The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification is a highly respected credential in the cybersecurity industry. It is known for its rigorous exam, challenging candidates to demonstrate their penetration testing skills. Starting November 1, 2024, Offensive Security (OffSec) is introducing significant changes to the OSCP certification process that all aspiring candidates should know.
This blog post will discuss these changes, their impact, and strategies for adapting to the new requirements.
Critical Changes to the OSCP Certification in 2024
Offensive Security has announced several significant changes to the OSCP exam format and content, effective November 1, 2024. These changes aim to keep the certification aligned with the evolving cybersecurity landscape and ensure it remains a challenging and relevant benchmark for professionals in the field. Here are the critical updates:
1. Removal of Bonus Points:
- One of the most notable changes is removing bonus points previously awarded for completing the PWK (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux) labs and exercises. Until now, candidates could earn up to 10 extra points by submitting their lab report and exercises alongside the exam report. This change means that candidates must focus solely on achieving 70 points out of 100 during the 24-hour exam to pass.
2. Adjustments to Exam Machines and Scoring:
- The exam will now have a different distribution of machines, which may include more Active Directory (AD) environments or other complex setups to better reflect real-world scenarios. The scoring system has been adjusted to prioritize comprehensive exploitation skills, post-exploitation techniques, and proper documentation.
3. Updated Courseware and Learning Path:
- Offensive Security is also updating the PWK courseware to reflect the exam format changes. This will include new learning paths, additional focus on advanced techniques, and potential updates in the lab environments to prepare candidates for the modified exam format.
4. Removal of Certain Vulnerability Types:
- Specific outdated or less relevant vulnerability types are removed from the exam scope. This change focuses on modern, realistic vulnerabilities commonly found in today’s environments, such as Active Directory misconfigurations and web application vulnerabilities.
Impact on OSCP Candidates
These changes to the OSCP exam will significantly impact how candidates approach their preparation. Removing bonus points alone will make it more challenging for some candidates, as they will no longer have a buffer to fall back on. The new exam format and emphasis on realistic environments mean that candidates must be even more proficient in their skills.
Here’s what the changes mean for different types of candidates:
- Beginners in Cybersecurity: Removing bonus points might seem daunting for those new to penetration testing. It will require more hands-on practice in the labs to ensure they are well-prepared for the 24-hour exam environment.
- Experienced Professionals: Those who have been in the field for a while but are looking to get certified must adjust their preparation strategy to account for the new machine distribution and scoring system. Experience in Active Directory and post-exploitation techniques will become increasingly valuable.
- Re-takers: Candidates who have taken the exam before but did not pass will need to familiarize themselves with the new exam format and content updates to maximize their chances of success.
How to Adapt to the New OSCP Certification Changes
With these changes coming into effect, here are some strategies to help you adapt and prepare more effectively:
1. Focus on Hands-On Practice:
- The OSCP has always been about “Try Harder,” with the removal of bonus points, hands-on practice becomes even more critical. Utilize the updated PWK labs extensively, practice on community labs like Hack The Box or Proving Grounds, and ensure you are comfortable with various exploitation techniques.
2. Strengthen Active Directory Skills:
- Given the increased emphasis on realistic environments, including Active Directory setups, candidates should ensure proficiency in AD enumeration, exploitation, and post-exploitation techniques. Consider supplementing your learning with resources specifically focused on Active Directory security.
3. Stay Updated with New Courseware:
- Offensive Security will release updated PWK courseware that aligns with the new exam format. Make sure to use these materials, as they are designed to effectively prepare you for the new challenges. Go through all the labs, exercises, and additional resources provided by OffSec.
4. Improve Your Documentation Skills:
- Proper documentation of the exploitation process is now more critical than ever. Ensure that your notes are thorough and that you can replicate the steps taken to achieve an exploit. Practice writing detailed, clear, concise reports, as this is a crucial part of the OSCP exam.
5. Leverage Community Resources and Study Groups:
- Joining study groups or forums like the OSCP subreddit, Discord channels, or other cybersecurity communities can provide valuable support and insights. Sharing knowledge with peers and discussing different approaches can help broaden your understanding and provide moral support.
Final Thoughts
The OSCP certification remains one of the most sought-after credentials in cybersecurity. While the changes coming in November 2024 may seem challenging, they also allow candidates to hone their skills and prove their capabilities in a more realistic and demanding environment. By focusing on hands-on practice, staying updated with new courseware, and leveraging community resources, you can adapt to these changes and succeed in earning your OSCP certification.
Prepare thoroughly, embrace the challenge, and remember that persistence and dedication are the keys to success. Good luck on your OSCP journey!
If you’re ready to tackle the new OSCP certification changes, visit Lufsec.com to explore our comprehensive courses on penetration testing and ethical hacking, designed to help you excel in your OSCP journey. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more insights, tips, and updates on cybersecurity. You can also check out our next in-person course agenda in Phoenix at https://lufsec.com/events. Join us to sharpen your skills and stay ahead in the cybersecurity field!