Hi,
I’m Peter Van Eeckhoutte, founder of Corelan, creator of the Corelan Courses, the Corelan Certification Track, and the original author of mona.py — the go-to tool for many Windows exploit developers and vulnerability researchers..
With over two decades of hands-on experience in exploit development, research and training, I’ve dedicated my career to helping security professionals go far beyond surface-level techniques.
My goal has always been simple: to teach people how things really work, and how to build and debug exploits from a place of clarity, control, honesty and deep understanding — not just copy/paste intuition or "do as I say".
Since 2010, I’ve been teaching Corelan Trainings around the world. I’ve trained thousands of students — from independent researchers to members of military, law enforcement, and corporate red teams.
Many walked away saying the training changed how they think, not just how they write exploits.
Back in 2009, I founded the Corelan Team, and started publishing free research on corelan.be, driven by a belief that knowledge should be shared, not hoarded.
Over the years, that research has been quoted in numerous books, featured in countless publications, and has influenced professionals, students, and trainers alike — many of whom have built careers and courses on top of that work.
But Corelan is more than just research and tools. It’s about fostering a culture of depth, curiosity, and integrity — and providing a safe space for people to share, to learn, to ask questions without getting yelled at.
Outside of my professional work, I’m a father — and that remains one of my most important roles. Being present and available for my daughter is a daily reminder of what really matters.
I’m also passionate about photography, fascinated by how light, perspective, and stillness can capture a moment — much like reverse engineering captures the essence of how something works.
When I have the time, I enjoy playing chess, both for the strategy and the quiet focus it demands. It’s a humbling reminder that every move has consequences, just like in exploit development. Feel free to send me an invite on chess.com, you'll find me there as "corelanc0d3r". I'm an amateur player, please be gentle 🙂
I love music, books, fountain pens, and cooking. I see those things not as hobbies, but as ways to reconnect with myself and stay grounded.
There’s also something quietly powerful about writing with a fountain pen. The deliberate act of filling a reservoir, selecting the right ink, and sliding a nib across fragile paper — it slows the world down.
Each stroke reveals the ink’s character: its sheen, shading, flow.
No two lines are exactly the same, and none can be erased.
It’s a small but meaningful ritual in a world obsessed with speed and undo buttons.
Writing this way is not just about words — it’s about presence, intention, and accepting imperfection.
A fountain pen doesn’t tolerate distraction; it invites focus. You become aware of pressure, of angle, of rhythm. It teaches you to leave a mark that is permanent, unapologetic, and uniquely yours.
Much like exploit development, it’s about precision, patience, and letting tools reveal their full potential in skilled hands.
And that brings me to something I consider essential: taking care of your mental health.
The (cybersecurity) world can be intense and high-pressure, and I’ve learned — sometimes the hard way — that pushing through without rest or reflection doesn’t lead anywhere good.
Whether it's a walk, journaling, a slow meal, or asking for help, caring for yourself isn't optional. It's foundational — for doing good work, for showing up for others, and for staying in the game for the long run.
Thanks for stopping by.
— Peter
