OSCP
My Journey to Passing the OSCP
Introduction
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification is highly regarded in the cybersecurity community. It requires not only technical knowledge but also the ability to think like a hacker. Here, I will detail my journey to passing the OSCP, including preparation, the challenges faced, and tips that helped me succeed.
Preparation Phase
1. Understanding the Requirements
Before diving into the study material, I thoroughly reviewed the OSCP exam objectives. This helped me understand the scope of what I needed to learn and set realistic expectations for myself.
2. Setting Up a Study Plan
I created a detailed study plan, allocating specific time slots each day for learning and practice. My plan included: - Weekdays: 2 hours of study/practice - Weekends: 4-6 hours of focused practice - Milestones: Weekly goals to cover specific topics or complete a certain number of practice machines
Study Resources
1. Offensive Security PWK Course
The Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK) course material provided by Offensive Security was my primary resource. It covered: - Information gathering - Vulnerability scanning - Exploitation - Post-exploitation - Reporting
I made sure to go through each module meticulously, completing all exercises and labs provided.
2. Supplementary Resources
To reinforce my learning, I used additional resources: - Books: "The Hacker Playbook" series by Peter Kim, "Metasploit: The Penetration Tester's Guide" - Online Platforms: Hack The Box, VulnHub - Forums and Blogs: Offensive Security forums, NetSecFocus OSCP Study Group on Discord
Practical Practice
1. Lab Environment
The PWK labs provided by Offensive Security were invaluable. They simulated a real-world network environment with various machines to exploit. I aimed to root as many machines as possible, focusing on understanding different types of vulnerabilities and exploits.
2. Practice Machines
Platforms like Hack The Box and VulnHub offered a variety of machines that mimicked the OSCP exam environment. I practiced extensively on these platforms, ensuring I could exploit machines within the exam’s 24-hour time limit.
Key Challenges and How I Overcame Them
1. Time Management
Balancing study with work and personal life was challenging. I overcame this by: - Sticking strictly to my study schedule - Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks - Taking regular breaks to avoid burnout
2. Technical Difficulties
Some exploits were particularly challenging. My approach was: - Deep diving into the exploit code to understand its workings - Researching online for similar vulnerabilities and exploits - Seeking help from forums and study groups
3. Mental Resilience
The journey was mentally taxing. To stay motivated: - I kept reminding myself of my end goal - Celebrated small victories, like rooting a difficult machine - Connected with other OSCP aspirants for mutual support
The Exam Day
The OSCP exam is a 24-hour practical test where you need to exploit a series of machines to accumulate at least 70 points out of 100.
1. Preparation
- Ensured a stable internet connection
- Had backup plans for technical issues (e.g., multiple ISPs)
- Prepared snacks and drinks to avoid interruptions
2. Strategy
- Started with the easiest machines to secure quick points
- Documented every step meticulously, as the exam requires detailed reporting
- Took short breaks to stay fresh and maintain focus
Post-Exam: The Report
The final step was to submit a detailed report of all exploits used. My report included: - Step-by-step documentation of how each machine was exploited - Screenshots to support my findings - An executive summary and conclusion
Tips for Aspiring OSCP Candidates
- Master the Basics: Strong understanding of TCP/IP, networking, and Linux is crucial.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Hands-on experience is key. Use lab environments and platforms like Hack The Box.
- Stay Organized: Keep notes and document all your learning and practice sessions.
- Join Communities: Study groups and forums can provide support and valuable insights.
- Don't Give Up: The journey is tough but rewarding. Persistence is critical.
Finally
Passing the OSCP was a significant milestone in my cybersecurity career. It required dedication, extensive practice, and a strategic approach. By following a structured study plan, leveraging multiple resources, and maintaining resilience, I was able to achieve my goal. I hope my journey provides valuable insights and motivation for others aspiring to earn this prestigious certification. You can verify my certification HERE
