We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Mike Woolard
This course is all about introducing the learner to the 01 Information Gathering section of Kali . You'll learn about about a few of the tools available on the Kali platform and how they can be used to gather key information on your target.
Read more
This course is all about introducing the learner to the 01 Information Gathering section of Kali . You'll learn about about a few of the tools available on the Kali platform and how they can be used to gather key information on your target.
Read more
This course is all about introducing the learner to the 01 Information Gathering section of Kali . You'll learn about about a few of the tools available on the Kali platform and how they can be used to gather key information on your target.
Whether you work on the blue team within your company or are hired as a red teamer to help harden a company’s defense, knowing what vulnerabilities you are broadcasting to the world is important. In this course, Information Gathering with Kali Linux, you’ll learn to run the information gathering set of tools to conduct the reconnaissance step in the cyber kill chain. First, you will explore tools for conducting DNS Analysis and host identification. Then, you'll learn about network discovery and OSINT analysis. Finally, you will go through how to use that information to conduct a social engineering attack. When you’re finished with this course, you will have the skills and knowledge to conduct proper information gathering of assets and resources openly broadcasted to the world needed to lockdown, harden, and secure your company in today’s cyber world.
This course is no longer available. Find something similar by browsing:
Kali Linux
Information Gathering
DNS Analysis
OSINT Analysis
Social Engineering
Network Discovery
Port Analysis
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/pl2cv5/information
What's inside
Syllabus
Course Overview
Introduction
DNS Analysis
OSINT Analysis
Read more
Syllabus
Course Overview
Introduction
DNS Analysis
OSINT Analysis
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces learners to information gathering techniques in Kali Linux, a leading operating system for security professionals
Suitable for both blue and red team cybersecurity professionals seeking to improve their information gathering skills
Covers a range of essential information gathering tools, including DNS analysis, OSINT analysis, and social engineering
Provides hands-on practice through live host identification and network discovery
Teaches skills that are highly relevant in both industry and academic settings for cybersecurity professionals
Taught by Mike Woolard, an experienced cybersecurity professional
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save
Save
Reviews summary
Kali linux info gathering basics
According to students, this course provides a solid, foundational introduction to information gathering using Kali Linux, particularly for those new to cybersecurity or ethical hacking. Learners frequently highlight the clear explanations and practical, hands-on demonstrations as major strengths, covering key topics like DNS analysis, OSINT, and network discovery. However, some experienced learners find the content too basic and lacking depth for intermediate or advanced use cases. A few past reviews noted potential challenges with lab setup or outdated tools, though more recent feedback primarily focuses on the introductory nature rather than technical issues.
The instructor explains complex topics clearly and effectively.
"The instructor explains the tools clearly, and the hands-on demos are very helpful."
"The way the instructor broke down complex topics like DNS analysis and network discovery into digestible lessons was fantastic."
"The clarity of instruction is a major plus."
"The instructor's pace is perfect, and the explanations are clear."
Provides valuable practical demonstrations of Kali tools.
"The hands-on demos are very helpful. I particularly liked the section on OSINT analysis; it provided practical techniques."
"The practical exercises were spot on, and I feel much more confident now in performing basic reconnaissance. Highly practical and directly applicable."
"Very hands-on and practical. The demonstrations are the highlight. I learned how to use various Kali tools efficiently..."
"The practical demos are excellent, showing exactly how to use Kali tools."
An excellent and comprehensive starting point for beginners.
"This course is a solid introduction to information gathering using Kali Linux... a great starting point."
"As a complete beginner in ethical hacking, I found this course incredibly easy to follow."
"Fantastic course for anyone starting out in cybersecurity or penetration testing. It covers the fundamentals."
"If you are new to the Kali environment or reconnaissance, you will get a lot of value."
Some learners faced difficulties with tool and lab environment setup.
"The course content is okay, but I struggled with the lab setup. Some of the tools seemed outdated or required extra troubleshooting..."
"I recommend ensuring your Kali environment is perfectly set up beforehand, which isn't explicitly mentioned as a prerequisite."
May be too basic for experienced cybersecurity professionals.
"I wish it covered more advanced techniques or provided deeper dives into the 'why' behind some of the tools..."
"Decent overview, but it feels a bit basic if you already have some background in networking or security... it won't challenge intermediate users much."
"Disappointed with the depth. This course barely scratches the surface. No real challenge, no advanced techniques..."
"I found myself needing to do a lot of external research to truly understand how to apply them effectively..."
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 Information Gathering with Kali Linux with these
activities:
Review Kali Linux Revealed
Show steps
Provides a foundation of Kali Linux and ethical hacking skills and techniques as described by the course instructor.
View
Kali Linux Revealed: Mastering the Penetration...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read chapters 1-4
-
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter
-
Review the glossary and index for clarification and reinforcement
Practice DNS Analysis Using Kali Linux
Show steps
Improves your understanding of DNS Analysis, preparing you for the course's exploration of information gathering techniques.
Show steps
-
Use the 'dig' command to perform DNS lookups and analyze the results
-
Learn about different types of DNS records and how to interpret them
-
Practice using DNS tools such as 'nslookup', 'host', and 'whois'
Network Discovery with Nmap Tutorial
Show steps
Gain practical experience in network discovery using the Nmap tool through guided tutorials.
Browse courses on
Network Discovery
Show steps
-
Follow an online tutorial or documentation on Nmap usage.
-
Set up a lab environment for network scanning.
-
Practice scanning techniques, including port scans, OS detection, and vulnerability assessment.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
DNS Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of DNS analysis techniques through hands-on exercises.
Show steps
-
Identify DNS records and their significance (e.g., A, CNAME, MX).
-
Use tools like 'dig' and 'nslookup' to perform DNS queries.
-
Analyze DNS responses to gather information about hosts and networks.
Recon Tool Reference Card
Show steps
Create a handy reference card for frequently used reconnaissance tools in Kali Linux.
Browse courses on
OSINT
Show steps
-
List down important tools for specific recon tasks (e.g., DNS analysis, host identification).
-
Create a cheat sheet with tool commands, syntax, and usage examples.
-
Optionally, include tips and tricks for optimizing recon efficiency.
Follow the Kali Linux Official Website Tutorials
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with the tools and techniques covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Information Gathering
Show steps
-
Visit the Kali Linux official website
-
Browse the available tutorials and select one that aligns with the course content
-
Follow the steps outlined in the tutorial
Host Identification Practice
Show steps
Practice is the best path to fluency with tools.
Show steps
-
Configure a target environment with multiple hosts
-
Use Kali tools to identify and gather information about hosts
Social Engineering Experiment Report
Show steps
Design and execute a simple social engineering experiment to demonstrate its effectiveness and potential risks.
Browse courses on
Social Engineering
Show steps
-
Choose a target group and define success metrics.
-
Craft a social engineering scenario (e.g., phishing email, fake website).
-
Deploy the experiment and monitor results.
-
Write a report summarizing the experiment, findings, and lessons learned.
Perform Host Identification Exercises
Show steps
Develops your ability to identify hosts and gathers essential information, enhancing your information gathering skills.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
-
Use the 'nmap' command to scan networks and identify hosts
-
Analyze the results of the scan to gather information about the hosts
-
Use other tools such as 'arping' and 'ping' to further identify and characterize hosts
Create a Guide for Using the 'Social Engineering Toolkit' (SET)
Show steps
Demonstrates your understanding of social engineering techniques and provides a valuable resource for future reference.
Show steps
-
Install and configure the 'Social Engineering Toolkit' (SET)
-
Create a phishing template and send it to a test email address
-
Document the steps involved in using SET to conduct social engineering attacks
Develop a Reconnaissance Plan for a Target Website
Show steps
Applies the principles and techniques learned in the course to a practical scenario, deepening your understanding of information gathering.
Browse courses on
Reconnaissance
Show steps
-
Select a target website
-
Conduct a comprehensive DNS Analysis
-
Perform host identification and network discovery
-
Conduct an OSINT analysis
-
Create a report detailing your findings and recommendations for further reconnaissance
Compile a List of Online Resources for Information Gathering
Show steps
Provides a valuable reference for future information gathering tasks, enhancing your overall knowledge and efficiency.
Browse courses on
Information Gathering
Show steps
-
Search for and identify online resources related to information gathering
-
Categorize the resources based on their purpose and scope
-
Create a document or spreadsheet to organize and present the resources
Identify and Reach Out to Information Security Professionals
Show steps
Connects you with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support, enriching your learning experience.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
-
Attend industry events and conferences
-
Join online communities and forums
-
Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn and request a brief informational interview
Review Kali Linux Revealed
Show steps
Provides a foundation of Kali Linux and ethical hacking skills and techniques as described by the course instructor.
View
Kali Linux Revealed: Mastering the Penetration...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read chapters 1-4
- Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter
- Review the glossary and index for clarification and reinforcement
Practice DNS Analysis Using Kali Linux
Show steps
Improves your understanding of DNS Analysis, preparing you for the course's exploration of information gathering techniques.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use the 'dig' command to perform DNS lookups and analyze the results
- Learn about different types of DNS records and how to interpret them
- Practice using DNS tools such as 'nslookup', 'host', and 'whois'
Network Discovery with Nmap Tutorial
Show steps
Gain practical experience in network discovery using the Nmap tool through guided tutorials.
Browse courses on
Network Discovery
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Follow an online tutorial or documentation on Nmap usage.
- Set up a lab environment for network scanning.
- Practice scanning techniques, including port scans, OS detection, and vulnerability assessment.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
DNS Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Enhance your understanding of DNS analysis techniques through hands-on exercises.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify DNS records and their significance (e.g., A, CNAME, MX).
- Use tools like 'dig' and 'nslookup' to perform DNS queries.
- Analyze DNS responses to gather information about hosts and networks.
Recon Tool Reference Card
Show steps
Create a handy reference card for frequently used reconnaissance tools in Kali Linux.
Browse courses on
OSINT
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- List down important tools for specific recon tasks (e.g., DNS analysis, host identification).
- Create a cheat sheet with tool commands, syntax, and usage examples.
- Optionally, include tips and tricks for optimizing recon efficiency.
Follow the Kali Linux Official Website Tutorials
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with the tools and techniques covered in the course.
Browse courses on
Information Gathering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Visit the Kali Linux official website
- Browse the available tutorials and select one that aligns with the course content
- Follow the steps outlined in the tutorial
Host Identification Practice
Show steps
Practice is the best path to fluency with tools.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Configure a target environment with multiple hosts
- Use Kali tools to identify and gather information about hosts
Social Engineering Experiment Report
Show steps
Design and execute a simple social engineering experiment to demonstrate its effectiveness and potential risks.
Browse courses on
Social Engineering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a target group and define success metrics.
- Craft a social engineering scenario (e.g., phishing email, fake website).
- Deploy the experiment and monitor results.
- Write a report summarizing the experiment, findings, and lessons learned.
Perform Host Identification Exercises
Show steps
Develops your ability to identify hosts and gathers essential information, enhancing your information gathering skills.
Browse courses on
Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Use the 'nmap' command to scan networks and identify hosts
- Analyze the results of the scan to gather information about the hosts
- Use other tools such as 'arping' and 'ping' to further identify and characterize hosts
Create a Guide for Using the 'Social Engineering Toolkit' (SET)
Show steps
Demonstrates your understanding of social engineering techniques and provides a valuable resource for future reference.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Install and configure the 'Social Engineering Toolkit' (SET)
- Create a phishing template and send it to a test email address
- Document the steps involved in using SET to conduct social engineering attacks
Develop a Reconnaissance Plan for a Target Website
Show steps
Applies the principles and techniques learned in the course to a practical scenario, deepening your understanding of information gathering.
Browse courses on
Reconnaissance
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Select a target website
- Conduct a comprehensive DNS Analysis
- Perform host identification and network discovery
- Conduct an OSINT analysis
- Create a report detailing your findings and recommendations for further reconnaissance
Compile a List of Online Resources for Information Gathering
Show steps
Provides a valuable reference for future information gathering tasks, enhancing your overall knowledge and efficiency.
Browse courses on
Information Gathering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for and identify online resources related to information gathering
- Categorize the resources based on their purpose and scope
- Create a document or spreadsheet to organize and present the resources
Identify and Reach Out to Information Security Professionals
Show steps
Connects you with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support, enriching your learning experience.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Attend industry events and conferences
- Join online communities and forums
- Reach out to professionals on LinkedIn and request a brief informational interview
Career center
Learners who complete Information Gathering with Kali Linux will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst
An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This course can help Information Security Analysts to gather information about potential threats to their organization's systems. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Information Security Analysts can better protect their organization's assets.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Tester
A Penetration Tester is responsible for evaluating the security of an organization's computer networks and systems by simulating attacks. This course can help Penetration Testers to gather information about an organization's systems and identify potential vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Penetration Testers can better assess the security of an organization's systems.
Security Engineer
Security Engineer
A Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's security systems. This course can help Security Engineers to gather information about an organization's security needs and develop effective security solutions. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Security Engineers can better protect their organization's assets.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for analyzing and investigating cybersecurity threats and incidents. This course can help Cybersecurity Analysts to gather information about cybersecurity threats and develop effective response strategies. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Cybersecurity Analysts can better protect their organization's assets.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineer
A Network Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's network security systems. This course can help Network Security Engineers to gather information about an organization's network security needs and develop effective security solutions. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Network Security Engineers can better protect their organization's assets.
Computer Forensics Investigator
Computer Forensics Investigator
A Computer Forensics Investigator is responsible for investigating computer crimes and recovering evidence from digital devices. This course can help Computer Forensics Investigators to gather information about computer crimes and develop effective investigation strategies. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Computer Forensics Investigators can better identify and recover evidence.
Security Consultant
Security Consultant
A Security Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture. This course can help Security Consultants to gather information about an organization's security needs and develop effective security solutions. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Security Consultants can better assess the security of an organization's systems.
Security Architect
Security Architect
A Security Architect is responsible for designing and implementing an organization's security architecture. This course can help Security Architects to gather information about an organization's security needs and develop effective security solutions. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Security Architects can better protect their organization's assets.
Ethical Hacker
Ethical Hacker
An Ethical Hacker is responsible for legally and ethically hacking into an organization's computer networks and systems to identify vulnerabilities. This course can help Ethical Hackers to gather information about an organization's systems and identify potential vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Ethical Hackers can better assess the security of an organization's systems.
Information Technology Auditor
Information Technology Auditor
An Information Technology Auditor is responsible for auditing an organization's information technology systems and processes to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. This course can help Information Technology Auditors to gather information about an organization's IT systems and processes and identify potential compliance issues. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Information Technology Auditors can better assess the security of an organization's IT systems.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's computer networks and systems. This course can help Systems Administrators to gather information about an organization's systems and identify potential security vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Systems Administrators can better protect their organization's assets.
Network Administrator
Network Administrator
A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's network infrastructure. This course can help Network Administrators to gather information about an organization's network infrastructure and identify potential security vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Network Administrators can better protect their organization's assets.
Database Administrator
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's databases. This course can help Database Administrators to gather information about an organization's databases and identify potential security vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Database Administrators can better protect their organization's assets.
Security Analyst
Security Analyst
A Security Analyst is responsible for monitoring and analyzing an organization's security systems and data to identify potential security threats. This course can help Security Analysts to gather information about an organization's security systems and data and identify potential security vulnerabilities. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Security Analysts can better protect their organization's assets.
Security Manager
Security Manager
A Security Manager is responsible for overseeing an organization's security program and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. This course can help Security Managers to gather information about an organization's security needs and develop effective security solutions. By understanding the tools and techniques used by attackers, Security Managers can better assess the security of their organization's systems and processes.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pl2cv5/information
Reading list
We've selected nine books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Information Gathering with Kali Linux.
Comprehensive guide to information gathering, exploring various tools and techniques. It's a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced professionals.
Provides a practical guide to penetration testing, covering information gathering techniques. It includes real-world examples and in-depth analysis.
Explores advanced penetration testing techniques, including information gathering. It's a valuable resource for experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills.
Offers a comprehensive overview of network security assessment, including information gathering techniques. It's a valuable resource for understanding the principles and methodologies of network security.
Introduces various open-source tools used in penetration testing, including information gathering. It's a practical guide with step-by-step instructions.
Save
Provides insights into social engineering techniques and how to protect against them. It's an essential read for understanding the human vulnerabilities exploited in information gathering.
Provides comprehensive coverage of Metasploit, including its use in information gathering. It's a valuable resource for understanding the capabilities of this powerful tool.
Covers web application security assessment, including information gathering techniques. It's a valuable resource for understanding the principles and methodologies of web application hacking.
Covers the fundamentals of DNS and BIND, including techniques for DNS analysis. It's a valuable reference for understanding the role of DNS in information gathering.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pl2cv5/information
Share
Similar courses
Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission
OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.
Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.
Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.
Affiliate disclosure
We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.
Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.
Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.
© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser