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