Want To Learn Hacking? Check Out These Hacking Books

In this article, I share the 14 best hacking books in 2024. Whether you’re new to hacking or an experienced professional looking to boost your hacking skills, we’ve included hacking books for beginners and pros alike.

You might recognize some from the recommendations made by the hacker who took down internet in North Korea.

Best Ethical Hacking Books for Beginners

1. Ethical Hacking: A Hands-On Introduction to Breaking in

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Why we chose this book

Coming in at number 1 on our list, this top-rated ethical hacker book is a user-friendly, informative, and practical guide for beginners and experienced professionals in cybersecurity. 

It's also an excellent resource to have on hand if you're currently taking an ethical hacking course and you're still new to the field.

I really like that this book delves into a wide range of topics, from capturing network traffic with ARP spoofing and analyzing it in Wireshark to deploying reverse shells, crafting trojans and rootkits, exploiting websites with SQL injection, and performing advanced Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.

Something else I appreciate about this hacking book is that it's a hands-on guide with various labs and exercises. This is great, as you get to work with professional penetration testing tools while also learning to write your own hacking tools in Python.

Overall, I really like this book’s well-rounded approach, which makes it ideal for developing a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking.

Features

• Includes practical, hands-on labs to develop crucial ethical hacking skills
• Integration of advanced penetration testing tools and Python scripting
• Highly recommended by educators and cybersecurity professionals
• User-friendly, informative, and suitable for absolute beginners

2. The Pentester BluePrint: Starting a Career as an Ethical Hacker

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Why we chose this book

This beginners’ guide to pen-testing is perfect for IT workers, entry-level information security professionals, and anyone seeking to transition to the field of penetration testing. 

What made this book stand out for me was its approachable and accessible writing style, which is ideal if you want to brush up before earning a penetration testing certification.

The authors expertly guide you through both basic and advanced topics essential for a career in finding vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications.

It also covers the foundations of pen-testing, the development of hacking skills, educational options, certifications, and gaining practical experience in the field. 

Features

• Practical strategies and advice to kickstart a pen-testing career
• Exploration of educational options, certifications, and degrees
• Guidance on gaining experience through labs, CTFs, and bug bounties
• Real-life stories and reviews from pen-testers and information security professionals

3. Bug Bounty Bootcamp: The Guide to Finding and Reporting Web Vulnerabilities

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Why we chose this book

This is another hacking book that's ideal for beginners with little to no security experience or those looking for a great backup source of information while taking a cybersecurity course.

I also like that it offers a fresh introduction to web hacking, finding bugs, and staying competitive in the lucrative bug bounty industry.

You’ll learn about hacking websites and mobile apps, reviewing source code for security issues, finding vulnerabilities in APIs, and automating the hacking process.

I also appreciate that this book covers advanced techniques rarely found in beginner books on ethical hacking, such as reconnaissance, identifying vulnerabilities, exploiting them, and navigating bug bounty programs.

Overall, it's a really comprehensive guide for developing a strong foundation and deeper understanding of ethical hacking.

Features

• Coverage of web hacking and bug bounty hunting techniques
• Practical guidance on choosing a bug bounty program and writing quality bug reports
• Detailed explanations of common web vulnerabilities 
• Real-life user reviews, experiences, and success stories in the bug bounty field

4. Hands on Hacking: Become an Expert at Next Gen Penetration Testing and Purple Teaming

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Why we chose this book

Authored by leading cybersecurity expert Matthew Hickey, this book is ideal if you want to learn to think like malicious hackers.

Trust me, this can be really helpful for understanding their methods, which can also help you to better defend against cybersecurity threats.

Expect to cover a range of essential topics, including ethics, law, open-source intelligence gathering, domain name systems, email services, web servers, virtual private networks, file storage, database servers, and web applications.

Another added bonus is that you can access virtual labs to hone and test your skills. I really like this, as it makes it easier to develop the mindset and processes of an ethical hacker. 

Features

• Emphasis on practical elements of computer hacking with exclusive virtual labs
• Covers Linux, UNIX, and Microsoft Windows operating systems
• Provides guidance on creating Purple Teams to identify and solve security issues
• Assesses web applications for critical vulnerabilities and exploits them

5. Real-World Bug Hunting: A Field Guide to Web Hacking

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Why we chose this book

This hacking book is ideal for cybersecurity beginners who want to understand web security vulnerabilities and learn how to identify, exploit, and report them effectively.

Authored by self-taught developer and ethical hacker Peter Yaworski, the book introduces the most common types of vulnerabilities, such as cross-site scripting, insecure direct object references, and server-side request forgery, using real-life case studies.

I like that each chapter focuses on a specific vulnerability type, accompanied by a series of actual reported bug bounties.

This is great for learning how attackers exploit weaknesses and how to submit effective vulnerability reports. 

Features

• Introduction to web hacking concepts and how the Internet works
• In-depth coverage of common vulnerability types with real-life case studies 
• Guidance on finding bug bounty programs and submitting effective vulnerability reports
• Offers insights into turning bug hunting into a successful career

6. CEH Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One Exam Guide, Fifth Edition

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Why we chose this book

If you've got an eye on a cybersecurity certification like the CEH, this prep guide is a great choice.

Written by a cybersecurity consultant at Deloitte, this guide was updated in 2021 for the CEH v11 exam objectives.

It covers ethical hacking fundamentals, reconnaissance, scanning, sniffing, attacking systems, hacking web servers and applications, wireless network hacking, mobile and IoT security, cloud computing security, cryptography, social engineering, physical security, and penetration testing. 

Features

• Covers every topic on the CEH v11 exam
• Learning objectives and exam tips at the beginning of each chapter
• 300 practice exam questions and a test engine that provides full-length practice exams 
• Up-to-date information on the latest tools, techniques, and exploits relevant to the exam

7. Getting Started Becoming a Master Hacker: Hacking is the Most Important Skill Set of the 21st Century

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Why we chose this book

I really like this tutorial-style guide for anyone considering a career in cybersecurity.

Some of the highlights for me include insights into the hacker mindset, not to mention a comprehensive set of tutorials on essential tools and techniques used in the field.

The author also thoughtfully presents a historical and legal perspective on hacking while offering step-by-step tutorials on vital computer hacking tools and techniques.

Overall, I found that it covers an impressive amount of topics, including reconnaissance, password cracking, vulnerability scanning, Metasploit 5, antivirus evasion, Python, and social engineering. 

Additionally, it features a case study on the NSA's EternalBlue malware, examining malware hacking through vulnerability analysis, exploitation, packet-level analysis, and reverse-engineering Python perspectives. 

Features

• Comprehensive coverage of essential hacking skills and tools
• Unique insight into the mindset and strategic thinking of hackers
• In-depth exploration of various professions in which hackers are in high demand
• Includes a case study on NSA's EternalBlue malware

8. Hardware Hacking Handbook, The: Breaking Embedded Security with Hardware Attacks

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Why we chose this book

After carefully reviewing feedback from past readers, it's fair to say that this hacking book is perfect for industry engineers, students, and electronics hobbyists alike.

It explores the world of embedded systems (including those in phones, cars, and credit cards) and illustrates how different types of attacks can affect our everyday security, whether that's hacking a phone or another embedded device.

I also like that it tries to help you understand and replicate hardware attacks to improve security in embedded devices.

Plus, I also appreciate that the authors share insights into real-life attacks on embedded systems and guide you through hands-on experiments using actual hardware.

This includes detailed explanations of the architecture of embedded devices, threat modeling, and attack trees before moving on to more advanced topics.

Features

• Comprehensive introduction to the security flaws of embedded devices
• Detailed explanations of hardware interfaces, ports, and communication protocols
• Hands-on lab experiments for fault-injection, side-channel, and power analysis attacks
• Real-life case studies of attacks on embedded systems, including gaming consoles 

9. Gray Hat Hacking: The Ethical Hacker’s Handbook

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Why we chose this book

Lying somewhere between the black and white hat is the grey hat! I know that's obvious, but this fully updated hacking book is great for learning effective, ethical hacking techniques through step-by-step instructions.

It's also ideal if you're looking to strengthen your understanding of ethical hacking, stay up-to-date on the latest threats, and learn practical techniques for protecting computer networks from attacks.

Something else I appreciate is that this book covers the latest threats in IoT, mobile, and cloud security, as well as computer hacking and penetration testing, malware analysis, and reverse engineering techniques.

Plus, you also get advice on actionable planning and analysis methods to help you identify and combat targeted and opportunistic attacks. 

Overall, it's a great read, and I'd also recommend it to anyone considering a degree in cybersecurity.

Features

• Fully revised content with seven new chapters covering the latest threats
• Complete coverage of IoT, mobile, and cloud security
• Proof-of-concept code stored on the GitHub repository for hands-on learning
• Field-tested remedies, case studies, and testing labs to help combat the enemy's tactics

Best Intermediate Ethical Hacking Books

10. Practical IoT Hacking: The Definitive Guide to Attacking the Internet of Things

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Why we chose this book

This is probably the best book on hacking for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of IoT security testing to protect these increasingly ubiquitous devices.

Authored by an experienced team of security professionals, you'll learn to test and exploit IoT systems and devices. It also provides in-depth coverage of attacks against embedded IoT devices and RFID systems.

With a strong emphasis on real-life exploits and hands-on learning, I like that this guide helps you pinpoint security flaws, develop testing methodologies, perform various types of attacks, and work with affordable tools to practice hacking techniques.

Features

• Expert insights from five highly regarded IoT security researchers
• Comprehensive coverage of IoT system vulnerabilities and exploits
• Hands-on learning with numerous practical examples and exercises
• Detailed instructions for hardware hacking, radio hacking, and developing custom tools

11. Black Hat Python, 2nd Edition: Python Programming for Hackers and Pentesters

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Why we chose this book

With over 100,000 copies sold and a recent update for Python 3, I really like this hacking book for intermediate Python programmers, security professionals, and hobbyists who are interested in building powerful hacking tools.

Just like the original, it delves into the darker side of Python programming, covering topics such as network sniffers, stealing email credentials, brute forcing directories, mutation fuzzers, virtual machine investigation, and crafting stealthy trojans.

In addition to this, I also really appreciate that the new edition covers bit shifting, code hygiene, and offensive forensics.

This is on top of detailed explanations of various Python libraries and computer hacking strategies, ensuring you stay updated with the latest techniques.

Features

• A look into Python's darker side and hacking techniques
• Updated code for Python 3 compatibility
• New coverage on bit shifting, code hygiene, and offensive forensics
• Expanded explanations of Python libraries and offensive hacking strategies

12. RTFM: Red Team Field Manual v2

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Why we chose this book

Anyone in IT that’s had to pick up a new skill will have probably heard the phrase RTFM (read the friendly manual, right?!).

Well, after conducting extensive research on the best hacker books, this title kept coming up on my radar.

Overall, I'd say that it's an excellent reference guide for red team operators, providing a collection of effective commands and techniques for both offensive and defensive security roles.

This second version of the book has also been completely overhauled with more than 290 new commands and techniques from field notes of numerous Red Team missions.

It also covers modern operating systems, includes a new Mac OS section, and outlines tradecraft considerations.

Overall, I highly recommend this hacking book for red-team professionals and blue-team members who are involved in detection engineering.

I'd also recommend picking up the paperback edition, as it contains a wide margin for notes, helping you keep track of your personal insights.

Features

• Over 290 new commands and techniques for red team operations
• Covers modern operating systems and tradecraft considerations
• Paperback version contains a wide margin for note-taking
• Equally useful for blue team members involved in detection engineering

Best Advanced Ethical Hacking Books

13. Hacking APIs: Breaking Web Application Programming Interfaces

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Why we chose this book

This advanced-level hacking book is an intensive web application hacker’s handbook.

Overall, it's designed to equip you with the skills you need to penetration-test APIs, earn substantial rewards in bug bounty programs, and enhance the security of your own web applications. Sounds good!

I also like that it offers insight into how REST and GraphQL APIs function, along with demonstrations on how to set up an efficient API testing lab using Burp Suite and Postman.

You'll also learn how to use tools such as Kiterunner and OWASP Amass for reconnaissance, endpoint analysis, and fuzzing, as well as techniques to perform common attacks and bypass protections.

Featuring 9 guided labs targeting intentionally vulnerable APIs, this book is great for getting hands-on experience in various API attack techniques, helping you confidently apply your newfound knowledge in real-world situations.

Features

• Comprehensive coverage of REST and GraphQL API security testing
• Practical guidance on setting up an API testing lab with Burp Suite and Postman
• Exploration of tools and techniques for reconnaissance, endpoint analysis, and fuzzing
• Nine guided labs targeting intentionally vulnerable APIs for hands-on learning

14. Hacking Connected Cars: Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures

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Why we chose this book

The last book on my list, this comprehensive field manual delves into the world of connected cars and autonomous vehicles

This is probably the most forward-thinking hacking book I've added to this article, but I really like the helpful insights it offers into identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities affecting the rapidly evolving field of automotive cybersecurity.

Authored by Alissa Knight, a veteran in risk management and penetration testing of IoT devices and connected cars, I'd say this is one of the best hacking books for advanced pros, as it offers a step-by-step guide for performing penetration testing, threat modeling, and risk assessments of telematics control units and infotainment systems.

You'll also learn how wireless networking, Bluetooth, and GSM vulnerabilities can be exploited, compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of connected cars.

Overall, it’s an essential resource for security practitioners, researchers, and vendors aiming to secure connected cars without limiting their connectivity.

