What is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking, also known as white-hat hacking, is the practice of finding vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks with the permission of the owner to improve their security. An ethical hacker simulates a malicious cyberattack to identify and fix weaknesses before a real attacker can exploit them. Understanding the different types of hacking and hackers types is crucial for anyone pursuing a career in this field. Ethical hackers work to protect systems, while black-hat hackers exploit vulnerabilities for malicious gain.

Learning ethical hacking has never been more accessible thanks to YouTube. In 2025, there are countless free channels where you can master penetration testing, cybersecurity, and real-world hacking tactics. This list highlights the best YouTube creators who offer high-quality tutorials, practical labs, and insider knowledge for aspiring ethical hackers.

10 Best YouTube Channels to Learn Ethical Hacking in 2025

In 2025, you don’t need to spend thousands on a formal ethical hacking course or ethical hacking training. Thanks to YouTube, you can start learning penetration testing, cybersecurity tools, Linux, and real-world hacking skills completely free. We’ve rounded up the top 10 ethical hacking YouTube channels in 2025 that are perfect for beginners and pros alike. Let’s dive in.

1. NetworkChuck

   • Best for: Beginners learning networking, Linux, and hacking basics

   • NetworkChuck makes ethical hacking fun, visual, and beginner-friendly. His videos on Kali Linux, VPNs, and hacking tools are great for anyone starting their journey.

2. The Cyber Mentor

   • Best for: Real-world hacking and certification prep

   • He’s a certified ethical hacker and OSCP holder who explains complex topics in a simple way. His free Practical Ethical Hacking course is a game-changer.

3. Hackersploit

   • Best for: Offensive security tutorials and Linux mastery

   • Hackersploit delivers high-quality, structured courses on Kali Linux, Metasploit, and web app security. One of the most professional hacking educators on YouTube.

4. David Bombal

   • Best for: Network hacking and certifications

   • David’s channel bridges the gap between networking and cybersecurity. He covers Wireshark, packet sniffing, and Cisco-focused ethical hacking.

5. IppSec

   • Best for: Hack The Box walkthroughs

   • If you love Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges, IppSec’s channel is gold. He explains Hack The Box machines step-by-step, great for OSCP training.

6. Null Byte (by WonderHowTo)

   • Best for: Hacking tutorials with real tools

   • Null Byte breaks down useful hacking techniques like reverse shells, payloads, and stealth attacks. Their tutorials are short, sharp, and practical.

7. John Hammond

   • Best for: Malware analysis and red teaming

   • John is a skilled hacker who explains advanced threats, malware, CTFs, and scripting for pentesting. His videos are smart and extremely hands-on.

8. LiveOverflow

   • Best for: Binary exploitation and advanced topics

   • If you’re into reverse engineering, buffer overflows, or hardcore ethical hack techniques, LiveOverflow is the place to be. Perfect for those seeking a challenge.

9. STÖK

   • Best for: Bug bounty content and web app hacking

   • STÖK mixes hacking with vlogging. He focuses on real bug bounty hacks, recon, Burp Suite, and XSS in a fun, high-energy style.

10. InsiderPhD

    • Best for: Beginners in bug bounty and recon

    • InsiderPhD’s tutorials are especially welcoming to newcomers. She focuses on web hacking, recon, and bug bounty tips.

Career and Salary Outlook for a Certified Ethical Hacker

A career as a certified ethical hacker is both rewarding and in high demand. The ethical hacker salary and ethical hacker income can be quite lucrative, especially with experience and advanced certifications. While salaries vary by location and company, the certified ethical hacker salary is often very competitive. The average ethical hacking salary for a professional in 2025 reflects the critical need for cybersecurity experts. This career path offers job stability and the satisfaction of protecting digital assets.

Bonus Tip: Use YouTube with Labs

Watching is great, but doing is what makes the knowledge stick. Pair these videos with hands-on platforms like:

• TryHackMe – Guided hacking labs

• Hack The Box – Realistic CTFs

• OverTheWire – Linux-based wargames

• PortSwigger Web Security Academy – Free browser-based training

Final Thoughts

There’s no better time to get into cybersecurity. With these ethical hacking YouTube channels in 2025, you can start building skills from your couch, laptop, or even your phone. Consistency is key. Pick one channel, follow along, and apply what you learn. Before you know it, you’ll be running scans, cracking passwords, and testing systems like a pro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an ethical hacker?

An ethical hacker is a cybersecurity professional who uses their skills to identify and fix vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks with the owner’s permission. They work to improve security by simulating a malicious cyberattack.

2. Do I need to pay for an ethical hacking course to get started?

No, you don’t. The blog highlights that you can learn ethical hacking for free using the recommended YouTube channels. Many of these channels offer free courses and tutorials that can provide a strong foundation.

3. What is the average ethical hacker salary?

The blog mentions that the ethical hacker salary can be quite lucrative and varies based on experience, location, and certifications. The job market for cybersecurity professionals is in high demand, leading to competitive salaries.

4. What are the different types of hackers mentioned in the blog?

The blog briefly introduces the concept of different hackers types, such as ethical (white-hat) hackers who work to protect systems, and black-hat hackers who exploit vulnerabilities for malicious purposes.

5. Which channel is best for a complete beginner in ethical hacking?

The blog recommends NetworkChuck as the best channel for beginners, as his content is fun, visual, and focuses on the basics of networking, Linux, and hacking tools.

6. Does the blog mention any specific tools or platforms to practice hacking skills?

Yes, the blog suggests several platforms for hands-on practice, including TryHackMe, Hack The Box, OverTheWire, and the PortSwigger Web Security Academy.

7. Is a certified ethical hacker a specific role?

Yes, a certified ethical hacker is a professional who has passed a certification exam, such as the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), which validates their skills and knowledge in the field. The blog mentions The Cyber Mentor as a certified ethical hacker.

8. How can I get hands-on experience after watching the tutorials?

The blog’s “Bonus Tip” section advises pairing the video tutorials with hands-on labs and platforms like TryHackMe and Hack The Box to apply what you’ve learned.

9. Are these YouTube channels suitable for advanced learners?

Yes, the list includes channels like LiveOverflow and John Hammond, which are ideal for those interested in more advanced topics like malware analysis, reverse engineering, and binary exploitation.

10. What is the main focus of a career in ethical hacking?

The main focus of a career in ethical hacking is to use your skills for good. It’s about protecting digital assets and improving cybersecurity defenses, and it’s a rapidly growing field with a strong career outlook.

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