Ethical Hacking Methodology

Guide penetration testing through reconnaissance, scanning, exploitation, and reporting stages.

Updated Apr 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/gerald-ica/dev-tool-configs --skill ethical-hacking-methodology-gerald-ica
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Ethical Hacking Methodology
Source: https://github.com/gerald-ica/dev-tool-configs/tree/main/gemini/skills/ethical-hacking-methodology
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/gerald-ica/dev-tool-configs --skill ethical-hacking-methodology-gerald-ica

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires Kali Linux, Nmap, Metasploit, John the Ripper, SQLMap, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) and assets (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill addresses the need for comprehensive guidance on ethical hacking methodology, covering all stages of penetration testing from reconnaissance to reporting.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Comprehensive Guide: Step-by-step methodology for ethical hacking and penetration testing.
  • Reconnaissance: Learn to gather information without direct system interaction.
  • Scanning: Discover live hosts and services with active enumeration.
  • Vulnerability Analysis: Identify and exploit weaknesses.
  • Exploitation: Actively exploit discovered vulnerabilities.
  • Maintaining Access: Establish persistent access and privilege escalation.
  • Reporting: Document findings and present a professional report.
  • Use Case: For security professionals and students looking to understand the entire penetration testing lifecycle.

Quick Start

Learn the ethical hacking methodology by running the 'Reconnaissance' script in the provided directory.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ethical Hacking Methodology

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I learn penetration testing methodology from reconnaissance to reporting?

Penetration testing methodology provides a structured step-by-step guide covering reconnaissance, scanning, vulnerability analysis, exploitation, maintaining access, and reporting for security professionals and students.

Do I need Kali Linux to perform ethical hacking and vulnerability analysis?

Kali Linux is required to perform this ethical hacking methodology. The penetration testing process also depends on various security tools including Nmap, Metasploit, John the Ripper, and SQLMap to execute scanning and exploitation stages.

What is the best way to start reconnaissance in ethical hacking?

Start reconnaissance in ethical hacking by gathering target information without direct system interaction. You can begin by running the provided 'Reconnaissance' script in the directory to initiate the penetration testing lifecycle.

Can I use Nmap and Metasploit together for vulnerability scanning and exploitation?

Nmap and Metasploit are core dependencies for this ethical hacking methodology. Nmap handles the scanning stage to discover live hosts and services, while Metasploit facilitates the active exploitation of discovered vulnerabilities.

How does vulnerability analysis identify weaknesses before exploitation?

Vulnerability analysis identifies weaknesses by actively enumerating discovered hosts and services to find exploitable flaws. This ethical hacking stage bridges scanning and exploitation, allowing security professionals to map specific vulnerabilities before active exploitation occurs.