Skip to Content
  • Canvas
  • Baker Mail
  • My Baker
Baker College
  • (855) 487-7888
  • Start Your Application
  • Visit
  • Request Info
Start Your Application Visit Get Started
  • Programs and Degrees
    • Bachelor’s
      • Bachelor Degrees
      • Areas of study
        • Health Science
          • Health Science Bachelor’s
            • Health Information Management
            • Healthcare Administration
            • See All Health Science Degrees
        • Business
          • Business bachelor’s
            • Accounting
            • Business
            • Business Administration
            • Finance
            • Human Resource Management
            • Leadership
            • Management
            • Marketing
            • Operations Management
            • Project Management
            • Sports and Esports Management
            • Supply Chain Management
            • See All Business Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • IT & Engineering Bachelor’s
            • Automation Engineering Technology
            • Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence Concentration)
            • Computer Science (Computer Programming)
            • Computer Science (Data Analytics)
            • Game Software Development
            • Information Systems (Information Assurance)
            • Information Systems (Project Management)
            • Information Systems (Web & Mobile Application Development)
            • Information Technology and Cybersecurity
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Nursing
          • Nursing Bachelor’s
            • Nursing Traditional (BSN)
            • Nursing (BSN) – Accelerated
            • Nursing (BSN) – RN to BSN
            • See All Nursing Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science bachelor’s
            • Criminal Justice (Criminal Justice Studies)
            • Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement)
            • Psychology
            • Psychology and Industrial Organizational Psychology
            • Social Work
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • Liberal Arts & Sciences
          • Liberal Arts and Sciences bachelor’s
            • Biology
            • General Science
            • General Studies
            • See All Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees
        • Education
          • Education bachelor’s
            • Early Childhood Education
            • Elementary Education
            • Elementary Education (Accelerated)
            • See All Education Degrees
        • See Full Program List
        • See Minors List
    • Master’s
      • Master Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Business
          • Business Master’s
            • Accounting
            • Business Administration
            • Business Intelligence
            • Finance
            • Healthcare Management
            • Human Resource Management
            • Information Systems
            • Leadership Studies
            • See All Business Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • It & Engineering MASTER’S
            • Data Science (MS)
            • Information Systems (MS)
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Nursing
          • Nursing MASTER’S
            • Nursing (MSN), RN to MSN
            • Nursing Administration
            • Nursing Education
            • See All Nursing Degrees
        • Occupational Therapy
          • Occupational Therapy MASTER’S
            • Occupational Therapy (MSOT)
            • See All Occupational Therapy Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science MASTER’S
            • Counseling
            • Industrial/Organizational Psychology
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Doctoral
      • Doctoral Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Business
          • Business doctorates
            • Business Administration (DBA)
            • Business Administration – ABD
            • See All Business Degrees
        • Education
          • Education Doctorates
            • Educational Leadership (EdD)
            • See All Education Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Associate
      • Associate Degrees
      • Areas of Study
        • Health Science
          • HEALTH SCIENCE ASSOCIATE
            • Cardiac Sonography
            • Diagnostic Sonography
            • Health Information Technology
            • Occupational Therapy Assistant
            • Physical Therapist Assistant
            • Radiologic Technology
            • Surgical Technology
            • Veterinary Technology
            • See All Health Science Degrees
        • IT & Engineering
          • It & Engineering Associate
            • Mechatronics
            • See All IT & Engineering Degrees
        • Social Science
          • Social Science Associate
            • Criminal Justice (Criminal Justice Studies)
            • Criminal Justice (Law Enforcement)
            • See All Social Science Degrees
        • Liberal Arts and Sciences
          • Liberal Arts and Sciences Associate
            • General Studies
            • Health Science
            • See All Liberal Arts and Sciences Degrees
        • Education
          • Education Associate
            • Early Childhood Education
            • See All Education Degrees
      • Affiliated Programs
        • Culinary
          • Culinary Associate
            • Baking and Pastry
            • Culinary Arts
            • Food and Beverage Management
            • See All Culinary Degrees
        • Auto Diesel
          • Auto Diesel Associate
            • Automotive Services Technology
            • Diesel Service Technology
            • See All Auto Diesel Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Certificates
      • Certificates
      • Areas of Study
        • Health Science
          • Health Science Certificates
            • Medical Assistant
            • See All Health Science Degrees
      • Affiliated Programs
        • Auto Diesel
          • Auto Diesel Certificates
            • Automotive Services Technology
            • Diesel Service Technology
            • See All Auto Diesel Degrees
        • See Full Program List
    • Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
      • Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning
      • AREAS OF STUDY
        • Cannabis
          • Cannabis Courses and Certificates
            • Your Cannabis Career Starts Here
        • Career-Focused Training
          • Featured Courses
            • Cybersecurity Boot Camp
            • Online Electrical Technician Training
            • Online Certified HVAC/R Technician
            • Online CAPM and PMP Certification Prep
            • Cloud Engineer IT Professional Program
            • Full List of Courses
        • Full List of Programs
  • Admissions
    • Admissions
    • STUDENTS
      • Transfer
      • Graduate
      • Adult
      • Active Duty Military
      • Veteran
      • Back to Baker
      • High School
      • International
    • OVERVIEW
      • Applying to Baker
      • Undergraduate Application Process & Requirements
      • Graduate Application Process & Requirements
    • Special Programs
      • RunningStart
      • View Admissions Department Home
  • Tuition & Aid
    • Tuition & Aid
    • PAYING FOR SCHOOL
      • Tuition
      • Net Price Calculator
    • Ways to Save
      • BeFree Tuition Guarantee
      • College Credit for Work and Life Experience
      • Financial Aid
      • Grants
      • Scholarships
      • See Tuition & Aid
  • Student Life & Services
    • Student life & Services
    • Student Services
      • Student Success and Engagement
      • Dean of Students
      • CARE Team
      • OneStop
      • Academic Resource Center
      • Learning Support Services
      • First-Generation Students
      • Disability Services
      • Bookstore
    • Life on Campus
      • Student Life
      • Housing
      • Esports
      • Campus Safety
  • News & Events
    • News & Events
    • At Baker College
      • Newsroom
      • Blog
      • Events
  • About Baker College
    • About Baker College
    • Explore
      • Office of the President
      • Board of Directors
      • Accreditation
      • History
      • The Baker College Bees
      • Careers at Baker College
      • Modern Workplace@BC
      • Alumni
      • Get to Know Us
  • Tools & Resources
    • Tools
    • Academic Resources
      • Academic Calendar
      • Catalog
      • Full Course List
      • Student Handbook
    • Job Readiness Resources
      • Career Services
      • Transcripts
      • Handshake Hiring Program
      • See All Tools & Resources
  • Campuses
    • Campuses
    • Michigan Campuses
      • Cadillac
      • Muskegon
      • Owosso
      • Jackson
      • Royal Oak
      • Campus Maps
      • See All Learning Options
    • Online Campuses
      • Baker Online
      • Online Live
    • Affiliated Institutions
      • The Culinary Institute of Michigan
      • Auto / Diesel Institute
  • Current Students
    • Canvas
    • Baker Mail
    • My Baker

Blog

  • About Baker
  • Get to Know Us
  • Blog
  • Becoming an Ethical Hacker: What You Need to Know
Filter by
Filter By:
Cancel Apply
College of Information Technology and Engineering

Becoming an Ethical Hacker: What You Need to Know

April 19, 2024
  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Linkedin
Email Print
Adult student hacker typing a virus on computer to break firewall security.

Cybersecurity is evolving quickly alongside the equally fast-paced evolution of cybercriminals themselves. Unfortunately, despite deploying layered systems that encompass everything from advanced firewalls to multi-factor authentication, threat actors continue to find and exploit vulnerabilities, leading to trillions of dollars of damage.

On the front lines of this never-ending battle against increasingly sophisticated cybercriminals are ethical hackers, who strive to expose flaws in security systems. This is a growing field that represents an amazing opportunity for tech-savvy professionals with a penchant for digital problem-solving.

Previously, ethical hacking was regarded mainly as a grassroots effort, functioning largely as a reaction to major breaches. That has changed in recent years, however, and ethical hacking is now highly structured and proactive. Today, there is a strong demand for thoroughly trained ethical hackers who can align their cybersecurity skills with distinct corporate policies and objectives.

Employers want to feel confident that ethical hackers will provide results. This can be verified through targeted training, and we’re not talking about conventional computer science or even information systems degree programs.

By enrolling in information assurance programs, aspiring ethical hackers can acquire an impressive technical skill set, along with the agility and problem-solving skills needed to keep up with rapidly evolving cybersecurity concerns. Keep reading to discover the abundant possibilities in cybersecurity and information assurance, especially as they relate to ethical hacking.

What Is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking, like conventional hacking, seeks to gain access to protected applications, networks, or systems. With ethical hacking, though, these efforts are fully authorized. The goal: to uncover vulnerabilities that bad actors could find and exploit. As these vulnerabilities are detected and analyzed, they can be addressed to reduce the risk of future cyberattacks.

