Introduction to Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing

This session introduces ethical hacking and penetration testing as controlled methods for identifying security weaknesses before attackers do. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the penetration testing lifecycle, common testing approaches, and how to carry out reconnaissance and basic validation activities responsibly within legal and ethical boundaries.

Key Topics

• Ethical hacking vs malicious hacking: what makes it “ethical”

• Penetration testing fundamentals and common methodologies

• Scoping, permissions, and rules of engagement

• Types of penetration tests (black box, grey box, white box)