Ethical hacking involves the authorized practice of probing computer systems, networks, and applications to identify security vulnerabilities. Ethical hackers, also known as white-hat hackers, use the same techniques as malicious hackers but do so with permission from the organization to enhance security. Their goal is to find weaknesses before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. This proactive approach helps organizations strengthen their defenses, protect sensitive data, and ensure compliance with regulations. Ethical hacking includes activities like penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and security audits, contributing to a more robust cybersecurity posture.