Penetration Tester
Think like an attacker to defend better. This path covers the structured methodology, core techniques, and reporting skills required for professional penetration testing.
Who this path is for
This path is for security analysts, system administrators and developers who want to move into offensive security. You should already be comfortable on the Linux command line and understand how web applications and networks work. The target role is a junior penetration tester who can follow a structured methodology and deliver a report a client can act on.
What you'll be able to do
- Run reconnaissance and OSINT to map a target attack surface within an agreed scope.
- Find and safely confirm common web vulnerabilities such as injection, broken access control and authentication flaws.
- Escalate privileges on Linux and Windows hosts by spotting weak permissions, misconfigured services and exposed credentials.
- Keep clean notes and evidence during testing so every finding can be reproduced.
- Write a pentest report with clear risk ratings, business impact and remediation steps.
- Understand the rules of engagement and legal authorization that separate a pentest from an attack.
What you'll cover
Reconnaissance & OSINT
Passive and active information gathering: DNS, WHOIS, certificate transparency, social media, and job postings.
Web Application Vulnerabilities
Master OWASP Top 10: SQL injection, XSS, IDOR, SSRF, authentication flaws, and more.
Privilege Escalation
Escalate from low-privilege access to root/SYSTEM on Linux and Windows systems.
Pentest Reporting
Write reports that executives and developers actually act on: executive summary, findings, risk ratings, and remediation guidance.
Knowledge Check
Related certifications
CompTIA PenTest+
A vendor neutral exam covering planning, scoping, testing and reporting. A reasonable first offensive credential.
Offensive Security Certified Professional
A hands-on, practical exam that many employers treat as a strong signal of real testing ability.
Free supporting courses
Strong Linux and PowerShell skills make privilege escalation and post exploitation much easier.
Free Linux Security course →Frequently asked questions
How long does the Penetration Tester path take?
This is the longest path at about 16 hours for the four topic areas and the quiz. Lab practice on intentionally vulnerable machines should be added on top.
What do I need before starting?
Linux command line basics, networking fundamentals and a general idea of how HTTP works. The PowerShell Zero to Hero course is also useful for Windows targets.
What roles can this path lead to?
Typical titles include junior penetration tester, security consultant, application security tester and red team analyst.
Path Summary
- Level
- Intermediate
- Estimated time
- 16 hours
- Topics
- 4
- Resources
- 13
- Quiz questions
- 10
- Passing score
- 70% (7/10)