Introduction
Exploit development is a highly specialized skill that is in high demand in the fields of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. As technology continues to advance, so do the vulnerabilities that accompany it. Exploit development involves identifying and leveraging these vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to computer systems, with the goal of strengthening security measures and preventing potential attacks. If you are interested in honing your skills in this field, you might be wondering where to start. In this article, we will explore the top 10 best exploit development courses and certifications available online.
1. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification is widely regarded as one of the most recognized and respected certifications in the field of exploit development. Offered by Offensive Security, this certification focuses on practical hands-on experience rather than traditional multiple-choice exams. The OSCP course covers areas such as network penetration testing, web application testing, and exploit development. By successfully completing the OSCP certification, you will demonstrate your expertise in exploit development and gain a competitive edge in the job market.
2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is another popular option for individuals interested in exploit development. Offered by the EC-Council, the CEH certification provides an in-depth understanding of ethical hacking methodologies, including exploit development techniques. The course curriculum covers various topics, such as scanning networks, system hacking, and social engineering. By obtaining the CEH certification, you will not only enhance your exploit development skills but also gain a comprehensive understanding of the broader field of ethical hacking.
3. eLearnSecurity Certified Professional Penetration Tester (eCPPT)
The eLearnSecurity Certified Professional Penetration Tester (eCPPT) certification is suitable for individuals of all experience levels, including beginners. This certification focuses on practical hands-on training, allowing you to develop real-world exploit development skills. The eCPPT course covers topics such as network reconnaissance, vulnerability scanning, and advanced exploitation techniques. By obtaining the eCPPT certification, you will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and exploit vulnerabilities effectively.
4. Offensive Security Exploit Developer (OSED)
If you are already proficient in exploit development and looking to take your skills to the next level, the Offensive Security Exploit Developer (OSED) certification could be an ideal choice for you. Offered by Offensive Security, this certification is designed for advanced exploit developers who want to specialize in writing custom exploits. The OSED course covers topics such as reverse engineering, exploit development methodologies, and advanced shellcode development. By obtaining the OSED certification, you will become an expert in writing sophisticated exploits and gain a competitive advantage in the field.
5. SANS SEC760: Advanced Exploit Development for Penetration Testers
The SANS SEC760 course is an intensive training program that focuses on advanced exploit development techniques. Offered by the SANS Institute, this course is designed for experienced individuals looking to enhance their exploit development skills. The SEC760 course covers topics such as memory corruption vulnerabilities, Windows and Linux exploit development, and exploit mitigation techniques. By completing this course, you will gain a deep understanding of advanced exploit development concepts and techniques.
6. Corelan Bootcamp
The Corelan Bootcamp is a highly regarded training program that focuses on both beginner and advanced exploit development. This course, offered by Corelan, covers topics such as buffer overflow exploitation, Windows shellcoding, and SEH exploitation. The Corelan Bootcamp is known for its hands-on approach, allowing participants to gain practical experience through real-world scenarios. By completing this course, you will develop the skills necessary to write efficient and reliable exploits.
7. Georgia Weidman’s Advanced Penetration Testing Course
Georgia Weidman’s Advanced Penetration Testing Course is an online training program that caters to individuals with basic knowledge of exploit development. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of exploit development techniques, including those used in the Wild West of mobile application security. Georgia Weidman’s course covers topics such as advanced heap exploitation, ARM ROP chaining, and Linux x86 exploitation. By completing this course, you will gain practical skills that are highly sought after in the industry.
8. Udemy: Practical Ethical Hacking – The Complete Course
Udemy offers a range of courses in the field of ethical hacking and exploit development. The Practical Ethical Hacking – The Complete Course is a highly-rated program that covers various aspects of ethical hacking, including exploit development. This course provides hands-on experience with tools and techniques used by ethical hackers, such as Metasploit and Burp Suite. By enrolling in this course, you will learn practical exploit development skills and gain the knowledge necessary to secure computer systems.
9. Coursera: Cybersecurity and the X-Factor
Coursera offers a wide range of online courses in the field of cybersecurity, including exploit development. The Cybersecurity and the X-Factor course, offered by the University of Maryland, focuses on advanced exploit development techniques. This course covers topics such as memory corruption vulnerabilities, exploit mitigation techniques, and advanced shellcoding. By completing this course, you will acquire the skills needed to identify vulnerabilities and develop exploits to strengthen security measures.
10. Cybrary: Advanced Penetration Testing Course
Cybrary’s Advanced Penetration Testing Course is a free online training program that covers various aspects of exploit development. This course is designed for individuals looking to enhance their skills in penetration testing, including exploit development techniques. The course curriculum covers topics such as buffer overflows, shellcoding, and exploit development methodologies. By completing this course, you will gain practical experience in exploit development and be equipped with the skills necessary to protect computer systems from potential attacks.
Conclusion
Exploit development is a crucial skill in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity. The demand for professionals with expertise in this field continues to grow, making it an excellent career choice for those interested in ethical hacking. With the plethora of online courses and certifications available, individuals can enhance their exploit development skills and gain a competitive advantage in the job market. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, the top 10 courses and certifications listed in this article will provide you with the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in exploit development. So, choose the path that suits you best and embark on a rewarding journey in the world of exploit development.