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Introduction to Cyber Attacks

This course provides learners with a baseline understanding of common cyber security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks. An overview of how basic cyber attacks are constructed and applied to real systems is also included. Examples include simple Unix kernel hacks, Internet worms, and Trojan horses in software utilities. Network attacks such as distributed denial of service (DDOS) and botnet- attacks are also described and illustrated using real examples from the past couple of decades.

Familiar analytic models are outlined such as the confidentiality/integrity/availability (CIA) security threat framework, and examples are used to illustrate how these different types of threats can degrade real assets. The course also includes an introduction to basic cyber security risk analysis, with an overview of how threat-asset matrices can be used to prioritize risk decisions. Threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks are examined and mapped in the context of system security engineering methodologies.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction to Cyber Security

This module provides exposure to basic cyber security concepts including some simple, foundational attack methods.

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what should give you pause

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Examines common cyber security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks, providing a baseline understanding

Uses real-life examples to illustrate cyber attack construction and application, making concepts relatable

Covers basic cyber security risk analysis, introducing threat-asset matrices for prioritizing risk decisions

Includes real examples of intense cyber attacks over the past decade, such as worms and DDOS attacks

Outlines familiar analytic models like the confidentiality/integrity/availability (CIA) security threat framework

Introduces basic engineering and analysis methods for managing cyber security risk to valued assets

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Reviews summary

Foundational intro to cyber attacks

According to learners, the Introduction to Cyber Attacks course offers a solid foundation for individuals new to the field. Many found that it explains core concepts like the CIA model and risk analysis clearly and effectively simplified complex ideas. The course structure is generally well-regarded, with a focus on foundational knowledge. However, a significant portion of reviewers felt the course was too basic and lacked technical depth, particularly if they were seeking practical skills or had some prior IT experience. Some mentioned that examples of attacks felt dated. Overall, the course is highly recommended for beginners but may be superficial for those looking for advanced or hands-on learning.

The course is more theoretical than practical.

"It's very theoretical."

"Didn't feel like it prepared me for practical work."

"Found this superficial."

Concepts and frameworks are explained effectively.

"Explains core concepts like CIA and risk matrices clearly."

"Simplified complex ideas effectively."

"Explanations are easy to grasp."

"CIA model explanation was thorough."

Excellent starting point for those new to the field.

"Perfect for a beginner."

"Highly recommend for beginners."

"As someone brand new to the field, this was exactly what I needed."

"Provides a solid foundation."

"Assumes zero prior knowledge, which was helpful for me."

Some attack examples feel old or not current.

"Some examples felt a bit dated..."

"The examples were from years ago."

"Wish it had more on modern attack techniques..."

"The examples are basic and the pace is slow."

Insufficient detail for advanced or technical learners.

"I was hoping for more hands-on examples or technical detail."

"Disappointing. Too basic and lacks depth."

"Wish it had more on modern attack techniques..."

"Found this superficial; if you already know basic IT concepts, skip it."

"Didn't feel like it prepared me for practical work."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Cyber Attacks with these activities:

Review Unix/Linux commands for file management and system administration

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Refreshes fundamental Unix/Linux commands used in cybersecurity, ensuring a solid foundation for understanding system security concepts.

Browse courses on Unix

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Review basic Unix/Linux commands for file management (e.g., ls, cp, mv, rm).
Refresh commands for system administration (e.g., user management, package installation).

Review 'Introduction to Computer Security' by Matt Bishop

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Introduces fundamental computer security concepts and frameworks, enhancing understanding of basic threats, vulnerabilities, and risks covered in the course.

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Read chapters 1-3 and make concise notes on key concepts.
Review the provided security frameworks and models.

Participate in a study group to discuss real-world security incidents

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Facilitates discussions among peers on the nature, impact, and response strategies of security incidents, enhancing analytical and critical thinking skills.

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Find or create a study group with fellow course participants.
Select real-world security incidents for discussion and analysis.

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Complete practice exercises on OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities

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Reinforces understanding of common web application vulnerabilities discussed in the course by providing hands-on practice in identifying and addressing them.

Browse courses on Web Application Security

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Visit OWASP website and select the Top 10 Vulnerabilities page.
Choose an exercise related to a vulnerability covered in the course.
Follow the instructions and complete the exercise.

Follow tutorials on Security Onion

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Provides hands-on experience with a security analysis tool, allowing students to apply the concepts learned in the course to a practical scenario.

Browse courses on Security Tools

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Install Security Onion following official documentation.
Follow tutorials on configuring and using specific features of Security Onion.

Create a presentation on a specific cyber security threat or vulnerability

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Encourages in-depth exploration of a specific threat or vulnerability, fostering a deeper understanding of its technical details, impact, and mitigation strategies.

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Select a cyber security threat or vulnerability to research.
Gather information from credible sources (e.g., academic papers, industry reports).

Organize and review course notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams

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Enhances retention and understanding by providing opportunities to revisit and reinforce key course concepts through organized materials.

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Gather all course notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams.
Organize materials in a logical and easily accessible manner.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Cyber Attacks will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst's main function is to assess, mitigate, and remedy security risks, ensuring that information systems are adequately protected and managed. Besides managing vulnerabilities, Security Analysts are also responsible for deploying security solutions that comply with federal, state, and industry regulations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Cybersecurity Engineer

A Cybersecurity Engineer shoulders the responsibilities of protecting and defending computer networks and systems. These engineers are tasked with implementing and maintaining security measures, securing against vulnerabilities, staying on top of new threats, as well as responding to and recovering from security breaches and incidents.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Engineer

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for monitoring and analyzing an organization's computer systems for security breaches. This course can be helpful to Cybersecurity Analysts because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Penetration Tester

A Penetration Tester is responsible for testing the security of an organization's computer systems. This course can be helpful to Penetration Testers because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Information Security Engineer

An Information Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing security solutions for an organization's computer systems. This course can be helpful to Security Engineers because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Engineer

Security Consultant

A Security Consultant is employed to provide expert advice and guidance to organizations on security matters. Consultants are brought in to assess risks, develop security strategies, and implement security controls. They also help organizations prepare for and respond to security incidents.

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Security Manager

Working at the managerial level, a Security Manager is accountable for coordinating and administering security programs, ensuring that security measures are in place, serving as first responders to incidents, and reporting to key stakeholders.

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Security Researcher

A Security Researcher is responsible for researching and developing new security technologies. This course may be helpful to Security Researchers because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Researcher

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst is responsible for assessing and managing risks to an organization's computer systems. This course can be helpful to Risk Analysts because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Computer Systems Analyst

A Computer Systems Analyst assesses risks and vulnerabilities within an organization's computer systems. This course can be helpful to Systems Analysts because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Security Architect

A Security Architect designs and implements security solutions. This course can be helpful to Security Architects because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect

Security Auditor

A Security Auditor is responsible for assessing and reporting on the security of an organization's computer systems. This course can be helpful to Security Auditors because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Auditor

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. This course can be helpful to Network Administrators because it provides a good foundation for understanding cyber security threats and how to protect against them.

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Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

A Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an expert in information security. CISSPs are responsible for designing, implementing, and managing security programs, as well as auditing and assessing security risks. This course may be helpful to those seeking CISSP certification, as it provides a good foundation for understanding the concepts covered on the CISSP exam.

See salaries and explore the career path for Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer may play a role in securing an organization's systems. While not the primary focus, Software Engineers are often responsible for writing and implementing secure code, as well as testing and deploying software updates. This course may assist Software Engineers in building a foundation for understanding the threats their software may face and how to protect against them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Introduction to Cyber Attacks.