Discovering the World of Hacking: Review of The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing

This book was recommended by one of my university teachers. It taught me a lot about the fundamentals of hacking, which was very useful for someone like me who isn't highly technical. Patrick Engebretson's The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing stands out as a key resource for beginning and intermediate learners of ethical hacking in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity. His book is well-structured, taking readers step by step through the phases of penetration testing, which include reconnaissance, scanning, gaining access, keeping access, and covering tracks.

Book Overview

The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing is designed to guide readers through the fundamentals of ethical hacking. It covers a wide range of topics, from the fundamentals of what hacking is to the more advanced techniques for executing a penetration test. Key aspects of the book include:

• Understanding Ethical Hacking: Engebretson defines ethical hacking, distinguishes it from malicious hacking, and emphasizes its usefulness in improving cybersecurity.
• Penetration Testing approaches: The book investigates several penetration testing approaches and provides a step-by-step methodology for approaching, planning, and executing a penetration test.
• Tools and Techniques: Readers are exposed to popular hacking and penetration testing tools such as Metasploit, Wireshark, and Nmap. The book includes
• practical examples and activities to demonstrate their application.
• Real-World Applications: The author includes real-world scenarios and case studies to assist readers grasp how the concepts apply in everyday settings.
• Ethical Considerations and Legal Issues: Engebretson does not ignore the legal and ethical implications of hacking, ensuring that readers understand the boundaries and obligations involved.

Target Audience

While the book is primarily intended for novices and those with a fundamental understanding of computer networks and systems, it is also an excellent resource for more experienced professionals wanting to refresh their expertise. Its simple and concise descriptions make complex concepts understandable to a broader audience, which includes students, IT professionals, and anybody interested in cybersecurity.

Book Review

One of Engebretson's book's main benefits is its ease of use for novices. The author does a good job of breaking down difficult concepts into small sections, making this an excellent starting point for anyone new to cybersecurity. The book is full with practical examples and hands-on exercises that reinforce the theory and allow readers to apply what they've learned in a controlled context.

Engebretson also highlights the ethical implications of hacking. He distinguishes between ethical hackers, who try to defend systems, and malicious hackers, who use vulnerabilities to cause harm or personal gain. This emphasis on ethical considerations is critical in an area that is frequently misunderstood by the general public.

However, those looking for advanced technical information may find the book too simple. It is more of a broad overview than a detailed dive into any particular area of penetration testing. Furthermore, like with any book in the quickly expanding world of cybersecurity, there is a possibility that the content will become out of date, so readers should stay current on new developments.

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