1. What is a Computer System?
Before we learn how to hack, we need to understand what we’re hacking into.
A computer system includes:
- Hardware (like CPU, memory, and hard drive)
- Software (like Windows, Linux, browsers, etc.)
- Network (how computers talk to each other using cables, Wi-Fi, etc.)
2. What is a Network?
A network is a group of computers connected together so they can share files, data, or even the internet.
Types of Networks:
- LAN (Local Area Network) – Small, like your home or office.
- WAN (Wide Area Network) – Big, like the internet.
3. What is a Vulnerability?
A vulnerability is like a weak point or a hole in a system. Hackers look for these to break in.
Example:
- A website that doesn’t ask for a password might be vulnerable.
- Old software not updated can have bugs hackers can use.
4. What is an Exploit?
An exploit is a special trick or code that takes advantage of a vulnerability.
Example: If a house has an open window (vulnerability), then using that window to sneak in is the exploit.
5. What is an IP Address?
An IP address is like a phone number for your device. It helps computers find each other on the internet.
Example: 192.168.1.1 (your home router might have this IP)
There are 2 types:
- IPv4: 32-bit, like 192.168.1.1
- IPv6: Newer, longer addresses like
2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334
6. What is a Port?
Think of your computer as a big office building. Ports are like doors to different rooms. Each port number represents a different service:
- Port 80 – Web (HTTP)
- Port 443 – Secure Web (HTTPS)
- Port 21 – File Transfer (FTP)
- Port 22 – Secure Shell (SSH)
Hackers scan ports to see which doors are open.
7. What is a Firewall?
A firewall is like a security guard. It checks who’s trying to come in or go out of your computer network.
If a hacker tries to enter your system, a good firewall can block them.
8. What is an Operating System?
It’s the main software that runs everything on your computer – like:
- Windows
- Linux
- macOS
Many ethical hackers love Linux (especially Kali Linux) because it has powerful built-in hacking tools.
9. What is Encryption?
Encryption means hiding your data so no one else can read it unless they have the correct key.
Example: Your messages on WhatsApp are encrypted. Even WhatsApp can’t read them.
10. Common Tools Used in Hacking
Here are some tools you’ll often hear about:
- Nmap – Scans networks and finds open ports.
- Wireshark – Captures network traffic to see what’s happening.
- Metasploit – A powerful framework to launch attacks.
- Burp Suite – Helps in testing websites for security issues.
Quick Recap:
| Term | Simple Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vulnerability | Weak spot in a system |
| Exploit | Trick used to take advantage of a weakness |
| IP Address | Device’s identity on the network |
| Port | Entry point for services |
| Firewall | Security guard for the network |
| Encryption | Hiding data so only the right person can see it |
What’s Next?
Now that you know the basics, you’re ready to learn about how hackers plan their attacks in the next chapter: “Phases of Ethical Hacking”.
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