14 Best Ethical Hacking Books in 2023 | Beginner to Pro

In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, the demand for skilled and responsible cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. 

Ethical hacking, sometimes known as white hat hacking, involves identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications to help organizations bolster their defenses against malicious cyber-attacks.

And with the global cybersecurity industry expected to surpass $400 billion by 2027, there’s never been a better time to learn how to become an ethical hacker to take advantage of the lucrative opportunities available to skilled hacking professionals. 

But how can you learn to become an ethical hacker in 2023? Your first thought might be to look for the best courses and tutorials on ethical hacking, which we’d definitely encourage. But one of the best ways to level up your skills is to read ethical hacking books.

So, whether you're an aspiring cybersecurity professional or a seasoned expert looking to sharpen your skills, we’ve found the 14 best ethical hacking books you need to read in 2023. Let’s dive in!

Looking for a fresh role in ethical hacking? Check out these cyber security Jobs

How to Choose the Best Book for Hacking

Choosing the best books for hacking is crucial for optimizing your learning experience and aligning with your personal goals and learning preferences. Since every learner is unique, ethical hacking books cater to diverse needs.

When looking for the best books on hacking, we considered several key factors to accommodate a broad spectrum of learners.

• Variety of Content: We looked for a diverse range of topics for various skill levels
• Publish Date: We emphasized newer publications to include the latest developments
• Length: We looked for books of varying lengths, from quick overviews to in-depth guides
• Rating: We focused on books that readers found helpful, informative, and engaging
• Format: We chose books in multiple formats (print, eBook, audiobook) for flexibility 

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

Our findings show that this is one of the top-rated ethical hacker books, as it offers a user-friendly and informative approach tailored to both beginners and experienced professionals in cybersecurity. 

The 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.

One aspect that makes this stand out as the best book for ethical hacking for beginners is the strong emphasis on hands-on labs and exercises. It not only encourages you to work with professional penetration testing tools but also guides you in learning to write your own tools in Python.

Overall, this book’s well-rounded approach ensures you receive a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking.

Features

• Includes practical, hands-on labs to develop crucial ethical hacking skills
• Integration of professional 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

Based on our research, we found that this is one of the most popular ethical hacker books to date. It’s perfect for IT workers, entry-level information security professionals, and anyone seeking to transition to the field of penetration testing. 

What sets this book apart is its approachable and accessible writing style. The authors expertly guide you through both basic and advanced topics essential for a career in finding vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications. It covers the foundations of pentesting, 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

Our analysis of this book shows that it is perfect for beginners with little to no security experience. It offers a fresh introduction to web hacking, finding bugs, and staying competitive in the lucrative bug bounty industry. You’ll learn about hacking mobile apps, reviewing source code for security issues, finding vulnerabilities in APIs, and automating the hacking process.

What makes this book stand out is that it covers advanced techniques rarely found in beginner books on ethical hacking such as reconnaissance, identifying vulnerabilities, exploiting them, and navigating bug bounty programs. We find it to be a comprehensive guide, very much capable of providing you with 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. CEH Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One Exam Guide, Fifth Edition

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Why we chose this book

What better way to prepare for the CEH exam than with one of the best books on hacking? Our studies show that this book is perfect for students looking to pass the CEH exam, as well as for professionals seeking a valuable on-the-job reference of ethical hacking. 

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

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

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Why we chose this book

As indicated by our research, this book, authored by leading cybersecurity expert Matthew Hickey, teaches you how to think like malicious hackers and understand their methods to better defend against cybersecurity threats. It’s perfect for business leaders and those just starting in the field.

Topics include ethics, law, open-source intelligence gathering, domain name systems, email services, web servers, virtual private networks, file storage, database servers, and web applications. As an added bonus, you can access virtual labs to hone and test your skills, helping you 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

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

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Why we chose this book

Our analysis of this book revealed that it is ideal for cybersecurity beginners wanting 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.

Each chapter focuses on a specific vulnerability type, accompanied by a series of actual reported bug bounties. This approach teaches you 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

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

This tutorial-style guide is an excellent resource for anyone considering a career in cybersecurity. Based on our observations, it provides insights into the hacker mindset and offers comprehensive tutorials on essential tools and techniques used in the field.

The author thoughtfully presents a historical and legal perspective on hacking while offering step-by-step tutorials on vital computer hacking tools and techniques. We 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, we found that this book is perfect for industry engineers, students, and electronics hobbyists alike.

