An advanced understanding of computer and network security protocols is required to become an ethical hacker. In most cases, at least a few years of college-level training in information technology (IT) and computer networking protocols will be required for this position. Schools frequently offer certificate courses that allow students to apply their current knowledge of penetration testing, also known as hacking, while continuing their education. While it is possible to learn to be an ethical hacker without formal training, the majority of companies prefer to hire network security consultants who have verifiable credentials.
A white hat hacker or a computer security consultant are other terms for ethical hackers. While they use the same exploits and software as computer criminals, these individuals are referred to as ethical or white hat hackers because the goal of their attack on a system is to find and close security holes before criminal hackers do. Due to the nature of the job, an ethical hacker must maintain a regular education schedule in order to stay relevant in the field.
Workshops, symposiums, and industry conventions are frequently used to meet this continuing education requirement. To stay on top of their game, many computer security consultants attend four or more of these conferences each year. Attending these industry workshops and conventions can help those aspiring to be ethical hackers connect with others in the field and build a professional network.
The next step after obtaining the necessary education to become an ethical hacker is to find work in this field. Submitting resumes and credentials to businesses in the traditional manner is one way to do this. However, as an out-of-the-box industry, white-collar hacking has a broader perspective on how to select the best computer security professional for the job.
The launch of an ethical hacking competition is one method that has been used to successfully find qualified individuals. Many technology companies, such as Google and Microsoft, sponsor contests for ethical hackers and those interested in becoming one. Penetration testing of a new operating system, web browser, or network is sometimes included in these competitions in order to find backdoor entrances that could compromise the system’s security. In many cases, cash, merchandise, or job opportunities are offered as incentives for entrants to find the most open holes in a particular piece of software or network.