How to Get Your Ethical Hacking Certification: Step-by-Step Guide | Beginner’s Guide to Ethical Hacking Certification in 2025

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Ethical Hacking?
3. Why Ethical Hacking Certification Matters
4. Top Ethical Hacking Certifications
5. Step-by-Step Guide to Get Certified
6. Essential Skills for Ethical Hackers
7. Best Online & Offline Training Platforms
8. Popular Hacking Tools You Must Learn
9. Exam Preparation Tips
10. Cost of Ethical Hacking Certifications
11. Career Scope After Certification
12. Freelancing & Bug Bounty Opportunities
13. FAQs
14. Conclusion

Introduction

In a world dominated by digital transformation, cybersecurity has never been more critical. Organizations are constantly threatened by cybercriminals, malware, ransomware, and data breaches. In such a scenario, ethical hackers serve as digital protectors, finding vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.

Getting certified in ethical hacking is the first step to becoming a professional cybersecurity expert. Whether you're a student, a working IT professional, or an enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step journey to becoming a certified ethical hacker (CEH and beyond).

What is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking refers to the authorized practice of identifying security flaws in digital systems through controlled testing. Ethical hackers get permission and follow rules, unlike cybercriminals who break the law.

Ethical hacking is often termed “white-hat hacking”, and certified professionals are known as Certified Ethical Hackers (CEH).

Why Ethical Hacking Certification Matters

• Trustworthy Credential: Certifications validate your expertise in ethical hacking.

• Industry Recognition: Certifications like CEH are globally recognized and highly valued.

• Job Opportunities: Certified hackers are in demand in MNCs, government, banks, and tech firms.

• Better Pay: Certified professionals earn higher salaries than non-certified peers.

• Structured Learning: Courses provide hands-on labs, practical use-cases, and VAPT exposure.

Top Ethical Hacking Certifications

Explore the leading ethical hacking certifications that are highly valued by cybersecurity professionals:

Step-by-Step Guide to Get Certified

Step 1: Understand the Prerequisites

Most ethical hacking certifications require:

• Basic understanding of networking (TCP/IP, firewalls)

• Familiarity with operating systems (Linux/Windows)

• Knowledge of programming/scripting (Python, Bash, JavaScript)

Step 2: Choose the Right Certification

If you're a beginner:

• Start with CompTIA Security+ or eJPT
  Intermediate/advanced learners:

• Go for CEH, OSCP, or CPT

Step 3: Enroll in a Reputable Course

Pick a structured and hands-on ethical hacking course from trusted platforms (see section below).

Step 4: Practice with Tools & Labs

Use platforms like:

• Hack The Box

• TryHackMe

• PentesterLab

• OverTheWire

Step 5: Schedule Your Exam

Register through the certification body (e.g., EC-Council for CEH) and book your exam.

Step 6: Pass the Exam

Ensure you pass with the required score. CEH, for example, requires a minimum of 70%.

Step 7: Stay Updated

Cybersecurity is dynamic. Join communities like Reddit r/netsec, LinkedIn groups, and Discord servers to stay informed.

Essential Skills for Ethical Hackers

Best Online & Offline Training Platforms

In India, top institutes include:

WebAsha Technologies, based in Pune, is a leading cybersecurity training institute known for offering practical, job-oriented ethical hacking courses. Whether you're a beginner or an IT professional aiming for CEH or OSCP, WebAsha provides both online and offline learning options tailored to industry demands.

Why Choose WebAsha Technologies?

Popular Hacking Tools You Must Learn

Exam Preparation Tips

1. Set a daily study schedule

2. Use practice tests and mock exams

3. Join Discord or Telegram study groups

4. Focus on practical labs, not just theory

5. Read documentation and CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities)

Cost of Ethical Hacking Certifications

Many platforms offer EMI, scholarship discounts, or course bundles.

Career Scope After Certification

• Cybersecurity Analyst

• Penetration Tester

• Security Consultant

• SOC Analyst

• Red Team Member

• Bug Bounty Hunter

Salary Ranges in India:

• Freshers: ₹4–7 LPA

• Mid-level: ₹8–15 LPA

• Senior Professionals: ₹20–35 LPA+

Freelancing & Bug Bounty Opportunities

Platforms like:

• HackerOne

• Bugcrowd

• Synack

• OpenBugBounty

You can earn $100 to $10,000+ per bug based on severity and scope. It’s a great side hustle or even a full-time career path.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the CEH certification?

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a credential offered by EC-Council to validate skills in penetration testing and cybersecurity.

2. Is CEH worth it in 2025?

Yes, CEH is globally recognized and is often a requirement for cybersecurity roles in government and private firms.

3. Can a beginner take the CEH exam?

Beginners are encouraged to start with CompTIA Security+ or eJPT before attempting CEH.

4. How long does it take to become a certified ethical hacker?

Typically, 3–6 months of dedicated study and practice is required.

5. What is the passing score for CEH?

Around 70%, but it varies slightly depending on the exam version.

6. Is ethical hacking legal?

Yes, as long as it is authorized and within the scope defined by the client or employer.

7. Which programming languages should I learn?

Python, JavaScript, Bash, and PowerShell are common in ethical hacking.

8. What tools are used by ethical hackers?

Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, Wireshark, Aircrack-ng, etc.

9. Are there jobs for ethical hackers in India?

Yes, with high demand in sectors like IT, finance, defense, and startups.

10. What is OSCP?

OSCP is a practical ethical hacking certification by Offensive Security, focused on hands-on penetration testing.

11. Can I become a freelancer after certification?

Yes, through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, Bugcrowd, and HackerOne.

12. Is online training sufficient?

Yes, if the course includes practical labs, tools, and exam simulations.

13. How much does the CEH exam cost in India?

₹45,000–₹70,000 depending on exam center and bundled courses.

14. What’s the difference between CEH and OSCP?

CEH is more theoretical, OSCP is highly practical and hands-on.

15. Can non-IT students become ethical hackers?

Yes, but they must first learn basic networking and scripting.

16. What is VAPT?

Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing – a process used in ethical hacking to evaluate security.

17. Is Linux important for ethical hacking?

Yes, especially distributions like Kali Linux, which come preloaded with hacking tools.

18. Can I learn ethical hacking for free?

Yes, through platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box (free labs), and YouTube.

19. Is ethical hacking in demand in 2025?

Absolutely. Experts predict over 6 million cybersecurity jobs globally by 2025.

20. What’s the future of ethical hacking?

Bright—AI security, IoT hacking, cloud security, and red teaming are fast-growing areas.

Conclusion

Ethical hacking is no longer a niche field—it is the frontline of defense against cyber threats. Getting certified not only validates your skills but also places you among an elite group of professionals shaping the future of cybersecurity.

With the growing need for data protection and compliance across industries, now is the best time to start your journey as a certified ethical hacker. Follow this step-by-step roadmap, invest in solid training, and you’ll be ready to defend networks and applications ethically and professionally.