The Pentester Blueprint
“The Pentester Blueprint” is a great guide for anyone interested in pursuing a career in penetration testing or cybersecurity. The book, co-authored by Kim Crawley and Phillip L. Wylie, provides a comprehensive overview of the field, from foundational knowledge and skills to the various paths one can take to become a successful pentester.
Overview
The book starts by introducing the basics of penetration testing, including the roles and responsibilities of a pentester, the skills required, and the tools commonly used in the field. As the book progresses, it delves into stories of actual penetration testers. They offer insights into their own diverse paths they took to enter the field. The authors have provided us with a collection of real-life professionals who have successfully transitioned into penetration testing from various other backgrounds. These stories are not just inspirational but also practical, offering advice and strategies that readers can apply to their own career journeys.
What I Liked
Each individual’s journey highlighted in the book was unique, demonstrating that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to becoming a pentester. Some people came from technical backgrounds, while others pivoted from entirely different careers. This variety of experiences emphasized that with dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for cybersecurity, anyone can make it in this field.
Personal Reflection
Reading this book reinforced to me the idea that the cybersecurity industry is open to individuals from all walks of life, provided they have the right mindset and are willing to put in the work. The stories of persistence, continuous learning, and networking were particularly inspiring and resonated with my own experiences and aspirations.
The book also does an excellent job of demystifying the process of becoming a pentester. It breaks down the steps needed to build the necessary skills and provides something of a roadmap for those just starting out. The authors also emphasize the importance of community and networking, encouraging readers to engage with others in the field, whether through online forums, conferences, or local meetups.
Buy It!
Overall, “The Pentester Blueprint” is a great resource for anyone interested in penetration testing or cybersecurity. It combines practical advice with real-life examples, making it both an educational and inspiring read.