Top Things You Must know about Python for Cybersecurity

The rise in internet connectivity has given rise to the need for cybersecurity. Protecting internet-connected systems such as hardware, software and data from cyber threats can provide a good security posture against malicious attacks designed to access, alter, delete, destroy or extort an organization’s or user’s systems and sensitive data. Python is used heavily in malware analysis, host discovery, sending and decoding packets, accessing servers, port scanning, and network scanning, making it a necessary skill to pursue a career in cybersecurity. 

 Python programming in cybersecurity is one of the world’s most popular and widely-used programming languages due to its high usability and an extensive collection of libraries. Python helps to automate tasks across the cyberattack life cycle for both cyber attackers and defenders. Read this blog to understand how an IT professional can use Python to be more effective and the courses you can do to learn Python for cybersecurity. 

What is Python?

Python is one of the most popular programming languages. It is used to create workflows and web applications, connect database systems, prototype production-ready software development, or handle extensive data and perform complex mathematical applications. Python works on various platforms like Windows, Mac, Linux, etc.   

What is cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the protection of computer systems and data networks from malicious attacks. Every individual that uses the internet needs cybersecurity. Sensitive information like bank and card details, personal information and media are kept digitally; hence, the need for cybersecurity increases daily.  

Why is Python used for Cybersecurity?

Python is a user-friendly language that is simple to learn, design and implement. It enables users to design scripts and programs with high functionality in less time. The syntax used in Python is straightforward, and the availability of many libraries makes coding easier.  

 Python is designed as an open-source programming language, allowing users to improve it according to their liking and comfort. This creates diversity and does not force programmers to comply with stereotypical norms. For example, the support for in-built memory management features in Python helps users not be concerned with partitioning, memory allocation and caching.   

What are the benefits of using Python in Cybersecurity?

Here’s a brief on the benefits of using python for cybersecurity: 

• It is easy to learn and implement 
• Python’s extensive library means cybersecurity tools are already available 
• Debugging is easier with Python 
• It is an open source 
• Python has automatic memory management 

What are the uses of Python in Cybersecurity?

•  Socket Programming  

It is a way of connecting two nodes on a network to communicate with each other. Socket Programming is in-built with Python. One socket(node) listens on a particular port at an IP, while the other socket reaches out to form a connection. For example, a socket must be made to connect a script to Google, and then the IP of Google is resolved. The sendall function is used to send data to a server.   

• Geolocation Extraction  

Python is useful in tracking the geolocation of an IP address. It helps to find out where the attack came from. However, many hackers today can screen their exact location under multiple IP addresses, making it difficult to obtain information. The ‘locationtagger’ library is also used in this application.   

•  Network Port Scanning  

Port scanning is used to find out vulnerable points in a network that can be exploited. Generally, the Nmap tool is used for network port scanning. We can get information on various things after running a port scan, such as open ports, services running on each port and the MAC address of the target host. It is useful for cybersecurity as it can give time and knowledge to the user to work on weak points.  

• Packet Sniffing  

It is a technique to detect and observe packet data flowing across the network. Administrators use packet sniffing tools to monitor and validate network traffic, while hackers use it for abominable purposes. It uses binary form to send and receive data easily understandable by Python. It basically puts a wiretap in a system, which is useful for cybersecurity. To sniff traffic in a local network, NIC must use promiscuous code that may require additional permission.  

• TCP Packet Injection  

After web packets from one device are sniffed to another, packets can be created using a script like ‘packetInjection.py’. Contents can then be manipulated at the network’s edge to prevent the adjusting flow of information. This can help prevent data breaches and be useful in cybersecurity.  

These were some important points to know when talking about Python in cybersecurity. Various cybersecurity threats need to be understood to know what we are being cautious against.  

Malware  

It is software that is designed to bring harm to the computer or network. It is generally activated when users open links of an attachment that leads to the installation of malicious software. Malware can block key network components, install additional harmful software and disrupt individual components and make the system inoperable.  

Phishing  

These attacks use fake communications, usually via email. The intent is to trick the user into providing sensitive information such as bank details or passwords. The most common types of phishing are email phishing, spear-phishing and angler phishing.  

Denial of Service (DoS)  

Denial of Service is when legitimate users are denied access to expected services and resources. Cyberattackers often use the ‘handshake’ process to carry out DoS. Additionally, cyberattackers often use the time when the network is disabled to launch attacks.   

Frequently Asked Questions:  

1. Where can I learn Python?  

Python is an easy-to-learn user-friendly language and can be learned in a short span through various courses available on the internet for free or a fee.  Here are a few courses for you to consider: 

• StationX: The Complete Python for Hacking and Cyber Security Bundle 
• Cybrary: Intro to Python 
• Cybrary: Developing Ethical Hacking Tools with Python 
• CyberTraining 365: Ethical Hacking with Python 
• Udemy: Python 3 For Offensive PenTest: A Complete Practical Course 
• Udemy: Python Network Programming | Network Apps & Hacking Tools 
• Mindsmapped: Python for Ethical Hacking

2. Why is cybersecurity important?  

It is essential to protect our digital data for privacy. If hackers obtain vital or sensitive information, it can cause problems. In addition, we must look out for theft and damage.   

3. How can I protect my data without the knowledge of programming?  

You mustn’t fall prey to spam emails. Do not download software from untrusted websites or connect to random wifi signals.