Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career from Coursera

This short course provides cybersecurity professionals and enthusiasts with the latest Generative AI tools to address complex cybersecurity challenges.

The course focuses on combating the exploitation of undetected vulnerabilities for which organizations increasingly turn to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Generative AI, a transformative technology, emerges as a vital cybersecurity tool, detecting and preventing attacks by identifying and neutralizing unknown vulnerabilities before causing significant harm.

The course explores foundational generative AI principles and their application in real-world cybersecurity, encompassing User and Entity Behavior Analytics (UEBA), threat intelligence, report summarization, playbooks, and its impact on phishing, malware, misinformation, and deepfakes. Additionally, participants learn about potential Natural Language Processing (NLP) attack techniques, like prompt injection, and strategies to mitigate them.

The course ensures learners stay updated on the latest trends in using generative AI for cyber defense and threat prediction.

Throughout the course you will be able to apply your knowledge with hands-on labs. Additionally, real-world inspired exercises will help you practice what you have learned.

This course is suitable for both existing cybersecurity professionals who want to enhance their careers, as well as those aspiring to start a career in this field, such as cybersecurity specialists, cybersecurity analysts, cybersecurity engineers, and so on. Cybersecurity skills and basic generative AI knowledge is beneficial for this course.

What's inside

Syllabus

Get Started with Gen AI in Cybersecurity

In this module, you will learn to use generative AI for cybersecurity. First, you will explore the dependencies on training data quality used in generative AI models. You learn to address transparency challenges in Large Language Models (LLMs). The lesson further covers types of cybersecurity analytics and how generative AI enhances cybersecurity analytics, including incident response and forensic analysis. Then, you will learn EDR and SIEM functions for effective threat detection and response. Additionally, you will learn the importance of cybersecurity playbooks for strategic frameworks for incident report summarization using generative AI.

SIEM and SOC Tasks Using Generative AI

In this module, you will learn to use generative AI for cybersecurity. Lesson 1 emphasizes generative AI’s role in automating incident analysis and integrating it into cybersecurity for efficient responses. It discusses how generative AI complements traditional vulnerability management. It includes threat hunting and streamlining incident response communication. The lesson highlights collaborative synergy for a robust defense against evolving cybersecurity threats. Lesson 2 highlights proactive threat detection and generative AI integration for efficient automation. It underscores the significance of generative AI in advancing cybersecurity and shaping the future of threat detection, concluding with QRadar Suite’s capabilities. Lesson 3 discusses the challenges of generative AI, such as risk exploration, ChatGPT management, mass adoption, and privacy concerns. Security oversights risk data and revenue loss, necessitating a security-by-design approach and ethical considerations in cybersecurity.

Final Project and Exam

In this module, you will demonstrate your skills through hands-on exercises. You will develop proficiency in utilizing generative AI for cybersecurity in a given project. The project will have five distinct exercises. In exercise 1, you will explore the capability of a Generative AI platform to detect spam mail. In exercise 2, you will employ generative AI techniques to examine the code structures of malware programs. In exercise 3, you will analyze network logs with generative AI to identify potential security threats. In exercise 4, you will learn generative AI for crafting detailed incident reports, covering the identification, containment, eradication, and recovery phases. In the fifth exercise, you will create a detailed playbook for responding to malware attacks.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Combines cybersecurity with generative AI

Develops skills for cybersecurity specialists, cybersecurity analysts, cybersecurity engineers

Suitable for both existing cybersecurity professionals and those aspiring to start a career in this field

Taught by Rav Ahuja and Dr. Manish Kumar

Explores foundational generative AI principles and their application in real-world cybersecurity

Focuses on combating the exploitation of undetected vulnerabilities

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 Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career with these activities:

Organize your course materials

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Keeping your materials organized from the very beginning will help you avoid having to search for assignments or class notes later on.

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Gather all of your course materials.
Create a filing system to store your materials.
Develop a system for naming your files.
Review your materials regularly.

Compile and organize course materials and notes

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Organize your course materials and notes to enhance your learning and retention of the concepts covered in the course.

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Gather and collate all course materials, including slides, readings, and assignments.
Create a system for organizing the materials, such as folders or a digital notebook.
Take notes during lectures and readings, capturing key concepts and insights.
Regularly review and summarize your notes to reinforce your understanding.

Review the main topics of cybersecurity

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Refreshing your knowledge of the main topics in cybersecurity will make sure that you have a strong foundation to build upon as the course progresses.

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Review your notes from previous cybersecurity courses.
Read articles and books about cybersecurity.
Attend webinars and conferences on cybersecurity.