Features

• Step-by-step guide to penetration testing of infotainment systems and telematics control units
• Comprehensive risk analysis of vulnerabilities and threats impacting connected cars
• Insight into tactics, techniques, and procedures used by hackers for penetration testing
• Expert insights from the author, a cybersecurity expert

Why Learn Ethical Hacking

Let me share a stat with you that stopped me in my tracks: cybercrime continues to grow exponentially, with a projected annual cost of $10.5 trillion by 2025! That’s huge!

It’s no wonder lucrative industries like finance need ethical hackers and cybersecurity experts to secure their systems, and if you want to be part of this, you can’t go wrong with hacking books. 

Plus, with the Bureau of Labor and Statistics reporting an average salary of more than $100K for information security analysts, scooping up hacking books can be the first step to a lucrative career.

So, if you’re ready, let’s dive into the best hacking books to boost your skills and get you ready to enter the cybersecurity job market.

How To Choose The Best Book For Hacking

Finding the best books for learning hacking can be challenging, particularly for those new to the field.

And that’s precisely why I wrote this article!

Here’s a rundown of the criteria I used for picking the best hacking books, and hopefully, it can help you in your search:

• Variety of Content: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hacker, diversity in content is crucial. Look for books that cover a range of topics suitable for various skill levels. From basic hacking principles to advanced cybersecurity techniques, a well-rounded selection is essential.
• Publish Date Relevance: Given the fast-paced evolution of technology, prioritize newer publications. These books are more likely to include the latest developments and contemporary hacking methods, keeping you up-to-date in this ever-changing field.
• Length and Depth: Everyone’s learning pace and style are different. Some may prefer concise overviews, while others might opt for comprehensive, in-depth guides. I've included both, but consider your attention span and the depth of knowledge you wish to acquire when choosing the length of the book.
• Reader Ratings and Feedback: A high rating and positive reviews are indicators of a book’s usefulness and reader engagement. Focus on books that are well-received by the community for being informative and engaging.
• Format Flexibility: Consider books available in multiple formats — print, eBook, and audiobook. This flexibility allows you to learn in a way that best suits your lifestyle, whether you’re at home, commuting, or on the go.

That should help you hone in on the best hacking book for your particular needs.

That said, it's also important to find the right book for you as an individual, and here are some tips I'd offer to do that:

• Assess Your Skill Level: Are you a novice in the world of hacking? Opt for books that lay a solid foundation in hacking concepts and techniques. For seasoned tech enthusiasts, books delving into specialized hacking methodologies or advanced security systems are more suitable.
• Consider Your Learning Preferences: Do you learn best by doing? Look for books that include practical exercises, real-life scenarios, or hands-on projects. This approach can be particularly beneficial in hacking, where practical skills are as important as theoretical knowledge.

Overall, remember that the best hacking book for you depends on your individual needs and learning style. Happy reading and happy hacking!

Can I Learn Hacking On My Own?

So, you’re curious about hacking and wondering if it’s something you can learn by yourself?

Like many of you, I’ve seen those movies and TV shows where characters seem to effortlessly navigate through the complex world of cybersecurity. They’re like digital wizards, wielding their command-line magic and profound knowledge of networks and security, not to mention cool catchphrases like "Hack The Planet".

But here’s the real scoop: in 2023, self-learning in hacking isn't just a possibility; it’s increasingly becoming the norm. 

Let’s break this down:

At its core, hacking is about understanding and manipulating the intricacies of computer systems and networks.

It's a field that requires a blend of curiosity, analytical thinking, and a relentless drive to solve complex problems.

Can you learn this on your own? Absolutely. The world of hacking is vast and dynamic, and thanks to the internet, learning resources are more accessible than ever.

From online courses and forums to open-source tools and virtual labs, the digital landscape is teeming with opportunities for aspiring hackers to learn and grow.

Self-learning in hacking often starts with the basics of computer science and programming. You don't need to be a programming prodigy, but a solid foundation will help you understand the mechanics behind hacking techniques. 

Then, there’s a plethora of online platforms offering courses in cybersecurity, ethical hacking, and network security.

These platforms range from beginner-friendly introductions to advanced simulations that mimic real-world hacking scenarios.

But it's not just about the technical skills. Ethical considerations are paramount in hacking. As a self-learner, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between ethical hacking (used to improve security) and malicious hacking (used to harm or exploit).

Staying within the legal and moral boundaries is a non-negotiable aspect of learning hacking.

Moreover, the hacking community is vast and supportive. Online forums, social media groups, and local meetups can be goldmines for learning from experienced hackers, sharing knowledge, and staying updated with the latest in cybersecurity.

Self-learning hacking also means staying adaptive. Cybersecurity is a field that’s constantly evolving, with new threats and challenges emerging regularly.

This requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation.

Finally, practical experience is key. Setting up your own lab, participating in capture-the-flag (CTF) challenges, and contributing to open-source security projects can provide invaluable hands-on experience.

So, yes, you can learn hacking on your own! You just need dedication, a hunger for knowledge, and a strong ethical compass.

What Is Ethical Hacking?

So, you’ve heard about ethical hacking and are eager to know what it's all about, right?

Picture this: Ethical hackers are the good guys of the cyber world, diving into the depths of computer systems, networks, and applications, not for chaos, but for strengthening security.

And yes, they do this with the full blessing of the system owners.

Think of it as a cat-and-mouse game, but where the cat is actually helping the mouse fortify its defenses.

Equipped with their trusty hacking laptops – their armory of choice – ethical hackers embark on a mission to uncover weaknesses and patch them up before the bad guys can take advantage.

Here's the deal: Ethical hacking is worlds apart from the shadowy figures of malicious hackers.

These white-hat pros use their powers for good, transforming vulnerabilities into fortresses and keeping digital threats at bay.

Let’s take a peek into their toolkit:

• Penetration Testing: This is like staging a mock battle against the system. Ethical hackers simulate real-world attacks not to cause harm but to pinpoint where the armor can be reinforced.
• Vulnerability Assessments: It's a methodical scan through systems, searching every nook and cranny for potential weak spots and then prioritizing them for defense upgrades.

By practicing ethical hacking, organizations are not just waiting around for an attack; they’re actively gearing up, ready to fend off cyber villains.

What Are the Benefits of Learning Ethical Hacking?

Embarking on the journey of becoming an ethical hacker? You’re in for a treat! Here’s why:

1. Acquiring valuable cybersecurity skills: Skilled ethical hackers are in high demand to help organizations counter cyber threats.
2. Protection from cyber threats: Understanding malicious hackers' tactics enables better protection of personal and others' digital assets.
3. Contributing to a safer online environment: Ethical hackers play a vital role in maintaining digital landscape security, and fostering trust in the internet ecosystem.

Ethical Hacking Career Opportunities and Growth

Thinking about a career in cybersecurity and ethical hacking? You’re looking at a field brimming with opportunities:

• Penetration Tester: Be the strategist who tests defenses and crafts smarter security.
• Security Analyst: Become the intelligence officer, always on the lookout for digital threats.
• Security Consultant: Advise the digital warriors on the best way to shield their realms.
• Vulnerability Assessor: The detail-oriented scout, identifying and assessing potential threats.
• Cybersecurity Engineer: The architect building stronger, smarter, and safer digital infrastructures.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics isn’t kidding when it predicts a 33% job growth in this field from 2020 to 2030. With cyber threats morphing and multiplying, the digital world needs more heroes like you.

Ready to don the white hat and learn cybersecurity skills?

Wrapping Up

And there you go, the 14 best hacking books in 2023, including hacking books for beginners and experienced pros.

Whether you’re just starting out in cybersecurity or you want to level up your existing hacking skills, I’ve included a range of hacking books to help you achieve your career goals.

Whichever hacking books you choose to try out, happy reading and happy hacking!

Are you new to the world of ethical hacking and looking for ways to get started? Check out:

Udemy's Top-Rated Course To Learn Ethical Hacking From Scratch

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Learn Hacking?

Learning hacking helps you understand cybersecurity, identify vulnerabilities, and protect computer systems from malicious attacks. It also offers a rewarding career in a high-demand industry. The best books for ethical hacking can be found in this guide. 

2. Which Are the Best Ethical Hacking Books?

The best books on ethical hacking really depend on your current skills and goals, meaning there is no one best hacking book. That said, we’d recommend Ethical Hacking: A Hands-On Introduction to Breaking in for beginners, and Black Hat Python and Hacking APIs: Breaking Web Application Programming Interfaces for Intermediate and advanced learners. Overall, any of the options in our list are solid starting points. 

3. Why Choose Ethical Hacking as a Career?

Choosing ethical hacking as a career offers numerous benefits, such as high demand, lucrative salaries, and the opportunity to make a positive impact by protecting individuals and organizations from cyber threats.

4. Who Is the No 1 Hacker in the World?

The No. 1 hacker is subjective and may vary based on criteria. However, Kevin Mitnick is often cited as one of the most famous hackers, known for his high-profile hacks and subsequent security consulting work.

5. What Are the Top 5 Hacking Techniques?

The top 5 hacking techniques include social engineering, phishing, malware attacks, password attacks, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Knowing these techniques can help defend against cyber threats.