How to Become a Penetration Tester: 2026 Career Guide - Coursera

How to Become a Penetration Tester: 2026 Career Guide Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Dec 5, 2025 Share Penetration testing involves launching planned attacks against your company’s security infrastructure so you can identify vulnerabilities and strengthen security. Learn more about what it takes to get started in this offensive cybersecurity role. Penetration testers, or “pen testers” for short, perform simulated cyberattacks on a company’s computer systems and networks. These authorized tests help identify security vulnerabilities and weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. A career as a pen tester often starts with an entry-level cybersecurity position. Discover more about what penetration testers do, why this in-demand cybersecurity career could be a good fit for you, and how you can begin. Start advancing your cybersecurity skills today Take a look at our cybersecurity career hub or explore the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. You can learn how to identify common risks and threats, and techniques to mitigate them. Gain hands-on experience with Python, Linux, and SQL. Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Security Controls, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Document Management, Continuous Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Event Monitoring, Data Security, Technical Communication, Artificial Intelligence, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Professional Development, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Authentications, Command-Line Interface, Linux Administration, Unix Commands, Unix Shell, Database Management, Relational Databases, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Risk Management Framework, Auditing, Risk Analysis, Computer Security, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Vulnerability Assessments, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Data Management, Cryptography, Cyber Security Strategy, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Scripting, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Automation, IT Automation, Network Architecture, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Model, Firewall, Cloud Computing, General Networking, Network Infrastructure 4.8 (67,304 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,304 ratings) 1,506,093 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Security Controls, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Document Management, Continuous Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Event Monitoring, Data Security, Technical Communication, Artificial Intelligence, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Professional Development, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Authentications, Command-Line Interface, Linux Administration, Unix Commands, Unix Shell, Database Management, Relational Databases, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Risk Management Framework, Auditing, Risk Analysis, Computer Security, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Vulnerability Assessments, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Data Management, Cryptography, Cyber Security Strategy, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Scripting, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Automation, IT Automation, Network Architecture, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Model, Firewall, Cloud Computing, General Networking, Network Infrastructure What does a penetration tester do? As a penetration tester, you’ll take a proactive, offensive role in cybersecurity by attacking a company’s existing digital systems. These test attacks might use various hacking tools and techniques to find gaps that hackers could exploit. Throughout the process, you’ll document your actions and create a report on what you did and how successful you were at breaching security protocols.   Penetration tester tasks and responsibilities The day-to-day tasks of a pen tester will vary depending on the organization. Check out some common tasks and responsibilities you may encounter in this role: Perform tests on applications, network devices, and cloud infrastructures Design and conduct simulated social engineering attacks Research and experiment with different types of attacks Develop methodologies for penetration testing Review code for security vulnerabilities Reverse engineer malware or spam Document security and compliance issues Automate common testing techniques to improve efficiency Write technical and executive reports Communicate findings to both technical staff and executive leadership Validate security improvements with additional testing Where do penetration testers work? Penetration testers typically work in one of three environments: In-house: As an in-house penetration tester, you work directly for a company or organization. This typically lets you know the company’s security protocols well. You may also have more input into new security features and fixes. Security firm: Some organizations hire an outside security firm to conduct penetration testing. Working for a security firm offers greater variety in the tests you’ll get to design and perform.  Freelance: Some penetration testers choose to work as freelancers. This path can give you greater flexibility in your schedule, but you may need to spend more time looking for clients early in your career. Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) course Beginner level · 32 hour(s) Skills you'll build: Cyber Attacks, Threat Management, Network Security, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Exploitation techniques, Penetration Testing, Cloud Security, Wireless Networks, Web Applications, Mobile Security, Cybersecurity, Security Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Human Factors (Security), Internet Of Things, Brute-force attacks 4.6 (614 ratings) course Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) Ethical Hacking Essentials is an introductory cybersecurity course that covers ethical hacking and penetration testing fundamentals and prepares learners ... 