If you’re eager to dive into the world of cybersecurity in 2025, YouTube offers a treasure trove of free resources tailored for beginners. To save you time, we’ve curated what we consider the top 12 free Youtube channels to learn cybersecurity. These channels provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical demonstrations.
| Channel Name | Subscribers | Total Videos | Content Focus | Skill Level | Upload Frequency | Certification Support | Notable Playlists | Language |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NetworkChuck | 4.6M | 500+ | Networking & Cybersecurity | Beginner | Weekly | General IT | Linux for Hackers | English |
| The Cyber Mentor (TCM) | 883K | 435 | Ethical Hacking & Pentesting | Beginner | Biweekly | PNPT/OSCP | Practical Ethical Hacking | English |
| John Hammond | 1.98M | 1.6K | CTFs, Malware Analysis | Beginner | Weekly | Informal OSCP prep | Linux Basics, CTF Walkthroughs | English |
| HAK5 | 968K | 1,966 | Hacking Tools & Security Tips | Beginner–Intermediate | Weekly | Practical Skills | Hak5 Show, Metasploit Minute | English |
| HackerSploit | 967K | 485 | Pentesting, Network Security | Beginner–Intermediate | Monthly | CEH/Security+/OSCP | Pentest Bootcamp, Red Team Tutorials | English |
| Professor Messer | 1.08M | 3,137 | CompTIA Certifications | Beginner–Intermediate | Weekly | Security+/Network+/A+ | Security+ Full Course | English |
| The PC Security Channel | 569K | 701 | Malware Defense & AV Reviews | Beginner–Intermediate | Weekly | None | Cybersecurity Essentials | English |
| Cyberspatial | 282K | 44 | Cybersecurity Fundamentals | Beginner–Intermediate | Occasional | None | Cyber Kill Chain, Skills Series | English |
| Loi Liang Yang | 1.17M | 470 | Hacking Demos & Tutorials | Beginner–Intermediate | Weekly | CEH/OSCP | Ethical Hacking 101 | English |
| LiveOverflow | 915K | 427 | CTFs & Exploit Dev | Intermediate | Biweekly | OSCP Skills | Binary Exploitation 101 | English |
| IppSec | 265K | 473 | HackTheBox Walkthroughs | Intermediate | Weekly | OSCP/PNPT Practice | HTB Machine Walkthroughs | English |
| David Bombal | 2.83M | 1.6K | Networking & Cyber Labs | Intermediate | Multiple/Week | CCNA/Cisco/Security+ | Ethical Hacking Labs, CCNA Tutorials | English |
Channel Descriptions
1. NetworkChuck
NetworkChuck is renowned for making complex IT and cybersecurity topics accessible and entertaining. His energetic tutorials cover a range of subjects, including Linux, ethical hacking, and certifications like CompTIA and Cisco. His “Linux for Hackers” series is particularly popular among beginners.
2. The Cyber Mentor (TCM)
Heath Adams, known as The Cyber Mentor, offers practical and affordable cybersecurity training. His channel features comprehensive courses on penetration testing, ethical hacking, and career advice, making it a valuable resource for aspiring cybersecurity professionals.
3. John Hammond
John Hammond provides in-depth tutorials on ethical hacking, malware analysis, and Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges. His content is well-structured and caters to both beginners and intermediate learners seeking hands-on experience.
4. Hak5
Hak5 is a long-standing channel that delves into cybersecurity tools, hardware hacking, and infosec news. Their “ThreatWire” series keeps viewers updated on the latest security threats and trends.
5. HackerSploit
HackerSploit offers comprehensive tutorials on penetration testing, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity fundamentals. The channel’s structured approach is ideal for beginners aiming to build a solid foundation.
6. Professor Messer
Professor Messer is a go-to resource for those preparing for CompTIA certifications like A+, Network+, and Security+. His clear and concise videos break down complex topics, making them easier to understand.
7. The PC Security Channel
This channel focuses on malware analysis, antivirus testing, and cybersecurity product reviews. It’s an excellent resource for understanding how different security solutions perform in real-world scenarios.
8. Cyberspatial
Cyberspatial aims to demystify cybersecurity concepts through engaging visuals and storytelling. The channel covers topics like network security, cyber threats, and career guidance, making it suitable for learners at all levels.
9. Loi Liang Yang
Loi Liang Yang shares insights from his experience as a Principal Security Engineer. His channel features tutorials on ethical hacking, cybersecurity tools, and career advice, providing practical knowledge for aspiring professionals.
10. LiveOverflow
LiveOverflow offers deep dives into hacking techniques, CTF challenges, and vulnerability analysis. His analytical approach helps viewers develop a deeper understanding of cybersecurity principles.
11. IppSec
IppSec is known for his detailed walkthroughs of Hack The Box challenges, providing valuable insights into penetration testing methodologies. His content is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their practical skills.
12. David Bombal
David Bombal’s channel covers networking, ethical hacking, and cybersecurity certifications. His tutorials are beginner-friendly and often include real-world examples to illustrate complex concepts.
Embarking on a cybersecurity journey can be daunting, but these YouTube channels offer accessible and comprehensive resources to guide you. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to specialize, the wealth of knowledge shared by these creators can help you build a strong foundation and advance your skills in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Happy learning!
Tips for Maximizing Your Learning
- Engage Actively: Don’t just watch. Take notes, practice the techniques demonstrated, and apply them in lab environments.
- Join Communities: Participate in cybersecurity forums and discussion groups to ask questions and share knowledge.
- Stay Updated: Cybersecurity is ever-evolving. Regularly check these channels for the latest content and updates.
- Supplement Learning: Consider pairing YouTube tutorials with hands-on platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box for practical experience.
- Take practice tests: Test your knowledge through online practice tests like these CompTIA Security+ practice tests.