Information security is a broad field, so the best first step is to explore different areas and identify what interests you most. Penetration testing typically requires a strong foundation in networking, operating systems, scripting, vulnerability analysis, exploitation techniques, and clear technical reporting. While certifications are not always required to offer penetration testing services, they can help validate your skills, build credibility, and support your career growth.

OffSec’s courses focus on practical, hands-on offensive security skills, including several paths that can help learners build or expand penetration testing capabilities.

For those new to the field, Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PEN-200) is a strong starting point. PEN-200 is OffSec’s essential training program for aspiring penetration testers and covers real-world vulnerability identification and exploitation across computers, networks, web applications, and basic cloud environments. It also prepares learners for the OSCP+ exam.

Learners who want to specialize in web application security can continue with Advanced Web Attacks and Exploitation (WEB-300). This is an advanced course designed for experienced penetration testers and security professionals who want to deepen their understanding of advanced web application attacks, exploitation techniques, code review, fuzzing, and dynamic analysis. WEB-300 prepares learners for the OSWE certification exam.

For learners interested in wireless security, Foundational Wireless Network Attacks (PEN-210) introduces wireless network security concepts, common vulnerabilities, wireless reconnaissance, traffic analysis, and exploitation techniques. PEN-210 prepares learners for the OSWP certification.

Together, these courses can help learners build practical offensive security skills and explore different areas of penetration testing, from general network and system testing to web application and wireless security.

For a full overview of available training options, visit the OffSec Courses page to explore all current courses and choose the learning path that best matches your goals: https://www.offsec.com/courses/