As an experienced cyber security professional, I can offer some valuable guidance on where to begin your journey.
## 1. **Understanding the Basics**
– **CompTIA Security+**: This is an excellent starting point. It’s a well-recognized certification that covers the foundational aspects of cyber security. There are many resources available online, including books and practice tests.
### 2. **Online Learning Platforms**
– **Cybrary**: Offers free and paid courses on a variety of cyber security topics. It’s a great way to get hands-on experience with labs and real-world scenarios.
– **Udemy and Coursera**: These platforms offer a range of courses from beginner to advanced levels, often taught by industry experts.
### 3. **Books**
– **”The Web Application Hacker’s Handbook” by Dafydd Stuttard and Marcus Pinto**: A comprehensive guide for web application security.
– **”Metasploit: The Penetration Tester’s Guide” by David Kennedy, Jim O’Gorman, Devon Kearns, and Mati Aharoni**: Great for learning penetration testing.
### 4. **YouTube Channels**
– **The Cyber Mentor**: Offers in-depth tutorials on penetration testing, ethical hacking, and various cyber security tools. It’s great for both beginners and advanced learners.
– **HackerSploit**: Provides a wide range of practical hacking techniques and tutorials, making it a fantastic resource for hands-on learning.
– **Null Byte**: Part of the WonderHowTo network, this channel focuses on hacking tutorials for all skill levels, from beginners to professionals.
– **Professor Messer**: Known for his comprehensive and easy-to-understand videos on various IT certifications, including CompTIA Security+.
– **IppSec**: Specializes in walkthroughs of Hack The Box machines, which are excellent for practical, hands-on learning in a controlled environment.
### 5. **Websites and Forums**
– **OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project)**: Provides a wealth of information on web security, including the famous OWASP Top Ten.
– **Reddit**: Subreddits like r/cybersecurity and r/netsec are active communities where you can learn from discussions and ask questions.
### 6. **Practice and Labs**
– **Hack The Box**: A platform that allows you to practice your hacking skills in a legal environment.
– **TryHackMe**: Offers guided and interactive training in cyber security.
### 7. **Certifications**
– **Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)**: After you get some basics down, CEH is a great certification to show your skills in ethical hacking.
– **Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)**: For those looking to take a more managerial route in cyber security.
### Final Thoughts
Cyber security is a vast field, and staying updated is crucial. Regularly reading, practicing, and engaging with the community will help you grow your knowledge and skills. Don’t hesitate to reach out to more experienced professionals in the community; their insights can be invaluable.
Good luck on your journey into cyber security!