Introduction

Cybersecurity has become one of the most important topics of our time. With the rapid advancement of technology, information security has also become more critical. As a result, many people aspire to become hackers and specialize in this field. However, it’s essential to remember that becoming a hacker is not just about acquiring technical knowledge; it also involves understanding ethical guidelines and legal boundaries. In this article, we will explore what it means to be a hacker, the types of hackers, and the steps to becoming a hacker in detail.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the concept and types of hackers
• Learn the essential knowledge and skills required to become a hacker
• Grasp the importance of ethical hacking and legal boundaries

What is a Hacker and What Are the Types?

A hacker is someone who gains unauthorized access to computer systems and networks to obtain, modify, or damage information. However, hacking is not always malicious, and there are different types of hackers. Hackers are generally categorized based on their motivations, ethical standards, and legal frameworks into three main types(Everything to Become a Bug Bounty Expert):

White Hat Hackers (Ethical Hackers)

White hat hackers work within ethical and legal boundaries to ensure the security of systems. They are usually hired by companies and organizations or work as consultants. White hat hackers perform the following tasks:

• Security Testing: They test the security of systems, networks, and applications. During these tests, they identify vulnerabilities and report them (Linux Basics: A Guide for Hackers).
• Vulnerability Mitigation: They provide recommendations or directly intervene to fix the identified security gaps.
• Training and Consulting: They raise awareness of security issues within companies and contribute to the development of security policies.

White hat hackers receive ethical hacking training and typically hold certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker).

Black Hat Hackers

Black hat hackers attack computer systems and networks for malicious purposes. They engage in illegal activities and typically aim for the following:

• Information Theft: They infiltrate systems to steal personal data, financial information, or trade secrets.
• Causing Damage: They launch attacks to damage systems, delete data, or disrupt operations.
• Ransomware: They lock systems or encrypt data and demand ransom.

Black hat hackers usually try to remain anonymous and aim to profit through illegal means. Their activities are punishable by law.

Gray Hat Hackers

Gray hat hackers fall somewhere between white hat and black hat hackers. These hackers often gain unauthorized access but do not use the information for malicious purposes. Characteristics of gray hat hackers include:

• Unauthorized Access: They gain unauthorized access to systems but typically do not use this access for harmful purposes.
• Information Sharing: They report the identified security vulnerabilities to relevant parties, sometimes with good intentions to improve security.
• Ethical Dilemmas: Despite using illegal methods, they often act with ethical concerns and avoid causing harm.

Gray hat hackers sometimes work like white hat hackers, but their methods and approach to the law differ. These hackers hold a controversial position in the security world.

10 Steps to Becoming a Hacker

1. Acquire Basic Knowledge: Understand how computers and networks work. Knowledge of operating systems, network protocols, software, and hardware is essential.
2. Learn Programming Languages: Learning popular programming languages like Python, C, and JavaScript provides significant advantages for hackers. These languages enable you to develop software, identify vulnerabilities, and conduct security tests.
3. Understand Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Gain knowledge about cybersecurity concepts, attack types, defense strategies, and security tools. Also, understanding security policies and best practices is crucial.
4. Network Security: Learn how network security protocols, firewalls, and VPNs work. Identifying vulnerabilities in networks and developing defense strategies are essential skills.
5. Ethical Hacking Training: Participate in formal training programs such as CEH certifications to develop ethical hacking skills and learn how to operate legally.
6. Practice: Set up virtual lab environments (e.g., virtual machines and penetration testing environments) to practice real-life applications. This allows you to apply what you’ve learned.
7. Use Security Tools: Learn to use popular security tools like Metasploit, Nmap, Wireshark, and Burp Suite. These tools help you conduct vulnerability scans and penetration tests(The Top 8 Popular Hacker Operating Systems for Security).
8. Continuous Learning: The cybersecurity world is constantly changing and evolving. Stay updated on new attack methods, defense mechanisms, and security vulnerabilities by conducting ongoing research.
9. Understand Ethical and Legal Boundaries: Ethical hacking involves testing the security of systems within legal boundaries and reporting vulnerabilities. Avoid illegal activities and adhere to ethical hacking principles.
10. Join Communities: Engage with other professionals by joining cybersecurity and hacker communities. Forums, conferences, and online communities can be valuable for networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development.

Conclusion

Becoming a hacker is a long and complex process, but it is possible to succeed in this field with the right knowledge and skills. By staying within ethical and legal boundaries, continuously learning, and practicing, you can play a significant role in the world of cybersecurity. Remember, being a good hacker requires not only technical expertise but also adherence to ethical standards and legal boundaries.