CEH Syllabus: Your Guide to Ethical Hacking Mastery!

CEH Exam Overview

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam is a comprehensive test designed to assess your skills in identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in computer systems using the same knowledge and tools as malicious hackers. It covers topics like network security, cryptography, system hacking, and more. Passing the CEH exam validates your expertise in ethical hacking and your ability to secure IT environments against cyber threats.

CEH Syllabus

Introduction to Ethical Hacking

In this section, learners will explore ethical hacking fundamentals, further enhancing their understanding of cybersecurity's ethical, legal, and regulatory aspects. Candidates delve into the ethical hacker's mindset, learning the importance of integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism in their endeavors.

Footprinting and Reconnaissance

This is a system networking concept. Footprinting is a type of ethical hacking technique. This technique gets information about the network and system infrastructure.  Reconnaissance will teach you to focus on actively scanning for vulnerabilities. 

Scanning Networks

In this module of the CEH syllabus, candidates immerse themselves in the essential techniques of identifying and assessing vulnerabilities within network infrastructures. Through passive and active reconnaissance methods, learners acquire the skills to map out network topologies, discover live hosts, and enumerate open ports and services. By leveraging tools such as Nmap, Wireshark, and Nessus, candidates gain practical experience conducting comprehensive network scans, enabling them to identify potential security weaknesses and mitigate risks effectively. This module is a cornerstone in the CEH syllabus, empowering ethical hackers to safeguard network assets and enhance overall cybersecurity posture proactively.

Enumeration

In the CEH syllabus, Enumeration refers to the systematic process of gathering information about a target system or network. Ethical hackers use various techniques to extract valuable data, such as usernames, system configurations, and network shares. By meticulously enumerating these details, cybersecurity professionals can identify potential security vulnerabilities and assess the overall risk posture of the target environment. This module equips learners with the skills to effectively enumerate system resources, user accounts, and network services, enabling them to uncover hidden weaknesses and strengthen defensive measures.

Vulnerability Analysis

Vulnerability Analysis is a critical aspect of the CEH syllabus, focusing on identifying and assessing security weaknesses within target systems. Candidates learn to utilize scanning tools and manual techniques to identify software, configurations, and network infrastructure vulnerabilities. By conducting thorough vulnerability assessments, ethical hackers can prioritize remediation efforts and mitigate potential security risks. This module emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive vulnerability management to enhance organizations' overall security posture.

System Hacking

System Hacking is a fundamental module in the CEH syllabus, where candidates learn techniques to gain unauthorized access to computer systems and networks. Through hands-on labs and simulations, learners explore common attack vectors such as password cracking, privilege escalation, and exploitation of system vulnerabilities. By understanding the tactics and techniques employed by malicious actors, ethical hackers can better defend against such threats and implement robust security controls to safeguard sensitive data and critical infrastructure.

Malware Threats

Malware Threats are a prevalent concern in cybersecurity, and this module provides candidates with an in-depth understanding of various malware types, propagation mechanisms, and mitigation strategies. From viruses and worms to Trojans and ransomware, learners explore the characteristics and behaviors of malware, as well as techniques for detecting, analyzing, and mitigating these threats. By developing expertise in malware detection and response, cybersecurity professionals can effectively protect organizations from the damaging effects of malicious software.

Sniffing

Sniffing is a technique used to capture and analyze network traffic, allowing cybersecurity professionals to gain valuable insights into communication patterns, protocols, and potential security vulnerabilities. In this module, candidates learn how to use packet sniffing tools like Wireshark to intercept and inspect data packets traversing the network. Through hands-on exercises, learners explore various sniffing techniques and develop the skills to detect and mitigate network-based attacks such as packet sniffing and man-in-the-middle (MitM) attacks. This knowledge enables ethical hackers to strengthen network defenses and protect against unauthorized access and data exfiltration.

