Learn how to inspect software for bugs using a proven fuzzing tool

MCSI Knowledge Test

WinAFL Fuzzing

AFL is a popular fuzzing tool for coverage-guided fuzzing. In this bootcamp, you will learn the basics of how to fuzz closed-source binaries with WinAFL.

Our target will be a test DLL vulnerable with a stack-overflow vulnerability. You will learn how to build a fuzzing harness, optimize it for maximum performance, and triage the bugs that it discovers.

This bootcamp covers:

  • Introduction to coverage-based fuzzing
  • Fundamental C programming for writing harnesses
  • Installing and configuring WinAFL
  • Developing and optimizing fuzzing harnesses
  • Achieving maximum code coverage
  • Triaging crashes to identify which ones are security bugs
Intermediate Level MCSI Certification Beginner
ic-certificate Bootcamp
cpe-points 14
ic-money $450

Course Overview

AFL fuzzer is a program that looks for bugs in other programs by repeatedly running them with different inputs. It is mainly used to find security vulnerabilities in software. To do this, AFL first creates a large number of random test inputs. It then runs the program with each input and looks for crashes. If the program crashes, AFL assumes that there is a bug and records the input that caused the crash. This process is repeated until AFL has found a large number of different inputs that cause crashes.

This bootcamp will teach you how to use WinAFL to find vulnerabilities in Windows programs.

Writing Fuzzing Harnesses

A fuzzing harness is code that is written specifically to interact with the code or system under test in order to provide input (fuzz) and monitor the results. The main purpose of a fuzzing harness is to find bugs and security vulnerabilities.

Optimizing Fuzzing Harnesses

By optimizing fuzzing harnesses, we can make sure that they are more effective at finding vulnerabilities. Additionally, optimizing fuzzing harnesses can help to reduce the time it takes to find vulnerabilities.

Triaging Bugs

By triaging, you can identify which bugs are the most severe and need to be fixed first, and which can be safely ignored or deferred for later. This can save a lot of time and effort in the long run, and can help to make sure that the most critical software bugs are fixed as quickly as possible.

Training Modules

This course provides you with multiple training modules, each of which is designed to teach you practical skills that can help you solve important cyber problems. Each module offers exercises that will help you build your skills and capabilities.

  • WA-01: Introduction to C programming - 5 exercises
  • WA-02: Harness Development - 5 exercises
  • WA-03: Install and Configure WinAFL - 3 exercises
  • WA-04: Triaging Bugs - 1 exercises
  • WA-05: Harness Optimization - 4 exercises

Certificate of Completion

You will receive a Certificate of Completion when you complete this course.

A Certificate of Completion can be very beneficial, especially when job hunting. It proves that you have completed a course and can be a great way to stand out among other candidates. Even if you do not have much experience, it shows that you are willing to learn and have the basic skills required for the job. In addition, some employers may require a Certificate of Completion for certain positions. Therefore, adding it to your portfolio is always an excellent choice.

Career Outcomes

This workshop teaches you how to write fuzzing harnesses to find vulnerabilities in closed-source software. You can then use this skill to apply for vulnerability research jobs, or sell bugs to Vulnerability Disclosure Programs.

Certification Detail

MCSI Bootcamps are high-quality training exercises created by seasoned professionals to help beginners learn vital cyber security skills faster. Our bootcamps have an established track record of achievement, with a high-rate of graduation success.

If you are seeking practical cyber training that will accelerate your career, our bootcamps are the perfect solution.

Sample Exercises

Fuzz A Single Parameter Instead Of All Parameters

exercise

Use WinAFL To Fuzz The Target DLL And Generate Valid Software Crashes

exercise

Implement Shared Memory Between WinAFL And Your Harness

exercise

Help and Support

Unmatched Mentorship: Accelerate Your Growth

At MCSI, mentorship is built to unlock your full potential. Receive personalized insights from multiple experts, tackle real-world challenges, and get the guidance you need to grow rapidly and excel in your cybersecurity career.

  • Personalized feedback with an average instructor response time of 1 business day
  • Direct access to instructors and peers via a 24/7 Discord server
  • Progress tracking and milestone assessments to keep you on course toward success
  • 95% of MCSI graduates land cybersecurity jobs with expert mentoring and feedback

24/7/365 Discord Community:

If you're looking for additional support during your studies, consider joining our Discord server. Our community of fellow students and instructors is always available to provide help and answer any questions you may have.

Personalized Support:

Your submissions will be reviewed by MCSI instructors, who will provide you with personalized feedback. This input is critical since it can assist you in identifying the areas where you need to enhance your skills. The instructor's feedback will also tell you how well you did an exercise and what you can do to improve your performance even further.

