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Hacking Courses

Hacking courses can help you learn network security, penetration testing, ethical hacking techniques, and vulnerability assessment. You can build skills in threat analysis, incident response, and secure coding practices. Many courses introduce tools like Metasploit, Wireshark, and Burp Suite, that support testing and securing systems against potential attacks.


Popular Hacking Courses and Certifications


  • E

    EC-Council

    Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE)

    Skills you'll gain: Penetration Testing, Threat Management, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Cloud Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Security Testing, Network Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, Cyber Attacks, Brute-force attacks, Exploitation techniques, Human Factors (Security), Web Applications, Mobile Security, Internet Of Things, Wireless Networks

    ★ 4.6 (612) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • G

    Google

    Foundations of Cybersecurity

    Skills you'll gain: Cybersecurity, Security Controls, Cyber Attacks, Security Management, Network Security, Cyber Risk, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Information Assurance, Data Ethics, Network Analysis

    ★ 4.8 (41K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • I

    IBM

    IBM Ethical Hacking with Open Source Tools

    Skills you'll gain: Threat Detection, Penetration Testing, Exploit development, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Threat Management, Linux Administration, Incident Response, Vulnerability Scanning, Vulnerability Assessments, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability Management, Network Monitoring, Bash (Scripting Language), Cyber Security Assessment, Network Security, Anomaly Detection, Incident Management, AI Security, Information Systems Security, Network Analysis

    ★ 4.6 (188) · Intermediate · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • L

    LearnKartS

    Ethical Hacking

    Skills you'll gain: Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Scanning, Security Testing, Cyber Security Assessment, Cybersecurity, Network Security, Cyber Attacks, Cryptography, Kubernetes, Application Security, Cloud Infrastructure, Cloud Applications, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Threat Hunting, Security Controls, Security Awareness, Cyber Risk, Security Strategy

    ★ 4.6 (291) · Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: New
    New
    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • I

    IBM

    Ethical Hacking with Kali Linux

    Skills you'll gain: Linux Administration, Bash (Scripting Language), Network Monitoring, Cyber Security Assessment, System Configuration, Digital Forensics

    ★ 4.8 (56) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • E

    EDUCBA

    Kali Linux: Ethical Hacking & Pentesting

    Skills you'll gain: Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Metasploit, Penetration Testing, Exploit development, Vulnerability Scanning, Malware Protection, Exploitation techniques, Database Management, Cyber Security Assessment, Security Testing, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Operations, Vulnerability Assessments, Brute-force attacks, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Hardening, Linux, Linux Administration

    ★ 4.8 (89) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • P

    Packt

    The Complete Ethical Hacking Bootcamp: Beginner To Advanced

    Skills you'll gain: Linux Commands, Metasploit, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Linux, Penetration Testing, Exploit development, Vulnerability Scanning, Command-Line Interface, Exploitation techniques, Security Testing, Scripting, Vulnerability Assessments, Hardening, Brute-force attacks, General Networking, Scripting Languages, Shell Script, Network Administration, Cybersecurity, Network Security

    ★ 4.3 (47) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • I

    IBM

    Penetration Testing, Threat Hunting, and Cryptography

    Skills you'll gain: Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Penetration Testing, Threat Detection, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Cryptography, Security Testing, Application Security, Encryption, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability Scanning, Brute-force attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, AI Integrations, Exploitation techniques, Test Planning

    ★ 4.6 (2.5K) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • E

    EDUCBA

    Python Hacking & Cryptography Mastery

    Skills you'll gain: Cryptography, Encryption, Cybersecurity, Brute-force attacks, Python Programming, Key Management, Programming Principles, File I/O, Computational Logic, Program Development, Algorithms, Debugging, Code Reusability, Scripting, Data Mapping, Software Testing, User Interface (UI), UI Components, Data Structures, Application Development

