Use VirtualBox or VMware to set up "vulnerable by design" machines (like those from VulnHub or HackTheBox).
by Dafydd Stuttard & Marcus Pinto: Known as the "bible" of web app hacking. It covers SQL injection, XSS, and session management.
To defend a network, you must understand the "payloads" that attackers use. This book teaches you how to safely take apart viruses and Trojans. 4. The Human Element: Social Engineering index of hacking books
Before diving into complex exploits, you must understand how systems communicate and function.
If you download or buy just three books from this list, make it: Use VirtualBox or VMware to set up "vulnerable
by Chris Anley – Focused on finding security holes and writing code to exploit them. RTFM: Red Team Field Manual
by Daniel G. Graham: A modern entry-point that guides you through setting up labs and performing modern exploits. Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Guide to Hacking To defend a network, you must understand the
by Kevin Mitnick – A memoir that provides deep insight into social engineering and the mindset of early hackers. Hack The Box Finding Digital Indexes