Lesson 2
Penetration Testing Fundamentals
Master the frameworks and practical approaches to authorized security testing.
Lesson content
Penetration Testing Frameworks
- OWASP Testing Guide: For web application security
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework: For organizational security
- PTES (Penetration Testing Execution Standard): Industry standard methodology
- SANS Methodology: Structured approach by security experts
Essential Tools
- Nmap: Network scanning and enumeration
- Burp Suite: Web application security testing
- Metasploit: Exploitation framework
- Wireshark: Network packet analysis
- John the Ripper: Password cracking
- SQLmap: SQL injection testing
- Hashcat: Advanced password recovery
Testing Process
- Get written authorization before testing
- Define scope and rules of engagement
- Perform reconnaissance and scanning
- Identify vulnerabilities
- Attempt exploitation
- Document findings and evidence
- Provide detailed report with remediation steps