The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing

Thomas Wilhelm, Patrick Engebretson

• Publisher: Syngress
• Year: 2026
• Edition: 3
• eBook ISBN:
  9780443438875
• Topic: Computer Science
• Subtopic: Computer Science General
• Index: Computer Science

The Basics of Hacking and Penetration Testing, Third Edition serves as an introduction to the steps required to complete a penetration test or perform an ethical hack from beginning to end. The book teaches readers how to properly utilize and interpret the results of the modern-day hacking tools required to complete a penetration test. It provides a simple and clear explanation of how to effectively utilize these tools, along with a four-step methodology for conducting a penetration test or hack, thus equipping readers with the know-how required to jump start their careers and gain a better understanding of offensive security.Each chapter contains hands-on examples and exercises that are designed to teach learners how to interpret results and utilize those results in later phases. This new edition includes six all-new chapters, and has been completely updated to the most current industry-standard tools, testing methodologies, and exploitable targets. New chapters on setting up a Pen Testing Lab and Hacking Careers have been added to expand and update the book. This is complemented by videos for in class use. - Presents hands-on labs that reinforce concepts and build applied skills used in later test phases - Written by authors who work in the field as Penetration Testers and who teach Offensive Security, Penetration Testing, Ethical Hacking, and Exploitation classes - Focuses on the seminal industry-standard tools required to complete a penetration test

Table of contents

• Title of Book
• 1. What Is Penetration Testing?
• 2. Setting Up a Lab
• 3. Types of Pentesting
• 4. OWASP Top 10
• 5. Planning
• 6. Discovery
• 7. Attack
• 8. Reporting
• 9. Hacking Career
• Index