Pentest Study Plan #13

Here's a study plan for becoming an expert in penetration testing (pentesting):

Phase 1: Networking and Security Fundamentals

In this phase, you will establish a strong foundation in networking and security concepts. Focus on the following topics:

1. TCP/IP networking protocols

2. Network architecture and topologies

3. Operating system security

4. Web technologies and protocols

Exercise:

1. Set up a home lab to practice networking configurations

2. Install and configure a virtual machine for various operating systems

3. Perform basic network reconnaissance using tools like Nmap

4. Explore common web vulnerabilities (e.g., Cross-Site Scripting, SQL Injection) through intentionally vulnerable web applications

Study Material:

1. CompTIA Network+ Study Guide by Todd Lammle

2. CompTIA Security+ Study Guide by Emmett Dulaney and Chuck Easttom

3. The Web Application Hacker's Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto

Phase 2: Pentesting Methodology and Tools

In this phase, you will learn the methodologies and tools used in penetration testing. Pay attention to the following areas:

1. Pentesting methodologies (e.g., OSSTMM, PTES, NIST SP 800-115)

2. Information gathering and reconnaissance techniques

3. Vulnerability assessment and scanning tools (e.g., Nessus, OpenVAS)

4. Exploitation frameworks (e.g., Metasploit)

Exercise:

1. Conduct a vulnerability assessment on a target network

2. Exploit a known vulnerability on a vulnerable machine using Metasploit

3. Perform a privilege escalation attack on a compromised system

4. Develop a simple exploit for a custom vulnerability

Study Material:

1. Metasploit: The Penetration Tester's Guide by David Kennedy, Jim O'Gorman, Devon Kearns, and Mati Aharoni

2. The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing: Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing Made Easy by Patrick Engebretson

3. The Web Application Hacker's Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto

Phase 3: Advanced Topics

In this phase, you will delve into advanced pentesting concepts and techniques. Master the following topics:

1. Web application security testing

2. Wireless network security testing

3. Cloud and virtualization security

4. Mobile application security testing

Exercise:

1. Perform a comprehensive security assessment on a web application

2. Conduct a wireless penetration test on a target network

3. Assess the security of a cloud environment (e.g., AWS, Azure)

4. Conduct a mobile application security assessment

Study Material:

1. The Web Application Hacker's Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto

2. Wireless Hacking: Projects for Wi-Fi Enthusiasts by Lee Barken, Eric Bermel, and Michael Gregg

3. Hacking Exposed: Mobile Security Secrets & Solutions by Neil Bergman, Mike Stanfield, and Jason Rouse

Phase 4: Professional Development

In this phase, you will focus on enhancing your professional skills and keeping up with industry trends.

1. Join online communities and forums to connect with other pentesters

2. Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions

3. Stay updated with the latest security vulnerabilities and advisories (e.g., CVE, NVD)

4. Pursue professional certifications (e.g., Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH))

Exercise:

1. Participate in CTF challenges on platforms like HackTheBox, TryHackMe, or CTFtime.

2. Contribute to open-source pentesting projects or tools.

3. Attend security conferences, workshops, and webinars to expand your knowledge.

4. Network with professionals in the field and seek mentorship opportunities.

Study Material:

1. The Web Application Hacker's Handbook: Finding and Exploiting Security Flaws by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto

2. Hacking Exposed series by Stuart McClure, Joel Scambray, and George Kurtz

3. The Shellcoder's Handbook: Discovering and Exploiting Security Holes by Chris Anley, John Heasman, Felix Lindner, and Gerardo Richarte

4. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) course materials

Remember, practical hands-on experience is crucial for becoming a skilled pentester. Constantly challenge yourself, practice on various platforms, and seek opportunities to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Stay updated with the evolving threat landscape and continuously improve your skills to stay at the forefront of the field.

Good luck on your pentesting journey!