IoT and Hardware Hacking Lab Tools

IoT and hardware hacking combines electronics, embedded systems, and cybersecurity. Whether you are testing the security of a smart device, reverse engineering firmware, or hunting for vulnerabilities in the firmware of an IoT device, the right tools make all the difference to do this in an efficient and effective way. In this article, we’ll explore the most common and essentials tools used for IoT and hardware hacking, ranging from essentials hand tools to more advanced equipment, such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, programmers and debuggers. We also look into a few hacking tools that you can build yourself, such as a Raspberry Pi Pico development board with JTAGenum to identify JTAG interfaces and the Marauder wireless hacking tool. We’ll break down how each tool fits into the workflow and what you can expect in terms of price.

Hand and opening tools

At the very start of any hardware hacking project, you often need to open the device. This calls for precision hand tools: Torx, Phillips, tri-wing, pentalobe, and other specialized screwdrivers in a full kit are essential. Plastic spudgers, guitar picks, and suction cups help pry apart delicate plastic cases without damaging them. Tweezers and fine-tip pliers are invaluable for handling tiny components or connectors.

Having a good set of hand tools speeds up disassembly and reduces the risk of damaging the target hardware, which is especially important if you need to reassemble the device afterward for further testing.

Soldering equipment

Many IoT hacking tasks involve interfacing directly with the hardware: connecting to debug headers, replacing components, or adding custom wiring. A good soldering iron to start with, such as a Hakko, Weller or TS100, with fine tips is essential. Solder wick, flux, and leaded solder help ensure clean and precise joints.

For delicate or high-density boards, a hot air rework station can make it easier to reflow or remove surface-mount components. Combining this with magnification tools, like a digital microscope, helps you work accurately on tiny solder pads.

Measurement tools: Digital Multimeter (DMM)

A digital multimeter (DMM) is a hacker’s best friend when diagnosing power rails, checking voltage levels on PCB’s and components, or testing for continuity on signal lines. Continuity testing helps trace connections on a PCB, while voltage measurements ensure you don’t accidentally overvolt delicate components (such as flash memory chips). Reliable DMM models (like those from Brymen pictured below) range from €50 to €300, while budget models can be found for €20 to €50.

Signal analysis: Logic Analyzer and Oscilloscope

Once you move into the realm of signal analysis, a logic analyzer, such as the Saleae Logic series, becomes indispensable. It allows you to capture and decode digital communications, helping you reverse engineer protocols or debug firmware behaviour. A logic analyzer is generally not an inexpensive device. The Saleae Logic 8 Logic analyzer shown in the picture costs around €550 and the pro model almost twice that amount. However, inexpensive alternatives, such as the LHT00SU1 logic analyzer, are available for as little as €5 and can be used for slow communication protocols, like UART.

For analyzing analog signals or fast digital transitions, an oscilloscope, such as an entry-level model like the Rigol DS1054Z, allows you to visualize voltage over time. This makes it particularly useful for troubleshooting power issues, clock signals, or custom signal lines.

Programmers and Debuggers

When it comes to extracting or flashing firmware, several affordable yet powerful programmers stand out. The CH341A is widely used for reading SPI flash chips. The Xgecu T48 supports a wide range of chip packages and offers advanced programming features.

For serial communications, the CH340 USB-to-UART converter lets you connect to device UART debug consoles, which often leak valuable system information. Meanwhile, the Bus Pirate v5 is a versatile multi-protocol interface tool for exploring and interacting with buses like SPI, I2C, and UART.

Connecting tools: Probe kits, Lighting and Magnification

To make reliable, repeatable connections to test points or IC pins, precision probes are crucial. Sensepeek PCBite kits with magnetic base and spring-loaded probes let you probe signals hands-free and easily connect to all your measuring equipment, such as a logic analyzer, oscilloscope, digital multimeter and programmer tools. Although these probes are indispensable in many situations, the Sensepeek tools from Sweden do come with a hefty price tag of around €100 to €250 depending on the set you choose. Hook clips, grabbers, and microprobes are good alternatives that also let you connect measurement equipment without damaging the board or components.

