Introduction
Today, cybersecurity is important for everyone – not just IT professionals. Every day, hackers launch attacks like phishing, ransomware, and identity theft. If you want to learn how to protect yourself or even build a career in cybersecurity, then TryHackMe is one of the best platforms to start with.
In this blog, we will explain what TryHackMe is, how it works, why it is useful, and how you can start learning cybersecurity step by step.
What is TryHackMe?
TryHackMe (THM) is an online platform that teaches you cybersecurity and ethical hacking through practical labs and challenges.
- It is made for beginners as well as advanced learners.
- You learn by doing hands-on hacking in a safe environment.
- Topics are divided into “rooms” and “pathways.”
- You practice real-world hacking, but in a legal and safe way.
👉 Simply put: TryHackMe is a virtual playground for hacking practice.
Why is TryHackMe Special?
- Beginner Friendly – No prior knowledge needed.
- Fun & Gamified – Earn points, badges, and ranks as you learn.
- Practical Labs – You hack real machines, not just read theory.
- Step-by-Step Learning – From basics to advanced topics.
- Affordable – Both Free and Paid options available.
How to Start with TryHackMe? (Step by Step)
1. Create an Account
- Go to tryhackme.com
- Sign up with your email and password.
2. Start Your First Room
- Beginners should try the “Pre-Security” or “Complete Beginner” rooms.
- These will teach you networking, Linux, and cybersecurity basics.
3. Connect to Labs
- You can practice on TryHackMe using:
- VPN (OpenVPN) – connect from your system
- AttackBox – a hacking machine inside your browser (no setup needed)
4. Solve Challenges
- Each room gives you tasks like: “Find the hidden flag in this website.”
- You practice hacking and submit answers to move forward.
5. Track Your Progress
- You earn XP, ranks, and badges.
- The more you practice, the more your skills improve.
Popular Learning Paths on TryHackMe
- Pre-Security – For complete beginners.
- Complete Beginner – Linux, Networking, Security basics.
- Jr. Penetration Tester – Web hacking, privilege escalation, exploitation.
- Red Teaming – Learn offensive/attacking techniques.
- Blue Teaming – Learn defensive cybersecurity (SOC, incident response).
- CTF Challenges – Fun competitions for practice.
Free vs Paid Version
- Free Plan:
- Limited rooms
- Basic learning content
- Paid Plan (Premium):
- Unlimited rooms & challenges
- Guided learning paths
- New content every month
- Costs around the price of a coffee per month
💡 Tip: Start with free version. Upgrade to premium if you are serious about cybersecurity.
Skills You Can Learn on TryHackMe
- Linux & Windows basics
- Computer networking
- Web application hacking (SQL Injection, XSS, etc.)
- Privilege escalation (getting admin/root access)
- Active Directory attacks
- Digital Forensics & Incident Response
- Malware analysis
- Red Team vs Blue Team exercises
TryHackMe vs HackTheBox
| Feature | TryHackMe ✅ | HackTheBox 🔥 |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner Friendly | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Harder |
| Gamification | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Limited |
| Step-by-Step Guide | ✔️ Yes | ❌ Self-study |
| Labs Access | ✔️ Browser + VPN | ✔️ VPN only |
| Pricing | ✔️ Cheaper | ❌ Expensive |
👉 Conclusion: Start with TryHackMe if you are a beginner. Move to HackTheBox when you are advanced.
How TryHackMe Helps Your Career
- You can add TryHackMe labs and achievements on your Resume or LinkedIn.
- Helps you prepare for cybersecurity jobs like Penetration Tester, SOC Analyst, Security Researcher.
- Builds your real-world practical skills.
- Makes you ready for Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions.
Conclusion
TryHackMe is one of the best platforms to learn cybersecurity in a fun, easy, and practical way. It is safe, beginner-friendly, and prepares you for real-world challenges.
👉 If you are serious about learning ethical hacking and cybersecurity, create your free account today and start learning.
Remember:
“Learn to Hack, Hack to Secure.” 🔐