Pentesting Active Directory and Windows-based Infrastructure: A comprehensive practical guide to penetration testing Microsoft infrastructure

I had the PDF version and it helped me so much that I'm ordering a hard copy.

Great read and top-notch info!I think "Pentesting Active Directory: Windows-based Infrastructure" is an outstanding resource for cybersecurity professionals looking to deepen their knowledge of Active Directory (AD) security testing. This book is a goldmine for anyone involved in penetration testing, red teaming, or network defense, especially in environments heavily reliant on Windows infrastructure.The authors have done an exceptional job of breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible sections, making it accessible even for those who may not be seasoned experts in Active Directory. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of AD structure to advanced exploitation techniques, ensuring that readers understand the subject matter comprehensively.One of the highlights of this book is its practical approach. It doesn't just bombard you with theory; it provides real-world examples, step-by-step guides, and hands-on labs that allow readers to apply what they've learned in a controlled environment. This practical focus makes it an invaluable tool for beginners and experienced professionals looking to sharpen their skills.Additionally, the book's organization is commendable. The chapters are well-structured, progressing logically from foundational knowledge to more advanced topics. Including detailed diagrams and screenshots further enhances the learning experience, making it easier to visualize complex attack scenarios and defenses.What sets this book apart from others in the field is its focus on modern threats and up-to-date techniques and not just generalities. The authors address the latest security challenges organizations face, ensuring readers know how to defend against current and emerging threats.Overall, I think this is a must-have for anyone serious about mastering AD security. Whether you're preparing for a pen testing engagement, strengthening your organization's defenses, or expanding your knowledge, this book will serve as an indispensable guide.Highly recommended!

"Pentesting Active Directory and Windows-based Infrastructure" provides a deep understanding of penetration testing within Microsoft environments. I will start by saying that knowing virtualization and Windows Active Directory is recommended to get the most out of this book. It begins with the deployment of a lab environment where each technique can be safely replicated, which is great because you get to try things out without the fear of breaking anything important. It progresses through the attack kill chain, offering hands-on exercises that reinforce the theoretical knowledge presented.We are shown lateral movement techniques, privilege escalation, and achieving persistence at the domain level. Isakov also provides operational security (OpSec) methods for each technique. This is very important as it allows you to protect yourself while performing the attacks without drawing undue attention.Although this book is mainly for someone with some level of experience, but if you are just starting out, this book is like a cybersecurity coach. It explains things thoroughly, and the exercises build your skills step by step. It's not just about attacking; it's about defending, too. You do learn how to patch up weaknesses in the network to prevent potential intruders.

Denis Isakov's "Pentesting Active Directory and Windows-based Infrastructure" serves as an indispensable handbook for cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts seeking to delve deep into the intricate realm of Windows-based infrastructure security. This book stands out for its focused exploration of lab environment setup and sophisticated evasion and penetration testing techniques specifically targeting Windows environments.From the outset, Isakov's approach is commendable. The book seamlessly introduces readers to the intricacies of setting up lab environments, laying a strong foundation for understanding and implementing effective penetration testing on Windows Active Directory. What makes this guide invaluable is its applicability not only to beginners but also as a comprehensive reference for seasoned professionals navigating the complexities of Windows-based infrastructure security.One of the book's notable strengths is its ability to make complex concepts accessible to a wide audience. Isakov's lucid explanations ensure that even intricate technical details are conveyed in an easy-to-understand manner. The clarity with which he articulates sophisticated evasion and pentesting techniques makes this book a go-to resource for anyone venturing into or honing their skills in this domain.The practicality of this guide cannot be overstated. Isakov skillfully intertwines real-world scenarios and practical examples throughout the book, offering hands-on experience and insights into tackling security challenges in Windows environments. This hands-on approach fosters a deeper understanding of the tools, methodologies, and tactics used in actual penetration testing scenarios.Having delved into "Pentesting Active Directory and Windows-based Infrastructure," I am convinced of its immense value in augmenting skills and techniques essential for securing Windows infrastructures. Whether you're a novice seeking to understand Windows penetration testing or an experienced professional looking to enhance your skill set, this book is an invaluable asset.In conclusion, Denis Isakov's "Pentesting Active Directory and Windows-based Infrastructure" is an essential guide that combines theory with practical application, making it a must-read for cybersecurity professionals aiming to elevate their knowledge and expertise in securing Windows-based networks.

This book has the best content when it comes to an active directory penetration testing, I never regretted buying this book, the hands-on labs are top notch and I will recommend it for anyone who want to learn more about active directory pentesting and it's environment.