The skills required to be an effective penetration tester can be divided into hard skills and soft skills.
Hard skills include technical competencies, such as knowledge of programming skills and operating systems. Some of the most helpful programming languages for penetration testers include the following:
- Python
- Perl
- PowerShell
- Bash
- JavaScript
- C++
It’s also helpful to understand how to use the Linux operating system. This open-source operating system allows free access and is popular with many organizations.
Although penetration testing is a technical job, aspiring penetration testers can also benefit from having a blend of soft skills. Some of the most important soft skills for a penetration tester include the following:
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving abilities
- Analytical reasoning and critical thinking
- Teamwork and a collaborative approach
- A creative mindset
If you’re passionate about protecting the security and integrity of computing systems and digital information, you can fuse your passion with purpose at Grand Canyon University (GCU). Apply for enrollment at our College of Science, Engineering and Technology and explore modern degree programs, such as the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with an Emphasis in Cybersecurity degree. Fill out the form on this page to learn more about forging your future at GCU.
Retrieved from:
1 CompTIA, CompTIA PenTest+ in August 2021.
2 InfoSec, Top 10 Penetration Testing Certifications for Security Professionals (Updated 2020) in August 2021.
3 InfoSec, Red Team Operations Training Boot Camp in August 2021.
4 InfoSec, Certified Mobile and Web App Penetration Tester (CMWAPT) in August 2021.
Approved by an associate professor for the College of Science, Engineering and Technology on Feb. 23, 2023.