Hacking for dummies - Kevin Beaver

Get out your white hat and learn where your systems may be vulnerable You're a good guy or gal, so why do you need to learn how to hack? Because the only way to be sure your systems are secure is to find out how the bad guys work and examine your defenses from their point of view. This guide shows you how, explains common attacks, tells you what to look for, and gives you the tools to safeguard your sensitive business information. Build the foundation — understand the value of ethical hacking, what's involved, and the malicious hacker's mindset Games people play — discover how hackers use social engineering to breach security and what to do about it It's the network — explore common network vulnerabilities and the creative ways they're exploited Down and dirty OS hacking — learn how Windows, Linux, and Novell NetWare are being attacked and how to scan for vulnerabilities Sneak attacks — see why applications, especially Web apps, are vulnerable and how to protect them Get the message — prepare for attacks on e–mail, IM, and VoIP systems Tools of the trade — learn about Metasploit, BackTrack, and other important security testing tools Now what? — find out how to use the information you gather to minimize business risks Open the book and find: What makes a hacker hack Why you need to hack your systems How to gain management's approval for your ethical hacking tests Countermeasures to common attacks Linux and Novell NetWare risks Techniques for defending databases How wireless LANs are compromised Ten deadly mistakes to avoid Learn to: Use the latest ethical hacking methods and tools Test your Windows or Linux systems Hack databases, VoIP systems, and Web applications Report vulnerabilities and improve information security