TryHackMe Pre Security (SEC0) & Cyber Security 101 (SEC1) — Exam Preparation & Experience

Table of Contents

Introduction

Pre Security (SEC0) Preparation

Pre Security (SEC0) Exam Experience

Cyber Security 101 (SEC1) Preparation

Cyber Security 101 (SEC1) Exam Experience

Final Thoughts

Introduction

The SEC0 and SEC1 practical exams from TryHackMe were incredibly fun to prepare for and take. In my experience, nothing beats a hands-on practical exam, and these two certifications are no exception.

What I enjoyed most was how closely the exams reflected real-world cybersecurity activities. Many of the concepts and tasks covered align with operations I perform in my day-to-day work, making the learning experience both practical and relevant.

In this article, I'll share my experience preparing for the exams, the learning paths I used, what I thought of the exam format, and my overall recommendations for anyone considering the SEC0 or SEC1 certifications.

Pre Security (SEC0) Preparation

The SEC0 exam is a foundational certification designed for complete beginners. Although I am no longer a beginner in the field, I was extremely impressed by the Learning Path on TryHackMe, titled Pre Security, designed to prepare you for the exam.

The Pre Security Learning Path consists of 7 modules and 31 hands-on labs. TryHackMe estimates that the learning path takes approximately 19 hours to complete, though you can progress through the material at your own pace.

It took me about a week to get through the Learning Path. I was having a blast along the way. It was one of those trainings where you get sad once completed because you do not want the fun to stop.

I highly recommend this learning path to aspiring cybersecurity professionals, even if you do not intend to sit for the SEC0 certification exam.

Pre Security (SEC0) Exam Experience

I found that the recommended Learning Path prepared me well for the exam. For those planning to take the SEC0 certification, I recommend completing the entire Learning Path and spending additional time on any topics you find challenging.

One aspect of the exam that stood out to me was the absence of multiple-choice questions. Instead, TryHackMe uses written-response questions throughout the exam, which does a much better job of testing your understanding of the material rather than your ability to recognize the correct answer from a list of options.

For some questions, TryHackMe is very specific about the required response format. For others, the instructions are less detailed, leaving more room for interpretation.

One thing I found interesting is that exam results are provided immediately after completion. Because of the near-instant grading, I am curious whether TryHackMe uses artificial intelligence or another form of automated evaluation to assess written responses.

The exam covered the following topics:

• Computer Fundamentals
• Operating Systems Basics
• Software Basics
• Network Fundamentals
• Web & Internet Fundamentals
• Foundational Security Awareness

Cyber Security 101 (SEC1) Preparation

Similarly, I completed TryHackMe's recommended learning path, Cyber Security 101, to prepare for the SEC1 exam. The Pre Security Learning Path is also recommended, but I had already completed it prior to starting Cyber Security 101.

The Cyber Security 101 Learning Path consists of 14 modules and 56 hands-on labs. According to TryHackMe, the estimated completion time is approximately 45 hours.

I found the learning experience both engaging and enjoyable. Since I was already familiar with many of the concepts covered, I was able to move through the content relatively quickly while still reinforcing my understanding of key cybersecurity topics.

I highly recommend this learning path to aspiring cybersecurity professionals, even if you do not intend to sit for the SEC1 certification exam.

Cyber Security 101 (SEC1) Exam Experience

The SEC1 exam was noticeably more challenging than the SEC0 exam. While the recommended Learning Path does a good job of preparing you, you should expect to be tested on your understanding of the material. If you simply skim through the content, you may not achieve the score you are hoping for.

I recommend completing the entire recommended Learning Path and supplementing it with additional TryHackMe rooms that focus on areas where you feel less confident. For example, if you are not comfortable working in Linux, spending extra time on Linux-focused rooms can significantly improve your skills and help you perform better on the exam.

If I put aside the experience I had prior to taking the exam, I can easily see how someone could fail on their first attempt if they do not take the preparation seriously.

I will admit that there was one topic on the exam that I do not recall being covered in the Learning Path. Unfortunately, I cannot discuss the specifics here, but I can say that it cost me two questions. Fortunately, it was not enough to prevent me from passing.

The exam covered the following topics:

• Windows Fundamentals
• Linux Fundamentals
• Network Traffic Fundamentals
• Web Pentesting Fundamentals
• Security Operations Fundamentals
• Bruteforcing and Cracking Fundamentals
• Malware Analysis Fundamentals

Final Thoughts

Both exams were well worth the time and effort. It certainly helps that TryHackMe gamifies the learning experience through its structured Learning Paths, making the process engaging and enjoyable.

That said, do not underestimate the SEC1 exam. Depending on your experience level, it can become challenging very quickly. While the recommended Learning Path provides excellent preparation, success still requires a solid understanding of the material and hands-on practice.

Fortunately, TryHackMe includes one free retake, so do not be discouraged if you do not pass on your first attempt. Use the experience to identify weak areas, continue learning, and come back stronger. You only fail if you quit.

The TryHackMe Discord community is also an excellent resource. There is a wealth of knowledge available, and members are generally willing to help those who are learning. Feel free to send me (N3NU) a direct message there if you have questions, need advice, or simply want to connect.

Until next time…

— N3NU

Disclaimer: My content is for informational and educational purposes only. You may try out these hacks on your own computer at your own risk.