A shell account of some kind. Usualy people just install Linux
in our days, but normal shell account will do. Just make sure you
can run basic programs like: nslookup, host, dig, ping, traceroute,
telnet, ssh, ftp etc. Also make sure it has GCC installed and other
dev tools, so you could compile stuff. Also helps having tools like
NMAP and NetCat. Last thing you need is exploits.

* Shell account is similar to your DOS shell, except it has different
commands and functions. Where you could get one? Your friend who has
Linux or something installed could give you a log on to his box or
maybe your ISP provides you with a shell (i doubt that very much)

* Linux is an operating system that most hackers/crackers use

* NMAP is an advanced port-scanner

* NetCat is a telnet like proggy which allows you to stream data to
specific host

* Exploits different programs, writen mainly in C, which do all the
work for you. Exploits are the progs that break into computer for
you. Where to find them? Well thats easy! http://www.hack.co.za

Weeellll... all the things above is all you need to brek into some
network! Basicaly all u need is:

a) Linux http://www.slackware.com
b) Nmap http://www.insecure.org
c) NetCat http://www.l0pht.com/~weld/netcat/
d) Exploits http://www.hack.co.za
e) Informations http://www.astalavista.net/