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Cybersecurity as a profession is projected to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations.1 Want to break into the field?

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Cybersecurity as a profession is projected to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations.1 Want to break into the field?

This beginner-friendly and asynchronous course will help you jumpstart your cybersecurity career. Engage in an online learning experience tailored to your experience level.

In it, you will learn to think like a cyber pro, at your own pace. Study the key elements of the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and the daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals working in the field today.

Key concepts covered in this course include:

-Cybersecurity

-CIA Triad

-Cryptography

-Plaintext

-Ciphertext

-Encryption

-Decryption

-Cipher

-Key

-Caesar Cipher

-Symmetric encryption

No prior experience or technical installations is required to join or complete this course.

Footnote:

1 Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts. (2022). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. March 14, 2023.

This Try It is offered in support of the Cybersecurity Boot Camp with UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education. If you enroll in this Try It, your learner data will not be shared with UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education unless you enroll in the Cybersecurity Boot Camp.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • -recognize the basics and the importance of cybersecurity.
  • -define and apply the cia triad to different scenarios.
  • -examine cryptography basics and how they apply to cybersecurity.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Lays the groundwork for intermediate learners wishing to strengthen their cybersecurity foundation
Introduces cybersecurity concepts, practices, and tools to prepare learners for entry-level positions in the field
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography basics and their application in cybersecurity
Requires no prior technical knowledge or software installations
Can be accessed at the learner's own pace, allowing for flexible learning

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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 Try It: Cybersecurity Basics with these activities:
CIA Triad
Refresh your knowledge of the CIA Triad by reviewing its principles and how they apply to cybersecurity.
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  • Read up on the CIA Triad using online resources or textbooks to brush up on its key concepts.
  • Take a practice quiz or solve a scenario-based exercise to assess your understanding of the CIA Triad.
Intro to Cryptography
Review the foundational cryptographic concepts before the course begins to ensure you have a solid base for the course
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  • Review the history of cryptography
  • Define key terms like cipher, key, and plaintext
  • Understand the different types of encryption
  • Apply the concepts of cryptography to real-world examples
Caesar Cipher Practice
Sharpen your cryptography skills by practicing the Caesar Cipher, a simple but effective encryption technique.
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Show steps
  • Learn the basics of the Caesar Cipher, including its algorithm and key.
  • Practice encrypting and decrypting messages using the Caesar Cipher.
  • Challenge yourself by solving Caesar Cipher puzzles or quizzes.
11 other activities
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Practice Caesar Cipher
Practice using the Caesar Cipher to strengthen your understanding of cryptography
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Show steps
  • Encrypt and decrypt messages using the Caesar Cipher
  • Use different keys to encrypt and decrypt messages
  • Apply the Caesar Cipher to real-world scenarios
Attend a Cybersecurity Conference
Attend a cybersecurity conference to connect with professionals, learn about industry trends, and expand your knowledge
Browse courses on Cybersecurity
Show steps
  • Research and identify relevant cybersecurity conferences
  • Register and attend the conference
  • Network with attendees and speakers
  • Follow up on connections made at the conference
Cryptography Basics
Enhance your understanding of cryptography by going through guided tutorials and practicing encryption and decryption techniques.
Browse courses on Cryptography
Show steps
  • Find online tutorials or courses on cryptography to learn the basics and different encryption algorithms.
  • Apply your learning by practicing encryption and decryption using tools or online platforms.
  • Engage in discussions or forums to clarify doubts and share knowledge with others.
Cybersecurity Discussion Group
Participate in online or offline discussion groups to engage with fellow learners, share knowledge, and clarify concepts.
Show steps
  • Join or create a study group or online forum dedicated to cybersecurity topics.
  • Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your perspectives.
  • Collaborate on projects or assignments to enhance your learning experience.
Follow Tutorials on Network Security Tools
Follow online tutorials to gain proficiency in using network security tools
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Show steps
  • Identify relevant network security tools
  • Find and follow tutorials on how to use these tools
  • Practice using the tools in a controlled environment
Cybersecurity Glossary
Create a personal glossary of cybersecurity terms to enhance your understanding and retention of key concepts.
Show steps
  • Identify and list relevant cybersecurity terms from the course materials or other resources.
  • Define each term clearly and concisely, providing examples or explanations.
  • Organize the terms alphabetically or by category for easy reference.
Create a Cybersecurity Glossary
Create your own cybersecurity glossary to enhance your understanding of key terms and concepts
Browse courses on Cybersecurity
Show steps
  • Identify and list key cybersecurity terms
  • Define each term clearly and concisely
  • Organize the terms alphabetically or by category
  • Review and revise your glossary regularly
Cybersecurity Capture the Flag
Test your cybersecurity skills and knowledge by participating in Capture the Flag competitions or challenges.
Show steps
  • Find CTF events or platforms that align with your skill level and interests.
  • Participate in challenges related to cryptography, network security, or other cybersecurity domains.
  • Collaborate with others or compete individually to solve puzzles and capture flags.
Network Security Essentials: Applications and Standards
Read this book as a supplementary reference to gain a deeper understanding of network security
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on cryptography and network security
  • Take notes on the key concepts and applications
  • Apply the knowledge gained to the course content
Build a Home Security System
Build a home security system to gain practical experience in applying cybersecurity principles
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Show steps
  • Design the system architecture
  • Select and configure hardware and software components
  • Implement security measures to protect the system
  • Test and evaluate the system's effectiveness
Design a Cybersecurity Incident Response Plan
Create a comprehensive cybersecurity incident response plan to demonstrate your ability to respond effectively to cyber threats
Browse courses on Cybersecurity
Show steps
  • Identify potential cybersecurity threats
  • Define roles and responsibilities for incident response
  • Develop procedures for detecting, responding, and recovering from incidents
  • Test and evaluate the plan regularly

