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Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations

Keatron Evans

Most introductory or beginner level cybersecurity courses are not truly beginner level. Most of them assume some level of technical competence and expect that cybersecurity is not your first technical job role. However, as I've successfully mentored people coming from fields such as nursing, aviation (an airline pilot!), and real estate, I've learned that these people are underserved as far a true introduction. This Learning Path is an answer to that gap.

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Syllabus

Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations
This course is an introductory cybersecurity path for people who have not been exposed to cybersecurity concepts in the workplace before. In these courses, a cybersecurity professional will walk the student through foundational concepts, commands and tools.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops fundamental cybersecurity concepts, preparing learners for further study in the field
Suitable for beginners with no prior cybersecurity knowledge
Covers foundational networking and cloud computing concepts, providing a comprehensive overview
Taught by experienced cybersecurity professional Keatron Evans

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Reviews summary

Foundational cybersecurity for true beginners

According to students, this course excels as a true beginner-friendly introduction to cybersecurity, successfully filling a gap for those with no prior technical background. Learners particularly appreciate its focus on foundational concepts, including cybersecurity fundamentals, network basics, and an initial dive into cloud computing. While praised for its accessibility, some learners with existing technical knowledge might find the content less in-depth than desired. Overall, it serves as a solid starting point for career changers and lifelong learners new to the field.
Provides essential groundwork in key cybersecurity areas.
"The cybersecurity, network, and cloud fundamentals covered are crucial for understanding the field."
"I feel much more confident in basic networking and how it relates to cybersecurity after taking this."
"This course fills the gap of basic concepts often missed in other 'introductory' courses."
Perfect for those new to tech and cybersecurity.
"This course is exactly what I needed as someone completely new to tech; it doesn't assume any prior knowledge."
"Coming from a non-technical background, I finally found a cybersecurity course that truly starts from scratch."
"I appreciated how the instructor broke down complex ideas into easily digestible concepts, making it accessible."
Primarily theoretical, with less practical application.
"I wish there were more practical labs or exercises to reinforce the concepts taught in the lectures."
"The course is great conceptually, but I'd love more opportunities to apply what I learned in a simulated environment."
"More hands-on examples would make the learning stick even better for new learners."
May be too basic for those with prior technical experience.
"While good for absolute beginners, I found some sections too slow-paced given my existing IT background."
"I was hoping for more technical deep dives, but it stayed very high-level for my taste and current knowledge."
"If you already know the basics of networking or cloud computing, much of this might feel like review."

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 Cybersecurity Foundations with these activities:
Connect with Cybersecurity Professionals
Expand your network and gain valuable insights from experienced cybersecurity professionals
Show steps
  • Identify cybersecurity professionals in your local area or online through platforms like LinkedIn
  • Reach out to them via email or social media, introducing yourself and expressing your interest in connecting
  • Request informational interviews or mentorship opportunities to learn from their experiences and perspectives
Intro to Cloud Computing Concepts
Sharpen your understanding of cloud computing principles to strengthen your foundation before starting the course
Browse courses on Cloud Computing
Show steps
  • Review the fundamental concepts of cloud computing, including its benefits, drawbacks, and service models
  • Explore different types of cloud services, such as IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, and their use cases
  • Learn about cloud deployment models, such as public, private, and hybrid clouds, and their advantages and disadvantages
  • Practice setting up and managing basic cloud infrastructure using a cloud platform
Cybersecurity Study Group or Discussion Forum
Deepen your understanding and engage with fellow learners by participating in regular study sessions or online discussions
Show steps
  • Join or start a study group with other students enrolled in the course or interested in cybersecurity
  • Meet regularly to discuss course materials, share knowledge, and work through problems together
  • