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Introduction to Cyber Security

Arosha K. Bandara, Terry Burbidge, and Peter Thomson

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more The course does not assume any prior knowledge of computer security and can be enjoyed by anyone interested in improving the security of their digital information. You can use the hashtag #FLcybersec to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Threat landscape: terminology, cyber security threats, keeping up to date
Authentication: access control, passwords, two-factor authentication
Malware: types of malware, attack vectors, preventing infection
Networking and communications: fundamentals, security challenges, standards
Cryptography: symmetric and asymmetric cryptography, applications
Network security: firewalls, virtual private networks, intrusion detection / prevention
When your defences fail: cyber security laws, recovering from attacks
Managing security risks: risk analysis and management

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Reviews summary

Foundational cyber security introduction for beginners

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation and excellent overview of essential cyber security concepts. Many praise how it clearly explains complex topics, making it highly accessible for beginners with no prior knowledge. The course covers a broad range of topics, including threats, authentication, malware, networking, and cryptography. While generally well-received, some students note that certain material feels slightly dated and the course may be too basic for those with existing experience in the field. Overall, it is considered a great starting point for understanding digital security.

May be too basic for experienced learners.

"Was too simple for me, already knew most of it."

"If you have experience in IT or security, this is very basic."

"Perfect if you know nothing, but not for intermediate learners."

"The course assumes no prior knowledge, which is great, but means it starts very simply."

Covers a wide range of security areas.

"I liked the different modules; it touched on so many aspects."

"Gave me a good overview of the cyber landscape."

"The syllabus covers a comprehensive range of security topics."

"Learned about threats, malware, crypto - a bit of everything!"

Complex ideas are explained simply.

"The lectures are clear and easy to follow."

"Complex concepts were explained simply and concisely."

"I appreciated how they broke down technical jargon."

"Made potentially difficult topics very understandable."

Provides a strong base for newcomers.

"Excellent introduction to cybersecurity for beginners."

"It gave me a solid base and understanding of key concepts."

"Perfect for someone starting from scratch. Explanations were simple and concise."

"This course provided me with a great starting point in understanding digital security."

Some material feels slightly dated.

"Felt some parts were older and could use refreshing."

"Could use refresh on current threats and technologies."

"Wish it was more up-to-date with the latest trends."

"Some examples seemed a bit dated, but core concepts are still valid."

Career center

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

Reading list

We've selected 50 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 Security.

Cryptography Made Simple

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Provides a comprehensive overview of authentication systems, from the basics to the most advanced topics. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this complex and challenging field.

Cryptography Made Simple (Information Security and...

Hardcover

Cryptography Made Simple (Information Security and...

Kindle Edition

Applied Network Security Monitoring

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The definitive operational manual for network security monitoring, guiding analysts through packet collection architectures, session data inspection, Zeek transaction logs, and statistical anomaly detection workflows.

Introduction to Cyber Security

Topics Covered

Topics Covered

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Reviews summary

Foundational cyber security introduction for beginners

Career center

Reading list

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