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Writer's pictureChris Odom

HOW TO TRAIN TO BECOME A PENETRATION TESTER

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I Want to be a Penetration Tester. What should I do?

Here is an example of a possible training plan for becoming a penetration tester:
  1. Start by gaining a solid understanding of computer networks, operating systems, and programming languages. This can be done through online courses, books, and hands-on experience with various systems.

  2. Next, learn about the tools and techniques used by penetration testers, such as network scanners, vulnerability scanners, and password cracking tools. You can find resources on these topics online, or take a course on penetration testing.

  3. Practice using these tools on your own systems or in a controlled environment, such as a lab or virtual machine. This will help you gain hands-on experience and become familiar with the tools and techniques used in penetration testing.

  4. Join a community of other penetration testers and participate in online forums or groups. This will allow you to learn from others and share your own experiences.

  5. Seek out opportunities to work on real-world penetration testing projects. This could be through internships, part-time work, or freelance projects.

  6. Consider obtaining certification in penetration testing, such as the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification. This can demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers.

Overall, becoming a penetration tester requires a combination of technical knowledge, hands-on experience, and a passion for learning and staying up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques. A training plan should focus on acquiring these skills and building a strong foundation in the field.

Yeah, ok…I have all of that. What questions are they going to ask me during a potential interview?

Here are some potential questions that you can use to prep for your job interview:

  • Can you describe your experience with network and system security?

  • What are your favorite tools and techniques for conducting penetration tests?

  • How do you approach a new penetration testing assignment?

  • Can you provide examples of projects you have worked on in the past?

  • What types of systems and networks have you tested in the past?

  • Can you describe a time when you discovered a critical vulnerability during a penetration test?

  • Have you obtained any certifications in the field of penetration testing?

  • How do you stay up-to-date with the latest tools and techniques in the field?

  • Can you explain the difference between a white-box and a black-box penetration test?

  • How do you communicate your findings to clients and stakeholders?

  • Can you describe a time when you had to work with a difficult client or stakeholder during a penetration test?

  • Have you ever faced any legal or ethical challenges during a penetration test? How did you handle them?

  • Do you have any experience with collaborating on a team of penetration testers? How do you approach team-based projects?

  • Can you describe a time when you had to learn a new tool or technique in order to complete a penetration test?


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