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The {TrapdooЯ} Offensive Security Handbook

Trapdoor Security Logo

Every system has a hidden entrance. Learn to find them.

Welcome

Welcome to The Trapdoor Offensive Security Handbook - your comprehensive guide to offensive security and ethical hacking. This handbook will teach you to think like an attacker, so that you can defend against them.

What You’ll Learn

This handbook covers the complete offensive security methodology, from reconnaissance to post-exploitation. It consists of all the tools, tips and techniques I’ve gathered over 20 years in Information Technology in nearly 10 years of that time focusing on cybersecurity.

🔍 Reconnaissance - Finding targets and gathering intelligence 🎯 Enumeration - Identifying services and vulnerabilities 💥 Exploitation - Gaining access to systems 👑 Privilege Escalation - Elevating your access 🔄 Lateral Movement - Moving through networks 📝 Reporting - Documenting and communicating findings

Who This Is For

This handbook is designed for:

  • Beginners with no prior hacking experience
  • IT professionals looking to transition into security
  • Students preparing for certifications (OSCP, CEH, CPTP etc.)
  • CTF players wanting structured learning or a handy reference
  • Anyone curious about how systems are compromised

Reality Check

The honest truth is that building and hosting software, managing hardware and networks is mentally demanding work, requiring patience and attention to detail. That knowledge comes well before we get into the business of breaking into networks, hardware and software. It is possible to start from absolutely zero IT skills, however my advice is that if this is you, use a guide like this alongside a basics in IT course. You will need to learn some fundamentals. I try my best to strike a balance between explaining concepts and providing an efficient reference for more experienced practioners.

With that all said, there are no real prerequisites required - just curiosity and a willingness to learn is all you will ever need in this pursuit. I’ll help you get started.

How to Use This Handbook

Progressive Learning Path

Start from Part I: Foundations and work your way through sequentially. Each chapter builds on previous knowledge.

Reference Guide

Already experienced? Jump directly to specific services in Part III using the sidebar navigation.

Hands-On Practice

Every chapter includes:

  • 💻 Practical Labs - Hands-on exercises
  • 📹 Video Tutorials - YouTube walkthroughs
  • 🎯 CTF Examples - Real-world scenarios
  • 🕷️ Trapdoor Tips - Quick insights

Companion Resources

  • YouTube Channel: Trapdoor Security - multi-part video series on the basics (coming soon)
  • Practice Labs: Set up your own environment (Chapter 2)
  • Community: [Discord/Forum link]

Legal & Ethical Disclaimer

⚠️ CRITICAL: The techniques in this handbook are for educational purposes only.

You must:

  • ✅ Only test systems you own or have explicit written permission to test
  • ✅ Respect laws and regulations in your jurisdiction
  • ✅ Use these skills for defensive purposes
  • ✅ Follow responsible disclosure practices

Unauthorized access to computer systems is illegal in most countries and can result in criminal prosecution.

By using this handbook, you agree to use this knowledge ethically and legally.

About the Author

James R. Burger is an offensive security professional with 20+ years in IT. He created this handbook to make offensive security accessible to beginners and provide a practical reference for professionals.

Support This Project

If you find this handbook valuable:

Acknowledgments

This handbook is inspired by:

  • The IT security community
  • All the students and professionals I’ve worked with who’ve provided feedback over the years. You know who you are.
  • Creators like ippsec and liveoverflow. Check them out!

AI Use Declaration

In terms of this handbook, I do use Claude AI from time to time, primarily for review, summary and templating purposes.

However, the content itself, blog, guide & video content are all created and reviewed by me. I take full responsibility for the output of any AI tools that I use.

We’re all standing on the shoulders of giants here

I commit to crediting sources where I can, so that you may also benefit from the source material. If you do spot uncredited or unlicensed content I would appreciate you reaching out to let me know so that I can correct the issue.

Ready to find the trapdoor?

👉 Start with Part I: Foundations

Last updated: 24th November 2025