CPTS
Overview
The Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) is an advanced-level certification offered by Hack The Box (HTB) Academy. This certification validates practical penetration testing skills through challenging, real-world scenarios that simulate enterprise environments.
Certification Details
Issuing Organization: Hack The Box Academy
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Exam Format: Five days practical assessment + Five days for report writing
Exam Environment: Enterprise network simulation with multiple hosts and attack paths
Prerequisites: Strong understanding of networking, web applications, Active Directory, and penetration testing methodologies
Validity: Lifetime certification
Skills Validated
The CPTS certification validates the following key skills:
Advanced Network Penetration Testing
Network pivoting and lateral movement techniques
Post-exploitation strategies in enterprise environments
Evasion techniques and persistence mechanisms
Web Application Security
Advanced injection attacks (SQL, NoSQL, Command)
Authentication bypass methodologies
Session manipulation and authorization attacks
Active Directory Exploitation
Domain enumeration techniques
Kerberos attacks (Kerberoasting, AS-REP Roasting)
Trust relationship abuse
Privilege escalation within Windows domains
Professional Reporting
Creating well-structured penetration test reports
Documenting findings and attack paths
Providing actionable remediation advice
Preparation Resources
Official Resources
HTB Pro Labs (Offshore, Dante, APTLabs, etc.)
HTB Enterprise Labs
Additional Recommended Resources
Active Directory attack labs on HackTheBox
Web application challenges focused on enterprise scenarios
Advanced pivoting and post-exploitation practice
Exam Tips
Time Management: Create a structured approach to tackle the network efficiently
Documentation: Take detailed notes throughout the assessment (commands, findings, etc.)
Methodology: Follow a systematic methodology rather than randomly attacking machines
Report Writing: Allocate sufficient time for creating a comprehensive report
Lab Environment: Practice with HTB Pro Labs to simulate similar enterprise environments
Career Benefits
The CPTS certification offers several career advantages:
Validates advanced technical skills beyond entry-level certifications
Demonstrates ability to perform complex penetration tests in enterprise environments
Shows proficiency in current attack methodologies and techniques
Increases credibility when applying for senior penetration testing positions
Serves as excellent preparation for other advanced certifications like OSCP
My Certification Journey
This section will be updated after completing the certification.
Study Plan
Complete relevant HTB Academy modules
Practice with recommended Pro Labs and Ippsec list
Focus on improving Active Directory attack skills
Enhance web application testing methodology
Develop efficient documentation process
Exam Experience
Pending certification
Last updated