What is Hacking…and what Knowledge is needed to be a Hacker

Hacking is the act of penetrating a closed computer system for the knowledge and information that is contained within. Through the study of technology and computers a hacker can open his mind and expand his knowledge. Hacking is intended to free information and expand minds, not to be destructive nor for material gain. Although there is always some debate because of how the term hacker has been both glorified and
undermined by common media, but most will say that those who destroy data, hack for money or with illegal intent should be referred to as crackers, not hackers.
Everyone has to start somewhere, and since hacking will continue to grow and transform as technology progresses, there will always be newcomers. Due to the increased media publicity about hackers, the underground, and the Internet, the flood of beginners has increased incredibly. But, there is no simple answer to this question. The best way to start, and continue, building your knowledge base is to read up on materi...