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+---- Thread: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners (/showthread.php?tid=6317901)
Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - RednewCipher - Jan 16, 2026
Hi everyone,
For someone starting in cybersecurity, what would you recommend focusing on first:
networking fundamentals or operating system internals (Linux/Windows)?
I’m trying to build a solid foundation before moving into more advanced topics and would appreciate any guidance.
Thanks.
RE: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - descodificador - Jan 16, 2026
linux, always linux, and OS, arch, kali, parrot, are really good options
RE: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - casperr - Jan 17, 2026
Start with Linux basics like ls, cd, cat.
Learn the fundamentals first, and make sure you understand how networking works.
RE: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - Tyr - Jan 17, 2026
(Jan 16, 2026 08:17 PM)descodificador Wrote: linux, always linux, and OS, arch, kali, parrot, are really good options
He's brand new. As good as it is, I wouldn't recommend Kali to him quite yet. Lol.
RE: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - General Grievous - Jan 17, 2026
(Jan 16, 2026 07:19 PM)RednewCipher Wrote: Hi everyone,
For someone starting in cybersecurity, what would you recommend focusing on first:
networking fundamentals or operating system internals (Linux/Windows)?
I’m trying to build a solid foundation before moving into more advanced topics and would appreciate any guidance.
Thanks.
Start with Linux, dude
RE: Networking vs Operating Systems for Cybersecurity Beginners - DramaKing - Jan 17, 2026
(Jan 16, 2026 07:19 PM)RednewCipher Wrote: Hi everyone,
For someone starting in cybersecurity, what would you recommend focusing on first:
networking fundamentals or operating system internals (Linux/Windows)?
I’m trying to build a solid foundation before moving into more advanced topics and would appreciate any guidance.
Thanks.
Both. Operating systems are probably more fundamental, though.