The HTB Certified Penetration Testing Specialist is a highly hands-on, intermediate-level certification that assesses a candidate’s ability to conduct professional penetration tests against enterprise infrastructures. Developed by Hack The Box—a platform renowned for its realistic Capture The Flag challenges—the CPTS was specifically designed to address the current cybersecurity threat landscape.
The exam is the culmination of a certification offered by Hack The Box (HTB) Academy , a platform famous for its hands-on, gamified approach to learning cybersecurity. The CPTS is a highly hands-on, performance-based certification that assesses a candidate's ability to perform a real-world penetration test against a complex, multi-layered corporate network.
The Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) is rapidly establishing itself as one of the most respected and rigorous practical certifications in cybersecurity. Earning it proves to employers that you do not just know theory—you possess the endurance, technical skill, and professional communication needed to secure modern enterprise networks.
The HTB CPTS certification is widely considered one of the best values in the industry. The costs are significantly lower than many of its competitors: cpts exam
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You must efficiently map the target network. This includes advanced Nmap scanning, web directory brute-forcing, and identifying hidden subdomains or exposed services. 2. Web Application Exploitation
Take the CPTS to learn the skills . Then take the OSCP for the ticket . You will likely pass the OSCP easily after CPTS. The HTB Certified Penetration Testing Specialist is a
The Ultimate Guide to the Hack The Box Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) Exam in 2026
The CPTS exam mimics a real-world commercial penetration testing engagement, dividing the assessment into two distinct, high-pressure phases:
Ensure you are comfortable with web application penetration testing, including OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities. Exam Structure and Experience The HTB CPTS certification is widely considered one
Are you planning to take the for a specific industry, like software development or healthcare , so I can tailor some study tips for you?
As you progress, each module contains concept pages with , culminating in one or more " Skills Assessments "—unguided, practical exercises to test your applied knowledge. The notes and methodology you build during this path are your primary study material for the final exam.
Preparing for the CPTS is a journey that requires dedication, structured learning, and smart practice. Here is a step-by-step guide based on the experiences of successful candidates: