eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester Certification (eJPT): A Comprehensive Guide to Starting Your Career in Ethical Hacking

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, penetration testing—also known as ethical hacking—plays a pivotal role in identifying vulnerabilities and strengthening system defenses. eLearnSecurity’s Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) certification is an entry-level credential that equips individuals with the foundational skills needed to become proficient penetration testers.

The eJPT exam is ideal for those starting their careers in cybersecurity, especially for aspiring ethical hackers who want to demonstrate their ability to conduct real-world penetration tests. By earning the eJPT certification, you will gain a strong understanding of penetration testing methodologies, security best practices, and hands-on skills necessary for securing networks, applications, and systems.

This guide will walk you through the eJPT certification process, the exam structure, study resources, and career opportunities for those who hold this valuable credential.

Free eJPT Practice Test Online

Key Takeaways

  • eJPT is an entry-level certification for penetration testers and ethical hackers, focusing on practical skills.

  • The certification exam covers areas such as network security, web application security, vulnerability analysis, and exploitation techniques.

  • eJPT is designed for beginners with basic networking knowledge who are eager to pursue a career in cybersecurity.

  • The exam format includes a practical test where candidates must demonstrate their skills by exploiting vulnerabilities in a controlled environment.

  • Passing the eJPT exam boosts your credibility as a penetration tester and opens up various career opportunities in the cybersecurity industry.

What is the eJPT Certification?

The eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) certification is designed to assess the skills of individuals aspiring to enter the field of ethical hacking and penetration testing. This credential is widely recognized for its hands-on approach to cybersecurity education, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity.

Unlike many other certifications that focus solely on theory, the eJPT exam requires candidates to conduct practical penetration tests on a virtual network. This approach gives exam takers an opportunity to showcase their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world environments.

eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) Test Certification Guide
What is the eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) certification? The eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) is an entry-level, hands-on penetration testing certification from INE. It validates that you can perform basic network assessments, find common vulnerabilities, exploit them safely, and document findings in realistic lab environments.
How would you describe the eJPT certification to someone new to cybersecurity? The eJPT certification is a beginner-friendly, practical exam focused on real attacks instead of theory. Rather than answering multiple-choice questions, you solve guided penetration testing challenges that prove you understand how tools and techniques work in practice.
What job-ready skills does the eJPT validate for a junior penetration tester? The eJPT validates skills such as basic networking, information gathering, scanning, vulnerability assessment, simple exploitation, password attacks, and reporting. Employers see it as proof that you can follow structured methodologies and work inside real lab-style environments.
How does the eJPT compare to Security+ as a first cybersecurity certification? Security+ is a broad, theory-focused exam covering many security domains, while the eJPT is narrow and deeply practical. Many learners use Security+ to build foundational knowledge and eJPT to demonstrate hands-on penetration testing capability to employers.
What is the current format of the eJPT exam? The eJPT exam is a fully practical, open-book, remote penetration testing assessment. You receive VPN access to a dedicated lab network, perform an engagement, gather flags and evidence, and then answer exam questions based on your findings.
How is the eJPT exam structured in terms of sections and scoring? The eJPT exam groups tasks into objective-based challenges such as information gathering, web attacks, and network exploitation. You collect proof of successful attacks, then submit answers in a web interface. Each correct answer contributes to your overall passing score.
What topics are covered in the official eJPT exam syllabus? The eJPT syllabus covers networking fundamentals, TCP/IP, routing, VPN usage, information gathering, scanning, vulnerability assessment, exploitation of common services, basic web attacks, password attacks, and simple post-exploitation techniques alongside documentation and reporting basics.
How long do you have to complete the eJPT exam? The eJPT exam typically provides a multi-hour time window, allowing you to work through the lab network at a steady pace. Most candidates comfortably finish within the allotted time if they have practiced the INE labs beforehand.
How much does the eJPT certification typically cost? The eJPT certification cost depends on current INE pricing and bundles. You can often purchase an exam attempt alone or as part of an INE subscription that includes learning content, labs, and a voucher for the certification attempt.
Are there any additional costs associated with scheduling the eJPT exam? Beyond the primary exam or subscription fee, extra costs may include renewing your training subscription, buying another exam attempt if you fail, or upgrading to higher-tier plans that include more labs and practice content.
What is an eJPT exam voucher and how can you get one? An eJPT exam voucher is a unique code that gives you access to schedule the certification exam. Vouchers are usually included with specific INE training packages or can be purchased directly through your INE account dashboard.
How does the INE eJPT course relate to purchasing and scheduling the exam? The INE eJPT course provides structured video lessons and labs mapped to exam objectives. Many bundles combine this training with an exam voucher, letting you study, practice in the same style as the exam, and then schedule your attempt from one platform.
Does the eJPT certification expire or require periodic renewal? The eJPT certification does not traditionally follow the strict renewal cycles used by some vendor-neutral exams. However, you should always confirm current policies with INE, because program requirements and recertification options can evolve over time.
Is earning the eJPT certification worth it for aspiring penetration testers? For many beginners, the eJPT is worth it because it proves real, hands-on capability rather than memorization. Recruiters often appreciate seeing a practical penetration testing certification alongside projects, home labs, and clear evidence of ongoing learning.
What types of jobs can the eJPT certification help you qualify for? The eJPT can support applications for junior penetration tester roles, security analyst positions, vulnerability management jobs, and cybersecurity internships. It shows you can work with basic offensive tools and methodologies in a structured, professional way.
How can the eJPT certification impact your potential salary in cybersecurity roles? While salaries depend on region and experience, the eJPT can strengthen your entry-level profile and help you negotiate better offers. Employers often view it as proof of initiative and practical skill, complementing degrees, bootcamps, or other certifications.
What is a good overall strategy for eJPT exam preparation? A strong eJPT strategy includes completing the INE training path, taking detailed notes, repeatedly practicing labs, and reviewing networking fundamentals. You should also simulate exam conditions by performing small penetration testing engagements on lab networks.
How should beginners plan their study schedule to prepare for the eJPT? Beginners should break topics into weekly milestones, mixing theory and labs. For example, dedicate specific days to networking concepts, then reserve longer blocks for hands-on practice, periodic reviews, and full lab scenarios that mimic an actual engagement.
What study materials are most useful for the eJPT exam? The most useful resources include INE’s official videos and labs, high-quality networking references, practice notes, personal lab write-ups, and reputable blogs about basic penetration testing workflows. Avoid relying solely on short summaries or answer lists.
Are there any free courses that can help you get ready for the eJPT exam? Yes, INE and community platforms sometimes offer free introductory content that mirrors parts of the eJPT path. These can help you test your interest, but you should still complete comprehensive labs and structured training before scheduling the exam.

