What is OSCP ?

The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is one of the most respected penetration testing certifications in the cybersecurity industry.
Unlike other certifications, OSCP doesn’t test your memory with MCQs - it tests your real hacking skills in a practical 24-hour exam.
It proves that you can:
Find vulnerabilities
Exploit them to gain system access
Escalate privileges to full control
Write a professional pentesting report

OSCP Exam Format​

Duration: 24 hours straight
Environment: Multiple vulnerable machines (Windows & Linux)
Task: Exploit → Gain root/system access → Collect proof (flags)
Final Step: Submit a professional penetration testing report
No theory, no multiple-choice – only practical hacking under pressure.

What You Learn in OSCP (via PWK - Penetration Testing with Kali Linux course):​

1. Information Gathering & Scanning
2. Vulnerability Assessment & Exploitation
3. Web Exploits (SQLi, RCE, LFI/RFI, etc.)
4. Buffer Overflow Exploitation
5. Privilege Escalation (Linux & Windows)
6. Active Directory Attacks
7. Pivoting & Tunneling (moving between networks)
8. Professional Penetration Test Reporting

Skills & Tools Needed​

Kali Linux expertise
Tools: Nmap, Netcat, Burp Suite, Metasploit, Hydra, John the Ripper, etc.
Scripting knowledge: Python, Bash, PowerShell basics
Critical thinking + Patience (a lot of it )

Preparation Tips​

1. Practice Platforms:
TryHackMe (Beginner → Intermediate)
HackTheBox (OSCP-like advanced labs)
2. Focus on Privilege Escalation
Linux & Windows PrivEsc practice labs
3. Time Management
24 hours is long - plan rest & focus
4. Documentation
Take notes & screenshots → helps in final report

Cost of OSCP​

$1,599 - $2,499 (depending on lab duration: 30, 60, or 90 days)
Includes course material, lab access, and one exam attempt

Why OSCP is Valuable​

Highly recognized by companies worldwide
Boosts your profile for Pentester, Red Team, SOC Analyst roles
Helps bug bounty hunters understand real exploitation chains
Builds confidence to hack under real-world conditions

Motto: “Try Harder” ​

This is more than just a slogan - it’s a mindset. OSCP teaches you persistence, creativity, and problem-solving like no other certification.