Are you intrigued by the world of hacking but unsure where to begin? Do terms like “ports,” “password cracking,” or “penetration testing” feel intimidating or confusing?
Hacking 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Ethical Computer Hacking breaks down the essential concepts of cybersecurity into simple, approachable language—perfect for complete beginners.

This updated 2nd edition helps you understand how ethical hackers think, the tools they use, and the principles that guide responsible security testing. Designed to build your foundation step-by-step, this guide gives you the terminology, structure, and mindset needed to begin learning cybersecurity the right way: legally, safely, and ethically.

Inside This Beginner-Friendly Guide, You Will Learn:

• Ethical vs. Malicious Hacking — What’s the Difference?

Explore the motivations, goals, and responsibilities that separate professional security testers from harmful attackers.

• Core Cybersecurity Terminology Simplified

Gain clarity on the essential vocabulary every aspiring ethical hacker must know.

• How Password Weaknesses Are Exploited

Understand common password vulnerabilities and how professionals identify risks to help organizations strengthen their defenses.

• An Introduction to Common Attack Categories

Learn the broad types of cyberattacks that exist today—explained conceptually so you understand the “what” and the “why” behind them.

• The Tools Professionals Use (Explained Safely)

Get familiar with common cybersecurity tools and their purposes without diving into unsafe application.

• How Port Scanning Works (High-Level Overview)

See how ethical hackers analyze systems for open services and potential security weaknesses—presented at an accessible, responsible level.

• The Stages of Penetration Testing

Walk through the structured process security professionals use to evaluate and improve system defenses.

• Why Unix-Based Systems Are Popular in Cybersecurity

Discover the strengths of Unix and Linux systems and why so many cybersecurity experts rely on them.

• How to Keep Growing Your Skills

Receive practical, safe guidance for continuing your cybersecurity education beyond this book.

Perfect for Total Beginners

This book assumes zero prior knowledge. If you’ve ever wanted to understand how cybersecurity works—or even considered a future in ethical hacking—this guide gives you the clear, high-level foundation you need to get started responsibly.

Start your journey into ethical hacking today and build the skills that protect the digital world.