overthewire

OverTheWire (OTW) is an online platform that hosts cybersecurity wargames and training labs designed to teach information security concepts through hands-on exercises. The site provides multiple game series that cover a range of topics, including Linux command-line proficiency, cryptography, reverse engineering, binary exploitation, and web security. It is maintained by a community of volunteers and geared toward safe, legal learning in controlled environments.

The core learning model presents challenges as levels within series. A typical interaction involves connecting to a remote host (often via SSH in many levels) or using a local test environment, performing tasks to reveal a password or key, which unlocks the next level. The flagship beginner track, Bandit, emphasizes basic Linux commands and file access, guiding newcomers through increasing difficulty. Other series escalate the complexity to include more advanced security concepts and techniques.

OTW emphasizes ethical hacking and legality, with challenges intended to be performed only within the provided environments. The platform is widely used by individuals, students, defense professionals, and educational groups for practice, competition preparation, and peer learning. The site also hosts documentation, level descriptions, and community resources such as write-ups and discussions to help learners navigate the challenges.