Top 5 Books For Beginner HACKERS

In the world of cybersecurity and ethical hacking, learning from the right resources can be the difference between superficial knowledge and becoming a proficient hacker. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, having a solid understanding of hacking fundamentals, penetration testing, and social engineering is essential. To help you on this journey, we’ve compiled a list of five highly recommended books on hacking, security, and the tools used by professionals.

1. Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali

Author: OccupyTheWeb

Overview:
For those new to the world of hacking, Linux Basics for Hackers is an ideal starting point. This book provides a solid foundation in Linux, which is the operating system of choice for hackers due to its versatility and security capabilities. The book focuses on using Kali Linux, the premier hacking distribution, covering basic Linux commands, networking, scripting, and an introduction to essential security practices.

Why It’s Important:
Hacking begins with understanding the environment in which you’ll be working. This book ensures that readers become comfortable with Linux, a critical tool for hacking, and helps bridge the gap between theory and real-world application. It also introduces the core utilities and tools found in Kali, which are pivotal for penetration testing.

Key Takeaways:

• Master essential Linux commands and file structures.

• Learn networking basics, including how to scan networks and identify vulnerabilities.

• Build and use shell scripts to automate tasks.

• Get hands-on with various hacking tools within Kali Linux.

Who Should Read This:
Anyone interested in starting their journey into ethical hacking and penetration testing, especially those without a strong background in Linux.

2. Hacking: A Beginner’s Guide to Computer Hacking, Basic Security, and Penetration Testing

Author: John Slavio

Overview:
If you’re new to the world of hacking and cybersecurity, Hacking: A Beginner’s Guide is an excellent introduction. The book walks readers through the fundamental concepts of hacking and cybersecurity while providing practical examples of basic security techniques and penetration testing.

Why It’s Important:
Understanding how hackers think and the tools they use is essential for anyone interested in hacking or cybersecurity. This book introduces beginners to the basics of hacking, the different types of attacks, and the methods used to prevent them.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn the basics of hacking, including the mindset of a hacker.

• Understand common hacking techniques such as password cracking, phishing, and malware.

• Get introduced to penetration testing, where you will simulate attacks to find vulnerabilities in systems.

• Learn about cybersecurity measures and how to protect yourself from attacks.

Who Should Read This:
Beginners who want a broad overview of hacking concepts and practical tips on securing systems.

3. Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to Hacking

Author: Georgia Weidman

Overview:
This book is considered one of the best resources for learning penetration testing through hands-on practice. Penetration Testing by Georgia Weidman takes you on a comprehensive tour of ethical hacking, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced topics such as exploiting vulnerabilities, scripting, and network attacks.

Why It’s Important:
Penetration testing is one of the most valuable skills for hackers and security professionals. This book provides readers with practical, real-world hacking techniques, guiding them through the process of testing the security of a system using the same methods an attacker would use.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the entire penetration testing process, from setting up a testing environment to exploiting vulnerabilities.

• Learn how to conduct various attacks, including web application attacks, network attacks, and client-side attacks.

• Get a strong introduction to Metasploit, the most widely used penetration testing tool.

• Gain hands-on experience with custom scripts, shellcode, and reverse engineering.

Who Should Read This:
Aspiring ethical hackers and security professionals who want to understand the nuts and bolts of penetration testing and practice real-world hacking scenarios.

4. Social Engineering: The Science of Human Hacking

Author: Christopher Hadnagy

Overview:
Hacking isn't just about code and machines; it's about people too. Social Engineering: The Science of Human Hacking focuses on the human element of hacking—tricking people into divulging sensitive information or performing actions that compromise security.

Why It’s Important:
Social engineering attacks exploit the weakest link in security: human psychology. Understanding how hackers use deception to manipulate people is essential for anyone looking to improve their defense mechanisms or test security from a hacker’s perspective.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn about the psychological techniques hackers use to manipulate people into revealing sensitive information.

• Understand how to craft convincing phishing emails, voice manipulations, and in-person attacks.

• Learn how to protect yourself and your organization from falling victim to social engineering attacks.

• Get insights into real-life case studies of successful social engineering attacks.

Who Should Read This:
Anyone interested in the psychological aspect of hacking, as well as security professionals who need to defend against social engineering attacks.

5. Metasploit: The Penetration Tester’s Guide

Authors: David Kennedy, Jim O'Gorman, Devon Kearns, and Mati Aharoni

Overview:
Metasploit is the most widely used penetration testing framework in the world. This book is an authoritative guide to using Metasploit, covering everything from installation to advanced exploitation techniques. Written by the creators and top contributors of Metasploit, it is a must-read for anyone serious about penetration testing.

Why It’s Important:
Metasploit is an indispensable tool for penetration testers, enabling them to launch and manage a wide range of attacks on networks, applications, and systems. Mastering this tool is critical for both beginner and advanced hackers.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to install and configure Metasploit for various types of penetration testing.

• Understand how to use Metasploit to scan, exploit, and report vulnerabilities.

• Get hands-on practice with creating custom payloads, post-exploitation techniques, and pivoting within networks.

• Learn advanced features of Metasploit, such as scripting and automation.

Who Should Read This:
Security professionals, penetration testers, and hackers who want to master the industry-standard tool for exploiting vulnerabilities.

Conclusion

Each of these five books offers unique insights and hands-on experience into different aspects of hacking, from the technical world of Linux and Metasploit to the human element of social engineering. Whether you’re just starting or looking to enhance your hacking skills, these books are essential reads for developing a strong foundation in ethical hacking and penetration testing.

With the knowledge you’ll gain from these resources, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the skills needed to secure systems or engage in ethical hacking practices. Happy reading and hacking!