16 other activities

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Organize and Review Course Materials

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Staying organized is crucial for effective learning. Compiling and reviewing course materials will reinforce understanding, improve retention, and facilitate easy access to important information.

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Gather all course materials
Organize materials into folders or sections
Review materials regularly

Improve your cybersecurity research skills

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Improving your cybersecurity research skills will assist you in finding information more efficiently and effectively.

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Identify your research needs.
Develop a research plan.
Conduct your research.

Explore online tutorials or workshops on generative AI for cybersecurity

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Engage in online tutorials or workshops to expand your practical knowledge and skills in applying generative AI for cybersecurity.

Browse courses on Generative AI

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Identify reputable online platforms or resources offering tutorials on generative AI for cybersecurity.
Select a tutorial that aligns with your learning goals and skill level.
Follow the tutorial instructions and complete the exercises.
Take notes or complete assignments to reinforce your understanding.

Review Generative AI and Machine Learning Concepts

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The course leverages the power of Generative AI and Machine Learning, so reviewing these concepts will aid in comprehension and provide a stronger foundation.

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Read about Generative AI and Machine Learning foundational concepts
Review articles, research papers, or books on these topics
Watch online videos or tutorials

Practice identifying and neutralizing vulnerabilities

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Practice identifying and neutralizing vulnerabilities to solidify your understanding of generative AI techniques.

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Set up a testing environment with known vulnerabilities.
Use generative AI tools to identify and analyze vulnerabilities.
Develop mitigation strategies based on the analysis.
Implement the mitigation strategies to neutralize the vulnerabilities.

Explore Generative AI Tools and Platforms

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The course employs various Generative AI tools and platforms. Exploring these will provide hands-on experience and familiarity, boosting understanding of their capabilities and applications.

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Identify popular Generative AI tools and platforms
Follow tutorials or online courses to learn the basics
Experiment with these tools and platforms to understand their functionalities

Conduct Hands-on Exercises to Detect and Prevent Cyber Attacks

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The course incorporates hands-on exercises. Practicing these exercises will reinforce techniques and enhance proficiency in detecting and preventing cyber attacks.

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Set up a lab environment for practice
Follow the course-provided exercises
Troubleshoot any issues encountered

Participate in Peer Study Groups or Discussion Forums

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Engaging in peer learning fosters a collaborative and supportive environment. Participating in study groups or discussion forums allows for exchanging ideas, asking questions, and reinforcing concepts.

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Join or create a study group
Actively participate in discussions
Ask questions and share insights

Complete cybersecurity exercises and labs

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Completing cybersecurity exercises and labs will assist in developing the skills you need to protect systems and networks from cyberattacks.

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Find online cybersecurity exercises and labs.
Complete the exercises and labs.
Review your results and identify areas for improvement.

Build a cybersecurity solution using generative AI

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Engage in a project to reinforce your understanding and practical application of generative AI in cybersecurity.

Browse courses on Generative AI

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Define the problem statement and objectives of your cybersecurity solution.
Research and select appropriate generative AI techniques for your solution.
Design and implement the solution using generative AI.
Test and evaluate the effectiveness of your solution.
Document your project and share your findings.

Participate in a cybersecurity study group

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Participating in a cybersecurity study group can help you stay motivated and on track with your studies.

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Find a cybersecurity study group to join.
Attend study group meetings.
Participate in study group discussions.

Create a blog post or article on generative AI in cybersecurity

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Create a blog post or article to share your knowledge and understanding of generative AI in cybersecurity and to reinforce your learning.

Browse courses on Generative AI

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Choose a specific topic related to generative AI and cybersecurity.
Research the topic and gather information from reliable sources.
Develop an outline for your blog post or article.
Write the content, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and engaging for readers.
Proofread and edit your content for grammar, spelling, and flow.

Develop a Cybersecurity Playbook Using Generative AI

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The course covers the role of Generative AI in developing cybersecurity playbooks. Creating a playbook will provide practical experience and enhance understanding of this important aspect of cyber defense.

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Gather information on cybersecurity playbooks
Identify potential use cases for Generative AI
Develop a prototype playbook incorporating Generative AI
Review and refine the playbook

Write a blog post about a cybersecurity topic

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Writing a blog post about a cybersecurity topic will strengthen your knowledge of the topic and help you develop your writing skills.

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Choose a cybersecurity topic to write about.
Research your topic.
Write your blog post.
Publish your blog post.

Create a cybersecurity presentation

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Creating a cybersecurity presentation will help you develop your communication and presentation skills.

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Choose a cybersecurity topic to present on.
Research your topic.
Create your presentation.
Practice your presentation.
Deliver your presentation.

Start a cybersecurity project

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Starting a cybersecurity project will give you the opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge to a real-world problem.