Social Engineering

Social Engineering is a tactic cyber attackers use to manipulate human behavior and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or systems. In this module, candidates learn about the psychological principles behind social engineering attacks and explore common techniques attackers use, such as phishing, pretexting, and baiting. Through case studies and practical exercises, learners understand how social engineering exploits human psychology and learn strategies to recognize and mitigate these threats effectively. This module emphasizes the importance of user awareness training and robust security policies to defend against social engineering attacks.

Denial-of-Service (DoS)

Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks are designed to disrupt the normal operation of computer systems or networks by overwhelming them with malicious traffic. In this module, candidates learn about the different types of DoS attacks, including volumetric attacks, protocol attacks, and application-layer attacks. Through hands-on labs and simulations, learners explore techniques for detecting, mitigating, and responding to DoS attacks and strategies for ensuring the availability and resilience of critical network services. This module equips ethical hackers with the skills to defend against DoS attacks and minimize the impact of disruptions on organizational operations.

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Session Hijacking

Session Hijacking is a security attack where an attacker takes control of an active session between a user and a web application or service. In this module, candidates learn about common session hijacking techniques, such as session fixation, session sniffing, and session token prediction. Through practical demonstrations and exercises, learners explore the vulnerabilities that can lead to session hijacking and learn strategies to prevent and mitigate these attacks effectively. This module emphasizes the importance of secure session management practices and encryption techniques to protect against unauthorized access and data interception.

Evading IDS, Firewalls, and Honeypots

IDS is a device­ that watches your network. It looks for anything bad happening, which could me­an hacking or attacks. If anything wrong is seen, it reports it immediately. IDS also keeps an eye­ on computer systems. It checks for policy bre­aks and troublesome actions. IDS is always on guard, scanning for trouble. If it finds issue­s, it makes reports for you.

Hacking Web Servers and Applications

Within the CEH certification, the module on Hacking Web Servers and Applications delves into the techniques used to identify and exploit vulnerabilities within web-based systems. Candidates learn how attackers target web servers and applications to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or disrupt services. Through hands-on labs and simulations, learners explore common attack vectors such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and directory traversal. Moreover, they discover strategies to secure web servers and applications, including web application firewalls, secure coding practices, and regular security audits. By mastering these concepts, CEH candidates equip themselves with the skills to defend against web-based threats and safeguard critical online assets.

Session Hijacking Prevention

Session Hijacking Prevention is a vital component of the CEH curriculum focused on safeguarding online sessions from unauthorized access or control. Learners gain insights into attackers' various methods to hijack user sessions and compromise sensitive information. Through practical demonstrations and real-world scenarios, candidates learn straightforward techniques to prevent session hijacking attacks, such as implementing secure session management practices, utilizing encryption protocols, and enforcing strict authentication mechanisms. By mastering session hijacking prevention strategies, CEH professionals contribute to enhancing the overall security posture of web-based applications and services.

Hacking Wireless Networks

The Hacking Wireless Networks module within the CEH certification explores the vulnerabilities inherent in wireless technologies and networks. Candidates delve into the methodologies attackers use to exploit weaknesses in Wi-Fi protocols, encryption standards, and authentication mechanisms. Through hands-on exercises and simulated scenarios, learners gain practical experience in conducting wireless penetration tests, identifying security vulnerabilities, and implementing effective countermeasures. Additionally, they learn strategies for securing wireless networks, including strong encryption protocols, network segmentation, and intrusion detection systems. By mastering wireless network hacking techniques and defensive strategies, CEH professionals play a crucial role in ensuring the security and integrity of wireless environments.

Hacking Mobile Platforms

The Hacking Mobile Platforms module of the CEH certification focuses on the security challenges of mobile devices and applications. Candidates explore common attack vectors targeting mobile platforms, such as malware, insecure data storage, and unauthorized access. Through hands-on labs and case studies, learners gain practical experience in identifying vulnerabilities in mobile applications, exploiting security weaknesses, and implementing defensive measures. Moreover, they learn best practices for securing mobile platforms, including mobile device management (MDM), application sandboxing, and secure coding practices. By mastering mobile platform hacking techniques and protective measures, CEH professionals contribute to enhancing the security and privacy of mobile users and organizations.

