So many people coming into security don’t think outside the box. To secure a network we must think like the attacker. Not the script kiddie, but someone very skilled and focused. Someone that doesn’t give up because they don’t find an exploit in the current metasploit download.   Forgive me and I hate that over used saying about the box but it’s true.  Thinking “outside the box” is such a requirement that I feel I can say you cant be a great hacker if you don’t.  I used to hate reading sayings concerning hacking, you know all that Sun Zu crap about knowing your enemy, blah blah. I just wanted the easy how to steps.  But years later I have come to appreciate what wiser folks were saying to me.  Being a good hacker is a state of mind and not just looking for a quick how to on the internet.  The problem is, there are so many ways to get into a network and looking for just one or two ways to get in that someone might post is very limiting.  Think about how a rat tries to get in.  As disgusting as it might seem, the rat really is our best example.  A rat is very tenacious and never giving up.  Its sad for me to say but there are few networks I cant breach if I am given enough time and recourses. 

So if you are the kind of person that just can’t even figure out how to make a living hacking then don’t even try. If you think the only way is to get a lot of credentials and beg some company to hire you then you are not thinking like a true hacker.  I have made a very good living just being independent. You can make over a $100,000 a year easy if you understand the process.  Yes, you should get training and ask as many questions as you can, but don’t just rely on that.  So think like a hacker and you will do just fine. Just thought I put my 2 cents in. 

Kev