This step-by-step guide explains how to start ethical hacking from scratch, using simple language that anyone can understand.

Step 1: Understand What Ethical Hacking Really Is

Ethical hacking means testing systems legally to find security weaknesses before criminals exploit them.

Ethical hackers:

• Work with permission
• Follow cyber laws
• Protect systems and data
• Help organizations improve security

👉 Ethical hacking is legal and professional.

Step 2: Build Basic Computer Knowledge

You don’t need advanced skills at the beginning. Start with the basics.

Learn:

• How computers work
• Difference between hardware and software
• Windows basics (files, folders, settings)
• How to use browsers and basic tools

This step builds your confidence.

Step 3: Learn How the Internet Works

Understanding the internet is critical for hacking.

Focus On:

• What is an IP address
• What is a server and client
• How websites work
• HTTP vs HTTPS

This knowledge helps you understand how attacks happen.

Step 4: Learn Networking Basics (Beginner Level)

Networking may sound technical, but you can learn it easily with practice.

Important Topics:

• What is a network
• What are ports and protocols
• LAN, WAN, and VPN basics
• Firewalls and routers

Networking is the backbone of ethical hacking.

Step 5: Start Using Linux (No Fear)

Linux is widely used in ethical hacking.

What to Do:

• Install Linux (Kali or Ubuntu)
• Learn basic commands like ls, cd, pwd
• Understand folders and permissions

Linux may feel strange at first, but it becomes easy with use.

Step 6: Learn Basic Programming (Very Simple Level)

You don’t need to be a developer to start.

Start With:

• Python for automation
• Basic scripting concepts
• Understanding simple code logic

Programming helps you understand how attacks are created.

Step 7: Learn Cyber Security Fundamentals

This step teaches you how hackers attack systems.

Learn About:

• Malware and viruses
• Phishing attacks
• Password attacks
• SQL injection
• XSS (Cross-site scripting)

Step 8: Learn Ethical Hacking Tools (Slow & Legal)

Tools help you practice real-world hacking scenarios.

Beginner-Friendly Tools:

• Nmap (network scanning)
• Burp Suite (web testing)
• Wireshark (traffic analysis)

⚠️ Always use tools only on legal platforms.

Step 9: Practice on Legal Platforms

Practice is where learning becomes real.

Best Beginner Platforms:

• TryHackMe
• Hack The Box (starting labs)
• OverTheWire
• PortSwigger Academy

These platforms are safe and legal.

Step 10: Learn Cyber Laws & Ethics

Ethics are non-negotiable in hacking.

You Must Know:

• What is legal and illegal
• Why permission is required
• Responsible disclosure
• Cyber crime penalties

This keeps your career safe.

Step 11: Get a Beginner Certification (Optional)

Certifications help validate your learning.

Good Beginner Options:

• CEH (Beginner track)
• CompTIA ITF+
• CompTIA Security+

Step 12: Choose a Career Path

Once you gain basic skills, choose your specialization.

Career Options:

• Ethical Hacker
• Penetration Tester
• SOC Analyst
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Bug Bounty Hunter

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Trying illegal hacking
• Skipping basics
• Depending only on tools
• Expecting quick results
• Not practicing regularly

Simple Roadmap Summary

1. Learn computer basics
2. Understand the internet
3. Learn networking fundamentals
4. Use Linux
5. Learn basic programming
6. Study cyber security
7. Practice ethically
8. Get certified
9. Build a career

Conclusion

Starting ethical hacking with no technical background is completely possible. What matters most is consistency, curiosity, and ethics. Start small, practice daily, and grow step by step.

No background? No problem.
Ethical hacking is a skill anyone can learn.