PWK Training Course Cost & Inclusions (2025 Guide) | OSCP Preparation

Table of Contents

• What is the PWK Training Course?
• How Much Does the PWK Training Cost in 2025?
• What’s Included in the PWK Course Package?
• Do You Need Any Prerequisites for PWK?
• Key Topics Covered in PWK Training
• Why Is the PWK Course Considered Challenging?
• Who Should Take the PWK Course?
• Live PWK/OSCP Training: Is It Worth It?
• Is PWK Training Worth the Price?
• Top Roles After Completing PWK/OSCP
• Where to Enroll for OSCP-PWK Live Training?
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK) course is the official training for Offensive Security’s OSCP certification — one of the most respected ethical hacking credentials in the cybersecurity field. Before enrolling, many prospective learners ask a critical question: “What does the PWK course include and how much does it cost?” In this blog, we break down everything — pricing, what you get, and whether it’s worth the investment.

What is the PWK Training Course?

The PWK course is a self-paced, intensive ethical hacking training program designed by Offensive Security. It teaches practical penetration testing skills using Kali Linux and culminates in the OSCP certification exam — a 24-hour hands-on test recognized by top employers.

Why Is PWK Training So Popular in Cybersecurity?

• Direct path to OSCP Certification

• Real-world penetration testing labs

• Challenging but industry-recognized curriculum

• Respected by hiring managers globally

• Develops hardcore hands-on hacking skills

How Much Does the PWK Training Cost in 2025?

The cost of the PWK course depends on the lab access duration you choose. As of 2025, here’s a quick breakdown:

What’s Included in the PWK Course Package?

When you enroll in the PWK course, here’s what you typically get:

1. PWK PDF Manual (800+ pages)

A deeply technical and well-structured guide covering:

• Enumeration techniques

• Exploitation methods

• Buffer overflows

• Active Directory attacks

• Post-exploitation

• Report writing

2. Video Lectures

Visual walkthroughs that explain core concepts, exploit techniques, and tool usage.

3. Kali Linux Virtual Labs

Access to realistic, vulnerable machines where you practice exploitation techniques in a safe, sandboxed environment.

4. OSCP Exam Voucher

One exam attempt is included. You'll get 23.75 hours to hack into a set of machines and 24 hours to submit the report.

5. Support Forums and Community Access

Engage with a global community of cybersecurity learners and professionals to solve problems and share insights.

Do You Need Any Prerequisites for PWK?

While PWK is beginner-friendly in theory, in practice, it’s intense. Ideal candidates should have:

• Basic Linux command-line knowledge

• Understanding of TCP/IP and networks

• Familiarity with scripting (Python/Bash)

• Some exposure to penetration testing or ethical hacking tools

Key Topics Covered in PWK Training

Here’s a snapshot of the main areas included in the course:

Why Is the PWK Course Considered Challenging?

• No hand-holding: The course encourages independent learning.

• Time pressure: The exam is 24 hours long with a strict time limit.

• Realistic environment: You won’t find obvious vulnerabilities — enumeration and creativity are key.

• Practical application > theory

This challenge is what makes OSCP holders so respected in the field.

Who Should Take the PWK Course?

The PWK course is best suited for:

• Aspiring Penetration Testers

• Cybersecurity Analysts

• Red Team Members

• Security Engineers

• CEH-certified professionals looking to upskill

• IT professionals seeking a career shift to cybersecurity

Live PWK/OSCP Training: Is It Worth It?

Many learners now opt for live PWK/OSCP training sessions from institutes like Ethical Hacking Institute, which offer:

• Real-time instructor-led classes

• Live lab walkthroughs

• Personalized doubt-solving

• Exam guidance and reporting assistance

• Interview and job support post-certification

These sessions bridge the gap between theoretical PDFs and real-time exam performance.

Is PWK Training Worth the Price?

Yes, absolutely. For a serious cybersecurity career, especially in penetration testing, this is one of the most cost-effective, hands-on certifications with direct impact on job roles and salary hikes.

You gain:

• Practical experience

• Problem-solving skills

• Credential that HRs and technical leads both recognize

Top Roles After Completing PWK/OSCP

Where to Enroll for OSCP-PWK Live Training?

