learn Programming: To become an ethical hacker, you need to learn programming languages such as Python, C, C++, and Java. You can start learning these languages online or by taking courses.
- Networking: Networking is an important part of ethical hacking. You need to have a good understanding of networking protocols such as TCP/IP and DNS. You can start by learning about these protocols online.
- Operating Systems: Knowledge of different operating systems such as Linux and Windows is also important. You can start by installing Linux on your computer and getting familiar with its command line interface.
- Ethical Hacking Tools: There are many tools available for ethical hacking. You can start by learning about tools such as Nmap, Metasploit, and Wireshark.
- Certification: After gaining the required knowledge and skills, you can pursue certifications such as CEH, OSCP, CompTIA Security+, or CISSP.
- Join Ethical Hacking Communities: Joining ethical hacking communities can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the field. These communities can also provide you with networking opportunities and a platform to share your knowledge.
- Participate in CTFs: Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions are a great way to practice your ethical hacking skills. These competitions provide you with real-world scenarios to test your knowledge and skills.
- Internships and Apprenticeships: Many organizations offer internships and apprenticeships for ethical hackers. These programs provide you with practical experience and exposure to real-world ethical hacking scenarios.
- Join Bug Bounty Programs: Bug bounty programs are offered by many companies as a way to incentivize ethical hackers to find vulnerabilities in their systems. These programs can provide you with monetary rewards and exposure to real-world ethical hacking scenarios.
Job Opportunities for Ethical Hackers
There are many job opportunities available for ethical hackers. Some of the most common job titles are:
- Penetration Tester
- Security Analyst
- Security Consultant
- Information Security Manager
- Cybersecurity Engineer
Future Scope of Ethical Hacking
The future of ethical hacking looks promising. With the rise of cyber attacks and the increasing reliance on technology, the demand for ethical hackers is only going to increase. Ethical hacking is also a field that requires continuous learning and growth, which means that there will always be opportunities for individuals to improve their skills and knowledge.
What should I study to become a hacker?
To become a hacker, you need to have a solid foundation in computer science, networking, and programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++. It is also important to have knowledge of operating systems, databases, and web applications. In addition to technical skills, you should also develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
How many days it will take to become an ethical hacker?
The time it takes to become an ethical hacker varies depending on your current level of knowledge and experience. However, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years to become proficient in ethical hacking.
What is ethical hacker salary?
The salary of an ethical hacker varies depending on their experience, skills, and industry. According to payscale.com, the average salary for an ethical hacker in the United States is around $89,000 per year.
Can I become an ethical hacker by myself?
Yes, it is possible to become an ethical hacker by self-learning. There are many online resources and courses available that can help you learn the necessary skills.
How do hackers make money?
Hackers make money by exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. They can steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal data and sell it on the dark web. They can also use ransomware attacks to extort money from victims.
Do ethical hackers need a degree?
No, a degree is not a requirement to become an ethical hacker. However, having a degree in computer science or a related field can be beneficial.
Where do hackers learn to hack?
Hackers learn to hack through self-learning, online courses, and by attending hacking conferences and events. They also learn from their peers in the hacking community.
Is ethical hacker a real job?
Yes, ethical hacking is a legitimate profession. Many companies and organizations hire ethical hackers to test their computer systems and networks for vulnerabilities.
Do ethical hackers get rich?
Ethical hackers can earn a good salary, but becoming rich solely through ethical hacking is not common. However, ethical hacking can lead to other opportunities such as consulting or starting a cybersecurity company.
What are the 7 types of hackers?
The seven types of hackers are:
- White hat hackers (ethical hackers)
- Black hat hackers
- Grey hat hackers
- Script kiddies
- Hacktivists
- State-sponsored hackers
- Malicious insiders
Are ethical hackers rich?
Ethical hackers can earn a good salary, but it is not common for them to become rich solely through ethical hacking. However, ethical hacking can lead to other opportunities such as consulting or starting a cybersecurity company.
Who is the No 1 ethical hacker?
It is difficult to determine who the No 1 ethical hacker is as the field is constantly evolving and there are many skilled professionals in the industry. However, some well-known ethical hackers include Kevin Mitnick, Charlie Miller, and Dino Dai Zovi.
What ethical hackers learn?
Ethical hackers learn various skills such as penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, network analysis, and system administration. They also learn how to use various tools and techniques to identify and fix vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks.
Are ethical hackers happy?
Many ethical hackers report high job satisfaction as they are able to use their skills to make a positive impact and help protect companies and organizations from cyber threats.
Do ethical hackers know coding?
Yes, ethical hackers need to know how to code in programming languages such as Python, Java, and C++ to be able to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks.
Do ethical hackers travel?
Ethical hackers may travel for work depending on the company or organization they work for. They may need to travel to various locations to test computer systems and networks for vulnerabilities.
Conclusion
Becoming an ethical hacker after 12th requires dedication and hard work. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can gain the required knowledge and skills to become an ethical hacker. Ethical hacking is a challenging and rewarding career that provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on society by keeping sensitive information secure.
FAQs
What is the difference between a hacker and an ethical hacker?
A hacker is someone who uses their knowledge of computer systems to gain unauthorized access and cause harm. An ethical hacker, on the other hand, uses the same techniques and tools as a hacker, but with the permission and knowledge of the system owner to find vulnerabilities and fix them.
What qualifications do I need to become an ethical hacker?
To become an ethical hacker, you need to have a good understanding of computer systems and networks. You should be familiar with programming languages such as Python, C, C++, and Java. You should also have knowledge of networking protocols and operating systems such as Linux and Windows.
What certifications are available for ethical hackers?
Some popular certifications for ethical hackers are CEH, OSCP, CompTIA Security+, and CISSP.
What job opportunities are available for ethical hackers?
Some common job titles for ethical hackers are Penetration Tester, Security Analyst, Security Consultant, Information Security Manager, and Cybersecurity Engineer.
What is the future scope of ethical hacking?
The demand for ethical hackers is only going to increase in the future as more businesses move online and the reliance on technology increases. Ethical hacking is also a field that requires continuous learning and growth, which means that there will always be opportunities for individuals to improve their skills and knowledge.
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