Discover ethical hacking: An introduction

Last updated on May 8, 2023

Photo by Kaur Kristjan on Unsplash

Are you looking for a career transition that is both challenging and rewarding? Ethical hacking might be the right option for you.

Ethical hacking, or cyber security, is an in-demand, lucrative, and highly challenging field of work. Interested in getting started, but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered.

What is ethical hacking?

Ethical hacking, also known as penetration testing, is a practice of breaching computer systems, networks, servers, websites, and mobile applications by mimicking malicious cyber criminals. The goal of ethical hacking is to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities, and help improve security measures.

Ethical hackers are typically certified professionals whose expertise lies in testing and auditing of corporate networks. They became increasingly popular as cyber security threats continue to rise at a consistent rate.

How to transition into ethical hacking?

Transitioning into ethical hacking is no easy task. It requires excellent computer skills, knowledge of multiple programming languages, deep understanding of network security, and the ability to constantly stay abreast of ever-changing technology.

The first step to transition into ethical hacking is to acquire knowledge and skills related to the area. You can either opt for an online course or a degree course in computer science, cyber security, or related areas. Going for an internship at a security auditing firm or a cyber security company is also a great way to build practical skills and gain real-world experience.

Once you have acquired a basic understanding of ethical hacking and cyber security, you can start gaining certifications that will validate your skills. Most security organizations now require professionals to have a recognized certification before they can be hired.

Real-life stories of people who transitioned into ethical hacking

Raj Malhotra, a graduate in Computer Science, had no idea what he wanted to do with his degree. After some research, he stumbled upon ethical hacking, which got him really excited. After gaining some knowledge and getting some certifications, Raj applied for a job at a cyber security firm. He was interviewed and his performance in the interviews got him the job. He is now an accomplished ethical hacker with 17 certifications to his name.

Ram Hasija was a software engineer working in a company but was not happy with his progress. His passion for problem solving led him to transition into ethical hacking. He got a job in a cyber security firm as a hacker and has since gone on to climb the career ladder in this field. He has been featured as a celebrity ethical hacker on national television.

Challenges in transitioning into ethical hacking and how to overcome them

One of the biggest challenges in transitioning into ethical hacking is the lack of experience in hacking and cyber security. There are lots of job openings for ethical hackers, but almost all of them require experience in the field. The best way to overcome this challenge is by undergoing training and gaining certification that will help you stand out from other applicants.

Another challenge is the lack of necessary technical skills. Ethical hacking requires a deep understanding of multiple programming languages, databases, and networks. If you don’t have the technical skills, you can consider joining an online course to brush up on the basics. You can also consider working as an intern in a cyber security company to gain practical skills and knowledge.

Actionable steps for transitioning into ethical hacking

• Research and understand the basics of ethical hacking and cyber security.
• Align yourself with a network of like-minded professionals and industry experts.
• Gain certifications in ethical hacking.
• Gain practical experience by undertaking internships or working with security auditing firms.
• Take on freelance projects to gain experience and build your reputation.

Salary insights in India

The salary of an ethical hacker in India can range from INR 5 lakh to INR 12 lakh per annum, depending on the experience and certifications. Those at the higher end of the scale can even earn up to INR 18 lakh a year.

Conclusion

A career in ethical hacking is an exciting and rewarding one that also pays well. With adequate training and certifications, you can easily transition into this field and make your mark. All you need is determination, hard work, and never-ending zeal to learn and grow.