Career center

Learners who complete Try It: Cybersecurity Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts implement cybersecurity plans and procedures to protect an organization's computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. Daily responsibilities include recommending safeguards and reviewing the effectiveness of implemented safeguards. This course will help you build a foundation in cybersecurity by introducing you to the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and the daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. With this knowledge, you'll be better prepared to excel in this role.
Cybersecurity Analyst
A Cybersecurity Analyst monitors and maintains an organization's computer systems and networks to protect against cyberattacks. To do this, they analyze data, investigate cyberattacks, and develop solutions to prevent future attacks. This course introduces you to the key elements of cybersecurity, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. With this foundational knowledge, you'll be better prepared for the daily challenges of working as a Cybersecurity Analyst.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors are responsible for evaluating an organization's computer systems and networks to ensure that they are secure and compliant with security regulations. This role involves planning and performing audits, and reporting on audit findings. This course is a valuable starting point for aspiring IT Auditors, as it will introduce you to key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Security Consultant
Security Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on cybersecurity matters. They help organizations to develop and implement cybersecurity plans and procedures, and to respond to cyberattacks. This course may be helpful for aspiring Security Consultants, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. This knowledge will provide a solid base to build upon.
Computer Forensics Analyst
Computer Forensics Analysts investigate computer systems and networks that have been compromised by cyberattacks. They recover and analyze digital evidence to determine the scope of the attack and identify the attackers. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career as a Computer Forensics Analyst, as it covers key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. This foundation can aid you in understanding the investigative process and digital evidence analysis in this field.
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures to protect an organization's computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They work closely with other IT professionals to ensure that security measures are aligned with business objectives. This course may be helpful for aspiring Security Engineers, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security measures to protect an organization's computer networks from cyberattacks. They work closely with other IT professionals to ensure that security measures are aligned with business objectives. This course may be helpful for aspiring Network Security Engineers, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Cryptographer
Cryptographers develop and implement cryptographic algorithms and protocols to protect data from unauthorized access. This role requires expertise in mathematics and computer science. This course will provide a good foundation for those seeking a career in cryptography, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including cryptography basics, as well as daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Testers simulate cyberattacks on an organization's computer systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses. This helps organizations to improve their cybersecurity posture and prevent real-world attacks. This course may be helpful for aspiring Penetration Testers, as it covers key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. This foundation can help you understand the methodologies used in penetration testing.
Malware Analyst
Malware Analysts investigate and analyze malware to understand how it works and how to protect against it. This role requires technical expertise and an in-depth understanding of malware. This course may be helpful for aspiring Malware Analysts, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals. This foundational knowledge can aid in understanding the techniques used in malware analysis.
Security Operations Center Analyst
Security Operations Center Analysts monitor and respond to security incidents. This role requires expertise in cybersecurity and incident response. This course may be helpful for aspiring Security Operations Center Analysts, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Security Architect
Security Architects design and implement security architectures to protect an organization's computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. This role requires expertise in cybersecurity and IT architecture. This course may be helpful for those seeking a career as a Security Architect, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Data Security Analyst
Data Security Analysts protect an organization's data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This role requires expertise in data security and data protection regulations. This course may be helpful for aspiring Data Security Analysts, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Cloud Security Engineer
Cloud Security Engineers design and implement security measures to protect cloud-based systems and data. This role requires expertise in cloud computing and cybersecurity. This course may be helpful for aspiring Cloud Security Engineers, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.
Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst
Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts collect and analyze information about cyber threats to help organizations protect themselves from attacks. This role requires expertise in cybersecurity and intelligence analysis. This course may be helpful for aspiring Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts, as it introduces key cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA Triad, cryptography basics, and daily responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals.

Reading list

We've selected eight 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 Try It: Cybersecurity Basics.
Is the official study guide for the CISSP certification exam. It comprehensive resource that covers all of the topics that are tested on the exam.
This comprehensive textbook that covers all aspects of cryptography and network security. It good reference for students and professionals who want to learn more about these topics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of network security. It covers a wide range of topics, including network security protocols, encryption, and intrusion detection.
Provides insights into the psychology of social engineering attacks. It good read for anyone who wants to learn how to protect themselves from these attacks.
Provides a practical introduction to hacking. It covers a wide range of topics, including network reconnaissance, exploitation, and malware analysis.
Is the official study guide for the Security+ certification exam. It good resource for beginners who want to learn more about network security.
Provides a non-technical introduction to cybersecurity. It good resource for beginners who want to learn more about cybersecurity without getting bogged down in technical details.

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