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Specialized Hunts

Threat Hunting within Virtual Machines

Brandon DeVault

VMs are part of the environment in which an adversary can operate. This course will teach you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs.

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VMs are part of the environment in which an adversary can operate. This course will teach you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs.

The surface area that an adversary can operate on includes a virtual one. In this course, Specialized Hunts: Threat Hunting within Virtual Machines, you’ll learn to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt. First, you’ll explore the security concerns and threats of VMs. Next, you’ll discover how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios. Finally, you’ll learn how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. When you finish this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of a specialized threat hunter needed to defend against advanced adversaries.

This course is no longer available. Find something similar by browsing:
Threat Hunting Virtual Machines Malware Analysis Incident Response Security Operations Hypothesis Generation Cyber Threat Intelligence

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
Virtual Scenario
Hunting for a Hypothesis
Hunting Hackers in Virtual Space
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides real-world skills for hunting threats within virtual machines, a key environment for adversaries to target
Taught by industry expert Brandon DeVault, strengthening the course's credibility
Provides a practical approach to specialized threat hunting, catering to experienced security professionals
Utilizes a multi-modal approach with videos, readings, and discussions, enhancing learning engagement
Explores cutting-edge techniques for detecting malicious activities in virtual environments, giving learners an edge in advanced threat hunting

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Reviews summary

Threat hunting in virtual machines

According to the course description, students can expect to gain highly specialized and practical skills in threat hunting within virtual environments. Learners will find a structured methodology for building hypotheses and identifying malicious techniques. This course appears designed to equip cybersecurity professionals with actionable knowledge to defend against advanced adversaries, focusing on the unique challenges within virtual machines. It is likely beneficial for those seeking to enhance their expertise in a niche and critical area of cybersecurity.
Teaches a methodical approach to identifying and addressing threats.
"The focus on 'building a hypothesis' appeals to me, as it implies a systematic approach."
"I appreciate the proposed structure from scenario to follow-on and recovery, providing a complete framework."
"It looks like this course will provide a clear, step-by-step method for conducting threat hunts."
Emphasizes hands-on techniques for real-world application.
"I expect to learn how to 'set up and perform' actual threat hunts, indicating practical application."
"The course description suggests a focus on actionable skills for defending against adversaries."
"I'm hoping for demonstrations and practical scenarios to apply these hunting techniques immediately."
Delves into a specific, high-demand area of cybersecurity.
"I'm specifically looking for a deep dive into threat hunting within virtual machines, which this course promises."
"It seems to offer expertise in a very specialized and relevant field of cybersecurity operations."
"I anticipate gaining valuable skills in a crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of modern threat detection."
Likely requires a foundational understanding of cybersecurity and VMs.
"As a 'specialized' course, I anticipate needing prior knowledge of VMs and general cybersecurity concepts."
"It seems more suited for those with existing security experience rather than absolute beginners."
"I expect to be familiar with basic virtualization and network concepts to get the most out of it."

