HackTheBox vs Real World Hacking
Tags: hackthebox, penetrationtesting, pentesting
Published: 2023-07-31 20:31:09

### Real-World Hacking vs HackTheBox Machines

#### HackTheBox as an Effective Learning Environment

If you've checked out [Guided Hacking's Penetration Testing Tutorials](https://guidedhacking.com/forums/penetration-testing-tutorials.526/) you'll have noticed how HackTheBox offers a rich, immersive, and interactive environment for learning and practicing penetration testing skills. Notably, HackTheBox is home to a vast array of virtual machines (VMs), designed to replicate real-world vulnerabilities, infrastructure, and security scenarios. Each VM is a unique challenge, offering its own set of learning opportunities. In this aspect, HackTheBox aligns well with real-world hacking experiences, where each system or network penetration tester faces unique vulnerabilities and protection mechanisms.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/r0baglkkrtkmhbgxj52b.png)

One exemplary instance of the platform's real-world alignment can be found in the [HackTheBox Devzat walkthrough](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/hackthebox-devzat-walkthrough.18988/). This particular HackTheBox machine mirrors real-world scenarios where application vulnerabilities are the entry point for system infiltration. The in-depth walkthrough aids in understanding the process of exploiting such vulnerabilities and how similar scenarios occur in real-life situations.

#### Contrast with Real-World Hacking Scenarios

Although HackTheBox machines are instrumental in educating and preparing cybersecurity professionals, the contrast with real-world hacking scenarios is also noteworthy. Real-world hacking is unpredictable, with numerous unknowns, less-than-perfect infrastructure, and oftentimes incomplete information. The complexity and range of potential threats and vulnerabilities in a real-world environment are far broader than what's presented in any training environment, including HackTheBox.

The [Hack The box NoteBook lesson](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/hackthebox-thenotebook-walkthrough.19633/), for example, provides a thorough exploration of a machine that encapsulates a specific vulnerability scenario. Although such a scenario can occur in real-world hacking, the walkthrough, while educative, cannot encapsulate the unpredictable, multi-faceted reality of real-world cyber-attacks.

#### Striking the Balance: Practical Experience and Guided Learning

Nevertheless, the pedagogical value of HackTheBox remains unchallenged. It offers a controlled environment to test, experiment, and learn, which is indispensable for those building cybersecurity skills. Combining this with real-world experience creates a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity.

The [HackTheBox Monitors walkthrough](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/hackthebox-monitors-walkthrough.19569/) showcases a typical HackTheBox learning experience. The walkthrough helps learners to understand critical concepts, such as privilege escalation and vulnerability exploitation, which are crucial in real-world hacking scenarios. However, pairing this knowledge with hands-on exposure in the real-world can indeed bridge the gap between the theoretical and practical aspects of cybersecurity.

![Image description](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/kmgzjnxerczo173a13ak.png)

#### Additional Learning Resources

For individuals keen to expand their learning beyond HackTheBox, platforms like TryHackMe offer another enriching learning environment. The [TryHackme Internal chapter](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/tryhackme-internal-walkthrough.17654/) and [TryHackMe's Couch article](https://guidedhacking.com/threads/tryhackme-couch-walkthrough.17798/) are instances of practical guides available on this platform, allowing learners to gain a broader perspective of cybersecurity. These resources continue to complement the learning journey initiated by HackTheBox, further empowering cybersecurity professionals with a more comprehensive knowledge base.