Top 20+ Skills You Will Learn in OSCP Certification [2024 Updated]

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Top 20+ Skills You Will Learn in OSCP Certification [2024 Updated]

Introduction:

The OSCP certification provides individuals with a comprehensive set of abilities necessary for a cybersecurity assignment, namely in ethical hacking and penetration testing.

In this article, we have jotted down some summaries of the key competencies acquired through the OSCP certification through some of the verified channels:

Top 20+ Skills You Will Learn in OSCP Certification

1. Active Directory Attacks

Active Directory (AD) assaults are an essential aspect of cybersecurity penetration testing, particularly in setups that utilize Microsoft’s Active Directory for network resource management. Active Directory is a directory service that offers various administration and security features in Windows environments. Due to its capabilities, it becomes a prime target for attackers aiming to breach enterprise systems. Gaining proficiency in executing Active Directory attacks is essential for recognizing and addressing any weaknesses in a company’s network.

Moreover, Active Directory (AD) attacks are a crucial aspect of the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) certification, given the extensive utilization of Active Directory in the administration of corporate networks.

2. Active Information Gathering

Active Information Gathering is an essential skill set under the OSCP certification. It entails the proactive collection of comprehensive information on target systems and networks. This procedure is crucial in the field of ethical hacking and penetration testing as it enables the detection of possible weaknesses and the creation of efficient methods for exploitation.

The OSCP curriculum focuses on instructing different methods and tools for active reconnaissance. This includes utilizing network scanning tools such as Nmap to detect open ports and services, employing vulnerability scanners to identify potential weaknesses, and utilizing enumeration tools to collect additional details about services, applications, and operating systems. Participants acquire the skills to effectively engage with web applications and services to extract useful information. They also learn how to create and transmit packets to systems, which prompts answers that reveal specific facts about the systems’ setup and security status.

Active involvement with the target sets this phase apart from passive information collection, necessitating a more direct method yet resulting in more accurate and practical intelligence. Proficiency in active information collection is essential for individuals aiming to become cybersecurity professionals since it forms the foundation for adhering to stages of a penetration test, such as vulnerability exploitation and post-exploitation operations.

3. Advanced Command Line

The OSCP certification places great importance on expertise in Advanced Command Line techniques as a crucial ability for cybersecurity professionals, specifically in the field of ethical hacking and penetration testing. The certification program equips students with advanced skills in utilizing command line interfaces on different operating systems, particularly Unix/Linux and Windows.

Proficiency in this field is essential for effective maneuvering, management, scripting, and implementation of security solutions. Students are instructed on how to utilize intricate command-line syntax, automate processes using shell scripts, and utilize powerful command-line utilities for activities such as network analysis, file manipulation, system monitoring, and running advanced security scans. Proficiency in utilizing the command line facilitates enhanced precision and adaptability in the context of penetration testing, empowering testers to swiftly adjust to diverse surroundings and scenarios.

Moreover, having expertise in command-line usage is crucial for effectively utilizing various security and hacking tools that do not have a graphical user interface. This skill is essential for cybersecurity professionals, especially those aiming to excel in the practical and hands-on approach of the OSCP certification.

4. Antivirus Evasion

The OSCP certification emphasizes the acquisition of Antivirus Evasion techniques, a crucial skill for penetration testers and ethical hackers.  This section is dedicated to methods and tactics for circumventing or eluding detection by antivirus (AV) software, which is a prevalent security measure in most networked settings.

The certification encompasses diverse techniques for creating or modifying malware and exploits payloads to evade detection by antivirus systems based on signatures and heuristics. This entails comprehending the mechanisms by which AV software detects malicious behavior and subsequently altering the code, employing encryption methods for payloads, or utilizing polymorphism and metamorphic approaches to reduce the code’s detectability.

In addition, the OSCP training places strong emphasis on the need to test payloads against widely used antivirus solutions to verify their efficacy in practical situations. Penetration testers require this skill to evaluate the security of systems in an environment with active antivirus software. It enables them to simulate advanced cyber-attack strategies and assess the effectiveness of the organization’s defense mechanisms against sophisticated threats.

