Starting Your Cybersecurity Journey as a Beginner With TryHackME
Do you have fascination in the world of cybersecurity but you are not sure how and where to begin? I was in your shoes just few months ago, feeling overwhelmed and uncertain and moving here and there about my path. Now, 28 days into my learning steak on TryHackMe’s Cybersecurity 101 path, I've gained the clarity and confidence in my journey. Here's how you, as a beginner, can start your cybersecurity learning journey, based on my experience and the resources that helped me find my way.
Why Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is an exciting and ever-evolving field that protects systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Whether you’re intrigued by ethical hacking, network security, or defending against cyber attacks, it’s a rewarding career with endless opportunities. But as a beginner, the vastness of the field can feel daunting. Where do you start, and how do you know you’re on the right track? I have suffered same and after moving here and there and joining with different forums, groups and search on the google I discovered TryHackMe and this pathway seems good to start as a beginner in my perspective.
My Journey: Finding Direction with TryHackMe
Before starting TryHackMe, I had some knowledge of cybersecurity concepts but wasn’t sure if I was learning the right things or following a structured path. I dabbled in various topics but lacked focus. That changed when I discovered TryHackMe’s Cybersecurity 101 learning path. Over the past 28 days, I’ve progressed from basic concepts to more advanced topics, building a solid foundation and gaining clarity on what I need to learn next.
TryHackMe’s hands-on approach, interactive labs, and structured path helped me connect the dots. It’s not just about theory—it’s about applying what you learn in real-world scenarios. This gave me confidence that I’m on the right path and inspired me to share my journey with others who might be struggling like I was.
Where to Start as a Beginner
If you’re new to cybersecurity, here’s a step-by-step guide to kickstart your learning journey:
1. Understand the Basics
Start with the fundamentals of how computers and networks work. Key areas to focus on include:
- Networking Basics: Learn about IP addresses, DNS, TCP/IP, and how data travels across networks.
- Operating Systems: Get comfortable with Windows and Linux (especially Linux, as it’s widely used in cybersecurity).
- Basic Security Concepts: Understand terms like encryption, authentication, and vulnerabilities.
Resource: TryHackMe’s Cybersecurity 101 path covers these basics with interactive rooms that make learning engaging.
2. Choose a Learning Platform
Structured learning is key for beginners. Platforms like TryHackMe provide guided paths that take you from beginner to advanced topics. Here’s why I recommend TryHackMe:
- Interactive Labs: Practice in virtual environments without needing to set up your own.
- Learning Paths: Follow curated paths like Cybersecurity 101, which cover foundational to advanced topics.
- Community Support: Join their community to ask questions and learn from others.
Other Platforms to Explore:
- Hack The Box: Great for hands-on challenges, especially for intermediate learners.
- OverTheWire: Perfect for learning Linux and command-line basics through wargames.
- Cybrary: Offers free and paid courses on various cybersecurity topics.
3. Build Practical Skills
Cybersecurity is hands-on, so practice is essential. Try these:
- Set Up a Virtual Lab: Use tools like VirtualBox or VMware to create a safe environment for testing.
- Learn Basic Tools: Familiarize yourself with tools like Nmap, Wireshark, and Metasploit.
- Practice Ethical Hacking: TryHackMe’s rooms let you practice hacking techniques legally and safely.
4. Stay Curious and Consistent
Cybersecurity is a vast field, and learning can feel overwhelming. Stay consistent by setting small, achievable goals—like completing one TryHackMe room daily. My 28-day streak taught me the power of consistency. Even 30 minutes a day can lead to significant progress.
5. Join the Community
Connect with others in the field to stay motivated and learn from their experiences. Follow cybersecurity blogs, join forums like Reddit’s r/cybersecurity, or participate in TryHackMe’s Discord community.
Why TryHackMe Worked for Me
TryHackMe’s Cybersecurity 101 path was a game-changer because it provided a clear roadmap. I didn’t have to guess what to learn next—it guided me from networking basics to penetration testing and beyond. The hands-on labs made complex topics like network scanning and privilege elevation feel approachable. Even though I knew some concepts before, TryHackMe helped me organize my knowledge and fill in the gaps.
For example, I learned:
- How to navigate Linux systems confidently.
- Windows and Windows AD Fundamentals
- Basics Command Line of Linux and Windows Power-Shell
- Networking Concepts: Protocols, Telnet, Wireshark, Tcpdump, Nmap
- Cryptography: Public Key, Hashing, and John the Ripper
- Exploitation Basics: Metasploit
- The basics of penetration testing, like identifying vulnerabilities.
- How to think like a hacker to better understand defense strategies.
If you’re struggling to find direction, TryHackMe can help you discover what you need to know and how to learn it effectively.
Tips for Success
- Start Small: Don’t try to learn everything at once. Focus on one topic at a time.
- Track Your Progress: Celebrate small wins, like completing a lab or understanding a new concept.
- Don’t Fear Failure: Hacking challenges can be tough, but each failure teaches you something new.
- Stay Updated: Cybersecurity evolves fast, so follow blogs or X accounts like @TheCyberSecHub for the latest trends.
Final Thoughts
Starting your cybersecurity journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right resources and a consistent approach, you can build a strong foundation and gain confidence in your skills. TryHackMe’s Cybersecurity 101 path was my starting point, and it’s helped me go from uncertainty to clarity in just 34 days. If you’re feeling lost or unsure, give it a try—it might just be the roadmap you need.
Ready to start? Head over to TryHackMe and take your first step. Share your progress in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your journey!
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Happy learning, and stay secure!
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