    ★ 4.9 (14) · Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • P

    Packt

    The Complete Ethical Hacking Course

    Skills you'll gain: Metasploit, Exploit development, OSI Models, Network Security, Exploitation techniques, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), TCP/IP, Cybersecurity, Vulnerability Scanning, Cyber Operations, Malware Protection, Network Protocols, Security Testing, Cyber Attacks, Wireless Networks, Application Security, Cyber Security Assessment, Network Monitoring, Linux, Object Oriented Programming (OOP)

    ★ 4.7 (25) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • P

    Pearson

    Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

    Skills you'll gain: Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), AI Security, Vulnerability Assessments, Vulnerability Scanning, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Vulnerability Management, Network Security, Cryptography, Penetration Testing, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cybersecurity, Cyber Security Assessment, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Threat Modeling, Threat Detection, Web Applications, Internet Of Things, Cloud Computing, Network Architecture

    ★ 4.6 (22) · Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Introduction to Ethical Hacking

    Skills you'll gain: Penetration Testing, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Metasploit, Public Key Infrastructure, Exploit development, Exploitation techniques, Threat Modeling, Cybersecurity, Cryptography, Mobile Security, Security Testing, Vulnerability Scanning, Cyber Security Assessment, Application Security, Operating System Administration, Network Security, Key Management, Operating Systems, Encryption, Hardening

    ★ 4 (20) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
1234…14

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular hacking courses

  • Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE): EC-Council
  • Foundations of Cybersecurity: Google
  • IBM Ethical Hacking with Open Source Tools: IBM
  • Ethical Hacking: LearnKartS
  • Ethical Hacking with Kali Linux: IBM
  • Kali Linux: Ethical Hacking & Pentesting: EDUCBA
  • The Complete Ethical Hacking Bootcamp: Beginner To Advanced: Packt
  • Penetration Testing, Threat Hunting, and Cryptography: IBM
  • Python Hacking & Cryptography Mastery: EDUCBA
  • The Complete Ethical Hacking Course: Packt

Frequently Asked Questions about Hacking

Hacking refers to the practice of exploiting weaknesses in computer systems or networks to gain unauthorized access or manipulate data. It is important because it plays a crucial role in cybersecurity, helping organizations identify vulnerabilities and protect sensitive information. Ethical hacking, in particular, is a proactive approach where professionals use hacking techniques to improve security measures, making it essential in today's digital landscape.‎

A variety of job opportunities exist in the field of hacking, particularly in cybersecurity. Positions such as ethical hacker, penetration tester, security analyst, and cybersecurity consultant are in high demand. These roles involve assessing security systems, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing protective measures. Additionally, there are opportunities in related fields like digital marketing and growth hacking, where understanding hacking principles can enhance strategies.‎

To pursue a career in hacking, you need a solid foundation in several key skills. These include knowledge of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), understanding of networking concepts, familiarity with operating systems (especially Linux), and proficiency in security protocols. Additionally, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a strong ethical framework are essential for success in this field.‎

There are many excellent online courses available for those interested in hacking. Notable options include the IBM Ethical Hacking with Open Source Tools Professional Certificate and the Certified Ethical Hacking (v12) Specialization. These programs provide comprehensive training and practical skills needed to excel in the field.‎

Yes. You can start learning hacking on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many hacking courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in hacking, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning hacking involves a structured approach. Start by gaining a basic understanding of computer systems and networks. Then, explore online courses that cover ethical hacking principles and tools. Practical experience is crucial, so consider participating in labs or simulations. Engaging with online communities and forums can also provide valuable insights and support as you progress in your learning journey.‎

Hacking courses typically cover a range of topics, including ethical hacking fundamentals, penetration testing techniques, network security, and vulnerability assessment. Advanced courses may explore into specific tools and methodologies used in the industry, as well as legal and ethical considerations. Hands-on projects and real-world scenarios are often included to enhance practical skills.‎

For training and upskilling employees in hacking, courses like the Security and Ethical Hacking Specialization are highly recommended. These programs focus on practical skills and knowledge that can be directly applied in the workplace, helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture and prepare for potential threats.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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