4.6 (614 ratings) 78,039 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 32 hour(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Cyber Attacks, Threat Management, Network Security, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Exploitation techniques, Penetration Testing, Cloud Security, Wireless Networks, Web Applications, Mobile Security, Cybersecurity, Security Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Human Factors (Security), Internet Of Things, Brute-force attacks Penetration testing vs. ethical hacking The terms penetration testing and ethical hacking can be interchangeable in the cybersecurity world, but the two terms have slightly different meanings. Penetration testing focuses on locating security issues in specific information systems without causing any damage. Ethical hacking, on the other hand, is a broader umbrella term that includes a wider range of hacking methods. You can think of penetration testing as one facet of ethical hacking. Both roles overlap within a cybersecurity Red Team—a group that gives security feedback to an organization from the adversary's perspective. How to become a penetration tester As a penetration tester, you can earn a paycheck by legally hacking into security systems. It can be a fast-paced, exciting job if you are interested in cybersecurity and problem-solving. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the steps you might take to get your first job as a penetration tester. 1. Develop penetration testing skills. Penetration testers need a solid understanding of information technology (IT) and security systems to test them for vulnerabilities. Skills you might find on a pen tester job description include: Network and application security Programming languages, especially for scripting (Python, BASH, Java, Ruby, Perl) Threat modelling Linux, Windows, and MacOS environments Security assessment tools Pentest management platforms Technical writing and documentation Cryptography Cloud architecture Remote access technologies Popular penetration tester tools Today’s penetration testers have a range of tools to help make their jobs faster and more efficient. If you’re interested in becoming a pen tester, it can help to gain familiarity with one or more of these tools: ㅤ • Kali Linux: Popular pen testing operating system • Nmap: Port scanner for network discovery • Wireshark: Packet sniffer to analyze traffic on your network • John the Ripper: Open-source password cracker • Burp Suite: Application security testing tools • Tenable Nessus: Vulnerability assessment tool • Zed Attack Proxy (ZAP): Web application security scanner 2. Enrol in a course or training program. One of the best ways to start developing the skills you’ll need as a penetration tester is to enrol in a specialized course or training program. With these programs, you can learn in a more structured environment while building multiple skills simultaneously.  If you’re new to cybersecurity, consider an option like the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate, which includes an entire unit on penetration testing and incident response. The entire program is online and at your own pace, so you can learn job-ready skills while working or managing life’s other responsibilities. IBM Cybersecurity Analyst professional certificate Beginner level · 4 month(s) Skills you'll build: Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Database Management, Digital Forensics, Email Security, Governance Risk Management and Compliance, Identity and Access Management, Incident Response, Information Technology Infrastructure Library, Interviewing Skills, IT Service Management, Malware Protection, Network Security, Networking Hardware, Operating System Administration, Penetration Testing, Service Management, Data Security, Encryption, SQL, Relational Databases, NoSQL, Application Security, Database Architecture and Administration, User Accounts, Vulnerability Management, Database Administration, Databases, Security Controls, Database Design, Database Management Systems, User Provisioning, Database Application, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Information Systems Security, Simulations, Cyber Attacks, Security Testing, Business Writing, Professional Networking, Negotiation, Applicant Tracking Systems, Keyword Research, Recruitment, Technical Communication, Web Presence, Market Research, Communication, Portfolio Management, Job Analysis, Writing, Network Architecture, Endpoint Detection and Response, DevSecOps, IT Security Architecture, Information Technology Architecture, Cyber Security Policies, Multi-Factor Authentication, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Security Awareness, Threat Management, Authentications, Human Factors (Security), Hardening, Cryptography, Authorization (Computing), Endpoint Security, Threat Detection, Patch Management, Vulnerability Scanning, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Test Planning, AI Integrations, AI Security, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, Incident Management, Data Integrity, Network Protocols, Firewall, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Routing, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), TCP/IP, General Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Administration, Network Routers, Local Area Networks, Data Loss Prevention, Routing Protocols, Anomaly Detection, Generative AI, Threat Modeling, Large Language Modeling, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Generative Model Architectures, Prompt Engineering, Regulatory