VHL

VHL is a network pentesting platform usually aimed as an OSCP preparation. It is similar in concept to HTB, although VHL machines have a more realistic attack vector, in my opinion.

VHL is one of those hidden treasures of the internet. The platform has helped hundreds of aspiring penetration testers pass the OSCP exam. In fact, many current and former OffSec moderators used VHL during their PEN-200 preparation (a bit of OSINT or a visit to the unofficial Discord channel can confirm this). To me, this speaks volumes about the quality of the platform’s content.

In this blog post, I have the pleasure of interviewing Ferdi Bak, the founder of VHL. I’ve always been curious about how he started this project and the motivation behind it. Let’s find out.

The Interview

Jose: Back to my college years (as a Professor) I liked to start the very 1st class of the semester, asking my new students what’s their favorite movie. It helps to break the ice and know a bit about them. So, Ferdi, what’s your favorite movie and why do you like it so much?

Ferdi: I’m a big fan of (high) fantasy and epic movies with a historical perspective, such as the Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit…