In today’s modern world, cybersecurity is more important than ever. As companies and governments increasingly rely on technology, the risk of cyber-attacks grows. Ethical hackers, also known as “white-hat” hackers, are the first line of defence in protecting systems from malicious hackers. And the best news? You don’t need a formal degree to start a career in this field. Our guide will show you how to become an ethical hacker without a degree, step-by-step.
What Is an Ethical Hacker?
An ethical hacker is a cybersecurity professional who is authorised to test the security of a system, network, or application. They identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors (black-hat hackers) and recommend ways to fix these weaknesses. Ethical hackers play a vital role in protecting sensitive information and ensuring the security of digital assets.
Organisations hire ethical hackers to carry out simulated attacks on their computer networks. The ethical hackers are then able to demonstrate how real cybercriminals would be able to break into a network and the damage they could do.
Unlike their illegal counterparts, ethical hackers operate within the law and work with the permission of the organisation whose security they are testing. Their work helps prevent data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other forms of cybercrime.
What Exactly Does an Ethical Hacker Do?
The job requires both technical skills and clear communication, as ethical hackers collaborate with clients and internal teams to ensure all security findings are understood and properly addressed. Below are some of the key responsibilities and activities that ethical hackers undertake to safeguard digital environments.
Conducting Vulnerability Assessments: Ethical hackers perform in-depth vulnerability assessments on networks and web applications to identify security gaps before attackers can exploit them.
Network Scanning: They use tools like Nmap to scan networks, helping map the network structure and pinpoint potential weaknesses.
Analyzing Network Structure and Protocols: Tools like Wireshark allow ethical hackers to dissect network protocols and traffic, revealing vulnerabilities within the network’s architecture.
Data Review and Credential Search: They often review large volumes of data and file shares, sometimes spending hours searching for misplaced credentials or sensitive information.
Active Directory and Application Testing: Ethical hackers assess environments like Active Directory and various web applications, finding and addressing weak points within these critical systems.
Client Communication and Debriefs: Working closely with clients and senior management, ethical hackers answer questions, participate in sales calls, and provide security briefings to align teams on risks and remediation steps.
Documentation and Reporting: Their findings are compiled into detailed reports, with high-level summaries for non-technical readers and technical specifics for IT teams to help in reproducing and addressing issues.
What Skills Are Needed to Become an Ethical Hacker?
To succeed as an ethical hacker, you’ll need a mix of technical and soft skills. Here are some key areas to focus on:
- Networking Knowledge: Understanding how data moves across networks is essential. Learn about TCP/IP, DNS, and firewalls.
- Knowledge of Operating Systems: Linux (especially Kali Linux) and Windows are two crucial platforms every ethical hacker should master.
- Programming Experience: While not always mandatory, knowledge of programming languages like Python, C, and JavaScript can help you automate tasks and understand security flaws.
- An Understanding of Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Learn how encryption, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other security technologies work.
- Penetration Testing Knowledge: This is the process of simulating attacks on systems to find vulnerabilities. It’s a key part of an ethical hacker’s role.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Hacking often involves creative thinking and out-of-the-box solutions to find weaknesses others have missed.
- Excellent Communication Skills: Ethical hackers must clearly communicate complex technical findings to non-technical stakeholders. This involves explaining vulnerabilities, risks, and remediation strategies in straightforward language.
- Attention to Detail: Successful ethical hackers often work through large datasets and configurations to locate hidden security gaps. Close attention to detail helps ensure that no potential risk is overlooked.
- Persistence and Patience: Security testing can be time-consuming and tedious. Ethical hackers need patience to work through detailed assessments, especially when tackling complex networks or extensive file reviews.
- Adaptability and Willingness to Learn: Cyber threats evolve constantly, requiring ethical hackers to stay updated on new vulnerabilities, tools, and attack strategies.
Do You Need a Degree to Become an Ethical Hacker?
No, you do not need a degree to become an ethical hacker. While some employers may prefer candidates with degrees, many are more interested in practical skills, certifications, and experience. The tech industry often values hands-on experience and the ability to demonstrate your capabilities over formal education.
Do You Need to Go to College to Become an Ethical Hacker?
No, going to college is not required to become an ethical hacker. Thanks to the abundance of online resources, virtual labs, and industry certifications, you can learn everything you need to know from home. Many successful ethical hackers are self-taught or have used alternative learning paths such as online courses, bootcamps, and certification programmes.
