virtual machines

Introduction to RangeForce

The RangeForce logo

The RangeForce logo

RangeForce describes itself as “the world’s most comprehensive cybersecurity training and cyber skills assessment program.” They use virtual machines and step-by-step training to guide you through practice labs on introductory topics such as VIM, regex, and Docker, as well as advanced topics like password cracking and packet capture forensics. With over 20 modules covering various topics, there is a lot of material available for learners of any experience level. Best of all, the training is provided at no cost through the Free Community Edition. Here is a quick walkthrough to get you started:


Create an Account

The account sign-up page for RangeForce Free Community Edition

The account sign-up page for RangeForce Free Community Edition

The account sign-up process is simple but might take some time. Fill out the form on the RangeForce website and click submit. You will then receive an email notifying you that it could take up to two business days to receive access to an account because each registration is processed individually. You will probably receive account access within 12-24 hours. You will then need to verify your email address and finish the setup process.


Check Out the Dashboard

The RangeForce dashboard

The RangeForce dashboard

Once you have finished creating your account, you will be greeted with the RangeForce dashboard. This hub shows your current rank on the leaderboard, how many modules you have completed, and the progress of your individually set goals.

Your position on the leaderboard automatically updates as you complete each module. At the time of this writing, you can put yourself in the top 100 members by completing only 13 out of the 21 available modules!

The modules cover a wide variety of topics, including Linux execution content, Splunk, cloud security, and Metasploit. Each category lists a difficulty level of foundational, intermediate, or advanced. Try one of the foundational modules to get an idea of how the courses work.

Individual goals can be set and measured by time spent or modules completed each month or week. As you accomplish the goals you set, this section will update automatically to track your progress and reward you when you finish.


Do the Work!

A few of the available modules

A few of the available modules

The next step is to set a goal and start working on the modules! Each module includes hints and solutions if you need them. Comment below with your current goal and ranking on RangeForce!