Linux Basics for Hackers, 2nd Edition

A revised introduction to the Linux operating system for beginning hackers and penetration testers.

If you’re just getting started along the exciting path of hacking, cybersecurity, and pentesting, Linux Basics for Hackers is an excellent introduction. With Kali Linux, an operating system designed for digital forensics and penetration testing, you’ll learn the basics of using Linux and acquire the tools and techniques you’ll need to take control of a Linux environment.

First, you’ll learn how to install Kali on a virtual machine and get an introduction to basic Linux concepts. Next, you’ll tackle broader Linux topics like manipulating text, controlling file and directory permissions, and managing user environment variables. You’ll then focus on foundational hacking concepts like security and anonymity and learn scripting skills with bash and Python. 

Practical tutorials and exercises throughout will reinforce and test your skills as you learn how to:

• Cover your tracks by changing your network information and manipulating the journalctl logging utility
• Write a tool to scan for network connections, and connect and listen to wireless networks
• Keep your internet activity stealthy using Tor, proxy servers, VPNs, and encrypted email
• Write a bash script to find potential attack targets over a range of IP addresses
• Use and abuse services like MySQL, the Apache web server, and OpenSSH
• Build your own hacking tools, such as remote spy cameras and password crackers

New to this edition: This second edition has been updated to address recent changes to Kali  and Linux, including a more secure approach to  root privileges, updates to Bluetooth and Linux logging functions, and a new chapter with advice on AI in cybersecurity.

Hacking is complex, and there is no single way in. Why not start at the beginning with Linux Basics for Hackers?Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1: Getting Started with the Basics
Chapter 2: Text Manipulation
Chapter 3: Analyzing and Managing Networks
Chapter 4: Adding and Removing Software
Chapter 5: Controlling File and Directory Permissions
Chapter 6: Process Management
Chapter 7: Managing User Environment Variables
Chapter 8: Bash Scripting
Chapter 9: Compressing and Archiving
Chapter 10: Filesystem and Storage Device Management
Chapter 11: The Logging System
Chapter 12: Using and Abusing Services
Chapter 13: Becoming Secure and Anonymous
Chapter 14: Understanding and Inspecting Wireless Networks
Chapter 15: Managing the Linux Kernel and Loadable Kernel Modules
Chapter 16: Automating Tasks with Job Scheduling
Chapter 17: Python Scripting Basics for Hackers
Chapter 18: Artificial Intelligence for Hackers
IndexPraise for the 1st edition of Linux Basics for Hackers:

"If you're just getting started or working your way to expert level, getting a copy of this book might be one of the best things you can do to develop your cybersecurity skills." 
—Sandra Henry-Stocker, Network World

"The information provided can help even a general user to get more comfortable with the Linux operating system without feeling overwhelmed by more complex, security-related topics and usage. While we could all benefit from more attention to security, Linux Basics for Hackers just might inspire the next crop of budding techies into the security rock stars of tomorrow." 
—Tim Everson, The Ethical Hacker Network

"Linux Basics for Hackers is immediately practical. Its quick and dirty approach to exploring and using a Linux system was welcome." 
—Jesse Smith, DistroWatch Weekly

"If you are starting out in Computer Science and want to get up to speed quickly on Linux and Unix like operating systems, working through this book will put you well ahead of your fellow students, and quickly." 
—Greg Laden, Greg Laden's BlogOccupyTheWeb is an infosec consultant, forensic investigator, and trainer with more than 20 years in the industry. He maintains the Hackers Arise training site (hackers-arise.com) and trains US military personnel, Department of Defense contractors, and federal employees in information security and hacking.