Update: VHL IoT Pentesting Exam
Two months ago, after nearly two years of development, we launched the VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials course at the Virtual hacking Labs. This comprehensive course delves deeply into performing penetration tests and conducting security research on IoT devices. With the growing number of laws and regulations imposing basic cybersecurity requirements on IoT devices, such as the EU’s Radio Equipment Directive (RED) and international equivalents, testing the security of IoT devices and embedded systems is becoming increasingly important.
Developing a solid cyber security exam is a challenge in itself. That challenge becomes even greater when certain learning objectives, such as hardware hacking and techniques that involve physical products, do not lend themselves easily to online assessment. To address this, we developed a unique exam format that covers the key learning goals related to security testing of IoT devices. Rather than presenting standalone questions or isolated tasks, as is often the case with cybersecurity exams, our exam is structured as a coherent sequence of activities. This format not only tests the IoT Penetration Testing course’s learning objectives but also offers an engaging learning opportunity.
VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials Exam
The VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials exam consists of two parts: a practical component, where a security assessment is carried out on an IoT device, and a reporting component, where the candidate documents the assessment, including a vulnerability report for any discovered issues. The test devices have been carefully selected based on vulnerabilities we discovered ourselves. The exam is designed in such a way that the candidate follows the same path we did during the initial discovery process. This ensures a seamless alignment with both real-world practice and the course material, while also reinforcing the methodology needed to identify new vulnerabilities. An exam doesn’t get more practical or educational than this.
VHL Certified IoT Penetration Tester – Essentials level (VHL-CIPT01)
Upon passing the exam, you will earn the VHL Certified IoT Penetration Tester – Essentials level (VHL-CIPT01) certification. This certification demonstrates that you are capable of performing security testing of IoT devices in a structured and methodical way on the essentials level.
Practical Information
At VHL, we believe that a cyber security exam should not be a race against the clock. Candidates should be able to complete the exam at their own pace. For that reason, we provide ample time for conducting the security assessment and writing the required reports. If the final exam result does not meet the passing criteria, candidates are given the opportunity to improve their reports at no additional cost.
Initially, the VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials exam will only be available in combination with the VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials course. However, it is quite possible that this will change in the future, allowing exam vouchers to be purchased separately.
The VHL IoT Penetration Testing Essentials exam will be available for booking starting July 2025.
Exam Registration
If you’re already enrolled in the IoT Penetration Testing Essentials course, you will soon receive information on how to register for the exam. If you’ve already completed the course and are ready to take the exam, just send me an email and I’ll make sure you’re among the first to take and test the exam.
If you’re not yet a student but are interested in IoT penetration testing, be sure to check out the course on the Virtual Hacking Labs website.