Compliance, Risk Management, Compliance Auditing, Responsible AI, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, ISO/IEC 27001, Data Ethics, Information Technology, Compliance Management, Auditing, Cyber Risk, Cyber Governance, IT Management, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Linux Administration, Command-Line Interface, Mac OS, Virtualization, Linux Commands, Microsoft Windows, Systems Administration, File Systems, Linux, Knowledge of Apple Software, Cloud Security, Cloud Computing Architecture, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, Windows Servers, File Management, Technical Support and Services, Information Assurance, Computer Security Awareness Training, Cyber Security Strategy 4.6 (28,227 ratings) professional certificate IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Launch your career as a cybersecurity professional. Build job-ready skills and prep for the CompTIA Security+ exam with this program. 4.6 (28,227 ratings) 355,381 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 4 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Database Management, Digital Forensics, Email Security, Governance Risk Management and Compliance, Identity and Access Management, Incident Response, Information Technology Infrastructure Library, Interviewing Skills, IT Service Management, Malware Protection, Network Security, Networking Hardware, Operating System Administration, Penetration Testing, Service Management, Data Security, Encryption, SQL, Relational Databases, NoSQL, Application Security, Database Architecture and Administration, User Accounts, Vulnerability Management, Database Administration, Databases, Security Controls, Database Design, Database Management Systems, User Provisioning, Database Application, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Information Systems Security, Simulations, Cyber Attacks, Security Testing, Business Writing, Professional Networking, Negotiation, Applicant Tracking Systems, Keyword Research, Recruitment, Technical Communication, Web Presence, Market Research, Communication, Portfolio Management, Job Analysis, Writing, Network Architecture, Endpoint Detection and Response, DevSecOps, IT Security Architecture, Information Technology Architecture, Cyber Security Policies, Multi-Factor Authentication, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Security Awareness, Threat Management, Authentications, Human Factors (Security), Hardening, Cryptography, Authorization (Computing), Endpoint Security, Threat Detection, Patch Management, Vulnerability Scanning, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks, Vulnerability Assessments, Test Planning, AI Integrations, AI Security, Computer Security Incident Management, Security Management, Incident Management, Data Integrity, Network Protocols, Firewall, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Network Routing, Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), TCP/IP, General Networking, Network Infrastructure, Network Administration, Network Routers, Local Area Networks, Data Loss Prevention, Routing Protocols, Anomaly Detection, Generative AI, Threat Modeling, Large Language Modeling, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Generative Model Architectures, Prompt Engineering, Regulatory Compliance, Risk Management, Compliance Auditing, Responsible AI, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, ISO/IEC 27001, Data Ethics, Information Technology, Compliance Management, Auditing, Cyber Risk, Cyber Governance, IT Management, Regulation and Legal Compliance, Linux Administration, Command-Line Interface, Mac OS, Virtualization, Linux Commands, Microsoft Windows, Systems Administration, File Systems, Linux, Knowledge of Apple Software, Cloud Security, Cloud Computing Architecture, Virtual Machines, Operating Systems, Windows Servers, File Management, Technical Support and Services, Information Assurance, Computer Security Awareness Training, Cyber Security Strategy Do I need a degree to become a penetration tester? To become a penetration tester in Canada, you’ll need to have a degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. If you’re starting in cybersecurity without a related degree, it might be helpful to pursue a certification to validate your skills. 3. Get certified. Cybersecurity certifications demonstrate to recruiters and hiring managers that you have the skills to succeed in the industry. In addition to general cybersecurity certifications, you can earn penetration testing or ethical hacking certifications. Reputable certifications to consider include: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) CompTIA PenTest+ GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT) Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Certified Penetration Tester (CPENT) Earning one of these certifications generally requires passing an exam. Besides earning a credential for your resume, preparing for a certification exam can often help you develop your skill set. You can find additional resources for cybersecurity skill-building and certification exam prep from the Canadian Centre for Cybersecurity.  4. Practise in real and simulated environments. Many companies want to hire penetration testers with previous experience. Luckily, you can start gaining experience outside of the workplace. Many pen testing training programs include hands-on testing in simulated environments. Participating in bug bounty programs is another way to gain experience (and make your resume stand out). In these programs, companies typically offer cash bonuses to independent pen testers and security researchers who find and report security flaws or bugs in their code. It’s an excellent way to test your skills and start networking with other security professionals. You can find a list of bounties on sites like Bugcrowd and HackerOne.  