Ethical hacking refers to the act of hacking into an organization's system or network legally (i.e., with permission) to identify weaknesses or vulnerabilities that malicious hackers could exploit. Using ethical hacking allows information security professionals to test a company's system and network protections by breaking into those systems using the same tools and techniques that cybercriminals employ. Once vulnerabilities are identified, they can be mitigated to prevent potential cyberattacks in which organizational data can be stolen or distorted.

There are various certifications that professionals can earn to prove their knowledge and skills in specific areas in the IT security industry. One of the most popular IT security certifications is the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential. This designation is awarded by the EC-Council, a highly regarded certifying organization. With a CEH certification, security professionals demonstrate that they have the experience and knowledge to detect vulnerabilities in an organization's systems and mitigate those weaknesses before they are exploited illegally by a criminal hacker.

Ethical hacking is often a big part of its IT security program. As a result, ethical hackers are in demand, and there are many open positions for candidates with this type of expertise. However, gaining the knowledge required for ethical hacking positions takes time and effort. Some professionals choose to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science to work in the industry. However, a degree isn't required for many IT positions, including those requiring ethical hacking.

Is It Possible to Learn Ethical Hacking on My Own?

The simple answer to this question is yes. You can learn ethical hacking on your own. However, it is a field that requires quite a high level of expertise that will only come from practice and experience. You will have to dedicate time and effort to learning about hacking methods and tools and find a way to stay on top of new threats, techniques, and technologies to be an effective hacker. It also requires a comprehensive understanding of IT fundamentals, including networking, computer systems, programming, and more.

If ethical hacking is the career path, you would like to go down, taking online ethical hacking training and attaining industry certifications is the way to go. With knowledge of computing basics and training courses, you can become prepared to take the CEH certification exam.

Once you've earned your CEH, job opportunities will be abundant. Certified ethical hackers are needed in all types of industries, all around the world. Currently, there are more open IT security jobs than there are professionals to fill them. As a result, there is no better time to be a white hat hacker. Additionally, IT security positions are typically well-paid, with even higher salaries for those professionals with certifications under their belts.

Is It Difficult to Learn Ethical Hacking on Your Own?

Learning ethical hacking isn't excessively difficult in and of itself. However, it is a very technical endeavor. You have to have comprehensive knowledge of computer systems, networking, operating systems, programming, and of course, hacking methods and tools. You also have to have some insight into how a cybercriminal's mind works.

To land an IT security position that uses ethical hacking, you have to prove your level of knowledge and expertise. Earning the CEH certification is an ideal way to do that – it proves that you have what it takes to protect an organization's systems and help prevent cyberattacks. If you plan to pursue CEH certification, Cybrary can help. Our CEH preparation training course covers the concepts and skills needed to pass the CEH exam. Let us help you advance your IT security career with our quality content and subject matter expert instructors. Our courses are self-paced, so they are available whenever you are.

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