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Cybercrime is booming. The world needs skilled ethical hackers to counter the increasing threat of cyberterrorism and help safeguard corporations, financial institutions, and government agencies online. Read on to learn how to launch your hacking career.

Key takeaways

  • Ethical hackers use their skills to protect, rather than infiltrate, computer systems.
  • Many ethical hacking careers feature a median annual salary above $100,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
  • ISC2 reports that companies want cybersecurity professionals with advanced application security skills.

Popular hacking and cybersecurity courses with certificates

What is hacking?

Hacking, or cyberhacking, is the process of accessing a computer system, network, or digital device without authorization. Cybercriminals hack into networks illegally to steal financial or personal information, corrupt digital data, or implant malware with malicious intent. However, not all hacking is illegal or unethical.

To combat cybercrime, ethical hackers use these skills for good. They identify and test vulnerabilities within digital networks to strengthen defenses against malicious cyberattacks. The FBI estimates that over $4 billion was lost to cybercrime in 2020 alone. This increase in online crime is driving demand for ethical hacking professionals.

Why learn hacking?

  • Address critical cybersecurity talent gaps, with about 25% of teams lacking expertise in application security, penetration testing, and threat intelligence analysis, according to the 2024 ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study.
  • Learning ethical hacking can unlock new career opportunities, such as vulnerability assessor, security analyst, and information security manager.
  • Build job-ready skills through expert-led edX ethical hacking courses and programs, with foundational certificates that can be completed in as little as 3 weeks.

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Understand the types of hackers

The cybersecurity industry often uses hat colors to describe the range of hacker types. Black hat, white hat, and grey hat hackers are the most well-known hacker groups, classified by their intentions and ethical standing.

Black hat hackers

Black hat hackers intend to use their hacking skills maliciously and illegally. Cybercriminals in this category are also called unethical hackers and malicious hackers. Black hat hackers gain unauthorized access to computer systems and networks in order to exploit their vulnerabilities, such as by implanting a virus, breaching a database, or extorting funds.

White hat hackers

White hat hackers, also called ethical hackers, are the counterpoint to black hat hackers. They locate and repair vulnerabilities in a network or system to prevent unauthorized access and guard against cyberattacks. While black and white hat hackers employ many of the same hacking techniques, white hats use these skills to strengthen the integrity of their organization's computer systems rather than for malicious intent.

Gray hat hackers

As their name suggests, gray hat hackers operate between black and white hats in terms of their intent. They are neither fully ethical nor fully unethical. For example, a gray hacker may uncover a weakness in an organization's network and demand payment in exchange for declining to exploit the vulnerability.

Careers you can pursue with a hacking background

Learning ethical hacking can prepare you for many well-paying and in-demand careers. Jobs like those below may require a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related subject.

Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information systems managers oversee hardware and software installation, mentor IT staff, and lead their company or organization's IT department.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree
  • Median annual salary (2024): $171,200

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How to get started in hacking

1. Build foundational cybersecurity skills

White hat hacker training is based on a strict ethical code. All ethical hackers need a strong foundation in programming and scripting, computer networks, and operating systems before advancing to more complex hacking techniques. Entry-level hackers must also build a strong understanding of offensive cybersecurity techniques and professional skills, including ethical conduct.

Consider what role you are ultimately seeking in cybersecurity and research its requirements. Think about factors like education requirements, salary expectations, and room for advancement in your chosen specialty. You may already have a preferred area of specialization in mind; however, there are also generalist hackers who have expertise in all areas.


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Frequently asked questions

Is learning hacking legal?

Yes, learning hacking is legal. Knowing how to hack computer systems can make you effective at stopping people from trying to steal your employer's information. Ethical hacking involves lifelong learning, as professionals must stay one step ahead of hackers wanting to do harm.

Do I need coding experience to learn hacking?

Although you do not need professional coding experience to learn hacking, coding knowledge provides an essential foundation for learning hacking skills. Programming languages popular with ethical hackers include Python, SQL, and HTML. edX programming courses and certificates offer a convenient way to master the skills and knowledge you need.

Do you need a degree to become an ethical hacker?

No, as some employers may consider your application if you hold relevant certificates and significant professional experience. However, a bachelor's in computer science or cybersecurity can open up many more entry-level career opportunities. A degree may also qualify you for professional advancement with your current employer.

How long does it take to learn hacking?

Learning hacking can take anywhere from a few months to two years, depending on your existing experience. Generally, aspiring ethical hackers can learn fundamental skills in 3-6 months, spend another 6-12 months developing practical skills for an entry-level position, and then spend 1-2 years honing their skills in their chosen area of expertise.

Is learning how to hack worth it?

The booming global cybercrime industry is driving the demand for skilled ethical hackers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security analysts earned a median annual salary of $124,910 in 2024. The BLS projects jobs for these professionals to grow by 29% between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the 3% average growth rate across occupations. From individual courses to four-year degrees, programs exist for ethical hackers at all levels of experience. Graduates enjoy careers in cybersecurity, network administration, and IT fields.

What is the difference between a cyberattack and hacking?

By definition, a cyberattack is ill-intentioned, whereas hacking can be used for good or bad. Additionally, a cyberattack describes the overall event, while hacking is merely the method used. For example, planning a cyberattack would require black hat hackers to carry out the act; however, it may be prevented by white hat hackers with the same cybersecurity expertise.