Hacking as a profession: How to become a penetration tester

Bypassing firewalls, uncovering vulnerabilities, documenting security gaps – all on behalf of the client. Penetration testers (also known as pentesters) are among the elite of the IT security industry. They simulate targeted attacks on systems, networks, and applications to identify security vulnerabilities early on. They think like real hackers – but with one crucial difference: they act on behalf of and to protect their clients. Penetration testers are therefore considered white hat hackers .

What does a penetration tester do?

Penetration testers carry out planned attacks on IT infrastructures – only with permission, of course. The goal is to simulate real-world threat scenarios.

How would an attacker proceed?
Which vulnerabilities can be exploited?
Which systems are particularly at risk?

The results are compiled into a technical report with recommended solutions . This provides companies with valuable insights for specifically improving their security architecture.

Education and career path: How does one become a penetration tester?

There is no clearly defined training path. Many penetration testers enter the profession via the following routes:

IT specialist for system integration or application development
Studying IT security or computer science
Self-taught individuals with hacking experience (e.g., via platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, or CTF events)

More important than degrees are technical know-how and the ability to think creatively , analyze problems, and continuously learn. Anyone who wants to be a successful penetration tester needs:

Enthusiasm for networks, protocols, servers and operating systems
Understanding of typical security vulnerabilities and attack techniques
An "attacker mindset": creative, structured, persistent

What skills and tools do penetration testers need?

A successful penetration tester masters several disciplines:

Network and system knowledge: Understanding of firewalls, routers, protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/S, and knowledge of operating systems (Linux, Windows, macOS) are essential.

Scripting and tool expertise: Knowledge of Bash, Python, or PowerShell is helpful for automating or customizing attacks. Tools such as the following are used daily:

Nmap (network scans)
Metasploit (Exploits and Payloads)
BloodHound (Analysis of Active Directory Environments)
Burp Suite (Web Application Testing)
Wireshark (packet analysis)

Understanding and testing security vulnerabilities: From SQL injection to remote code execution to weaknesses in authentication mechanisms – penetration testers must identify and test known and novel vulnerabilities.

OSINT skills: Researching publicly available information (e.g., from metadata, code repositories, or employee social media profiles) is often the first step in an attack scenario.

Social Engineering: In many tests, penetration testers also examine how easily employees can be deceived through phishing, phone calls, or physical access attempts.

Which certificates are useful?

Some of the most important and recognized certifications for penetration testers:

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional): A practice-oriented standard for hands-on penetration testing.
OSWE (Web Expert): Specialization in web applications.
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker): Entry-level option with a focus on methodological knowledge.
CPTS, eCPPT, GPEN (SANS): Other established proofs of professional skills.

Case study: What a professional penetration test can achieve

A medium-sized mechanical engineering company commissioned Allgeier CyRis to conduct a full-scope penetration test. After just three days, our team uncovered serious vulnerabilities – including open ports with outdated services and easily guessed administrator passwords. A combination of phishing and remote code execution allowed attackers to gain access to domain administrator privileges. The company was shocked – and grateful that the vulnerabilities had been discovered in time .

CyRis solution in focus: Penetration tests from Allgeier CyRis

Our penetration tests uncover real security vulnerabilities in your infrastructure – before attackers do. Whether it's internal networks, web applications, Active Directory, or remote access:

We conduct targeted testing, document transparently, and provide concrete recommendations for action – understandable for IT teams and comprehensible for management.

Compact checklist: Getting started as a penetration tester

Technical training or studies with an IT focus
Knowledge of networks, servers, operating systems
Experience with tools such as Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark
Participation in hacking platforms (e.g., HackTheBox, TryHackMe)
First practical experience through CTFs or labs
Certifications such as OSCP, CEH or GPEN
Perseverance, creativity, and a constant willingness to learn

Conclusion: Penetration testing – more than just “hacking”

The profession of penetration tester is exciting, demanding, and highly responsible. Penetration testers are the "good hackers" who make IT systems more secure – with technical know-how, analytical thinking, and a genuine attacker's perspective. Getting started isn't easy, but it's possible with enthusiasm, practical experience, and a willingness to learn.