Why I'm Embarking on a Cybersecurity Adventure: From Clicks to Protection

I never thought I'd be writing this.

Just a few months ago, “packet sniffing” sounded like something out of a sci-fi novel. Now, I’m knee-deep in terminal commands, trying to understand how systems talk — and how they can be broken.

This blog marks the first step of my journey into cybersecurity, and I’m documenting everything — the wins, the failures, and all the wtf moments in between.


🧠 So, Why Cybersecurity?

Like many, I started out just… curious.

  • Curious about how websites work.

  • Curious why some people seem to “hack” with a few keystrokes.

  • Curious how systems we rely on daily are both brilliant — and vulnerable.

I’ve always loved puzzles and problems. Cybersecurity feels like the ultimate puzzle: a mix of logic, strategy, creativity, and a bit of mischief.

But here’s the thing — I’m not from a tech background. I didn’t grow up coding. I don’t have a computer science degree. I’m just a person who got tired of being curious and decided to do something about it.


🛠️ What I'm Learning First (aka "Where I'm Lost but Making Progress")

I’m learning from scratch. Here's what’s currently on my radar:

  • 🐧 Linux & the command line – because clicking won’t save you in the terminal.

  • 🧠 Networking basics – understanding how data actually moves.

  • 🐍 Python scripting – to start building small tools and automations.

  • 🧪 Labs like OverTheWire and TryHackMe – where I break (safe) things to learn.

  • 🕸️ Web vulnerabilities – like SQL injection, XSS, and learning why input validation matters a lot.

I’m not following a single course. I’m mixing videos, blogs, labs, and free resources. I get stuck often — and that’s where the real learning begins.


📚 Why I'm Blogging

This blog isn’t just for others — it’s for me.

I want to:

  • Track my growth — see how far I’ve come when I feel stuck.

  • Explain things in plain English — because if I can teach it, I understand it.

  • Build a community — of learners, mentors, or just people who like cyber puzzles.

And maybe, just maybe, someone out there thinking, “I don’t know enough to start,” will find this and realize — you start by starting.


🔮 What to Expect

This blog will be messy, honest, and (hopefully) useful. Coming soon:

  • My first impressions of TryHackMe and what I learned

  • Notes on breaking into Bandit (OverTheWire)

  • Python scripts I’m writing (even if they suck at first)

  • Book takeaways and free course reviews

  • Real talk about feeling overwhelmed and pushing through


👋 Let’s Connect

If you're learning too, feel free to follow along. Drop a comment. Suggest tools. Or just say hey. I'm here to learn, share, and maybe even break some stuff (ethically, of course 😅).

Until next time —
Stay curious. Break things. Fix them. Learn.
— Jennifer Mutanen

Let’s Connect:

0
Subscribe to my newsletter

Read articles from Jennifer Mutanen directly inside your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter, and don't miss out.

Written by

Jennifer Mutanen
Jennifer Mutanen