Learning reverse engineering can be challenging, but with the right tools and resources, it becomes more manageable. Here are some top tools recommended for beginners based on Redditor experiences:

Essential Tools

Disassemblers

• Ghidra: A free and open-source software reverse engineering (SRE) framework developed by the NSA. It supports multiple platforms and architectures. "Get ghidra. Go to github and find a project on the platform you want to target like windows/linux/osx. Build the project and load the bin into ghidra and work on understanding and documenting the bin."

• IDA Pro: A powerful commercial disassembler and debugger. While it's not free, many professionals swear by its capabilities. "IDA’s debugger feels very comfortable and I can follow programs there."

• x64dbg: A lightweight, open-source debugger for Windows. It's a good alternative to IDA Pro for those who prefer a free option. "x64dbg and similar tools overwhelm me and feel painful to use."

Debuggers

• WinDbg: A powerful debugger for Windows, often used in conjunction with other tools. "I've spent some time in WinDbg or IDA but that is not a core skill and I would like to strengthen that a bit to go work towards fuzzing and vulnerability research."

• LLDB: The LLVM debugger, which is cross-platform and supports multiple architectures. "Learn how to use a debugger to step through your C programs."

Hex Editors

• HxD: A free hex editor for Windows that is simple and easy to use. "A hex editor, I typically use HxD."

• Cheat Engine: Useful for memory scanning and modifying game values, but also applicable to general reverse engineering tasks. "I like to use cheat engine."

Learning Resources

Online Courses and Tutorials

• Pwn.college: A free, comprehensive cybersecurity education platform with a strong focus on reverse engineering. "Pwn.college is free, fun and challenging."

• Guided Hacking: Offers various courses and tutorials, particularly useful for game reverse engineering. "This forum a good starting point: guidedhacking.com"

• 0xInfection: Provides a basic tutorial on reverse engineering. "Here is a tutorial, it's pretty basic, but should get you an idea of how it works."

Books

• "Practical Reverse Engineering": A highly recommended book for learning the basics and beyond. "I’d really recommend ‘Practical Reverse Engineering’ book."

• "IDA Pro Book": An in-depth guide on using IDA Pro, useful for advanced learners. "Take a look at this book https://www.amazon.com/IDA-Pro-Book-Unofficial-Disassembler/dp/1593272898"

Practice Platforms

• Crackmes.one: A website with a collection of simple programs designed to be cracked. "Do crackmes, follow tutorials, read stuff even if you dont understand it yet."

• Hack The Box: Offers various challenges, including reverse engineering, to help you practice. "hackthebox Reversing challenges (and similar) might be a path to start with easy and work your way up."

Additional Tips

• Learn Assembly: Understanding assembly language is crucial for reverse engineering. "Learn assembly then watch videos on app development in reverse and do that."

• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Start with simple tasks and gradually move to more complex ones. "Write a series of programs to get comfortable..."

• Use Online Resources: Utilize platforms like GitHub, YouTube, and forums to find tutorials, examples, and communities. "Use the internet brother. If you have the capacity to post a question to Reddit you have the power to look it up and read about it."

Subreddits to Explore

• r/ExploitDev

• r/ReverseEngineering

• r/HowToHack

• r/Hacking_Tutorials

These resources and tools should help you get started and progress in your reverse engineering journey. Good luck!