Ethical Hacking Methodology

---
name: Ethical Hacking Methodology
description: This skill should be used when the user asks to "learn ethical hacking", "understand penetration testing lifecycle", "perform reconnaissance", "conduct security scanning", "exploit vulnerabilities", or "write penetration test reports". It provides comprehensive ethical hacking methodology and techniques.
metadata:
  author: zebbern
  version: 4.1.0-fractal
---

# Ethical Hacking Methodology

## Purpose

Master the complete penetration testing lifecycle from reconnaissance through reporting. This skill covers the five stages of ethical hacking methodology, essential tools, attack techniques, and professional reporting for authorized security assessments.

## Prerequisites

## 🧠 Knowledge Modules (Fractal Skills)

### 1. [Required Environment](./sub-skills/required-environment.md)
### 2. [Required Knowledge](./sub-skills/required-knowledge.md)
### 3. [Phase 1: Understanding Hacker Types](./sub-skills/phase-1-understanding-hacker-types.md)
### 4. [Phase 2: Reconnaissance](./sub-skills/phase-2-reconnaissance.md)
### 5. [Phase 3: Scanning](./sub-skills/phase-3-scanning.md)
### 6. [Phase 4: Vulnerability Analysis](./sub-skills/phase-4-vulnerability-analysis.md)
### 7. [Phase 5: Exploitation](./sub-skills/phase-5-exploitation.md)
### 8. [Phase 6: Maintaining Access](./sub-skills/phase-6-maintaining-access.md)
### 9. [Phase 7: Reporting](./sub-skills/phase-7-reporting.md)
### 10. [Phase 8: Common Attack Types](./sub-skills/phase-8-common-attack-types.md)
### 11. [Phase 9: Kali Linux Setup](./sub-skills/phase-9-kali-linux-setup.md)
### 12. [Phase 10: Ethical Guidelines](./sub-skills/phase-10-ethical-guidelines.md)
### 13. [Penetration Testing Lifecycle](./sub-skills/penetration-testing-lifecycle.md)
### 14. [Essential Commands](./sub-skills/essential-commands.md)
### 15. [Authorization Required](./sub-skills/authorization-required.md)
### 16. [Professional Standards](./sub-skills/professional-standards.md)
### 17. [Scans Blocked](./sub-skills/scans-blocked.md)
### 18. [Exploits Failing](./sub-skills/exploits-failing.md)