Hey everyone! I'm 16 and really interested in diving into cybersecurity and ethical hacking. I don't have much experience yet—just some basic computer skills and I've watched a few YouTube videos to get an overview. I'm looking for advice on what specific skills I should focus on and the best paths to take through high school and college to get a solid foundation in this field. Any tips would be super helpful!
5 Answers
Starting with a general computer science and programming course will be super beneficial. You'll need that knowledge anyway. Also, consider looking up the syllabi for cybersecurity programs at major universities to get an idea of what topics to focus on—networks are a huge part of this field!
I suggest starting with a Microsoft Windows certification. There are lots of entry-level certifications available that cover Windows, Windows Server, and Azure Cloud. You'll find that most companies operate in a Windows environment, so it's good to get a handle on that first. Afterward, consider getting a CompTIA Security certification for a more focused entry into cybersecurity. It'll give you a great introduction to the field!
Thanks for the tips! I appreciate the direction and will definitely look into it more.
Another awesome resource to check out is TryHackMe or Hack The Box. They're great for practicing your skills and learning in a hands-on way!
Cybersecurity isn't just about the flashy 'hacking' you see in movies and shows like Mr. Robot. In reality, a lot of it involves analyzing data and logs, and assisting non-tech folks with their tech issues. So, while hacking skills can be a part of it, know that the job itself might involve quite a bit of problem-solving and communication with users.
Exactly! There are many roles in cybersecurity that don't involve hacking per se. It's more about understanding and protecting networks and systems.
Thanks for the insight! That makes a lot of sense.
Don't forget to try some Capture the Flag challenges as well! They can be a fun way to learn and are great for beginners. One I recommend is called Bandit.
Thanks for the recommendation! I've heard a bit about CompTIA, but I wasn't sure if that should be my first step.