5. Antivirus Exploitation

Within the domain of the OSCP certification, Antivirus Exploitation is a highly specialized proficiency that goes beyond basic evasion tactics. This training component focuses on the identification and exploitation of vulnerabilities inside antivirus software. The curriculum usually includes methods for transforming antivirus applications, which are intended to safeguard systems, into means for compromising systems.

This entails comprehending the internal mechanisms and potential vulnerabilities of different antivirus programs. Participants gain the knowledge to detect and pinpoint weaknesses such as buffer overflows, inadequate file scanning algorithms, and privilege escalation vulnerabilities in antivirus software. Through the exploitation of these vulnerabilities, a proficient ethical hacker can render the antivirus ineffective, execute harmful code, or exploit the trusted status of antivirus processes to obtain more extensive control over the system.

Possessing this talent is crucial for showcasing how secure elements can be transformed into vulnerabilities, hence offering a holistic outlook on system security for aspiring cybersecurity experts. The OSCP’s focus on Antivirus Exploitation highlights the significance of adopting a comprehensive security strategy where defensive products are thoroughly examined for vulnerabilities.

6. Bash scripting

Mastery of Bash scripting is an essential and highly valuable talent. Bash, an acronym for Bourne Again SHell, is an extensively utilized command processor in Unix and Linux settings. Scripting in Bash enables cybersecurity experts to automate a diverse array of operations. The OSCP curriculum often encompasses instruction on composing and employing Bash scripts to optimize the workflow of scanning, data gathering, network analysis, and exploitation activities. This entails acquiring the skills to create scripts that can automate repetitive jobs, analyze data, execute file operations, and even perform intricate functions such as network communication and response analysis.

7. Buffer Overflow Exploits

This expertise entails comprehending and capitalizing on buffer overflow vulnerabilities, wherein an application receives an excessive amount of data that is beyond its capacity to manage, potentially resulting in the execution of arbitrary code. The OSCP training emphasizes the identification of vulnerabilities, the creation of payloads to exploit them, and the successful acquisition of control over a system or process. Buffer overflows are a well-known method of attack in the field of cybersecurity, and the ability to exploit them is crucial for any skilled penetration tester.

8. Client-side attacks

This section encompasses methods for leveraging weaknesses in client-side applications, including web browsers, document readers, and email clients. The OSCP curriculum covers techniques for creating harmful payloads that exploit certain vulnerabilities in client-side software. It also explores how users interact with these apps and how these interactions might be manipulated to gain unauthorized access or execute malicious code.

9. Exploitation

In the context of OSCP, exploitation is a comprehensive process that involves utilizing weaknesses in systems or apps to obtain unauthorized access or carry out unlawful actions. This encompasses not only the technical facets of creating and deploying exploits but also the strategic analysis required to select appropriate targets and methodologies for a triumphant penetration test.

10. File Transfers

This ability pertains to the process of transferring files across different systems in the context of a penetration test. It is essential for transferring tools, scripts, or exploit payloads into a target machine, or for extracting data. The OSCP training encompasses a wide range of strategies for transferring data, encompassing both fundamental and sophisticated procedures. This ensures that candidates possess the ability to proficiently transfer information in diverse network settings and under distinct limitations.

11. Fixing Public Exploits

Frequently, public exploit code necessitates alterations to function optimally in unique contexts or while targeting specific entities. The OSCP program instructs individuals on the techniques of analyzing, modifying, and evaluating publicly available exploit code. Possessing this expertise is crucial as practical situations frequently need customized methods to exploit vulnerabilities, and the capacity to modify and rectify pre-existing code is a major advantage for any penetration tester.

12. Information Gathering

The initial stage of penetration testing is gathering extensive data on the target systems and networks. The OSCP program focuses on developing skills in network range identification, live system determination, service discovery on hosts, and comprehensive gathering of information regarding the technology and potential vulnerabilities of the targets. This procedure establishes the foundation for all later attack phases, offering vital insights into the possible attack routes.

13. Kali Linux

Kali Linux is a Linux distribution that contains a comprehensive set of security and penetration testing tools, making it an indispensable resource for ethical hackers. The OSCP program provides comprehensive instruction in Kali Linux, with a specific emphasis on optimizing the use of its tools and utilities for conducting penetration testing activities, including acquiring information, analyzing vulnerabilities, and exploiting them.

14. Linux Buffer Overflow

The OSCP places significant importance on buffer overflow exploits in Linux systems. This ability encompasses comprehending the functioning of memory and buffers in Linux, recognizing buffer overflow vulnerabilities, and devising exploits that can exploit these flaws to execute arbitrary code or compromise a machine.

15. Locating Public Exploits

A substantial component of penetration testing entails identifying preexisting exploits that can be employed or modified to specifically target particular vulnerabilities. The OSCP course instructs individuals on effective techniques for searching and recognizing public vulnerabilities inside databases like Exploit Database. It also covers the process of adapting these exploits to suit the particular circumstances of a penetration test.

16. Metasploit

This extensively employed framework is essential for the development, testing, and execution of exploit code against remote targets. The OSCP curriculum provides comprehensive instruction on the proficient utilization of Metasploit for many phases of penetration testing, including the exploitation of vulnerabilities, the execution of post-exploitation reconnaissance, and the establishment of persistent access to compromised systems.

17. Network Vulnerability Scanning

This expertise entails utilizing technologies to scan networks and detect flaws. During the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) program, participants acquire the skills to employ automated scanning tools such as Nmap and Nessus with the purpose of identifying vulnerabilities. This not only facilitates the identification of potential targets but also enhances the comprehension of the security status of the target area.

18. Passive Information Gathering

This is gathering data about a certain target without engaging directly with their systems, therefore minimizing the likelihood of being detected. Methods encompass the collection of data from publicly accessible sources such as websites, social media platforms, WHOIS databases, and DNS records. The OSCP places significant emphasis on the significance of adopting an inconspicuous approach during reconnaissance. This method enables the gathering of useful information while minimizing visibility.

19. Password Attacks

This skill set encompasses many techniques employed to exploit passwords, a prevalent weakness in numerous systems. The OSCP curriculum encompasses instruction on brute force assaults, dictionary attacks, rainbow table attacks, and techniques such as hash cracking. Gaining proficiency in these techniques enables ethical hackers to evaluate the robustness of password regulations and the efficacy of password management protocols within a company.

20. Pivoting

Pivoting is the method of utilizing a compromised system to obtain admission to other systems within the same network that cannot be directly reached from the attacker’s initial entry point. Mastery of this talent is essential in the OSCP for enhancing penetration into a network and gaining access to segments that are otherwise separated.

21. Port Redirection

This entails rerouting network traffic to reach network services using indirect methods. Port redirection in penetration testing serves the purpose of circumventing security restrictions or directing traffic through a compromised server. The OSCP course encompasses the utilization of tools and methodologies for proficient port redirection, a crucial skill for maneuvering intricate network environments.

22. Port Scanning

This essential ability is conducting a thorough scan of target systems in order to detect open ports and their corresponding services. The OSCP curriculum instructs students on the utilization of tools such as Nmap for thorough examination of ports, allowing testers to identify possible points of entry and weaknesses in networked services.

23. PowerShell Empire

This framework enables sophisticated exploitation of Windows installations through the use of PowerShell, specifically in the post-exploitation phase. The OSCP course provides instruction on the PowerShell Empire to carry out various post-compromise operations, such as lateral movement and data exfiltration.

24. Practical Tools

The OSCP certification offers practical training in a diverse array of technologies utilized in ethical hacking, providing valuable hands-on experience. These encompass network scanners, vulnerability scanners, exploitation tools, and custom scripts. Mastery of these technologies is crucial for carrying out efficient penetration tests and security assessments.

25. Privilege Escalation

This expertise encompasses methods for acquiring elevated privileges on a hacked system. The OSCP curriculum instructs learners on how to detect and take advantage of weaknesses or incorrect settings in an operating system or software, which can result in gaining higher levels of access. It is crucial to acquire extensive access to systems in order to conduct a comprehensive investigation and utilize the network more effectively.

26. Tunneling

Tunneling is the process of enclosing one network protocol within another, enabling the secure transmission of data or the circumvention of firewall restrictions. Within the framework of OSCP, tunneling is instructed as a technique to direct traffic from a compromised system to the attacker’s workstation, typically with the purpose of extracting data or gaining access to networks that are otherwise unreachable from the compromised system.

27. Vulnerability Scanning

This expertise involves utilizing automated technologies to conduct scans on systems and networks to identify and assess known vulnerabilities. The OSCP program provides comprehensive guidance on utilizing diverse scanners, such as Nessus, OpenVAS, and Nmap scripts, enabling experts to effectively detect potential vulnerabilities that can be exploited.

28. Web Application Attacks

Due to the widespread use of web applications, the OSCP prioritizes the act of targeting these applications. This encompasses the exploitation of prevalent vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), and file inclusion vulnerabilities. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of different methods of attack is essential for the purpose of evaluating and safeguarding web applications.

29. Web Exploitation

This advanced proficiency surpasses the mere identification of vulnerabilities; it encompasses the act of exploiting them to obtain unauthorized access or carry out unlawful activities. The OSCP curriculum encompasses a variety of methods for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, such as circumventing authentication, executing remote code, and utilizing misconfigurations to obtain entry to confidential data.

30. Windows Buffer Overflow

The OSCP certification places significant emphasis on the Windows buffer overflow exploit, which is a specific sort of vulnerability. This entails comprehending the memory allocation and control mechanisms employed by Windows operating systems, as well as constructing exploits capable of overflowing buffers to run code of any desired nature. Proficiency in this method is crucial for effectively utilizing a variety of Windows apps and services.

FAQs

About OSCP Certification

1: What are the benefits of OSCP certification?

The mainstream benefits of OSCP certification are as follows:

  • Recognized Expertise in Penetration Testing,
  • Hands-On Skills,
  • Career Advancement,
  • Increased Earning Potential,
  • Professional Network Expansion, etc.

2: What should I know about OSCP?

You should be aware of the following things for OSCP Certification:

  • Basic Understanding of Networks and Systems,
  • Programming and Scripting Knowledge,
  • Penetration Testing Tools and Techniques, etc.

3: What does OSCP teach?

OSCP teaches for the following factors:

  • Penetration Testing Methodologies,
  • Exploitation Techniques,
  • Post-Exploitation and Privilege Escalation, etc.

4: Is ChatGPT allowed in OSCP?

External aid, such as AI tools like ChatGPT, is strictly prohibited during the OSCP exam. The exam serves as a pragmatic assessment of individual aptitude and expertise.

5: What is higher than OSCP?

Offensive Security provides advanced certifications such as the OSCE (Offensive Security Certified Expert) and the OSEE (Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester).

6: What is next after OSCP?

Following the completion of OSCP, numerous experts opt to obtain further certifications such as OSCE or focus their expertise on specific domains such as web application security, wireless security, or sophisticated pen testing methodologies.

7: What is the salary of an OSCP holder?

The salary of an OSCP Certification holder in Singapore can vary widely based on several factors, such as experience, specific job role, industry, and the size of the employer.  Generally, it falls somewhere between SGD 70,000 and SGD 120,000 per year.

8: How many hours a day is OSCP?

The time commitment differs for each individual. The course is designed to be completed at the learner’s own pace, however, it is common for candidates to dedicate approximately 10–20 hours per week for 3–4 months to adequately prepare for the exam.

9: How long is OSCP valid?

The OSCP certification has no expiration date. Once obtained, it remains valid indefinitely. Nevertheless, it is advisable to engage in ongoing education and remain abreast of the most recent advancements in cybersecurity.

Wrapping Up

In the bottom line, we would like to comment that each of these above-mentioned skills enhances a holistic comprehension of cybersecurity threats and defenses, equipping individuals for practical difficulties in the realm of information security.  If you have a keen wish to know more about OSCP Certification or to grab authentic OSCP Certification Training right from the best cybersecurity training professionals in Singapore, you may choose Craw Security, the leading cybersecurity training provider in Singapore, which has a bunch of great cybersecurity trainers and mentors with the right value of experiences to hone the cybersecurity skills of the working cybersecurity individuals.

To get more information about the upcoming batches of OSCP Certification Training, you can give us a call at our hotline mobile number +65-93515400 and have a word with our excelled educational counselors.

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