Click here to see an example of personalized feedback.

Our personalized support will take your skills to the next level. Read what a student says about it:

Quick Questions:

If you have any questions or need clarification on any of the exercises, MCSI offers a Quick Questions section on each exercise where you can ask for help. This is a great resource to use if you need assistance. This feature is only available for paid courses.

Prerequisites

Proficiency in the English language

You must have the ability to comfortably read and understand IT documentation written in English. Ideally, they have an IELTS score of 6.5 with no band less than 6 (or equivalent).

Note: You can register for this course without having undertaken an English test.

Training Laptop Requirement

This course can be completed on a standard training laptop. To ensure you have the necessary hardware to complete the course, your machine should meet the following specifications:

  • 64-bit Intel i5/i7 2.0+ GHz processor or equivalent
  • 8GB of RAM
  • Ability to run at least (1) virtual machine using Virtual Box, or an equivalent virtualization software
  • Windows 10 or later, macOS 10 or later, or Linux
  • Local administrator privileges
Do you support older operating systems?

Yes. Many of the exercises can be completed on older OS versions. A few of our students are successfully using older equipment to learn cyber security.

Technical Requirements

  • Knowledge of the Portable Executable (PE) format
  • Knowledge of Windows processes, DLLs, and shared memory sections
  • Ability to install software utilities and use command line tools
  • Ability to write programs in C or C++

Lab Environment

This course teaches you how to setup and configure your own cybersecurity lab.

  • Save thousands by avoiding the costs of pre-built labs
  • Customize your lab with the hardware and software you prefer
  • Gain practical skills in networking, system administration, and technical troubleshooting
  • Build confidence by practicing tasks you'll need to perform in real-world jobs
  • Manage and maintain your own tools—just as employers expect in the workplace

Why is the MCSI Method™ World Class?

why MCSI

Comprehensive, Effective, Exceeds Standards

MCSI offers training suitable for beginners and experts alike. We teach skills immediately applicable in the field. You will be confident in your ability to solve real-world problems. The MCSI platform will automatically create a portfolio to help you apply for jobs.

why MCSI

Exercises reviewed by experts

MCSI instructors are seasoned industry experts. We provide you with concise, relevant, and positive feedback for all your exercises, even if you don't succeed on the first try. Our feedback is specific to your work and only relevant to the exercise you submitted. You have the option to resubmit until you pass.

why MCSI

Supported by Cognitive Science

The MCSI Method is supported by cognitive science. We break down complex topics into small tasks related to the end goal. This prevents cognitive overload. Our essential tools are rubrics and feedback. Everything is practical. We simulate the ways of working professionals employ in the field.

Enrollment and Fees

MCSI Bootcamps

Unlock all the MCSI bootcamps with a single purchase:

Terms and Conditions

  • No discounts
  • No refunds
  • No transfers
  • No renewal fees
  • No hidden fees

How does MCSI Compare?

MCSI is 95% more cost-effective with 20x more practical training hours:

MCSI Bootcamps Traditional Vendors Conference Workshop University Bootcamps Cyber Ranges
Cost $450 $5,000+ $4,000+ $5,000+ $3,000+
Hours of training 300+ hours 40-48 16-40 40 40-100
Online Yes Some No No Yes
Practical 100% 50% 50% 50% 100%
Maintenance Level High Low Low Low Low
Free Trial Yes No No No No
Access to instructors Yes Some Yes Yes Some

Enroll now with lifetime access for $450

Bloom's Taxonomy

Employers seek problem-solvers who deliver real value. With MCSI, you'll develop practical, in-demand skills applicable across diverse cyber roles.

Information Security Professionals made a median salary of $103,590 in 2020. Cybersecurity roles are regularly ranked #1 jobs in the United States.

If you are looking to increase your earning potential, this course will put you on track for jobs that offer a salary of $75,000 to $150,000 per year. Why spend tens of thousands of dollars on degrees or theoretical certifications when you can develop in-demand practical skills in a shorter amount of time?

Enroll now with lifetime access for $450

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the MCSI Method™?

Common Questions

  • Will I receive a certificate?
    • Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Completion when you complete the bootcamp.
  • Are solutions included in the bootcamps?
    • Yes, for some exercises. Our method of teaching cyber security consists of challenging you with real-world problem statements that you're expected to research and solve by doing your own research. This is how you'll be expected to work in the field. When you fail an exercise, we provide you with constructive feedback to improve and try again.
  • Do the videos provides the answers to exercises?
    • For exercises listed in bootcamps, yes, the videos show the answers.
  • Do I need to purchase cybersecurity tools or subscriptions?
    • No. Only free or trial versions are used in our exercises. You do not require making any purchases.

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