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Learn Ethical Hacking by actually doing it

Hack real vulnerable machines right in your browser. The Hacking Coach nudges you when you are stuck, but never hands you the flag.

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Mission: log in as admin

portal.acme.example/login
ACME Staff Portal

1<form action="/login" method="post">
2  <input name="user">
3  <input name="pass" type="password">
4  <!-- TODO: remove before launch
5       admin password: letmein42 -->
6  <button>Log in</button>
7</form>

Access granted - flag captured

HDNA{v13w_s0urc3_w1ns}

You just exploited an information leak, one of the most common real-world flaws. Every HackerDNA lab works like this, on real machines.

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Developers often leave more behind than they think. Poke around this page. What can the page source show you that a normal visitor never sees? Open "View source" and read every line, comments included.

From zero to your first flag in minutes

No virtual machine to configure, no tools to install. Everything runs in your browser.

  1. 1

    Pick a mission

    Beginner labs walk you through the basics step by step. Harder machines test everything you know.

    Capture the Flag 101
  2. 2

    Deploy a real target

    One click spins up a dedicated vulnerable machine with its own IP, ready in seconds.

    203.0.113.42 online
  3. 3

    Capture the flag

    Find the flaw, exploit it, submit the flag. Earn XP, climb the leaderboard, and ask the coach when you are stuck.

    Flag accepted +20 XP
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Everything you need to think like an attacker

Join 30,000+ hackers building real-world offensive security skills.

Your AI hacking mentor

Your Hacking Coach reads your lab and nudges you toward the answer - it never just hands you the flag.

Kali in your browser

600+ pentesting tools pre-installed. Zero setup. One click spins up a dedicated machine with a public IP.

Hacking labs for beginners to advanced

From web application penetration testing to cryptography, privilege escalation to forensics - explore diverse offensive security domains.

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Choose your hacking path

Specialize in the cybersecurity domains that match your career goals. Each path offers structured progression from beginner to expert.

Eight ranks, one way up

Earn XP on every flag and climb from Rookie to Legend.

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Compete with the world Live

  1. 1 Malekith 24,358 XP
  2. 2 saraivadigital 20,518 XP
  3. 3 angelhuggy 18,476 XP
  4. 4 darkbb 18,306 XP
  5. 5 3xpl0it3r 18,275 XP

What our community says

HackerDNA is one of the best rising cybersecurity platforms! It offers challenges with fresh ideas and real-world scenarios that make learning both engaging and effective.
Hamza A.OSCP Certified Professional
As a major in Cyber Security and former red teaming trainee @ CyberX, HDNA helps me practice real case scenarios.
AzmiJORedTeam Trainee - CyberX
With its user-friendly interface, comprehensive training, and wide range of challenges, I highly recommend HackerDNA to both beginners and experienced users.
Sanidhya SoniCyber Security Engineer
I'm truly amazed by HackerDNA's innovative approach to ethical hacking and cybersecurity education.
Ahmad JarwanCyberSecurity Student - ASU

The world needs more hackers

Cybersecurity talent is in record demand - this is the field you are stepping into.

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Frequently asked questions

What are hacking labs?

Hacking labs are isolated virtual environments containing intentionally vulnerable systems. You practice real penetration testing techniques to find and exploit security flaws, capture flags (proof of successful exploitation), and earn XP.

Is HackerDNA free?

Yes! HackerDNA offers free access to many labs, courses, and challenges. You can start learning immediately without a credit card. For unlimited access to every lab, upgrade to HackerDNA Pro.

How long does a lab take?

Lab completion time varies by difficulty. Very Easy labs take 15-30 minutes, Easy labs 30-60 minutes, Medium labs 1-2 hours, and Hard labs can take 2-4+ hours. Challenges are quick 10-15 minute exercises.

Do I need prior experience?

No prior experience is required! Start with our beginner-friendly "Start Here" section. We provide courses, AI coaching, and step-by-step solutions to guide you from complete beginner to advanced penetration tester.

What skills will I learn?

You will learn practical cybersecurity skills including web application hacking, network penetration testing, Linux privilege escalation, cryptography, forensics, reverse engineering, and more.

How does the ranking system work?

Every flag you capture earns XP. Your total XP determines your global ranking among all users. Check the How It Works page for detailed scoring information.

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Join 30,000+ professionals advancing their ethical hacking and penetration testing skills. Begin your hands-on training journey today - no credit card required.

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