In today’s digital landscape, cybersecurity is an essential part of financial and information protection. Whether you’re an individual exposed to cyberthreats, an IT professional looking to specialise, or a part of an organisation, cybersecurity education is ought to benefit you.
With a surplus of online courses for purchase, it’s overwhelming to choose. We’ve compared six popular cybersecurity learning platforms to help you decide. Courses are assessed based on long-term skill development, suitability for different skill sets, and practical learning features. Disclaimer Affiliate links are throughout the article where we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
1. Hack The Box Academy
🔗 hackthebox
Hack The Box (HTB) started as a platform for penetration testers and hackers to enhance their skills on real-world virtual machines. Their Cyber Security courses and academy offers delivered structured learning paths, where one can choose from beginner to advanced. The program is best for hands-on learning.
Pros:
– Real-world labs with constantly updated machines
– Gamified experience that makes learning enjoyable
– Path-based learning for career roles (Pentester, SOC Analyst, etc.)
– Active community and competitive events (CTFs)
Cons:
– Not for those who prefer passive, lecture-based learning
– Some advanced content requires a paid subscription
Why it stands out:
HTB is well known for its practical learning features, allowing both learners and professionals to enhance their skills through real-world contexts. There are options to choose from a wide range of challenges based on your skill level, with the program’s content being regularly updated. You’ll solve real-world problems in a safe environment, and the skills you gain translate directly into industry readiness.
2. TryHackMe
🔗 tryhackme
TryHackMe offers guided interactive labs with step-by-step instructions, making it incredibly beginner friendly. Their learning paths are also tailored to specific certifications making their cybersecurity courses favourable to employers.
Pros:
– Great for absolute beginners
– Hands-on with detailed instructions
– Gamified progression system
Cons:
– Less challenging for advanced users
– Labs are more scripted and less realistic than HTB
Best for: Beginners who want a supportive and friendly introduction to cybersecurity.
3. Offensive Security (OffSec) Learn Platform
🔗 offsec
OffSec is behind the infamous OSCP certification, considered one of the most respected in the industry. Their cybersecurity courses are tough and prepares learners for real-world penetration testing.
Pros:
– Deep, rigorous content
– Hands-on labs tied to certifications
– Excellent preparation for OSCP and beyond
Cons:
– Steep learning curve
– Not ideal for beginners
– Expensive
– Lacks support
Best for: Experienced learners aiming to break into high-end red teaming or pass OSCP.
4. PortSwigger Web Security Academy
🔗 portswigger
Created by the makers of penetration testing tool Burp Suite, PortSwigger’s Web Security Academy is the best free resource for mastering web application security.
Pros:
– Completely free
– Good quality
– Covers everything from basic cross-site scripting to advanced server-side attacks
– Interactive labs paired with informative technical articles
Cons:
– Limited to web security only
– No structured career paths or certifications
Best for: Web security professionals such as penetration testers who want to sharpen their manual testing skills.
5. INE / eLearnSecurity
🔗 ine
INE (formerly eLearnSecurity) offers deep technical training focused on red teaming, penetration testing, and secure coding. Their certifications (e.g., eJPT, eCPPT, eWPT) are practical and well-respected.
Pros:
– Practical, exam-based certifications
– Hands-on labs in every course
– Content is regularly updated
Cons:
– Interface and platform can feel dated
– Pricing can be steep without a plan
Best for: Learners who want certifications with practical value and long-form courses on technical topics like web app, mobile, and exploit development.
6. SANS Cyber Aces / SANS Institute
🔗 sans
SANS is the industry heavyweight, offering high-end training for professionals in government and corporate positions. Their cybersecurity courses are rigorous and taught by industry leaders.
Pros:
– Top-tier content and instructors
– Respected certifications
– Technical focus
Cons:
– Extremely expensive (often $6,000+ per course)
– Not accessible to self-funded learners
Best For: Corporate security professionals and teams with high training budgets.
Why Hack The Box Wins
While all six platforms have their strengths, Hack the Box stands out for those who want to build real skills that employers care about. It’s not about watching videos or reading endless articles; it’s about considering real-life contexts and learning through experience. Its gamified features make it engaging, and its content is consistently updated to maintain relevancy. This is a highly important feature in a digital landscape where innovation is key. New ideas are constantly emerging, including new methods of digital attack. If you’re serious about mastering cybersecurity, and especially if you’re considering a role in penetration testing or red teaming, Hack The Box Academy is your start.
👉 Start learning now: HackTheBox
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