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Want a “hacker” laptop without wasting cash? In this candid breakdown with OTW, we cut through the hype and show you what actually matters for learning pentesting in 2025: prioritising RAM over flashy GPUs, picking VMware (free for personal use) for reliable labs, using refurbs/minis/Raspberry Pi, and planning for where wireless
hacking is going (Bluetooth/BLE/Zigbee) — not just Wi-Fi. We also cover AMD vs Intel vs Apple M-chips/ARM for Linux VMs, when cloud cracking makes sense, and why daily practice beats buying gadgets.
Highlights:
• Best beginner specs (RAM first, SSD nice, storage ≠ speed)
• VMware vs VirtualBox for home labs
• AMD/Intel vs Apple M-chips/ARM for Kali/Parrot VMs
• Alpha adapters & aircrack-ng compatibility; Nordic nRF52 for BLE
• Budget path: used/refurb, mini-PCs, Pi, phone/cloud labs (HTB/THM)
• The 80/20 rule of hacking: skills are greater than gear
If you’re delaying until you can afford a $2 – 3k laptop, don’t. Start now, learn daily, and upgrade later.
// Occupy The Web SOCIAL //
X: https://twitter.com/three_cube
Website: https://hackers-arise.net/
// Occupy The Web Books //
Linux Basics for Hackers 2nd Ed
US: https://amzn.to/3TscpxY
UK: https://amzn.to/45XaF7j
Linux Basics for Hackers:
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UK: https://amzn.to/43PHFev
Getting Started Becoming a Master Hacker
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Network Basics for hackers:
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UK: https://amzn.to/4aInbGK
// OTW Discount //
Use the code BOMBAL to get a 20% discount off anything from OTW's website: https://hackers-arise.net/
// Playlists REFERENCE //
Linux Basics for Hackers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJUVNlmIO6E&list=PLhfrWIlLOoKOs-fjCPHdzD2icF2vORfwK&pp=iAQB
Mr Robot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yiT_WMlosg&list=PLhfrWIlLOoKNYR8uvEXSAzDfKGAPIDB8q&pp=iAQB
Hackers Arise / Occupy the Web Hacks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxkKszPVD1M&list=PLhfrWIlLOoKOf1Ru_TFAnubVuWc87i-7z&pp=iAQB
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// MENU //
0:00 - Coming up
01:21 - Proton VPN sponsored segment
03:16 - Get started and start learning
08:39 - Computer specs: CPU, GPU, RAM & Hard drives
16:46 - Time vs Money
17:58 - Virtual machines
19:15 - Computer specs overview
22:17 - Wi-Fi adaptors for Wi-Fi hacking
24:17 - Bluetooth dongles for Bluetooth hacking
26:57 - "80% Person & 20% Machine"
29:17 - Do you need hacking gadgets?
31:57 - Apple vs Intel vs AMD
35:53 - Learn hacking with a smartphone
37:01 - Learn hacking with a Raspberry Pi
39:32 - Which OS to use
40:58 - The problem with Chromebooks
42:02 - Using Hack The Box/TryHackMe // Conclusion
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Disclaimer: This video is for educational purposes only.
#hacking #laptop #vm