Fact Check: What is the best learning path to be an the best etichal hacker?

Published March 11, 2025•Updated June 18, 2025

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VERDICT

Partially True

# Fact Check: What is the best learning path to be the best ethical hacker? ## What We Know Ethical hacking is a critical field within cybersecurity,...

Fact Check: What is the best learning path to be the best ethical hacker?

What We Know

Ethical hacking is a critical field within cybersecurity, focusing on identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities in systems and networks. The demand for ethical hackers is increasing due to the rising number of cyberattacks; for instance, the average cost of a data breach was over $4.24 million in 2021, highlighting the need for skilled professionals in this area (source-2).

To become an ethical hacker, individuals typically pursue various certifications that validate their skills and knowledge. Some of the most recognized certifications include:

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Managed by the EC-Council, this certification helps individuals think like ethical hackers and covers penetration testing and attack methodologies (source-2).
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Known for its difficulty, this certification requires candidates to demonstrate practical skills in penetration testing (source-2).
CompTIA PenTest+: This certification focuses on penetration testing skills and is suitable for those looking to validate their ability to test network security (source-2).

In addition to certifications, various online courses are available that cover the fundamentals of ethical hacking. Platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer comprehensive courses that range from beginner to advanced levels, focusing on practical skills and theoretical knowledge (source-5).

Analysis

The claim regarding the best learning path to become an ethical hacker is partially true. While the pursuit of certifications and courses is indeed a valid and effective approach, the term "best" is subjective and can vary based on individual goals, prior experience, and learning preferences.

For instance, the CEH certification is widely recognized and can significantly boost one's career prospects, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. Some may find the OSCP more challenging yet rewarding, as it emphasizes hands-on skills in real-world scenarios (source-2).

Moreover, the effectiveness of online courses can vary. While platforms like Udemy and Coursera offer valuable resources, the quality and depth of the content can differ significantly between courses. Therefore, it's essential for aspiring ethical hackers to research and select courses that align with their learning style and career objectives (source-5).

In terms of source reliability, the information provided by CompTIA and Hackr.io is credible, as they are established organizations in the field of IT and cybersecurity. However, potential bias should be considered, as these sources may promote their own certifications or courses.

Conclusion

The claim about the best learning path to become an ethical hacker is partially true. While pursuing certifications and online courses is a proven method to gain the necessary skills and knowledge, the "best" path can vary based on individual circumstances. Aspiring ethical hackers should evaluate their own goals, prior experience, and preferred learning methods to determine the most suitable approach for their education and career development.

Sources

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