IoT Hacking

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the Internet of Things (IoT), cybersecurity challenges abound, and the IoT Hacking module of the CEH certification addresses these emerging threats. Candidates learn about the unique vulnerabilities present in IoT devices and ecosystems and the potential risks associated with interconnected smart devices. Learners explore IoT hacking methodologies through practical exercises and real-world case studies, including device exploitation, firmware analysis, and network surveillance. They also discover protective measures and best security practices for securing IoT deployments, such as device authentication, encryption, and vulnerability management. CEH professionals play a crucial role in safeguarding IoT infrastructure and mitigating the risks posed by IoT-related threats by mastering IoT hacking techniques and defensive strategies.

Cloud Computing

Security challe­nges exist with cloud computing, so this covers how to safeguard data stored there. This module­ teaches cryptography concepts, e­ncryption algorithms, digital signatures, and best practices for imple­menting cryptography securely. CEH certification is renowne­d, proving credibility and deep e­thical hacking and penetration testing knowle­dge.

Cryptography

Cloud computing faces many security issue­s, so you'll learn methods to protect data store­d in the cloud here. In this CEH module­, you'll study encryption algorithms, digital signatures, and best practice­s for cryptography. The CEH certification is very re­spected in cybersecurity —it demonstrates credibility and e­xpertise in ethical hacking te­chniques and penetration te­sting.

CEH Exam Pattern

The CEH exam patterns have MCQ questions based on practical scenarios, which access a person's knowledge and skills. So, the exam covers the topic given in the CEH syllabus, and this will help to test the professional's understanding of the principles, tools, and techniques of ethical hacking. The CEH exam pattern looks like:

• Title of the Exam: Certified Ethical Hacker (ANSI)
• Exam Code: 312-50 (ECC EXAM), 312-50 (VUE)
• Total Number of Questions: 125
• Exam Format: Multiple Choice
• Exam Duration: 4 Hours
• Exam Availability: ECC Exam or Pearson VUE
• Option 1: Local proctor for private and in-person exam.
• Option 2: Live remote proctor for online Exam
• Qualifying Score: Ranges from 60% to 80%.
• Open Book Format: No

Conclusion

The CEH v12 - Certified Ethical Hacking Certification training course syllabus serves as a comprehensive roadmap for aspiring ethical hackers, providing a structured framework to develop essential skills and knowledge in cybersecurity. The syllabus equips individuals with the expertise needed to navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity threats and defenses by covering a wide range of topics, from penetration testing to network security. As technology continues to evolve, the CEH v12 - Certified Ethical Hacking Certification training course syllabus remains a vital resource for professionals seeking to stay ahead in the ever-changing field of cybersecurity. For in-depth insight into the CEH certification syllabus, enrolling in a CEH v12 - Certified Ethical Hacking Course will be highly beneficial. This way, you will know what key concepts you must focus on while preparing for the CEH exam.

FAQs

1. Is CEH easy to pass?

Passing the CEH exam largely depends on your level of preparation and familiarity with the CEH syllabus. While some may find it challenging due to its comprehensive nature and technical content, others with a strong background in cybersecurity may find it more manageable. Success often requires dedication, hands-on practice, and a solid understanding of ethical hacking principles. Ultimately, with sufficient effort and commitment, achieving certification in CEH is attainable for those willing to put in the work.

2. What is the CEH exam fee?

The CEH exam fee varies based on factors like your area and mode of exam, i.e., whether online or offline, and any additional study materials or training packages included. As of my last update, it ranges from $1,199 to $1,599.

3. Is there coding in CEH?

While knowing basic coding languages like Python or PowerShell can be beneficial, the CEH exam primarily focuses on practical skills related to ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity tools. Hence, you can relax, as advanced coding skills are not required.