Hacking by Solis Tech: How to Hack Computers, Basic Security and Penetration Testing (2014)

Chapter 9: Hacking Skills: Open-sources

Get a copy of open source Unixes or Linux. Install in a computer and start learning how to use it. There are a number of other operating systems available. However, most of them are closed-source systems. These closed-sources can be very challenging to crack, mainly because one would have to deal with binary codes. Inability to read the code will make it almost impossible to modify and hack it. Hacker experts describe this as learning how to dance while wearing a full body cast.

For example, try working and hacking Microsoft OS, written fully in binary and uses closed-source systems. That would practically be almost impossible. Hacking Mac Os X will be easier compared to Microsoft. It partly open-source and will be easier to read. However, it is also partly closed-source so expect to hit numerous walls. With this, avoid becoming too dependent on the proprietary code in Apple systems. It’s best to put more focus on the Unix part. This way, learn valuable, more useful things that can help in developing hacking skills.

Working with open-sources such as BSD-Unixes is a great training ground because these are easier to read, understand and modify.

Why Unix?

Aside from it being an open-source system that’s easy to read and work with, Unix is the Internet’s operating system. That means an entire universe of hackable places just waiting to be hacked. Anyone can learn the Internet without having to learn what Unix is all about. But for those wanting to do some hacking over the Internet, learning Unix is indispensable. This makes today’s hacking culture strongly focused on Unix. The Internet and Unix have a very strong relationship that makes it a rich hunting ground for hackers who have learned to use Unix.

So, better start learning Unix systems like Linux today. Install them. There is no need to worry about having to install Linux in a Microsoft computer; there won’t be any problems running any of these operating systems. Learn, run, and tinker with these open-source systems. It also helps in installing and using other useful programming tools like Python, Perl, C, and LISP. Linux and other similar systems will make it possible to learn and work with many hosted apps and programs, much more than what Microsoft operating systems ever could host.

To get Linux is very easy and convenient. Get online and access the Linux website. Look for the menu for downloads and in a few minutes, Linux is installed and ready for use.