Ever since I started exploring the world of IT, I’ve found myself juggling multiple areas of study. Every time I feel like I’m making progress, ten more things pop up that I want to learn about. I probably should focus on one thing at a time, but I know myself too well to think that’s ever going to happen.
Here are some of the tools I’ve been using to study, in case you’re interested. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out and let me know. I’m always looking for new resources to add to my arsenal.
Gitbook
I’ve been using OneNote for a while, but it always felt a bit clunky to me. Then, about a year ago, someone recommended GitBook to me and it’s been a game-changer for note-taking. Whether I’m jotting down the basics or keeping track of projects, it’s been invaluable. If you’re looking for a great tool for note-taking, I highly recommend giving GitBook a try.
HTB & HTB Academy
I’ve been using Hack the Box Academy as my primary resource for learning the basics of cybersecurity. The courses are excellent, and the fact that they’re free has been a huge bonus for me. I started with the basics, but I’m slowly working my way up. Recently, I’ve started working on some of the machines on HTB, and they’re definitely challenging me. However, I’m constantly learning new things and reinforcing old techniques to help me progress.
Though it’s nothing to look at, here is my HTB profile.
Try Hack Me
When I first got interested in cybersecurity, I started with TryHackMe. It’s a really beginner-friendly platform and has been great at guiding me through the basics. I’ve made good progress through its modules and now just need to commit to going after one of the machines.
Udemy
My first introduction to Udemy was with Angela Yu’s “100 Days of Code for Python” course. It’s my go-to recommendation for anyone looking to start learning Python. While the courses aren’t free, they frequently go on sale for less than $20. Personally, I would happily pay that money again for all the value I’ve gotten out of them. They’ve been instrumental in my learning progress.
Another Udemy course that I’d highly recommend is David Bombal’s networking class. It’s been a great resource for me so far, and I think anyone interested in learning networking would find it helpful as well.
I didn’t know it till now but it looks like I have a public profile on Udemy. Doesn’t say a lot but here you go.
Parrot
I know Kali is often considered the go-to for penetration testing, but I personally prefer the simplicity of Parrot. Don’t get me wrong, Kali is great and was actually one of the first VMs and Linux distros I ever played around with. But when I discovered Parrot through HTB, I immediately fell in love with its clean and responsive interface. Maybe someday I’ll come to fully appreciate the benefits of Kali, but for now, I stick with Parrot for anything Linux-based.
Youtube
Let’s be real, who isn’t using YouTube nowadays? It’s the quintessential free tool for darn near everything. Personally, I’m a visual learner and YouTube has been an invaluable source of information for me. Right now, I’m particularly hooked on Network Chuck. He’s got a knack for getting me interested in little projects and new areas of study.
So, if you’re looking for some free resources to help you learn and grow, definitely check out YouTube. And feel free to let me know if you have any other favorite channels – I’m always on the lookout for new content to devour!
ChatGPT
Although ChatGPT is relatively new to the public, it has been a game changer for my studies. It feels like I have a teacher available whenever I need them. Whether I am stuck on a concept, need direction, or help with debugging a program, ChatGPT has been an absolute lifesaver. This tool has been invaluable to me since I don’t know anyone personally in the IT field, and having this resource is fantastic. In addition, ChatGPT has also helped me become a better DM for the DnD campaign I am running.