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 Specialized Hunts: Threat Hunting within Virtual Machines with these activities:
Review foundational security concepts
Review core security concepts that apply to virtual machines.
Browse courses on VMware
Show steps
  • Review basic VM security controls
  • Identify common VM security threats
  • Consider attacker TTPs in the context of VMs
Attend industry meetups or conferences focused on threat hunting
Offers opportunities to connect with experts in the field, learn about best practices, and expand your professional network.
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant industry events.
  • Register for the event and prepare your elevator pitch.
  • Engage with speakers, attendees, and potential mentors.
Share your expertise by mentoring other security professionals
Solidify your understanding by helping others learn about VM threat hunting.
Browse courses on VMware
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to share your knowledge with others
  • Prepare materials and resources to support your mentoring activities
  • Mentoring others on VM security threat hunting techniques
11 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 14 activities
Review computer security fundamentals
Reinforces your existing knowledge on computer security, making it easier to absorb new information in the course.
Browse courses on Computer Security
Show steps
  • Review notes or textbooks from previous computer security courses.
  • Complete practice questions or quizzes to test your understanding.
Attend Virtual Security Conferences
Expand your knowledge and network with industry professionals by attending virtual security conferences focusing on threat hunting in virtual environments.
Show steps
  • Research and identify upcoming virtual security conferences relevant to threat hunting.
  • Register and attend the selected conferences.
  • Participate in presentations, workshops, and panel discussions.
  • Connect with speakers, attendees, and potential mentors.
Work through VM security scenarios
Sharpen your ability to identify and respond to VM security threats.
Browse courses on VMware
Show steps
  • Simulate a real-world VM security incident
  • Analyze VM logs for suspicious activity
  • Use VM tools to detect and mitigate security threats
Analyze virtual machine logs
Strengthens your ability to identify suspicious activities and patterns in virtual machine logs.
Browse courses on Virtual Machine
Show steps
  • Collect virtual machine logs from various sources.
  • Use log analysis tools or scripts to parse and analyze the logs.
  • Identify and interpret patterns, anomalies, or suspicious activities.
Follow tutorials on advanced threat hunting techniques
Provides hands-on experience and exposure to cutting-edge threat hunting methods.
Browse courses on Threat Hunting
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources for advanced threat hunting tutorials.
  • Follow step-by-step instructions to implement and test the techniques.
  • Experiment with different scenarios and refine your approach.
Develop a Virtual Threat Hunting Lab
Deepen your understanding of threat hunting by designing and implementing a simulated virtual environment for practice and experimentation.
Browse courses on Virtual Environment Security
Show steps
  • Design the architecture and infrastructure of your virtual threat hunting lab.
  • Deploy the necessary virtual machines, network components, and security tools.
  • Configure the lab to simulate real-world threat scenarios.
  • Document the setup and configuration of your lab for future reference and sharing.
Step through advanced VM threat hunting techniques
Enhance your skills in detecting and hunting for advanced security threats in virtual environments.
Browse courses on VMware
Show steps
  • Understand the process of hunting for threats in virtual environments
  • Apply advanced threat hunting techniques to VM environments
  • Identify, triage, and respond to VM security incidents
Conduct a simulated threat hunt in a virtual environment
Provides a practical and immersive experience in conducting threat hunts within virtual machines.
Show steps
  • Set up a virtual environment with necessary tools and resources.
  • Define a realistic threat scenario and objectives.
  • Conduct the threat hunt using various techniques and methodologies.
  • Document the findings and recommendations for remediation.
Develop a VM security incident response plan
Codify your threat hunting knowledge into a structured incident response plan.
Browse courses on VMware
Show steps
  • Identify potential VM security threats and vulnerabilities
  • Establish a process for detecting and responding to VM security incidents
  • Document the incident response plan and communicate it to key stakeholders
Provide Mentorship to Aspiring Threat Hunters
Reinforce your understanding and support the community by sharing your knowledge and experience with aspiring threat hunters.
Browse courses on Knowledge Sharing
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor individuals interested in threat hunting.
  • Establish a regular schedule for mentoring sessions.
  • Share your expertise on threat hunting techniques and resources.
  • Provide feedback and guidance on their progress and challenges.
Contribute to open-source threat hunting tools or frameworks
Enhances your understanding of threat hunting techniques and allows you to give back to the community.
Browse courses on Security Frameworks
Show steps
  • Identify open-source threat hunting projects that align with your interests.
  • Review the project's documentation and codebase.
  • Make code contributions, suggest improvements, or report bugs.