You can enroll in live PWK/OSCP preparation courses from Ethical Hacking Institute, Pune. They offer:

• Structured OSCP mentorship

• Real-time Kali Linux-based lab setups

• Weekly mocks and report guidance

• Placement assistance

Explore more: OSCP Training by Ethical Hacking Institute

Conclusion: Should You Go for PWK in 2025?

If your goal is to work in ethical hacking, penetration testing, or red teaming, the PWK + OSCP combo is a must. It is rigorous, respected, and makes you job-ready. The investment may seem steep initially, but it’s well worth the ROI in terms of skills, career opportunities, and confidence.

FAQs 

What is the PWK training course?

The PWK course (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux) is the official training for the OSCP certification by Offensive Security.

How much does the PWK course cost in 2025?

Depending on the package, it ranges from $849 to $5,499, based on lab access and exam attempts.

What is included in the PWK training course?

It includes a PDF manual, video lectures, lab access, community forums, and one OSCP exam attempt.

Is lab access included in the PWK course fee?

Yes, depending on the plan you choose, lab access ranges from 30 days to 1 year.

Does PWK training include the OSCP exam?

Yes, all PWK plans include at least one attempt at the OSCP certification exam.

What topics are covered in the PWK syllabus?

Topics include enumeration, exploitation, buffer overflows, web attacks, privilege escalation, and Active Directory.

Is the PWK course suitable for beginners?

While beginners can start, it’s ideal to have basic Linux, networking, and scripting knowledge beforehand.

Can I get live PWK training sessions?

Yes, many institutes offer live OSCP/PWK training with hands-on labs and mentorship.

What tools are used in the PWK course?

Primarily Kali Linux tools like Nmap, Metasploit, Netcat, Burp Suite, Hydra, and others.

Is PWK training self-paced?

Yes, it is a self-paced course, though you can opt for guided live sessions with trainers.

Is there a time limit to complete PWK?

Your lab access duration determines how long you can practice. Most users take 30–90 days to prepare.

How long is the OSCP exam?

The OSCP exam is 23 hours and 45 minutes long, followed by a 24-hour report submission window.

What is the Learn One package in PWK?

It includes 1-year lab access, 1 OSCP exam attempt, and all course materials for $1,599.

What is the Learn Unlimited PWK package?

This includes unlimited OSCP exam retakes, 1-year access, and full course materials at $5,499.

Can I get job-ready after PWK?

Yes, PWK and OSCP prepare you for roles in ethical hacking, red teaming, and penetration testing.

Is the OSCP certification difficult?

Yes, it’s considered challenging due to its hands-on format and strict exam environment.

What is the PWK PDF manual?

An 800+ page guide included in the course that covers theory, techniques, and practice exercises.

Are there mock tests in PWK training?

While the official course doesn’t include mock exams, many live training providers offer them.

Can I take the PWK course online?

Yes, it’s a fully online course with virtual labs and downloadable resources.

Do I need prior CEH certification to do PWK?

No, CEH is not mandatory. PWK can be your first serious ethical hacking course.

Are there real-time labs in PWK?

Yes, you’ll have access to real-world lab machines to test exploitation and privilege escalation.

Is reporting included in PWK syllabus?

Yes, it teaches how to create professional pentest reports, which are essential for the OSCP exam.

What is the best duration of lab access for beginners?

90 days is the most recommended for beginners aiming for first-time OSCP success.

Does PWK include Windows and Linux machines?

Yes, the lab environments include both Windows and Linux targets for diverse learning.

Can I upgrade my PWK plan later?

Yes, OffSec allows plan upgrades or extensions for labs and exam attempts.

Does PWK help in red team roles?

Absolutely. PWK builds strong foundational skills required for red teaming.

Is there a refund policy for PWK course?

OffSec generally does not offer refunds unless under special conditions. Check their terms.

What certifications are equivalent to OSCP?

Alternatives include eCPPT, GPEN, and CEH, but OSCP is the most recognized for hands-on skill.

What is the passing score for the OSCP exam?

You need at least 70 out of 100 points to pass the OSCP certification exam.

Can Ethical Hacking Institute help with PWK training?

Yes, they offer structured live training, mentorship, mock tests, and placement support.