1.0. Introduction

Before we jump into how to perform penetration testing, you first need to understand some core concepts about the “art of hacking” that will help you understand the other concepts discussed throughout this course. For example, you need to understand the difference between  ethical hacking and  unethical hacking. The tools and techniques used in this field change rapidly, so understanding the most current threats and attacker motivations is also important. Some consider penetration testing an art; however, this art needs to start out with a methodology if it is to be effective. Furthermore, you need to spend some time understanding the different types of testing and the industry methods used. Finally, this is a hands-on concept, and you need to know how to get your hands dirty by properly building a lab environment for testing.