Career center

Learners who complete Specialized Hunts: Threat Hunting within Virtual Machines will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Threat Hunter
A Threat Hunter is responsible for proactively detecting and investigating potential threats to an organization's IT infrastructure. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Threat Hunter.
See salaries and explore the career path for Threat Hunter
Security Analyst
A Security Analyst is responsible for monitoring and analyzing security logs and events to detect and respond to potential threats. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Security Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst
Virtualization Security Engineer
A Virtualization Security Engineer is responsible for securing virtualized environments and protecting them from threats. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Virtualization Security Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Virtualization Security Engineer
Incident Responder
An Incident Responder is responsible for responding to and investigating security incidents. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as an Incident Responder.
See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder
Cloud Security Engineer
A Cloud Security Engineer is responsible for securing cloud-based environments and protecting them from threats. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Cloud Security Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Engineer
Network Security Engineer
A Network Security Engineer is responsible for securing and maintaining network infrastructure. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Network Security Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining computer systems. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Systems Engineer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer
Software Developer
A Software Developer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Software Developer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer
Penetration Tester
A Penetration Tester is responsible for identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities in computer systems. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Penetration Tester.
See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to support decision-making. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Data Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Information Security Manager
An Information Security Manager is responsible for developing and implementing an organization's information security program. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as an Information Security Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Manager
IT Manager
An IT Manager is responsible for managing an organization's IT infrastructure and resources. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as an IT Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining database systems. This course can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in this role by teaching you how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs. You'll learn how to build a hypothesis based on real scenarios, and how to hunt for malicious techniques by an adversary using VMs. This course can help you build the foundation you need to succeed as a Database Administrator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator
Project Manager
A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and managing projects. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Project Manager, as it can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this role. You'll learn how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs, which can be helpful for identifying and mitigating risks to projects.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Business Analyst
A Business Analyst is responsible for analyzing and improving business processes. This course may be useful for you if you are interested in a career as a Business Analyst, as it can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this role. You'll learn how to set up and perform a specialized threat hunt within VMs, which can be helpful for identifying and mitigating risks to business processes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Reading list

We've selected nine 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 Specialized Hunts: Threat Hunting within Virtual Machines.
Cover image
Windows Internals, Part 2
Save
This comprehensive book provides a deep dive into the inner workings of Windows operating systems, offering valuable insights for threat hunters who want to understand the underlying infrastructure.
Windows Internals, Part 2 (Developer Reference)
Paperback
$$
Windows Internals, Part 2 (Developer Reference)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Security Engineering
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of mobile application security. It covers a variety of topics, including mobile application vulnerabilities, attacks, and defenses.
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building...
Hardcover
$$
Personal Medical Information: Security, Engineering...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building...
Paperback
$$$
Security Engineering, 2ed
Paperback
$$
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Hardcover
$$$$
Security Engineering: A Guide to Building (text...
Unknown Binding
$$$$
Cover image
CUCKOO'S EGG
Save
This classic book provides a fascinating account of a real-world cyber espionage case, offering valuable insights into the motivations and techniques of adversaries.
CUCKOO'S EGG
Kindle Edition
$$
High-Tech Heretic: Reflections of a Computer...
Paperback
$$
Silicon Snake Oil: Second Thoughts on the...
Paperback
$$
(日本語) The Cuckoo's Egg: Tracking a Spy Through the Mazeof...
Tankobon Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Cloud Security and Privacy
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud security. It covers a variety of topics, including cloud security architecture, threats, and countermeasures.
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Paperback
$$
Cloud Security and Privacy: An Enterprise...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Save
This classic text provides a solid foundation in hacking principles, complementing the course's emphasis on adversarial techniques.
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Paperback
$$
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Synthetic Media, Deepfakes, and Cyber Deception
Save
This guide to malware forensics complements the course's focus on threat hunting by providing a deep dive into analyzing malicious software.
Synthetic Media, Deepfakes, and Cyber Deception:...
Paperback
$$$$
Synthetic Media, Deepfakes, and Cyber Deception:...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Network Security, Firewalls and VPNs
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity. It covers a variety of topics, including cybersecurity threats, risks, and security controls.
Network Security, Firewalls, and VPNs (Issa)
Paperback
$$$
Network Security, Firewalls and Vpns Bundle. (Jones...
Paperback
$$$
Network Security, Firewalls, and VPNs (Issa)
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Hacker Playbook 3
Save
This practical guide offers insights into penetration testing techniques, enhancing the course's exploration of adversarial methods.
The Hacker Playbook 3: Practical Guide To...
Paperback
$$
The Hacker Playbook 3: Practical Guide To...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of Deception
Save
Provides insights into the human element of security. It covers a variety of techniques that can be used to deceive people and gain access to information.
The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element...
Hardcover
$$
The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Time
38 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Pluralsight
Instructor
Brandon DeVault
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides real-world skills for hunting threats within virtual machines, a key environment for adversaries to target
Taught by industry expert Brandon DeVault, strengthening the course's credibility
Provides a practical approach to specialized threat hunting, catering to experienced security professionals
Utilizes a multi-modal approach with videos, readings, and discussions, enhancing learning engagement
Explores cutting-edge techniques for detecting malicious activities in virtual environments, giving learners an edge in advanced threat hunting
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