The eJPT exam tests competencies in several key areas:

  • Network Security: Identifying weaknesses in networks and exploiting vulnerabilities.

  • Web Application Security: Conducting assessments on web applications to find security flaws such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and insecure communications.

  • Vulnerability Analysis: Scanning systems and applications for vulnerabilities and suggesting mitigation strategies.

  • Exploitation: Using tools and techniques to exploit vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to systems.

The eJPT Exam Structure

The eJPT certification exam is unique because it consists of a practical, hands-on test where candidates must exploit vulnerabilities in a simulated environment. The exam structure is as follows:

  • Exam Format: Practical test (no multiple-choice questions)

  • Duration: 24 hours

  • Number of Tasks: 5 to 7 practical tasks related to penetration testing

  • Passing Criteria: You must score at least 70% to pass the exam.

The exam is hosted in a virtual lab environment, where candidates are required to compromise a network and exploit different systems. During the exam, you will need to use tools like Nmap, Metasploit, and Burp Suite to identify vulnerabilities and successfully exploit them.

After completing the practical tasks, candidates must submit a detailed report outlining their findings and the methods used to exploit the vulnerabilities. This report is evaluated along with the candidate’s performance in the lab environment.

Preparing for the eJPT Exam

To pass the eJPT exam, thorough preparation is essential. Here are some steps to help you prepare effectively for the exam:

  • Understand Basic Networking Concepts: A solid understanding of networking fundamentals such as TCP/IP, OSI model, DNS, HTTP, and VPNs is crucial. You can review free online resources like the Wikipedia Networking page to grasp networking concepts.

  • Study Penetration Testing Methodologies: Familiarize yourself with the common methodologies used in penetration testing, such as the OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities.

  • Complete eLearnSecurity’s Courses: eLearnSecurity offers tailored courses for eJPT candidates. Their Penetration Testing Student (PTS) course is an excellent starting point. The course includes practical exercises and virtual labs that mimic the eJPT exam environment.

  • Use Practice Labs: Set up your own penetration testing lab using tools like Kali Linux, Metasploit, and Wireshark. This will allow you to practice identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities.

  • Participate in CTF (Capture the Flag) Challenges: CTF challenges are a great way to practice real-world penetration testing skills. Many platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe offer CTF challenges and virtual labs where you can practice exploiting vulnerabilities in safe, controlled environments.

Career Opportunities for eJPT Holders

The eJPT certification is an excellent starting point for those seeking careers in cybersecurity and penetration testing. Here are some potential career opportunities for individuals with the eJPT credential:

  • Penetration Tester: As a penetration tester, you will be responsible for simulating cyberattacks on networks, applications, and systems to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them.

  • Security Analyst: Security analysts monitor networks and systems for potential threats and assist in implementing security measures to protect sensitive data.

  • Vulnerability Assessor: As a vulnerability assessor, you will identify and analyze weaknesses in systems and work with teams to mitigate potential security risks.

  • Cybersecurity Consultant: Cybersecurity consultants help organizations assess their security posture, conduct penetration tests, and recommend strategies to improve security practices.

  • Ethical Hacker: Ethical hackers use their skills to help organizations strengthen their defenses by identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities, often working under the umbrella of a legal framework.

Conclusions

The eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) certification is an excellent way for beginners to start their careers in penetration testing and ethical hacking. It provides a solid foundation of technical skills and knowledge required to perform real-world penetration tests on networks and systems. By successfully completing the eJPT exam, you will not only enhance your credibility as a penetration tester but also increase your chances of securing a well-paying job in the cybersecurity industry.

If you are serious about pursuing a career in ethical hacking, the eJPT is a critical stepping stone that will help you stand out in a competitive job market. With proper preparation and hands-on experience, you can succeed in the eJPT exam and set the foundation for a successful career in cybersecurity.

eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) – FAQ Accordion

The eJPT is challenging but realistic for beginners who commit to structured practice. If you understand basic networking, Linux usage, and core security concepts, the exam feels fair. Most candidates struggle more with time management and documentation than with the actual techniques used in the lab environment.

The eJPT exam is usually unproctored and taken remotely from your own computer. You connect to INE’s VPN, access their dedicated lab network, and perform all testing inside that scope. Even without live proctoring, you must follow the rules strictly and never target systems or addresses outside the exam environment.

The eJPT focuses on introductory penetration testing skills like enumeration, basic exploitation, and simple web attacks. OSCP is significantly more advanced and expects deeper enumeration, custom exploit work, and strong problem-solving under pressure. Many learners use eJPT as a practical stepping stone before attempting OSCP or other expert-level certifications.

CEH is mostly theory-based and relies on multiple-choice questions about tools, terminology, and attack categories. The eJPT is fully hands-on and evaluates whether you can actually assess networks, exploit weaknesses, and retrieve flags. For demonstrating real-world penetration testing ability, eJPT generally provides stronger, more practical evidence than CEH alone.

PenTest+ is a broad, knowledge-focused exam covering many security domains, while eJPT concentrates on hands-on penetration testing labs. If you prefer a traditional multiple-choice test that supports general security roles, PenTest+ may suit you. If your goal is to highlight practical hacking skills early, eJPT is often the better starting option.

eJPT labs simulate small corporate networks with multiple hosts and exposed services. You connect through a VPN, run reconnaissance, identify weaknesses, and capture flags as proof of exploitation. Everything is interactive and command-line driven, so you learn by performing real assessments instead of only reading about tools or attack techniques.

Practice tests let you rehearse enumeration, exploitation, and documentation workflows under realistic time pressure. They reveal gaps in your methodology and show whether you can move from discovery to exploitation efficiently. Reviewing each attempt carefully and refining your notes is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the actual eJPT exam.

No. Exam dumps violate exam rules, damage the credibility of the certification, and do not build genuine skills. Because eJPT is practical and scenario based, success comes from honest lab work and understanding, not memorizing leaked content. Using dumps can result in failure, banned accounts, or revoked credentials from the provider.

Earlier eJPT versions used different lab infrastructures and slightly different tooling, but the core objective remained validating entry-level penetration testing ability. The current exam aligns more closely with modern INE training paths and updated attack techniques while still staying accessible for beginners who consistently practice and follow the recommended learning roadmap.

The INE free eJPT course is excellent for exploring the format and confirming your interest in penetration testing. Paid subscriptions usually add more labs, structured learning paths, and extended practice time. Many successful candidates combine the free modules with extra hands-on practice to build enough confidence before scheduling the official eJPT exam.