Getting Started with Reverse Engineering from Pluralsight

Reverse engineering binary code is a core skill for software security engineers, malware analysts and penetration testers. This course will teach you techniques for reversing binary code to identify program characteristics and behavior.

The ability to reverse engineer binary code is an essential skill for anyone responsible for software security or performing malware analysis, and it even plays a significant role in performing penetration tests and incident response. In this course, Getting Started with Reverse Engineering, you will gain the skills necessary to reverse engineer native code and determine program behavior. First, you will discover the basic elements of modern CPU architecture and the essentials of assembly language. Next, you will learn about native code, the portable executable file format and techniques to enrich your reverse engineering efforts. Finally, you will explore proficiency in the tools and techniques associated with performing static and dynamic reverse engineering to include IDA Pro and WinDbg. Throughout this course you will be able to follow along through comprehensive demonstrations and apply yourself through hands-on labs. By the end of this course, you will have the knowledge and skills necessary to reverse engineer native code binaries.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Introduction

Assembly Basics

Working with Native Code

Using Debuggers

Practical Assembly

Reverse Engineering

Conclusion

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches techniques for reversing binary code to identify program characteristics and behavior

Suitable for those responsible for software security or performing malware analysis

Taught by Josh Stroschein, who is recognized for his work in reverse engineering

Develops knowledge and skills necessary to reverse engineer native code binaries

Uses a hands-on approach with comprehensive demonstrations and labs

Requires students to come in with some basic programming knowledge

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Getting Started with Reverse Engineering with these activities:

Review basic computer architecture

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Build a foundational understanding of computer architecture to enhance comprehension of the course material.

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Study diagrams and explanations of basic computer architecture components, including the CPU, memory, and buses.
Review concepts of instruction sets, addressing modes, and memory management.
Explore online resources and tutorials to reinforce your understanding.

Read 'Assembly Language Step-by-Step' by Jeff Duntemann

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of assembly language, a prerequisite for comprehending binary code.

View x64 Assembly Language Step-by-Step: Programming... on Amazon

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Read chapters 1-3 to grasp the fundamentals of assembly language.
Work through the exercises and examples provided in the book.
Review the concepts of data representation, addressing modes, and instruction formats.

Complete the 'Reverse Engineering for Beginners' tutorial series

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Develop practical skills in reverse engineering by following a structured tutorial series.

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Locate and access the 'Reverse Engineering for Beginners' tutorial series.
Follow the tutorials in sequence, completing the hands-on exercises.
Experiment with different tools and techniques for binary code analysis.

Four other activities

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Analyze binary code using IDA Pro

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Sharpen your binary code analysis skills by practicing with IDA Pro, a widely used tool in the industry.

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Install IDA Pro and familiarize yourself with its interface.
Import and analyze sample binary files, identifying functions, data structures, and control flow.
Utilize IDA Pro's debugging capabilities to step through code and analyze program behavior.

Write a blog post summarizing key concepts of reverse engineering

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Solidify your understanding by explaining reverse engineering concepts to an audience.

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Identify the core concepts of reverse engineering that you want to cover.
Research and gather information to support your explanations.
Write a draft of your blog post, ensuring clarity and conciseness.
Proofread and edit your blog post before publishing it.

Attend a local meetup or conference on reverse engineering

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Expand your network and learn from industry professionals in the field of reverse engineering.

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Identify and register for a relevant meetup or conference.
Attend the event and actively participate in discussions.
Connect with speakers and attendees to exchange knowledge and insights.

Contribute to open-source reverse engineering projects

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the reverse engineering community by working on open-source projects.

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Identify open-source reverse engineering projects that align with your interests.
Review the project documentation and contribute to issues or feature requests.
Collaborate with other contributors and maintainers to enhance the projects.

Career center

Learners who complete Getting Started with Reverse Engineering will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Security Engineer

As a Software Security Engineer, you will need to master reversing binary code to identify program characteristics and behavior. By learning the fundamentals of assembly language and native code, you will be able to proactively protect software systems against internal and external threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Security Engineer

Malware Analyst

As a Malware Analyst, you will be able to use the skills from this course to detect, analyze, and respond to malware threats. You will be responsible for identifying and analyzing malicious code, and developing countermeasures to protect systems from malware attacks.

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Penetration Tester

As a Penetration Tester, you will be able to use this course to gain the skills necessary to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in software systems. You will be responsible for testing the security of systems and networks, and reporting vulnerabilities to the appropriate authorities.

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Computer Forensics Analyst

As a Computer Forensics Analyst, you will be able to use your skills in reverse engineering binary code to investigate computer crimes. You will be responsible for recovering and analyzing digital evidence, and providing expert testimony in court.

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Incident Responder

As an Incident Responder, you will use the skills from this course to handle security incidents and breaches. You will be responsible for assessing the situation, containing the damage, and recovering the system to a secure state.

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Cybersecurity Analyst

As a Cybersecurity Analyst, you may use the skills from this course to analyze and respond to cybersecurity threats. You will be responsible for monitoring security systems, detecting threats, and taking action to mitigate risks.

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Security Consultant

As a Security Consultant, you may use the skills from this course to advise clients on how to secure their systems and networks. You will be responsible for assessing security risks, developing security plans, and implementing security measures.

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Software Developer

As a Software Developer, you may use the skills from this course to develop secure software applications. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software that is free from vulnerabilities.

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Systems Administrator

As a Systems Administrator, you may use the skills from this course to manage and maintain computer systems and networks. You will be responsible for ensuring that systems are secure and running smoothly.

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Network Engineer

As a Network Engineer, you may use the skills from this course to design, implement, and maintain computer networks. You will be responsible for ensuring that networks are secure and reliable.

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Database Administrator

As a Database Administrator, you may use the skills from this course to manage and maintain databases. You will be responsible for ensuring that databases are secure and accessible.

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Information Security Manager

As an Information Security Manager, you may use the skills from this course to oversee and manage the security of an organization's information systems. You will be responsible for developing and implementing security policies, and ensuring that the organization is compliant with security regulations.

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Chief Information Security Officer

As a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), you may use the skills from this course to lead and manage the security of an organization's information systems. You will be responsible for developing and implementing security policies, and ensuring that the organization is compliant with security regulations.

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Security Architect

As a Security Architect, you may use the skills from this course to design and implement security solutions for an organization. You will be responsible for developing and implementing security policies, and ensuring that the organization is compliant with security regulations.

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IT Auditor

As an IT Auditor, you may use the skills from this course to assess and report on the security of an organization's information systems. You will be responsible for identifying and mitigating security risks, and ensuring that the organization is compliant with security regulations.

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