The Ethical Hacker’s Toolkit

Ethical hackers rely on various tools and technologies to bring vulnerabilities to light. Known as the ethical hacking toolkit, this series of hardware, software, and open-source solutions can help ethical hackers adapt to a range of situations or circumstances. Common components include:

  • Antivirus solutions – As the foundation of any cybersecurity toolkit, antivirus software provides a solid baseline, allowing for the swift detection and removal of malicious software.
  • Network scanning tools – Today’s top network scanning solutions promise to reveal open ports, which—if not properly configured or protected—can leave organizations at risk. These entry points can be revealed via impactful techniques such as TCP or SYN scanning.
  • Vulnerability scanning tools – Similar to network scanning, vulnerability assessments uncover weaknesses that could be exploited and ultimately used to gain unauthorized access. A variety of automated tools scan for known weaknesses and can also reveal issues with system configuration.
  • Lockpicking tools – There is no denying the importance of physical security, and some ethical hackers are just as adept at picking locks as they are at cracking passwords or finding open ports.

Depending on the needs of the organizations they serve, ethical hackers may also utilize external WiFi adapters, password-cracking tools, or network sniffing devices.

Common Types of Ethical Hacks

Ethical hacking takes many forms and provides numerous opportunities for professionals to specialize. We touched on several key tools and techniques, but now, we’ll delve into the specific processes that ethical hackers complete in their effort to crack protected systems.

Penetration Testing (Pen Testing)

Simulated attacks known as penetration tests reveal whether exploitable vulnerabilities are present. While the term ‘pen test’ is sometimes confused with the broader concept of ethical hacking, it actually represents a specific tactic that ethical hackers may use in their day-to-day work.

Through active exploitation of both known and unknown vulnerabilities, penetration testers gain extensive insight into the true status of cybersecurity systems. This process provides a clear roadmap for how actual cybercriminals might exploit flaws.

Vulnerability Assessment

Automated vulnerability assessments provide recurring insight into vulnerabilities and general system protection. This is a quick and effective solution for revealing major flaws, but it typically does not provide as deep of a dive as pen testing or other ethical hacking strategies. Although pen testing is largely manual, vulnerability assessments rely on computer software to provide broad insights.

Web Application Testing

Centered on security issues unique to web applications, this targeted form of testing can pinpoint common issues such as SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS). Dynamic application security testing (DAST) employs front-end strategies to identify vulnerabilities without requiring access to the source code. DAST focuses on applications that are running by observing how they respond to simulated attacks.

Social Engineering

Some of the most alarming attack strategies rely on social engineering to manipulate human emotions and gain access to sensitive systems—even when advanced technical solutions are not available to bad actors. Common examples of social engineering include phishing, baiting, and DNS spoofing.

Social engineering can be challenging for even the most sophisticated cybersecurity teams to uncover. To understand whether organizations can withstand these sophisticated schemes, ethical hackers need to think like cybercriminals. This might involve simulated phishing emails and other attempts to manipulate or trick employees.

Wireless Network Testing

From weak passwords to poorly configured devices, wireless networks can be vulnerable to a variety of security concerns. Unfortunately, many organizations neglect to bring the same scrutiny to wireless access points and devices as they do for web applications.

This is where wireless network testing comes into play. This brings a systematic approach to uncovering frequently overlooked wireless security concerns. Following thorough reconnaissance efforts, ethical hackers rely on controlled environments to exploit possible vulnerabilities related to firmware, encryption protocols, and more.

Skills Required to Become an Ethical Hacker

Ethical hacking is a dynamic field that calls for a robust skill set. This incorporates both technical acumen and competencies known as soft skills. Information systems degree programs bring structure to the long-term process of developing these skills. We highlight several essentials below:

Technical Hacking Skills

Above all else, ethical hackers need to understand how to carry out a successful and fully ethical hack. This process typically encompasses five phases:

  • Reconnaissance – Gathering information about the target
  • Scanning – Identifying the easiest ways to gain access
  • Gaining access – Using vulnerabilities revealed while scanning to breach security systems
  • Maintaining access – Continuing to exploit systems to reveal further vulnerabilities
  • Covering tracks – Eradicating evidence that might uncover malicious activity

Knowledge of Programming Languages

Programming language competence is essential across the full scope of cybersecurity and information assurance. With ethical hacking, programming languages deliver enhanced opportunities for navigating databases and spotting errors.

