An ethical hacking course equips students with skills to identify, test, and fix cybersecurity vulnerabilities. As digital threats increase, so does the need for professionals who can defend systems before criminals attack them.
This blog explores how to study hacking, the best ethical hacking courses, fees and durations, free online resources, certifications, and the career scope for aspiring ethical hackers.
What Is Ethical Hacking?
Ethical hacking, also known as penetration testing or white-hat hacking, is the process of legally breaking into systems to assess and improve their security. Ethical hackers think like cybercriminals to expose weaknesses—then help fix them.
With cybercrimes projected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025 (Cybersecurity Ventures), ethical hackers are more essential than ever.
Why Learn Ethical Hacking?
Cyberattacks occur every 39 seconds, impacting 1 in 3 Americans annually (University of Maryland). India faces over 1 million cyberattacks per day. Ethical hackers protect organizations from data theft, ransomware, and financial loss.
Popular job roles after training include:
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Penetration Tester
- Network Security Engineer
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
How to Study Hacking: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re wondering how to study hacking, here’s your roadmap:
- Start with Networking
Learn TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, firewalls, and VPNs. Tools like Cisco Packet Tracer help simulate networks. - Master Operating Systems
Focus on Kali Linux, Ubuntu, and Windows Server environments. - Understand Programming Languages
Begin with Python, then move to Bash, HTML, JavaScript, and SQL. - Explore Hacking Tools & Frameworks
Practice with Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, Burp Suite, and OWASP ZAP. - Join Ethical Hacking Classes Online
Choose from free or paid online courses to gain structured learning. - Practice in Real Labs
Platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and CTFtime offer real-time simulations. - Stay Updated
Follow forums like Reddit’s r/netsec, Stack Overflow, and attend global security webinars.
How Do You Become an Ethical Hacker?
To become an ethical hacker, you need a mix of formal education, hands-on experience, and recognized certifications.
Step-by-Step Path:
- Foundation – Study IT or computer science basics.
- Networking Skills – Understand routers, protocols, and system architecture.
- Enroll in a Hacking Course – Choose a free or paid hacking course.
- Get Certified – Aim for CEH, OSCP, or CompTIA Security+.
- Build Practical Experience – Join internships, hackathons, or bug bounty programs.
- Apply for Jobs – Join cybersecurity teams, IT firms, or government organizations.
- Continuous Learning – Stay updated on emerging threats and tools.
Best Courses for Ethical Hacking (2025)
| Course Name | Platform | Duration | Certification | Course Fees (INR) |
| CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) | EC-Council | 40 hours | Yes | 60,000 – 90,000 |
| OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) | Offensive Security | 12 weeks | Yes | 1,00,000+ |
| Google Cybersecurity Certificate | Coursera | 6 months | Yes | 3,500/month |
| Cybrary Free Hacking Course | Cybrary | Self-paced | Optional | Free |
| Ethical Hacking Course Free with Certificate | Udemy, Great Learning | Varies | Yes | Free – 1,500 |
In 2024 alone, over 2.2 million people searched for an ethical hacking course globally.
Types of Ethical Hacking Courses
By Level:
- Beginner – Focus on concepts, terminology, and basic networking.
- Intermediate – Scripting, vulnerability scanning, and reconnaissance.
- Advanced – Red teaming, social engineering, and complex simulations.
By Format:
- Online Courses – Flexible and self-paced.
- Ethical Hacking Classes Near Me – Local institutions offering in-person training.
- Free Hacking Course Online – Ideal for trial and practice.
- Professional Bootcamps – Intensive, placement-ready programs.
Learn Hacking Online Free: Is It Possible?
Yes! There are excellent free hacking courses with certificates.
Free Learning Platforms:
- TryHackMe – Interactive, beginner-friendly platform.
- Hack The Box (HTB) – More technical, real-world challenges.
- OverTheWire – Focuses on Linux and basic security.
- Cybrary – Offers free foundational courses.
- Great Learning – Offers an ethical hacking course free with a certificate.
Over 5,400 Indians search monthly for free ethical hacking course options.
Ethical Hacking Course Fees and Duration
Ethical Hacking Course Fees in India:
| Institution | Format | Fees (INR) |
| NIIT | Offline | 35,000 – 60,000 |
| EC-Council (CEH) | Online | 75,000 – 1,20,000 |
| Coursera (Google Cert.) | Online | 20,000 – 24,000 |
| Udemy | Online | 449 – 3,999 |
| Simplilearn | Online | 30,000 – 80,000 |
Course Duration:
- Short Courses – 1 week to 1 month
- Diploma Courses – 3 to 6 months
- Professional Certifications – 6 to 12 months
Many institutions offer weekend classes and EMI options.
Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking Course: The Difference
| Feature | Cybersecurity | Ethical Hacking |
| Focus | Defense | Offense (Controlled) |
| Goal | Prevent threats | Identify vulnerabilities |
| Tools | SIEM, Firewalls | Metasploit, Kali Linux |
| Careers | SOC Analyst | Pen Tester, Red Teamer |
| Course | Cybersecurity Fundamentals | CEH, OSCP, etc. |
Many programs now offer cybersecurity and ethical hacking courses together.
Ethical Hacking Certification: Which One Is Right for You?
Top 5 Certifications:
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) – Globally recognized.
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) – Hands-on, advanced.
- CompTIA Security+ – Entry-level security credential.
- CREST – Ideal for UK/EU professionals.
- eJPT – Great for junior pen testers.
CEH-certified professionals earn ₹7.5 LPA on average in India.
Career Scope After Ethical Hacking Course
Global Outlook:
- Over 3.5 million unfilled jobs in cybersecurity globally (ISC2 Report)
- India needs over 1 million professionals by 2026
In-Demand Roles:
- Penetration Tester
- Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Red Team Operator
- Malware Analyst
Top Employers: Google, Infosys, TCS, EY, Cisco, DRDO, Deloitte
Best Hacking Course in India: Top Institutes
- Indian School of Ethical Hacking (ISOEH) – Kolkata
- Appin Technology Lab – Delhi
- Craw Security – New Delhi
- IIFIS – Mumbai
- Koenig Solutions – Bengaluru
These institutes offer career assistance, certification preparation, and hands-on labs.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Hack the Right Way?
The demand for ethical hackers is soaring. Whether you’re learning how to learn hacking course modules, exploring hacking classes online, or looking for an ethical hacking course free with a certificate, the path is open for all.
You don’t need to be a genius to start—just curious, committed, and ethical.
FAQs
Q1: How do I start learning ethical hacking?
Start with basic networking and operating systems. Enroll in an ethical hacking course online.
Q2: Can I learn hacking for free?
Yes. Platforms like TryHackMe, HTB, and Cybrary offer free courses.
Q3: Are ethical hackers paid well?
Yes. In India, they earn between ₹4–₹20 LPA based on experience.
Q4: What’s the best course for ethical hacking?
CEH is great for beginners; OSCP is for advanced learners.
Q5: Is ethical hacking legal?
Yes, when done with permission and within certified frameworks.