To connect probes and measuring equipment, you need to be able to see what you’re connecting to. Good lighting in the form of a bright, adjustable desk lamp is essential to illuminate small components and PCBs. Magnification tools like a loop, smartphone camera or a digital microscope help to clearly inspect solder joints, test pads, PCB traces, chip markings and small components. Investing in these tools greatly improves accuracy and the results of your testing efforts.

The image above was captured at 150x magnification using a digital microscope, can you spot why the test pads on this board aren’t working?

Development boards: ESP32, Raspberry Pi Pico, Heltec

Development boards are not just for prototyping your own projects, they also serve as test boards in various architectures and of course to create your own hacking tools. The ESP32 is a dual-core Wi-Fi/Bluetooth microcontroller that can be used for wireless sniffing, injecting packets, or running exploits. The Raspberry Pi Pico is a small and affordable microcontroller, ideal for creating custom tools, for example, a device to identify JTAG interfaces as an accessible alternative to the hard-to-find JTAGulator. The Heltec boards allow you to explore long-range, low-power networks and test the security of LoRaWAN deployments.

The following image shows an example of a Raspberry Pi Pico with JTAGenum that is connected to a JTAG interface of a router device. The logic level converter board makes sure that the voltage levels of the development board and the JTAG interface are properly matched, preventing damage to components and ensuring reliable communication between devices.

When development boards are armed with custom firmware and tools, these boards can transform into powerful hardware hacking tools, greatly expanding your capabilities and options for security testing IoT devices.

Custom tools: JTAGenum and Marauder

Sometimes you need a specialized tool that can be adjusted for a specific project or purpose. In the previous paragraph, we already looked at a Raspberry Pi Pico development board configured to identify JTAG interfaces. The ability to create, configure, and use custom tools greatly enhances your flexibility, efficiency, and effectiveness on complex IoT security challenges. Custom tools also help simplify the development of proof-of-concept attacks, reducing the need for costly equipment such as logic analyzers or additional software.

JTAGenum on Raspberry Pi Pico: JTAGenum is a firmware that turns a Pico into a JTAG/SWD interface enumeration tool. It helps automatically detect JTAG pinouts on unknown devices by scanning pin combinations and testing for proper responses. This saves enormous time compared to manually testing each pin with a multimeter. Total cost: just the Pico (€5 – €10) plus some jumper wires.

Marauder on ESP32: Marauder is a powerful wireless attack framework that runs on the ESP32. It can scan Wi-Fi networks, capture handshakes, perform deauthentication attacks, and more. With a small OLED screen and buttons, Marauder-equipped ESP32 boards become pocket-sized wireless hacking devices. Price: €20 – €40 for the hardware, free for the firmware.

These tools are fantastic examples of how open-source software and cheap microcontrollers can unlock advanced capabilities previously reserved for expensive commercial gear.

Hardware Hacking Lab

A well-equipped IoT hacker lab combines physical access tools, electrical interfacing equipment, signal analysis devices, and custom-built solutions. While it’s easy to get caught up in buying gear, remember that the most important part is knowing how and when to use each tool.

For example, disassembling a smart lock might start with spudgers and Torx bits, followed by identifying a UART port with a multimeter and CH340, dumping the firmware via CH341A, analyzing communications with a logic analyzer, and exploring wireless attacks using Marauder on an ESP32. Every step requires careful thought, patience, and the right tool for the job.

Final thoughts

IoT hacking blends creativity, electronics, and security expertise. While you can spend thousands outfitting a high-end lab, many attacks can be carried out with under €100 worth of tools if you know how to use them. The growing availability of open-source tools and cheap microcontrollers has leveled the playing field, making it easier than ever for curious hackers, researchers, and penetration testers to explore the hidden depths of smart devices.

If you’re just getting started, focus on mastering the basics: learn to solder (build the JTAGenum or Marauder device!), read schematics, trace signals, and learn how to analyze and understand embedded communication protocols. The tools are just the beginning; the real power comes from the skill and knowledge you bring to your workbench.

VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials Course

Interested in learning more about penetration testing and security research on IoT devices? Enroll in the VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials Course and start your journey today! The course includes 20 dedicated modules on IoT penetration testing, hands-on practical assignments, and a final IoT Penetration Testing Exam where you can earn the VHL Certified IoT Penetration Tester (VHL-CIPT-01) credential.