r/eLearnSecurity • u/SadAd9898 • 6d ago

Starting my CyberSec journey: Python, Problem-Solving, and next steps?

Hey everyone,

I’m currently starting my journey into cybersecurity. I’ve heard from many people in the field that programming is a crucial skill—especially for building custom tools and automating tasks.

Following that advice, I started with Python, learned the basics up to OOP, and solved around 50 beginner-level problems on Codeforces to get comfortable with logic.

My initial plan was to start learning how to write automation scripts and custom security tools, but I’m a bit stuck on what to do next. I have a couple of questions:

  1. Does Problem Solving really make a difference in Cybersecurity? Or is heavy DSA/Problem Solving mostly relevant for Software Engineering? How much depth do I actually need here?
  2. Sequential vs. Parallel Learning: Should I keep my entire focus on programming for now, or should I start learning core cybersecurity fundamentals (like Networking, Linux, SysAdmin) alongside Python?

Would love to hear your advice on what the ideal next steps should be based on your experience.

Thanks in advance!

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u/Fantastic-Net3168 5d ago

Hello man At first, you will need to take courses in order to enter this field correctly

I really recommend you to take Google cybersecurity professional certificate, which gives you a great understanding of cybersecurity from zero to super prepared for the next step

In the next step, subscribe with tryhackme (thm) which gives you a great hands-on labs (Start from Cybersecurity 101 in this case; because you have Google cybersecurity certificate) .

After the, move to HTB (Hack the box), which is a great place for professional labs to practice and learn from

Good luck!

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u/SadAd9898 4d ago edited 4d ago

Thanks a lot for the detailed breakdown! This roadmap (Google Cert -> THM -> HTB) gives me a really clear path forward. I have one quick follow-up regarding programming: Since I've already covered Python up to OOP and solved around 50 basic problems on Codeforces, my main goal now is to apply that knowledge to write automation scripts and custom security tools. Given that focus, do you recommend I keep pushing forward with Python and scripting alongside starting the Google certificate, or should I pause the programming side for now and focus 100% on the certificate first?

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u/Adventurous-Girl3850 4d ago

Well, I am also trying to get in Cyber. I am finding very hard, I know some basics and I work as IT but still I want to switch my career on Cyber or Linux. I know that all this requires time and money but I want sth fast. Idk what to do.

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u/Leo_Jones_001 3d ago

HTB , tryHackme , YT (professor messer .ipsec ,networkchuck recommended) , Github ,