Create a Linux-Based CTF Virtual Machine (Similar to OverTheWire: Bandit)
Budget: $250 – $750 USD
I need an experienced cybersecurity professional or Linux system engineer to develop a CTF-style virtual machine. The VM will be used for training and educational purposes to teach basic to intermediate Linux command-line skills.
Requirements:
- Challenges should focus on Linux command-line skills, networking, and privilege escalation.
- Difficulty should be mixed levels (beginner to intermediate).
- Challenge types should include a combination of:
- File manipulation
- User management
- Hidden files
- Scripting
Ideal Skills and Experience:
- Linux (Ubuntu/Debian-based preferred)
- Bash scripting
- Cybersecurity / CTF challenge design
- Networking basics
- VM packaging and deployment
Deliverables:
- A downloadable .ova or .vmdk virtual machine file compatible with VirtualBox/VMware.
- Pre-configured with a series of at least 20 levels (challenges), each requiring the player to solve one level to access the next.
Each level should:
Be isolated via unique user accounts.
Require command-line interaction to progress.
Include logical progressions in difficulty.
Proper README documentation for setup and admin usage.
Notes:
Inspiration: OverTheWire: Bandit
Clean coding and logical challenge design are essential.
Must be your own work – no copyright violations or reused challenges from other platforms.
About OverTheWire: Bandit:
A well-known beginner-level Capture The Flag (CTF) game designed to teach the basics of Linux command-line usage and cybersecurity principles. Players connect to a remote server via SSH and solve progressively challenging levels that cover file manipulation, permissions, hidden data, networking, and scripting. Each level provides a learning-by-doing experience, requiring the user to apply logical thinking and Linux skills to retrieve the password for the next level.
Let me know if you've worked on similar CTF projects before — links or screenshots will be appreciated!
Requirements:
- Challenges should focus on Linux command-line skills, networking, and privilege escalation.
- Difficulty should be mixed levels (beginner to intermediate).
- Challenge types should include a combination of:
- File manipulation
- User management
- Hidden files
- Scripting
Ideal Skills and Experience:
- Linux (Ubuntu/Debian-based preferred)
- Bash scripting
- Cybersecurity / CTF challenge design
- Networking basics
- VM packaging and deployment
Deliverables:
- A downloadable .ova or .vmdk virtual machine file compatible with VirtualBox/VMware.
- Pre-configured with a series of at least 20 levels (challenges), each requiring the player to solve one level to access the next.
Each level should:
Be isolated via unique user accounts.
Require command-line interaction to progress.
Include logical progressions in difficulty.
Proper README documentation for setup and admin usage.
Notes:
Inspiration: OverTheWire: Bandit
Clean coding and logical challenge design are essential.
Must be your own work – no copyright violations or reused challenges from other platforms.
About OverTheWire: Bandit:
A well-known beginner-level Capture The Flag (CTF) game designed to teach the basics of Linux command-line usage and cybersecurity principles. Players connect to a remote server via SSH and solve progressively challenging levels that cover file manipulation, permissions, hidden data, networking, and scripting. Each level provides a learning-by-doing experience, requiring the user to apply logical thinking and Linux skills to retrieve the password for the next level.
Let me know if you've worked on similar CTF projects before — links or screenshots will be appreciated!