If you ask around, you'll get a million descriptions of a hacker, some good, some bad.

In broad terms, however, you will find two definitions:

A hacker is...

• Someone that gains unauthorized access to a system to cause havoc or steal.
• Someone that enjoys learning deeply about a system and tries to push its abilities.

As far as I am concerned, the latter is the true definition of a hacker and it's not related to computers only; a hacker is anyone that gains impressive knowledge in any system.

Can anyone become a hacker?

Hackers are curious people eager to learn more about any topic that interests them. Some hackers love trains, others love pocket watches. The subject doesn't matter! Passion and drive are what makes them a hacker in my eyes.

So, the answer is yes: anyone can become a hacker, if they are determined and passionate enough!

However, knowledge is a powerful tool and what people do with their specific knowledge can earn them other titles beyond what I would call a traditional hacker. Terminology is important and my goal is to focus on what makes someone a hacker in a general sense.

How this blog defines hacking

In summary, a hacker is anyone determined to learn all they can about a given topic.

As a matter of fact, in this blog you will not find any IT security information (beyond what you would need to create a safe application). That particular topic is already largely covered by other, more experienced hackers.

A longer definition of a hacker can be found in the guide How To Become A Hacker by Eric Steven Raymond. I share the ideology and agree with the definition of a hacker as presented in this guide and highly suggest reading it to learn more.

The main quote from Raymond's guide that encapsulates how I feel is:

Hackers build things, crackers break them.

Ethical hacking is important

When learning how to become a hacker in any field, doing so in a responsible and ethical way is essential. This blog will only cover how to become an ethical hacker, with absolutely no exceptions.

Hacking can make the world a better place if we use our knowledge to create and invent.

Conclusion

Now, if you want to call yourself a hacker because you want to learn more about programming, then I invite you to keep reading this blog. We will take an in-depth look at all kinds of topics related to programming, coding and more.

Your journey to becoming a real hacker-typer starts now.