Finally, you’ll find several websites designed to allow penetration testers to practice and experiment through fun, gamified experiences legally. You can get started with these: Hack the Box CTFlearn bWAPP WebGoat 5. Start in an entry-level IT position. Many penetration testers start out in entry-level IT and cybersecurity roles before advancing into pen testing. If you want to pursue a career in pen testing, consider beginning a role as a network or systems administrator or information security analyst to start building your IT skills. 6. Begin your job search. When you’re ready to begin applying for pen tester jobs, extend your search beyond the usual job sites.  Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals specialization Beginner level · 5 month(s) Skills you'll build: Authorization (Computing), Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Digital Forensics, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Public Key Infrastructure, Security Controls, Security Testing, Threat Management, Vulnerability Assessments, Encryption, Data Security, Internet Of Things, Authentications, Wireless Networks, Network Monitoring, Virtual Machines, Identity and Access Management, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Analysis, Microsoft Windows, File Systems, Linux Commands, Mac OS, Web Applications, Human Factors (Security), Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks 4.6 (809 ratings) specialization Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals Learn Ethical Hacking, Network Defense & Forensics. Master foundational skills to pursue a cybersecurity career and help build and maintain a secure infrastructure. 4.6 (809 ratings) 36,300 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 5 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Authorization (Computing), Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Digital Forensics, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Public Key Infrastructure, Security Controls, Security Testing, Threat Management, Vulnerability Assessments, Encryption, Data Security, Internet Of Things, Authentications, Wireless Networks, Network Monitoring, Virtual Machines, Identity and Access Management, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Analysis, Microsoft Windows, File Systems, Linux Commands, Mac OS, Web Applications, Human Factors (Security), Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks Why pursue a career in penetration testing? A career as a pen tester allows you to apply your hacking skills for the greater good by helping organizations protect themselves from cyber criminals. It’s also an in-demand, high-paying career path. Penetration tester salary According to Indeed, the average annual pay for penetration testers in Canada is $101,695 CAD [1]. Your salary will depend on various factors, including your location, experience, education, and certifications. Some industries, like financial services and military contracting, typically pay higher salaries than others. Job outlook The Government of Canada predicts that job opportunities for cybersecurity professionals will continue growing year after year, with no predicted end in sight. This includes the outlook for penetration testers [2].  Career path for penetration testers As you gain experience as a penetration tester, you may advance to lead a pen testing team. Some penetration testers become information security managers and may even move into executive roles. Start your career in cybersecurity Pen testing can be a rewarding career if you are interested in problem-solving, information security, and network technologies. If you are ready to develop technical and workplace skills for a career in cybersecurity, the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera is your gateway to exploring job titles like security analyst, SOC (security operations centre) analyst, and more. Upon completion, you’ll have exclusive access to a job platform with over 150 employees hiring for entry-level cybersecurity roles and other resources supporting your job search.  If you are a beginner, consider the Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) course offered by EC-Council. In this course, you can learn about network security concepts such as threats and vulnerabilities, password cracking, web application attacks, IoT and OT attacks, and cloud computing. This course is one of three in the Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Fundamentals Specialization. Google Cybersecurity professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Security Controls, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Document Management, Continuous Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Event Monitoring, Data Security, Technical Communication, Artificial Intelligence, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Professional Development, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Authentications, Command-Line Interface, Linux Administration, Unix Commands, Unix Shell, Database Management, Relational Databases, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Risk Management Framework, Auditing, Risk Analysis, Computer Security, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Vulnerability Assessments, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Data Management, Cryptography, Cyber Security Strategy, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Scripting, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Automation, IT Automation, Network Architecture, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Model, Firewall, Cloud Computing, General Networking, Network Infrastructure 4.8 (67,304 ratings) professional certificate Google Cybersecurity Get on the fast track to a career in cybersecurity. In this certificate program, you'll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required. 