Security Weekly Podcast Network (Video) Building a Hacking Lab in 2025 - PSW #906
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Dec 25, 2025 Bill Swearengin, a seasoned cybersecurity expert, joins Dr. Doug White, an experienced instructor, Tyler Robinson, a security professional, and Adrian Sanabria, a security veteran to share insights on building a hacking lab in 2025. They discuss the latest hardware options, including energy-efficient servers and Intel NUCs, and the importance of using virtualization like KVM and Proxmox. The panel also explores AI integration for lab automation and emphasizes legal and ethical considerations when testing. Practical tips cover starting with minimal gear and essential software tools.
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Choose Virtualization And Right-Sized Hardware
- Start virtual and learn KVM/LibVirt or use VMware/Proxmox depending on comfort and Windows needs.
- Use reclaimed or modest hardware to balance RAM needs against power and cost constraints.
Avoid Old Power-Hungry Servers
- Avoid powering up old rack gear unless you want a huge power bill and noise; modern M-series and compact devices are more efficient.
- Consider small servers, NUCs, or used enterprise gear for good performance without excessive energy use.
Bootstrap With Two Laptops And A Switch
- Start simple: two cheap laptops, Ubuntu server on one and Parrot/Linux on the other, plus a switch to connect them.
- Expand later with virtual machines and span traffic into Security Onion for monitoring and learning.