Preamble
This month there is a variety of interesting subjects that caught my eye:
- AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials
I’m really interested in trying to find more ways for me to exercise and apply the technical aspects of what I’m learning to my job. One such avenue I haven’t yet explored is the expansion/use of cloud technology. Amazon Web Services (AWS) is by far the most dominant platform out there (alongside competitors from Microsoft and Google). I’ve begun studying up for the entry-level certification in the AWS cert hierarchy: AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials. Amazon provides free training for their certificate here. They also provide an amazing ramp-up guide for any particular cert you are looking to prepare for. - Graduate School
I am studying Computer Science through Georgia Tech’s Online Masters program in CS (OMSCS); I finished my first semester of graduate school and have just begun my second. Initially when I applied to the program I was really keen on specializing in their AI and Machine Learning offerings. Now, however, I think I’m going to go for a broader scope of understanding in Computer Systems, since I come from a non-traditional education background. To that end, I’m studying Operating Systems this semester. My hope is that this course will synergize with some of the hacking I’ve been engaged with; particularly understanding Kernel exploitation. - OSCP (attempt #3)
This marks my third - and best - attempt at the Offensive Security Certified Penetration Tester certificate (OSCP). At present, I’m awaiting the results of my exam; this marks the first time that I’ve been within striking distance of passing: on my first two attempts I scored 35 points or lower, managing to successfully root (at most) the buffer overflow target and the 10pt target. This time however, I not only managed to root both of those, but also a 20pt target and a foothold (user-level) on a second 20pt target. That number of points, coupled with my lab & coursework report for 5pts extra, may be enough to achieve a passing score. - Tribe of Hackers (podcast)
In my ongoing struggle to shape and understand the trajectory of my career in cybersecurity (and, more broadly speaking, tech/programming), I started listening to the Tribe of Hackers podcast. The podcast, which is affiliated with and spawned from the book series of the same name, focuses on giving back to the InfoSec community by making the domain more understandable and accessible. One way it achieves this is by inviting an array of professionals to speak on their respective careers; I’m really appreciating the insight this is providing.