This book explains the details of various hacking techniques, many of which get very technical. While the fundamental programming concepts that these hacking techniques build from are introduced in the book, general programming knowledge will certainly aid the reader in understanding these concepts. 

The code examples in this book were done on an x86-based computer running Linux. Having a similarly set-up computer to follow along is encouraged; this will let you see the results for yourself and allow you to experiment and try new things. 

This is what hacking is all about.