Different languages enable ethical hackers to target different components, so ideally, these professionals would master a range of procedural, functional, and object-oriented languages. Essentials include:

  • C++
  • Python
  • JavaScript
  • SQL

Networking Skills

To effectively analyze traffic and identify network vulnerabilities, ethical hackers should develop a well-rounded understanding of network protocols such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and Domain Name System (DNS). Packet analysis is also a must; this allows ethical hackers to thoroughly examine data packets as they move in and out of various networks.

Cryptography

An important strategy for obfuscating data, cryptography provides reliable protection in transmission and storage. Ethical hackers utilize cryptographic measures as they examine vulnerabilities or conduct penetration tests. Solid encryption safeguards the test environment by preventing unauthorized individuals from deciphering sensitive information.

Reverse Engineering

Reverse engineering helps ethical hackers and other cybersecurity professionals gain a more nuanced understanding of malware. This can spark insights that help cybersecurity professionals remove malware or produce more effective defenses to avoid it in the future. Reverse engineering can help cybersecurity teams determine how malware might evolve and which strategies must be deployed to avoid associated cyber risks.

Soft Ethical Hacking Skills

In addition to developing a sizable set of technical skills, ethical hackers must be mindful of soft skills, too, which determine how they work within broader cybersecurity teams and how they convey key findings. Today’s employers demand a blend of technical and soft skills, including these essential soft skills below.

Problem-Solving

Ethical hacking is, at its core, a structured approach to cybersecurity problem-solving. The takeaway? Highly developed problem-solving skills are crucial. By leveraging their unique technical skills, ethical hackers can define cybersecurity problems, determine their root causes, and overcome a variety of obstacles as they seek solutions to today’s greatest cyber threats.

Ethical Responsibility and Integrity

Integrity is a must for ethical hackers, who should fully understand the possible implications of their work and must operate according to a strict ethical code. This means respecting the privacy of the organizations and individuals they serve while also remaining mindful of legal boundaries.

Communication

Upon detecting vulnerabilities, ethical hackers should be capable of accurately conveying what these issues involve and how they can be addressed. They may need to adjust their communication style to reflect the unique needs of various stakeholders, including those who lack a strong technical background.

Continuous Learning

Change is the only constant in the modern cybersecurity landscape, and as new attack vectors (and software solutions) emerge, ethical hackers must keep up. This means constantly researching new risks and opportunities as well as being willing to expand their technical skill set over time.

Teamwork and Collaboration

Ethical hacking is not, as some people assume, a solitary pursuit. Rather, ethical hackers work closely with cybersecurity teams, where many specialists bring targeted skills to the table. Through strong collaboration, they can uncover vulnerabilities that lone ethical hackers might struggle to pinpoint.

How to Become an Ethical Hacker

There is no single way to develop cybersecurity skills or to prepare for a career in ethical hacking. However, if you’re not sure where to begin, these tried-and-tested suggestions should help:

1. Build Your Educational Foundation

Success in ethical hacking begins with a solid foundation in cybersecurity and information systems. This is best obtained with a relevant degree, which provides a structured process for developing the technical and soft skills discussed above. Consider pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems that could help you develop crucial competencies in programming languages, software testing, and application security.

2. Gain Practical Experience

As you explore the theoretical underpinnings of cybersecurity, take advantage of opportunities to apply newly developed skills in simulated or real-world environments. Opt for a degree program that emphasizes practical application through projects and other hands-on learning experiences.

3. Earn Certifications

Lending extra credibility as you embark on your ethical hacking career, industry certifications reveal your competence as a cybersecurity professional. Your degree program can provide a solid framework as you study for rigorous exams—and you may emerge with a valuable credential to add to your resume. Examples include:

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
  • Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
  • Practical Network Penetration Tester (PNPT)

4. Gain Work Experience

There are many ways to get your foot in the door as you pursue exciting ethical hacking opportunities. Cybersecurity internships, for instance, help you hone your penetration testing skills. Other options worth considering include:

  • Volunteering – Many organizations actively seek out talented individuals who can help them pinpoint and address cybersecurity issues. This is a great way to expand your skill set while making a meaningful difference where it’s needed most.
  • Hackathons – Bringing together ethical hacking novices and experienced hackers alike, hackathons encourage enthusiasts to work collaboratively to find solutions to issues that might otherwise take weeks or even months for smaller hacking teams to resolve. This is an excellent way to boost collaborative hacking skills while also expanding your professional network.
  • Part-time or entry-level positions – A variety of small businesses and non-profit organizations require cybersecurity assistance or IT support and may be willing to hire currently enrolled information systems students or recent graduates.

