Cpts Exam [work]
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A step-by-step narrative (from "Step 0") of how the network was compromised.
Unlike traditional multiple-choice exams that test theoretical knowledge, the CPTS exam simulates a real-world corporate penetration test. You are given a network of machines, a scope of engagement, and a set of objectives. Your job is to hack into the systems, find vulnerabilities, exploit them, pivot through the network, and deliver a professional penetration testing report.
To be eligible for the CPTS exam, candidates must:
With a 10-day timeline, disorganization is your worst enemy. Use tools like Obsidian, CherryTree, or Notion to organize your notes. Structure your notes by IP address, hostname, user credentials found, and active sessions. Document every command you run and save the output; you will need these screenshots and logs for your final report. 3. Build Custom Cheat Sheets cpts exam
Realistic enterprise networks, heavy Active Directory, deep pivoting
: While not strictly required, practical application is key. Many candidates recommend HTB Pro Labs (like Dante, Zephyr) or a curated list of OSCP-style machines to hone your skills in pivoting, privilege escalation, and service enumeration.
This is the official and most recommended training path. It is comprehensive and covers all the material required for the exam.
“CPTS is absolutely THE beginner/intermediate pentesting cert. The attacks aren't overly difficult, but the breadth of the topics covered isn't anything close to what OSCP covered.” Reddit · r/hackthebox · 10 months ago ✅ A step-by-step narrative (from "Step 0") of
You must earn at least 85 out of 100 points (minimum 12 flags) and submit a professional-grade report.
Standard pivoting commands using Chisel or dynamic SSH port forwarding.
The exam mimics real-world penetration tests, including complex network segmentation, rather than just solving isolated machines.
HTB gives you a reporting template. Use it early. Take screenshots during the exam with timestamps. Write findings as you go. Waiting until the end is painful. Your job is to hack into the systems,
Identifying and exploiting complex web flaws, including SQL Injections (SQLi), Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), File Inclusion, Remote Code Execution (RCE), and API vulnerabilities.
For years, the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) was the undisputed gold standard for entry-to-mid-level penetration testers. However, the CPTS has quickly disrupted this benchmark. OffSec OSCP
The key characteristics of the exam are as follows:
