OccupyTheWeb, "Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali", NoStarch, 2018

Introduction

"Linux Basics for Hackers" focuses on how hackers would utilize Linux, using the Kali Linux distribution as a teaching tool. In this book, you will delve into various topics such as Linux command line basics, filesystems, networking, BASH scripting, package management, logging, and the Linux kernel and drivers.

If you are embarking on the thrilling path of hacking, cybersecurity, and penetration testing, "Linux Basics for Hackers" is an excellent starting point. By utilizing Kali Linux, an advanced penetration-testing Linux distribution, you will learn the fundamentals of the Linux operating system and acquire the necessary tools and techniques to gain control over a Linux environment.

Summary of the Book

• Chapter 1: Getting Started with the Basics
  This chapter serves as an introduction to the book and covers the essential foundations of using Linux. Topics include installing Kali Linux on a virtual machine and gaining familiarity with basic Linux concepts.

• Chapter 2: Text Manipulation
  In this chapter, you'll learn how to manipulate and work with text on the command line. This includes techniques for searching, filtering, and transforming text data.

• Chapter 3: Analyzing and Managing Networks
  The focus of this chapter is on networking fundamentals. You'll explore commands and tools for analyzing and managing network connections, IP addresses, and network configurations.

• Chapter 4: Adding and Removing Software
  Here, you'll discover the process of installing, updating, and removing software packages on a Linux system. Package management tools and techniques will be covered.

• Chapter 5: Controlling File and Directory Permissions
  This chapter delves into the intricacies of file and directory permissions in Linux. You'll learn how to view, modify, and manage permissions to ensure proper access control.

• Chapter 6: Process Management
  The management of processes, including starting, stopping, and monitoring them, is the focus of this chapter. You'll explore techniques for managing and controlling running processes.

• Chapter 7: Managing User Environment Variables
  In this chapter, you'll learn about environment variables and how they affect user sessions. Techniques for managing and customizing environment variables will be covered.

• Chapter 8: Bash Scripting
  Building upon previous chapters, this chapter introduces you to bash scripting. You'll learn how to write scripts to automate tasks and improve efficiency.

• Chapter 9: Compressing and Archiving
  Here, you'll explore compression and archiving techniques in Linux. This includes working with popular formats like tar, gzip, and zip to create and extract archives.

• Chapter 10: Filesystem and Storage Device Management
  This chapter covers the management of filesystems and storage devices. You'll learn how to create, mount, and manage different filesystem types, as well as work with storage devices.

• Chapter 11: The Logging System
  Logging is crucial for system monitoring and security. In this chapter, you'll learn about the Linux logging system and how to configure and analyze logs.

• Chapter 12: Using and Abusing Services
  Here, you'll dive into the usage and exploitation of services in Linux. You'll learn about common services like MySQL, Apache web server, and OpenSSH, and explore techniques for interacting with them.

• Chapter 13: Security and Anonymity
  This chapter focuses on security and anonymity in the context of hacking. You'll learn techniques to enhance your security posture and maintain anonymity while performing activities.

• Chapter 14: Wireless Networking
  Wireless networking is a critical aspect of modern computing. This chapter explores wireless network configurations, scanning for networks, and connecting to wireless networks.

• Chapter 15: Linux Kernel and Drivers
  Delving into the internals of Linux, this chapter introduces the Linux kernel and drivers. You'll learn about their roles and how to interact with them.

• Chapter 16: Startup Scripts
  Startup scripts play a crucial role in system initialization. This chapter covers the creation and management of startup scripts to automate tasks during system boot.

• Chapter 17: Python Scripting Basics
  The final chapter introduces the basics of Python scripting. You'll learn about the syntax, data types, control structures, and functions necessary to write Python scripts.

My Review Comments

This book explores the utilization of Kali Linux as an operating system specifically designed for ethical hacking purposes. For novice individuals, the realms of hacking and Linux can appear intimidating. However, this book is thoughtfully crafted from the standpoint of an uninformed reader, enabling a pressure-free initiation. It presents user-friendly explanations, commencing with the step-by-step installation process of Kali Linux, and gradually delving into the fundamental principles necessary for proficient operation.

Nonetheless, for intermediate and advanced learners who have chosen this book with the intention of acquiring hacking skills, it is important to note that the content may be somewhat limited. The focus of this book primarily centers on the operation of Kali Linux, rather than extensively exploring advanced hacking techniques. Consequently, it is essential to underscore that this book is most suitable for beginners and individuals seeking a solid foundational understanding.

Additionally, chapters 8 and 17 provide comprehensive coverage of fundamental aspects concerning Bash scripting and Python scripting, respectively. These sections offer valuable insights for users aiming to develop customized tasks within the Kali Linux environment. As a whole, this book serves as an invaluable guide for individuals seeking to accomplish specific objectives directly within the framework of Kali Linux.