Ever wonder how to become an ethical hacker so that you can work in a cybersecurity-related field? As technology evolves, security measures become essential. In this case, ethical hackers contribute significantly to industries' efforts to secure their data and other practices. 

According to IBM’s Cost of Data Breach Report 2023, the global average cost of a data breach in 2023 was USD 4.45 million, a 15% increase over the previous three years. 

Ethical hacking is the ability to identify the vulnerabilities in a business’s network or infrastructure and then address the issues to prevent cybercrimes. Hacking it’s the practice of modifying the features of a system to accomplish the goal outside of the creator’s original purpose. 

What is ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking is a subset of cybersecurity that significantly goes beyond system security measures to uncover threats and data breaches.  

It is the use of hacking practices and techniques by friendly parties in an attempt to recover and fix security vulnerabilities in a network or system. 

Ethical hackers are experts who identify weaknesses in data computer security for businesses worldwide to protect them from cybercriminals with less honest purposes.  Explore the Certified Ethical Hacking Professional for more understanding. 

Role of an Ethical Hacker

Ethical hackers work as individual contractors for businesses' websites and applications. They often work as cybersecurity specialists for the industry. For these roles, it’s essential to know about trending technologies and tools. 

Identifying and addressing potential security vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks is the primary responsibility of an ethical hacker. Using hacking methodologies, ethical hackers break security measures and uncover weaknesses in security systems.

Importance of an Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking is essential for cybersecurity because it secures critical data from cybercriminals. It helps prevent malicious actors from exploiting businesses or individuals. It also helps bolster cybersecurity measures and decreases the risk of being threatened.  

Ethical hackers are now gaining more attention and importance in the cybersecurity industry, which has led to ethical hackers evolving as assets to companies around the globe. They are not only able to save or protect sensitive data but also prevent reputation loss worth billions. Increasingly, cybersecurity teams include ethical hackers in their teams, and corporations budget for their inclusion in order to thwart attacks and protect their businesses. 

Basic Steps You Should Follow

• Learn Programming Languages: Strong knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C, C++, Java, and JavaScript is essential.

• Understand Networking: Professionals need to Study TCP/IP, subnets, VPNs, and standard network protocols.

• Study Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Make sure you will have knowlege of Firewalls, encryption, antivirus, and IDS/IPS systems.

• Get Hands-on Experience: Practice hacking and securing systems.

• Learn about Different Types of Hacking: Social engineering, web application hacking, and network hacking.

• Obtain Certifications: Earn certifications like Certified Ethical Hacking and Cybersecurity Foundation Certification.

• Continuously Improve and stay Updated: Follow cybersecurity news to stay current with the latest hacking techniques and security threats.

• Join Ethical Hacking Communities: Engage with forums, attend conferences, and participate in capture-the-flag competitions.

• Gain Practical Experience: Work on real-world projects, internships, or bug bounty programs.

• Build a Strong Ethical Foundation: Adhere to ethical guidelines and legal boundaries in your hacking activities.

Responsibilities and Skills Required for an Ethical Hacker

The following are the skills ethical hackers require:

• Networking

• Operating System

• Programming and Scripting 

• Cryptography 

• Database administrative expertise 

• Web Application Security 

• Malware analysis 

• Penetration testing tools

• Security auditing 

Responsibilities of an Ethical Hacker 

• Document the findings 

• Penetration testing 

• Security audits 

• Risk analysis 

• Security awareness training 

• Report development 

• Collaboration with teams

• Adopt new cyber trends and implement them within the business

Learn Ethical Hacker Fundamentals

Ethical hacker principles and practices

Ethical hacker requirements includes cybersecurity assessments within legal and ethical limitations. Following are the different principles and practices associated with ethical hacking:

• Authorization and Consent

• Scope and Boundaries

• Privacy and Data protection

• Compliance with laws

• Reporting and disclosure 

• Permission and responsible disclosure

• Education and experience

• Continuous learning 

Tools and Techniques Used by Ethical Hackers

• Vulnerability scanners

• Frameworks for penetration testing

• Tools for network mapping and reconnaissance

• Web application testing tools

• Toolkits for social engineering

Basics of Ethical Hacking and Fundamentals

The ethical hacker learning path includes the fundamentals. Hacking is the practice of testing computer systems, networks, and applications to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses and fix them before malicious hackers can exploit them. Explore what ethical hackers do to get an idea of the required basics. 