The Value of an IS Degree in Information Assurance for an Ethical Hacking Career

A targeted degree program can provide a solid blueprint for an exciting educational journey that helps you develop a broad spectrum of cybersecurity skills.

When in doubt, look to the Bachelor of Science in Information Systems to equip you with the numerous technical and soft skills vital to success in ethical hacking. Advantages of this degree program include:

Comprehensive Skill Set

We have already outlined a wide range of skills that contribute to ethical hacking success, but it isn’t always easy to find structure and support if you attempt to develop these competencies on your own.

Through a blend of foundational computer science coursework and targeted classes in data administration, you can expect to gain the full spectrum of technical skills you need. Meanwhile, general education coursework helps you develop comprehensive skills such as critical thinking and communication.

Understanding of Ethical and Legal Frameworks

Ethical hackers do not enjoy unrestricted access to security systems. They must abide by strict ethical and legal frameworks, which can be difficult for aspiring ethical hackers to understand. These principles are thoroughly explored within information systems courses that also provide an up-to-date overview of relevant rules and regulations.

Certification Preparation

Acquiring the certifications highlighted above can be demanding, but the right degree and concentration can help immensely. Information systems coursework aligns with the topics covered in rigorous exams for becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or a Certified Information Systems Security Professional. Additionally, networking opportunities and degree-facilitated work experiences may help aspiring ethical hackers satisfy certification work requirements.

Hands-On Experience

From labs to capstones, the ideal degree program will provide a wealth of opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in realistic scenarios. Through projects, labs, and simulations, information systems students can gain hands-on experience and, with it, the confidence to apply their newly developed skills in the real world. These programs provide training opportunities within the field as well, which may span several weeks or months.

Keeps Pace with Evolving Threats

Up-to-date coursework should keep you abreast of the latest cybersecurity developments. Your degree program will introduce you to the most cutting-edge solutions and the emerging cyber threats they can be used to combat. This could grant you much-needed confidence as you enter a fast-paced field.

The right program can also instill a mentality of continuous learning so you feel motivated to seek out additional learning opportunities long after you’ve graduated.

Jumpstart Your Career in Ethical Hacking at Baker College

Ethical hacking is an opportunity-filled career field, and with high-level training, you can play a powerful role in combating today’s greatest cyber threats.If you’re ready to take the next step, consider enrolling in Baker College’s Bachelor of Science in Information Systems program with a concentration in Information Assurance. Reach out to learn more or to complete your application.

  • Share on Facebook
  • Share on Twitter
  • Share on Linkedin
Email Print

Follow Baker College

Facebook YouTube Twitter Instagram LinkedIn

Filter by Tag

Filter by Tag

Recent Blog Entries

College of Information Technology and Engineering
Can You Earn a Master of Accounting Online?
Read More
College of Information Technology and Engineering
What Healthcare Administrators Do and How They Keep Hospitals Running
Read More
College of Information Technology and Engineering
The Role of BSN-Prepared Nurses
Read More
We're Here to Help
Ready to take the next step?

Contact us today to speak with a
Baker admissions expert.

By clicking Submit, I give Baker College my consent to use automated technology to call, text, and email me regarding educational services, using the contact information above, including my wireless number. This consent is not required to receive educational services.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 

Admissions

  • Apply
  • Online
  • Undergraduate Admissions
  • Graduate Admissions
  • Tuition & Aid
  • International Students
  • Transfer Students
  • Military Friendly
  • Running Start

About Baker

  • Schedule a Visit
  • Get to Know Us
  • Mission and Core Values
  • Accreditation
  • Newsroom
  • Events
  • Blog
  • Careers

Tools & Resources

  • Request Info
  • My Baker
  • Baker Mail
  • Bookstore
  • Academic Resource Center
  • Canvas

Contact Us

1020 S Washington St, Owosso, MI 48867

Phone: (800) 964-4299

(855)487-7888

Facebook YouTube Twitter Instagram LinkedIn
  • Disclosure of Consumer Information
  • Policies And Procedures
  • Privacy Policy
  • Title IX Policy
  • Annual Security Report
  • ASR Health Benefits: MRF (TiC Rule)
Baker College
Baker College

Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission. An equal opportunity affirmative action institution. An approved institution of the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).

Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning courses may or may not be eligible for college credit. These courses are not eligible for financial aid or Baker College scholarships. Baker College's Higher Learning Commission accreditation does not encompass Continuing Education and Lifelong Learning courses.

If you encounter an accessibility issue using this page, please let us know.

© 2025 All rights reserved. Baker College