4.8 (67,304 ratings) 1,506,093 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Bash (Scripting Language), Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Debugging, Endpoint Detection and Response, Hardening, Incident Response, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Linux, Network Protocols, Network Security, Python Programming, Security Awareness, Security Management, SQL, Threat Management, Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Web Presence, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Splunk, TCP/IP, Network Analysis, Security Controls, Incident Management, Query Languages, Threat Detection, Document Management, Continuous Monitoring, Network Monitoring, Event Monitoring, Data Security, Technical Communication, Artificial Intelligence, AI Workflows, Data Ethics, Generative AI, Prompt Engineering Tools, Prompt Engineering, Branding, Google Gemini, AI literacy, Professional Development, Interviewing Skills, Operating Systems, Linux Commands, File Management, File Systems, Authentications, Command-Line Interface, Linux Administration, Unix Commands, Unix Shell, Database Management, Relational Databases, User Accounts, Authorization (Computing), Cyber Risk, Cyber Attacks, Information Assurance, Security Strategy, Risk Management, Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP), Risk Management Framework, Auditing, Risk Analysis, Computer Security, Risk Mitigation, Business Risk Management, Vulnerability Assessments, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Malware Protection, Identity and Access Management, Data Management, Cryptography, Cyber Security Strategy, File I/O, Code Reusability, Algorithms, Scripting, Maintainability, Scripting Languages, Programming Principles, Computer Programming, Data Import/Export, Data Structures, Automation, IT Automation, Network Architecture, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Cloud Security, Computer Networking, Network Model, Firewall, Cloud Computing, General Networking, Network Infrastructure Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) course Beginner level · 32 hour(s) Skills you'll build: Cyber Attacks, Threat Management, Network Security, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Exploitation techniques, Penetration Testing, Cloud Security, Wireless Networks, Web Applications, Mobile Security, Cybersecurity, Security Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Human Factors (Security), Internet Of Things, Brute-force attacks 4.6 (614 ratings) course Ethical Hacking Essentials (EHE) Ethical Hacking Essentials is an introductory cybersecurity course that covers ethical hacking and penetration testing fundamentals and prepares learners ... 4.6 (614 ratings) 78,039 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 32 hour(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Cyber Attacks, Threat Management, Network Security, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Exploitation techniques, Penetration Testing, Cloud Security, Wireless Networks, Web Applications, Mobile Security, Cybersecurity, Security Testing, Vulnerability Assessments, Cloud Computing, Cyber Security Assessment, Human Factors (Security), Internet Of Things, Brute-force attacks Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals specialization Beginner level · 5 month(s) Skills you'll build: Authorization (Computing), Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Digital Forensics, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Public Key Infrastructure, Security Controls, Security Testing, Threat Management, Vulnerability Assessments, Encryption, Data Security, Internet Of Things, Authentications, Wireless Networks, Network Monitoring, Virtual Machines, Identity and Access Management, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Analysis, Microsoft Windows, File Systems, Linux Commands, Mac OS, Web Applications, Human Factors (Security), Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks 4.6 (809 ratings) specialization Cybersecurity Attack and Defense Fundamentals Learn Ethical Hacking, Network Defense & Forensics. Master foundational skills to pursue a cybersecurity career and help build and maintain a secure infrastructure. 4.6 (809 ratings) 36,300 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 5 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Authorization (Computing), Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Cryptographic Protocols, Cryptography, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Integrity, Digital Forensics, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Public Key Infrastructure, Security Controls, Security Testing, Threat Management, Vulnerability Assessments, Encryption, Data Security, Internet Of Things, Authentications, Wireless Networks, Network Monitoring, Virtual Machines, Identity and Access Management, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Analysis, Microsoft Windows, File Systems, Linux Commands, Mac OS, Web Applications, Human Factors (Security), Exploitation techniques, Brute-force attacks Frequently asked questions (FAQ) How long does it take to become a penetration tester?‎‎ What degree do you need to be a penetration tester?‎‎ Is penetration testing difficult?‎‎ Show all 4 frequently asked questions Article sources 1.  Indeed. "Penetration Tester Salary in Canada, https://ca.indeed.com/career/penetration-tester/salaries." Accessed December 2, 2024. View all sources Updated on Dec 5, 2025 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals. Opt-Out Request Honored Cookies Preference Center Cookies are small text files downloaded to your device via your web browser when you interact with the Site. Coursera and our approved third parties use cookies for the purposes described below under each of the category headings. For more information, please read our Cookies Policy. 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