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Choose a cybersecurity project to work on.
Develop a plan for your project.
Start working on your project.

Career center

Learners who complete Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. They analyze and monitor security data, identify vulnerabilities, and implement security measures to prevent and mitigate threats. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is highly relevant for Cybersecurity Analysts because it provides them with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI to enhance their cybersecurity practices. The course covers topics such as using generative AI for threat detection and prevention, incident response, and forensic analysis, which are essential skills for Cybersecurity Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Threat Intelligence Analyst

A Threat Intelligence Analyst is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information about cyber threats. They work to identify and assess threats, and to develop strategies to mitigate their impact. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is highly relevant for Threat Intelligence Analysts because it provides them with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI to enhance their threat intelligence practices. The course covers topics such as using generative AI for threat detection and prevention, incident response, and forensic analysis, which are essential skills for Threat Intelligence Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Threat Intelligence Analyst

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's information assets, such as data, applications, and systems, from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is highly relevant for Information Security Analysts because it provides them with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI to enhance their security practices. The course covers topics such as using generative AI for threat detection and prevention, incident response, and forensic analysis, which are essential skills for Information Security Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

AI Engineer

An AI Engineer is a computer scientist or software engineer who designs, develops, and tests AI systems and software. They apply their knowledge of AI principles, algorithms, and techniques to build intelligent systems that can perform tasks such as natural language processing, image recognition, and decision-making. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is a relevant course for AI Engineers because it provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of generative AI, which is a rapidly growing field within AI. By completing this course, AI Engineers can enhance their skills in developing and deploying generative AI models for cybersecurity tasks, such as detecting and preventing cyber threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for AI Engineer

Security Architect

A Security Architect is responsible for designing and implementing an organization's security strategy. They work to protect the organization's assets, including data, applications, systems, and networks, from cyber threats. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is relevant for Security Architects because it provides them with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI to enhance their security practices. The course covers topics such as using generative AI for threat detection and prevention, incident response, and forensic analysis, which are essential skills for Security Architects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect

Machine Learning Engineer

A Machine Learning Engineer is a computer scientist or software engineer who designs, develops, and deploys machine learning models and systems. They apply their knowledge of machine learning principles, algorithms, and techniques to build intelligent systems that can learn from data, make predictions, and perform tasks. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is relevant for Machine Learning Engineers who are interested in applying generative AI to cybersecurity tasks. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Network Security Engineer

A Network Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's network security infrastructure. They work to protect the network from unauthorized access, intrusion, and denial of service attacks. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career is relevant for Network Security Engineers because it provides them with the knowledge and skills to use generative AI to enhance their security practices. The course covers topics such as using generative AI for threat detection and prevention, incident response, and forensic analysis, which are essential skills for Network Security Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Security Engineer

A Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's security infrastructure. They work to protect the organization's assets, including data, applications, systems, and networks, from cyber threats. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Security Engineers who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their security practices. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Web Security Analyst

A Web Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's website and web applications from cyberattacks. They identify and assess vulnerabilities, and implement security measures to prevent and mitigate threats. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Web Security Analysts who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their security practices. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Security Analyst

Security Consultant

A Security Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to protect their assets from cyber threats. They assess security risks, develop security strategies, and implement security solutions. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Security Consultants who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their consulting services. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

Vulnerability Analyst

A Vulnerability Analyst is responsible for identifying and assessing vulnerabilities in an organization's computer systems and networks. They work to prioritize vulnerabilities and to develop strategies to remediate them. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Vulnerability Analysts who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their vulnerability management practices. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Vulnerability Analyst

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist is a professional who uses data to solve problems and make informed decisions. They collect, analyze, and interpret data using statistical and machine learning techniques to identify patterns, trends, and insights. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Data Scientists who are interested in applying generative AI to cybersecurity tasks. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer is a computer scientist or software developer who designs, develops, and maintains software applications. They apply their knowledge of software engineering principles, programming languages, and software development tools to build software that meets the needs of users. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Software Engineers who are interested in applying generative AI to cybersecurity tasks. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Penetration Tester

A Penetration Tester is responsible for evaluating the security of an organization's computer systems and networks by simulating cyberattacks. They identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the system and provide recommendations for remediation. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for Penetration Testers who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their testing practices. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

System Administrator

A System Administrator is responsible for managing and maintaining an organization's computer systems and networks. They ensure that the systems are running smoothly and efficiently, and that they are protected from security threats. Generative AI: Boost Your Cybersecurity Career can be useful for System Administrators who are interested in using generative AI to enhance their system management practices. The course provides a foundation in generative AI principles and their applications in cybersecurity, including threat detection, malware analysis, and incident response.

See salaries and explore the career path for System Administrator