Embark on your cybersecurity and ethical hacking journey with this comprehensive 12-month roadmap. This plan is designed to guide you through essential concepts and hands-on practice, covering everything from computer basics to advanced hacking techniques. Whether you are learning full-time or part-time, this roadmap provides clear, manageable tasks to keep you on track.
Month 1: Computer Basics, Linux, and Networking Fundamentals
Lay a strong foundation in computer fundamentals, Linux, and networking. These topics are critical for hacking and cybersecurity.
Week 1-2: Computer Fundamentals
Day 1-3: Learn computer hardware and software basics.
Day 4-7: Understand file systems, storage devices, and memory management.
Week 3: Operating Systems (Linux)
Day 1-3: Install Kali Linux or Ubuntu, set up your environment.
Day 4-7: Learn basic Linux commands, file management, permissions, and package management.
Week 4: Networking Basics
Day 1-3: Study TCP/IP, OSI model, IP addressing, and subnetting.
Day 4-7: Learn DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, and basic firewall concepts.
Month 2: Programming Basics (Python & Bash)
Programming is essential for hacking automation and scripting. Learn Python and Bash scripting to streamline tasks.
Week 1-2: Python Programming
Day 1-3: Learn basic Python syntax (variables, loops, conditionals).
Day 4-7: Work with data structures (lists, dictionaries, sets), functions, and file I/O.
Week 3-4: Bash/Shell Scripting
Day 1-3: Get comfortable with terminal commands.
Day 4-7: Write Bash scripts to automate tasks like network scans and file management.
Month 3-4: Deep Dive into Linux and Networking
Strengthen your knowledge of Linux and networking concepts.
Week 1-2: Advanced Linux
Day 1-3: Learn user management, permissions, and system processes.
Day 4-7: Explore networking in Linux (network interfaces, routing, and SSH).
Week 3-4: Networking Concepts and Tools
Day 1-3: Understand TCP/UDP ports, sockets, NAT, and network routing.
Day 4-7: Master networking tools like Nmap, Wireshark, and Netcat.
Month 5: Cybersecurity Basics
Start focusing on core cybersecurity principles and ethical hacking practices.
Week 1-2: Introduction to Cybersecurity
Day 1-3: Understand the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability).
Day 4-7: Learn encryption (AES, RSA, SSL/TLS) and authentication mechanisms.
Week 3-4: Ethical Hacking Basics
Day 1-3: Learn the phases of penetration testing (reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation).
Day 4-7: Explore tools like Metasploit and Burp Suite.
Month 6: Web Security and Ethical Hacking
Learn common web vulnerabilities and ethical hacking techniques to exploit them.
Week 1-2: OWASP Top 10
Day 1-3: Study SQL Injection and Cross-Site Scripting (XSS).
Day 4-7: Learn about Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), Insecure Deserialization, and Security Misconfiguration.
Week 3-4: Web Application Hacking Tools
Day 1-3: Learn to use Burp Suite for web application security testing.
Day 4-7: Practice on platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe.
Month 7-8: Advanced Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing
Dive deeper into penetration testing and exploit development.
Week 1-2: Penetration Testing Methodology
Day 1-3: Study penetration testing stages (reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation, post-exploitation).
Day 4-7: Learn about social engineering and phishing attacks.
Week 3-4: Exploit Development
Day 1-3: Learn buffer overflows and stack smashing.
Day 4-7: Practice exploiting vulnerable software using Metasploit.
Month 9-10: Reverse Engineering and Malware Analysis
Gain crucial skills in understanding malware behavior and reverse engineering techniques.
Week 1-2: Reverse Engineering Basics
Day 1-3: Learn disassembly, debugging, and assembly language.
Day 4-7: Practice with tools like Ghidra and IDA Pro.
Week 3-4: Malware Analysis
Day 1-3: Study static and dynamic analysis of malware.
Day 4-7: Focus on techniques like code injection and rootkits.
Month 11: Mobile Hacking & Advanced Network Security
Specialize in mobile security and advanced network security.
Week 1-2: Mobile Hacking (Android and iOS)
Day 1-3: Study Android security and vulnerabilities (e.g., insecure data storage, improper SSL).
Day 4-7: Learn iOS security and reverse engineering mobile apps.
Week 3-4: Advanced Network Security
Day 1-3: Learn firewall bypass techniques, VPNs, and IDS/IPS systems.
Day 4-7: Study Wi-Fi hacking and Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks.
Month 12: Capture the Flag (CTF) and Bug Bounty Programs
Apply your knowledge by solving real-world challenges.
Week 1-2: CTF Challenges
Day 1-3: Practice on CTF platforms like Hack The Box and PicoCTF.
Day 4-7: Focus on cryptography, reverse engineering, and web exploitation challenges.
Week 3-4: Bug Bounty Programs
Day 1-3: Learn how to find vulnerabilities in real-world applications.
Day 4-7: Participate in bug bounty programs (e.g., HackerOne, Bugcrowd).
Certifications and Continuing Education (Post-Year 1)
After completing this roadmap, consider certifications to validate your skills:
CompTIA Security+
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Stay up-to-date with the latest hacking tools and vulnerabilities by participating in security communities and attending conferences.
Study Tips for Success:
Consistency is Key: Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to mastering each topic.
Hands-On Practice: Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments (virtual labs, CTF challenges, etc.).
Join Communities: Engage with experts and other learners through forums, Reddit’s r/netsec, and security conferences.
This structured 12-month roadmap will help you become a proficient hacker. Consistent learning and hands-on practice are essential as you progress through each stage. Keep challenging yourself, and the skills you acquire will take you far!