What Are the Steps to Become an Ethical Hacker Without a Degree?
Ready to kickstart your ethical hacking career without having a degree?
1. Learn the Basics of Cybersecurity
Start by learning the fundamentals of computer networks, operating systems, and web applications. Focus on security principles like encryption, firewalls, and common vulnerabilities. There are plenty of online courses such as on Udemy or Coursera, along with college courses too.
2. Choose the Right Tools
Ethical hackers rely on a range of tools to perform their tasks. Get familiar with popular ones like Nmap, Wireshark, Burp Suite, and Metasploit. Kali Linux is the go-to operating system for penetration testing, so it’s worth mastering.
3. Get Hands-On Practice
Practical experience is key. You can use platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box to practice hacking on real-world systems in a legal and safe environment. Plus, you could also consider volunteering your time with small businesses who can’t afford to hire an ethical hacker, helping them to deliver criminal hacker and malware protection.
4. Earn Certifications
While you don’t need a degree, industry-recognised certifications can prove your skills and boost your employability. Popular ones include:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) from EC-Council
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) (for those with a more strategic, managerial focus).
5. Build a Portfolio
Document your ethical hacking projects. Write blog posts or create a GitHub page to showcase your skills and completed challenges. This portfolio can be just as valuable as a degree when applying for jobs. Why not participate in competitions or visit IT-related events too? These are both great ways to build your experience and add to your portfolio.
6. Join Bug Bounty Programmes
Bug bounty platforms like HackerOne and Bugcrowd allow you to hack legally into systems and earn rewards for discovering security flaws. These programmes offer great experience and allow you to build a reputation in the field.
Where Can You Find Ethical Hacking Jobs?
There are many places to find ethical hacking jobs, both freelance and full-time positions. Here are a few avenues:
- Freelance Platforms: Websites like Upwork and Freelancer often list jobs for penetration testers and security consultants.
- Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor regularly post job openings for ethical hackers and cybersecurity professionals.
- Specialised Security Job Boards: Sites like CyberSecJobs, InfoSec Jobs, and ClearanceJobs are specifically geared towards cybersecurity roles.
- Bug Bounty Platforms: Companies may offer freelance bug bounties for finding vulnerabilities on platforms like HackerOne and Bugcrowd.
- Networking: Attend cybersecurity conferences or local meetups to network with potential employers or colleagues in the industry.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Ethical Hacker?
The time it takes to become an ethical hacker can vary depending on your background and the amount of time you dedicate to learning. If you already have a good understanding of computers and networks, you could gain the necessary skills in 6 to 12 months with consistent study and practice. For those starting from scratch, it may take 1 to 2 years to become proficient, especially if you are balancing this with other commitments like work or school.
How Much Does an Ethical Hacker Earn?
In the UK, the salary of an ethical hacker can vary depending on experience and qualifications. Here’s a general overview:
- Entry-Level Ethical Hacker: £30,000 – £40,000 per year
- Mid-Level Penetration Tester: £40,000 – £70,000 per year
- Experienced Ethical Hacker: £70,000 – £100,000+ per year
Freelancers and those participating in bug bounty programmes can potentially earn even more, depending on the scope of the vulnerabilities they find and the rewards offered.
What Online Resources Can I Use to Become an Ethical Hacker?
There are numerous online resources available for aspiring ethical hackers. Here are some of the most helpful:
- Cybrary: A free platform offering courses on ethical hacking, penetration testing, and more.
- TryHackMe: A beginner-friendly platform with guided hacking challenges and virtual labs.
- Hack The Box: A more advanced platform where you can hack real machines in a simulated environment.
- Udemy: Offers paid courses on ethical hacking, but with frequent sales, many can be purchased for as low as £10.
- YouTube: Channels like The Cyber Mentor and Hak5 provide free tutorials and walkthroughs.
- HackerOne and Bugcrowd: Bug bounty platforms where you can gain real-world experience and get paid for finding vulnerabilities.
- OWASP: The Open Web Application Security Project offers extensive documentation on web vulnerabilities and how to secure systems.
Conclusion
Becoming an ethical hacker without a degree is entirely achievable. By focusing on the right skills, gaining certifications, and building hands-on experience, you can embark on a rewarding career in cybersecurity. Ethical hacking offers endless learning opportunities and a solid income, making it an excellent career path for tech enthusiasts with a passion for problem-solving. Whether you’re self-taught or follow a structured learning plan, the key to success in ethical hacking is persistence and continuous learning.