10 Platforms You Can Use to Learn Hacking or Cybersecurity

1. Hack The Box (HTB)

• Overview: HTB is a popular platform for learning penetration testing. It offers virtual machines to hack into, mimicking real-world scenarios.

• Features: CTF challenges, real-world scenarios, beginner to advanced difficulty.

• Link: Hack The Box

2. TryHackMe

• Overview: As mentioned earlier, TryHackMe offers gamified learning paths in cybersecurity, from beginner to advanced levels.

• Features: Structured learning paths, CTF challenges, virtual environments.

• Link: TryHackMe

3. OverTheWire

• Overview: OverTheWire offers free CTF challenges designed to teach users about Linux, networking, and other basic security concepts.

• Features: Focus on Linux security, beginner-friendly, real-world challenges.

• Link: OverTheWire

4. PentesterLab

• Overview: PentesterLab is a paid platform focused on teaching web application security, penetration testing, and hacking techniques.

• Features: Real-world web app vulnerabilities, step-by-step tutorials.

• Link: PentesterLab

5. Root Me

• Overview: Root Me offers challenges in various categories like web security, cryptography, and network security. It's a great place for both beginners and more experienced learners.

• Features: Extensive challenges and exercises, real-world hacking techniques.

• Link: Root Me

6. CyberSecLabs

• Overview: CyberSecLabs provides a hands-on learning environment where you can practice real penetration testing skills.

• Features: Vulnerable machines to practice on, realistic hacking labs.

• Link: CyberSecLabs

7. SecurityBlueTeam

• Overview: Unlike most hacking platforms, SecurityBlueTeam focuses on defensive security skills (Blue Team). It provides hands-on training to defend networks, systems, and applications.

• Features: Blue team training, incident response, defensive techniques.

• Link: SecurityBlueTeam

8. Cybrary

• Overview: Cybrary is an online learning platform offering free and paid courses on cybersecurity topics, from ethical hacking to cloud security.

• Features: Video lessons, certifications, a wide range of cybersecurity topics.

• Link: Cybrary

9. SANS Cyber Aces

• Overview: SANS offers free cybersecurity training under the Cyber Aces initiative. It’s a great introduction to fundamental cybersecurity concepts.

• Features: Introductory lessons on networking, system administration, and cybersecurity.

• Link: SANS Cyber Aces

10. EC-Council (iLabs)

• Overview: EC-Council offers an iLabs platform for students enrolled in its certification programs, including the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). It includes virtual labs for hands-on training.

• Features: Ethical hacking courses, live labs, and a focus on certification exams.

• Link: EC-Council iLabs

Bonus:

• Google Gruyere – Focuses on web application security, helping you understand vulnerabilities like XSS, CSRF, etc.

  • Google Gruyere

These platforms provide a broad range of learning experiences—from offensive techniques like penetration testing to defensive practices like incident response. Whether you're a beginner looking to get into hacking or an advanced learner refining your skills, these platforms offer great opportunities to level up.

Which one are you thinking of trying first?