Following are the different fundamentals of Ethical Hacking:

• Assessing vulnerabilities

• Penetration testing

• Gathering intelligence 

• Scanning infrastructures 

• Accessing systems and networks to exploit vulnerabilities

• Hiding access and evading detection

• Compiling documentation and performing analysis 

Choose an ethical hacker Specialization

Ethical hacking is in high demand, and a suitable ethical hacking specialization will help you choose the best career for you. Different job roles fall under ethical hacking, such as penetration testing, security analyst, information security analyst, etc. 

You must do market research to understand how businesses are looking for ethical hackers, what roles and responsibilities they are looking for, what certifications are required for them, etc. In addition, you must consider your professional background and experience. Based on the industry's needs, you must choose ethical hacker specializations.

Get an Ethical Hacking Certification

Benefits of Ethical Hacking Certification

You will be able to think like hackers.Certification helps you understand cybercriminals' mindsets and provides you with the skills and abilities to react faster to threats and momentary events. It also fulfills the Ethical hackers requirements. 

• Opportunity to make a career in information security 

If you have a solid foundation in cybersecurity or want to have these foundations, it’s time to get certification. It will help you with different dimensions of your informational technology career through increasing techniques used by hackers. The high demand for cybersecurity encourages businesses to recruit experts with this certification. Also, this the best way to learn about an ethical hacker. 

• Get ready for security vulnerabilities and risks

As businesses enhance their system security, cybercriminals also update themselves with the latest trends and practices. Attacks on businesses mostly target IT infrastructure by infiltrating detected vulnerabilities. 

But with the help of certification, you can take precautions by understanding how hackers access your network, and you can prevent attacks before they happen because you will remain updated with the latest information you will have against these threats.  

How can you easily learn Ethical Hacking basics?

The best way to learn ethical hacking skills and basics is to enroll for ethical hacking certification. You must go with GSDC’s Ethical Hacking Certification. It will help you to adopt the skills, knowledge, and methods so that you will become an expert in it. 

GSDC provides the best certifications that are up to industrial standards. It will help you with the latest practices in ethical hacking, its technologies, skills, tools, etc. It will not only help you with knowledge but also help you get your dream job.

Create an Ethical Hacking Portfolio or Project 

Creating an ethical hacking portfolio or project is essential for demonstrating your practical skills and experience to potential employers. It showcases your ability to identify and resolve security vulnerabilities, highlighting your hands-on expertise beyond theoretical knowledge. 

Including detailed penetration test reports, security assessments, and contributions to open-source projects in your portfolio proves your competency and dedication to cybersecurity. 

This will help you to stand out in a competitive job market you will also see your commitment to the field and readiness to handle real-world challenges effectively.

Become an Ethical Hacker with GSDC

Make sure to enrol for Ethical Hacking Certification. Following are the steps to enroll for full-stack development certifications:

• Register for the program and complete the payment.

• You will get LMS access which will give you access to e-learning materials and more.

• Create an account on the GSDC website.

• Take the exam and pass! 

John Draper, who completed the certification, testified that he was impressed with it as it covers all of the broad aspects of ethical hacking. He also told that, it fulfills Ethical hackers requirements that helped him to understand basics. Therefore, it showcases that GSDC provides the best certifications, which are recognized globally.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, becoming an ethical hacker is a crucial step towards a rewarding career in cybersecurity. As technology advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities continues to rise. 

Ethical hacking helps protect businesses from cyber threats and plays a vital role in safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining system integrity. 

FAQ’s

Is it easy to become an ethical hacker?

Becoming an ethical hacker requires dedication and continuous learning. It involves mastering complex technical skills and staying updated on evolving cybersecurity threats.

How to become an ethical hacker after the 12th?

After the 12th, pursue a degree in computer science or IT, take specialized courses in cybersecurity, and obtain ethical hacking certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker).

How Long Does It Take To Become an Ethical Hacker?  

To become proficient in ethical hacking, it typically takes 1-2 years of focused study and hands-on experience, including obtaining relevant certifications.

How long does it take to become an ethical hacker?

Becoming an ethical hacker generally requires 1-2 years of education and practical experience.

What is the salary of an ethical hacker?

The salary of an ethical hacker varies, but on average, it ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience and location.