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TryHackMe: CTF Writeups & Walkthrough Roadmap

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Getting Started with TryHackMe: A Beginner’s Cybersecurity Roadmap

Introduction

Welcome to the exciting world of cybersecurity! In today’s digital age, hands-on skills are essential to thrive in this ever-evolving field. TryHackMe is one of the most popular online platforms offering interactive, real-world labs designed to help learners build practical cybersecurity experience.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow your skills, this guide will walk you through a structured path on TryHackMe helping you master the basics and build confidence step by step.

Roadmap Overview

The TryHackMe learning path is designed to guide beginners through foundational topics and gradually introduce advanced techniques. It’s divided into several key sections, each focused on specific skills and areas of cybersecurity.

Let’s break down each section:

1. Intro Rooms

This is where your TryHackMe journey begins. These rooms help you:

Understand how the platform works
Set up your environment (OpenVPN or AttackBox)
Navigate and start your first labs

Perfect for first-timers who want a smooth start.

2. Linux & Windows Fundamentals

These two core segments build your knowledge of the most common operating systems used in cybersecurity:

Learn essential Linux & Windows commands
Understand file systems, users, permissions, and scripts
Build confidence navigating real-world environments

3. Basics Rooms

This section introduces you to the fundamental ideas in cybersecurity:

Penetration testing basics
Hacker methodologies
Security concepts and physical security

Hands-on challenges help develop your analytical thinking and practical skills.

4. Recon (Reconnaissance)

Learn the art of gathering information about your targets:

Passive & active reconnaissance
Content discovery and directory brute-forcing
Open-source intelligence (OSINT) techniques

Essential for mapping out systems and finding attack vectors.

5. Scripting

Automate tasks and build custom tools using:

Python
JavaScript
Bash

This section lays the groundwork for writing your own exploits and enhancing productivity as a hacker.

6. Networking

Networking is the backbone of cybersecurity. Learn about:

IP addressing, subnets, protocols (TCP/UDP)
LAN and WAN environments
HTTP, DNS, and network scanning techniques

Gain the skills to spot and exploit network vulnerabilities.

7. Tooling

Master the tools used by professionals:

Nmap – Port scanning
Metasploit – Exploitation framework
Wireshark – Traffic analysis
Burp Suite – Web vulnerability scanning

Get comfortable using industry-standard tools for assessments and pentests.

8. Crypto & Hashes

Understand the principles behind encryption and data protection:

Cryptographic algorithms
Cracking password hashes
Solving crypto challenges

Strengthen your knowledge of secure communication and integrity.

9. Steganography

Learn how to uncover hidden data inside media files:

Analyze images, audio, and other file types
Extract hidden messages and metadata
Solve stego-based CTF challenges

Perfect for digital forensics enthusiasts!

10. Web Security

Dive into the world of web applications:

OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities
Exploiting SQL injection, XSS, CSRF
Tools like SQLMap, Burp Suite, and more

Get hands-on with real-world web hacking labs.

Roadmap To Follow

Intro Rooms

Linux Fundamentals

Windows Fundamentals

Basics Rooms

Recon

Scripting

Networking

Tooling

Crypto & Hashes

Steganography

Web

Android

TryHackMe | Android Hacking 101

Forensics

Wi-Fi Hacking

TryHackMe | Wifi Hacking 101

Reverse Engineering

Malware Analysis

PrivEsc

Windows

Active Directory

PCAP Analysis

BufferOverflow

Easy CTF

Medium CTF

Hard CTF

Misc

Special Events

Personal Journey & Insights

As someone who’s used TryHackMe for over 8 years, I’ve witnessed the platform’s growth and its incredible impact on aspiring cybersecurity professionals.

From tackling my first rooms to reaching the Top 1% of global users, TryHackMe has been the cornerstone of my learning journey. The hands-on challenges helped bridge the gap between theory and practice — something no textbook can fully offer.

One of the best things about TryHackMe is the community. Whether it’s forums, Discord servers, or discussion sections within rooms, there’s always someone willing to help, collaborate, or share insights. I’ve learned just as much from others as I have from the rooms themselves.

Reaching the top ranks wasn’t easy – it took consistency, curiosity, and a lot of trial and error. But every challenge helped me think critically, solve problems faster, and grow stronger in my technical abilities.

Conclusion

The TryHackMe roadmap is one of the best ways to enter the cybersecurity field. With a beginner-friendly structure, practical challenges, and a supportive community, it gives you everything you need to start building real-world skills.

My advice for beginners:

Be consistent
Don’t be afraid to fail
Ask questions, stay curious, and engage with others
Practice what you learn

Whether you’re brand new or sharpening your skills, TryHackMe has something valuable for everyone. Dive in, stay focused, and enjoy the journey into the world of cybersecurity.

Happy hacking!
– Mehmood Ali

3 Comments

Abdul Rafay says:

July 23, 2025 at 2:46 am

Best roadmap to become a best hacker.

Abdul Rafay says:

July 23, 2025 at 2:46 am

Best roadmap to become a best hacker.

Abdul Rafay says:

July 23, 2025 at 2:47 am

Best roadmap to become a best hacker.
Boss keep it up.
Happy Hacking