It explores the world of embedded devices (including those found in our phones, cars, and credit cards) and illustrates how different types of attacks can affect our everyday security. It aims to help you understand and replicate hardware attacks to improve security in embedded devices.

The authors share insights into real-life attacks on embedded systems and guide you through hands-on experiments using actual hardware. They provide detailed explanations on 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

This fully updated, industry-standard security resource teaches effective ethical hacking techniques through step-by-step instructions. It’s an excellent resource for those looking to strengthen their understanding of ethical hacking, stay up-to-date on the latest threats, and learn practical techniques for protecting computer networks from attacks.

Our research shows 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. It provides actionable planning and analysis methods to help you identify and combat targeted and opportunistic attacks. 

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

Based on our research, this is the best book on hacking for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of IoT security testing and develop the skills necessary to protect these increasingly ubiquitous devices.

It’s authored by an experienced team of security professionals who teach you how to test and exploit IoT systems and devices, providing in-depth coverage of attacks against embedded IoT devices and RFID systems.

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

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

Our team discovered that this best-selling guide (over 100,000 copies sold) was recently updated with code for Python 3.x. It’s perfect 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.

The new edition now covers bit shifting, code hygiene, offensive forensics, and expanded explanations of various Python libraries and offensive computer hacking strategies, ensuring you stay up to date with the latest techniques.

Features

• A look into Python's darker side and hacking techniques
• Updated code for Python 3.x 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 our radar. Our findings show 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 been completely overhauled with over 290 new commands and techniques from field notes of numerous Red Team missions. It covers modern operating systems, includes a new Mac OS section, and outlines tradecraft considerations.

Overall, it's highly recommended for both red-team professionals and blue-team members, who are involved in detection engineering. We 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 option serves as an intensive web application hacker’s handbook. Our findings show that it’s designed to equip you with the skills to penetration-test APIs, earn substantial rewards in bug bounty programs, and enhance the security of your own web applications.

It provides insight into how REST and GraphQL APIs function and demonstrates setting 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 ensures that you'll gain 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

This comprehensive field manual delves into the world of connected cars and autonomous vehicles. Our findings show that this book provides you with helpful insights into identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities affecting these cyber-physical systems, it will help you stay ahead in 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, this is one of the best hacking books 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

What is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking involves intentionally probing computer systems, networks, and applications for vulnerabilities with the owner's explicit permission. Using suitable laptops for hacking, ethical hackers effectively identify and resolve security weaknesses.

Unlike malicious hackers who exploit vulnerabilities for personal gain or harm, ethical hackers use their skills to strengthen an organization's cybersecurity posture.

Common examples of ethical hacking include:

• Penetration testing: Simulating real-world attacks to identify weaknesses and assess security measures.
• Vulnerability assessments: Systematically evaluating systems to discover and prioritize potential vulnerabilities.

By applying ethical hacking techniques, organizations proactively address security concerns and reduce the risk of cyber threats.

What Are the Benefits of Learning Ethical Hacking?

Learning ethical hacking offers several advantages:

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

Ethical hacking can present a range of diverse career opportunities, including the following popular roles:

• Penetration Tester
• Security Analyst
• Security Consultant
• Vulnerability Assessor
• Cybersecurity Engineer

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 33% growth in information security analyst jobs from 2020 to 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing number of cyber threats and the need for skilled professionals.

Ethical hacking professionals can expect competitive salaries. In the United States, the average ethical hacker salary is north of $100K, and this can even be higher based on factors like experience, education, industry, and certifications.

Conclusion

Ethical hacking is a rapidly growing field that offers lucrative career opportunities and the chance to make a significant impact on the cybersecurity landscape.

In this article, we covered the best ethical hacking books you need to read in 2023. If you’re new to the field, we also took a small detour to provide some insights into what ethical hacking actually is and the various career paths available to you in the field. 

If you’re unsure where to begin, we highly recommend checking out Ethical Hacking: A Hands-On Introduction to Breaking in and The Pentester BluePrint. These both cater to a broad range of learners and provide comprehensive coverage of essential ethical hacking concepts.

With dedication, persistence, and the right resources, you'll be well on your way to mastering ethical hacking and making a meaningful contribution to the world of cybersecurity.

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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.

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