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What code do hackers learn?

C++ is one of the go-to C languages for hackers because it helps them gain low-level access to hardware and processes.

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What are the best programming languages for ethical hacking? And what is ethical hacking, anyway? Learn about the languages used in cybersecurity. BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Businesses across sectors need ethical hackers to protect networks against cyber attacks.

Hackers use the same programming languages that power mobile apps and networks.

Ethical hacking is a proactive approach using the same techniques as malicious hacking. Three of the best programming languages for ethical hacking are PHP, Python, and SQL. According to Forbes, cyber risks, including ransomware attacks, data breaches, and IT outages, are a top concern for businesses globally in 2022. Some of the hardest hit sectors in 2021 were education, research, healthcare, communications, and government. Consequently, the need for ethical hackers like information security analysts is also rising. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the need for these professionals to increase by 33% between 2020 and 2030. Information security analysts monitor network security breaches and check for vulnerabilities. Ethical hackers are crucial in protecting businesses from cyberattacks, using the same programming languages as malicious hackers. They must stay updated on IT security and the latest methods and programming languages attackers use. Information security analysts may need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology. However, learning and practicing specific programming languages and security tools is another way to start a career as an ethical hacker.

What Are Programming Languages?

Programming languages enable people to connect with computers. They are sets of instructions that ask a computer to implement certain tasks. These languages power everything from software and mobile applications to complex systems in automobiles and satellites. Functional, logic, object-oriented, procedural, and scripting are five basic programming language categories. However, there are over 300 programming languages and many overlap categories. The C programming language is the oldest of a family of languages that are different but overlap. For example, C is a procedural language, C++ is an extension, and C# is an object-oriented language also built as an extension of C.

What Is Ethical Hacking?

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Like preventive medicine, ethical hacking is proactive instead of reactionary. Criminal hacking and ethical hacking reveal weaknesses in a computer network system. On the one hand, cyber criminals use their coding skills to break safety protocols, change or steal information, and wreak havoc. On the other hand, ethical hacking can prevent cyber attacks, malicious software downloads, and data breaches. Ethical hackers test for vulnerabilities and weaknesses and use that information to make the system more secure. These professionals must stay up-to-date on the latest cybercrime tech and follow hacking trends while maintaining their integrity.

Why Are Programming Languages Important for Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hackers need a deep knowledge of programming languages because they must be able to analyze code and make modifications. Programming languages can also automate time-consuming tasks and identify errors in applications. Ultimately, the best programming languages for ethical hacking depend on the target computer systems and platforms. They're often platform-dependent and used specifically for Windows, Mac, or Linux operating systems. However, some languages like JavaScript are cross-platform, meaning they can be deployed on different systems. Hackers can use JavaScript code to read saved cookies and execute cross-site scripting.

Additionally, open-source platforms provide ready-to-use applications in various programming languages to customize as needed. Ethical hackers must develop open-source programs and participate in hacking forums to keep up with current trends. After all, what is ethical hacking without knowledge of what tools and languages hackers are using?

Which Ethical Hacking Programming Language Is Best for Me?

The best programming languages for ethical hacking are the ones cyber criminals use. From Bash to JavaScript and SQL, here are 10 hacking languages to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ethical Hacking Programming Languages

Does ethical hacking require coding?

Ethical hacking requires the skills and mindset of a hacker, so the more robust your coding skills are, the better. In addition to learning coding languages, you need to be an excellent problem solver and know existing security tools. Fortunately, there's no shortage of learning methods, from tutorials to bootcamps. Programming languages such as C++, SQL, and Python power operating systems, database applications, and networks. The best ethical hackers use various programming languages to build tools, automate tasks, and identify and exploit programming errors. Additionally, understanding programming languages enables you to use open-source options to customize existing applications and add methods as needed.

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Is C++ used for hacking?

C++ is one of the go-to C languages for hackers because it helps them gain low-level access to hardware and processes. This C expansion language enables hackers to write fast and efficient programs, easily exploiting system vulnerabilities. C++ is also versatile, supporting different programming methods, including functional, object-oriented, and procedural. Ethical hackers use C++ for reverse-engineering and exploit writing to discover vulnerabilities in a system or network. This open-source code also powers cybersecurity programs such as the network mapper tool, Nmap. Beginners can learn C++ online on platforms such as Udemy and Coursera, coding bootcamps, or pursue a degree program.

Is Python good for hacking?

Python ranks as the number one popular programming language in the world, according to 2022 Tiobe Index data. It's also a popular language with hackers because it provides powerful and easy-to-use libraries enabling them to work quickly. Additionally, Python has a sizeable third-party library with plug-ins that hackers can use. Ethical hackers use Python to test vulnerabilities and security assessment processes like malware analysis. Python is also suitable for expediting the scanning process, data analysis, scripting, and task automation. This programming language typically has a shorter learning curve than other popular hackers' languages, like the C family.

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