From my knowledge and understanding, a "hacker" is someone who seeks knowledge by any means possible. In this day and age, it is mostly done through computers. They most likely have a strong background in computers and networking. (Let me know if I'm getting any of this wrong) They are not necessarily bad, but do things by means of illegal activity. And their purpose is strictly knowledge, not destruction, although there are many who feel destruction is necessary, myself not being one of them.

My background in computers includes:
DOS, WINDOWS(ALL), Some UNIX/LINUX, MAC OS(ALL), IBM AS/400, Networking but not Admin, Programming in Basic, Qbasic, VB, some C/C++, HTML, Java, XML, computer repair/electronics.

For years my life has been technology driven, practically living in front of a computer screen, doing all I could to teach myself what things are and what they do. Though with my knowledge of computers, I still don't know if I am a "hacker". I have never broke into any computer system for seeking knowledge as I do not know how. Things of that nature I do not hold in my knowledge bank, but I do have the strong desire for it. Unfortunately I can't put my foot in the right direction and humbly ask for any type of guidance or lead to get my started on that type of "hacking" from anyone out there on these posts.
I have been reading the texts and I am now moving onto the posts, but I do wish to recieve some comments, and guidance from the many experts that are sure to be found within this page. I am new to this board, and hopefully I have done nothing to get FLAMED, and if I do, I guess that is the price I pay for being a newbie to the post.

Sincerely, Hiko Shintai

You ask if you are a hacker. I ask why the need for labels?

The term hacker is totally depreciated IMHO. There are so many different definitions and ideas of what exactly it is, and most of them are totally right. There is no one way to become one, and if you have to ask if you are one then I doubt you are.

Myself, I am like you. I am a computer/technology enthusiast with a fairly broad range of knowledge. I have a fairly good understanding of how networks operate, good hadware knowledge, and some basic programming skills. Does this make me a hacker? I couldn't honestly care less.

If you like messing around with comps, then continue with that. Learn whatever the heck suits your fancy. Learn what interests you, not what a bunch of jackasses on some BBS tell you too.

If you're lucky, one day you might just look around and realize you are a hacker

Infinite

Cool.. Thanks for the info Infinite.. Any idea of what I should play around with next? I'm looking for something new and exciting, just don't know what to try next. Any suggestions?

automobiles.

Already into that sinetific. But thanks for the tip.

try knitting

you will never have to buy another scarf or
potholder

[edit]
But seriously, if you are interested in technology and security, how about phone technology (aka phreaking) just a suggestion...

im exactly the same as you Hiko shintai i have a wide range of knowledge on computers but not unix because i cant find any books at the library but i reserved one

Try this online book, which you can also purchase if you so desire

RUTE: Rute User\'s Tutorial and Exposition

thanx

i decided to post a reply because i myself was in your situation and found what i was looking for. if you seek some adrenaline and thrill using your knowledge i strongly recommend starting social engineering on your way to becomming a hacker. a social engineer uses means of manipulation and some computer skills to obtain information.if this is the first time you heard of this term than my humble definition did not make things too clear. i suggest readind kevin mitick's book "The art of deception: controlling the human element of security". i bought this book from amazon.com two days ago, read 150 pages in one day and i find it absolutely amazing. i am totally new to social engineering and found out that this is what i was looking for for many years (for for.... whatever). if you have need more convincing reply and i will be happy to answer some questions.

I will definately look into that [dude], and everything else that was posted for my viewing experience. And knitting, I think I'll leave that to grandma, until I get old and have nothing better to do. But thanks.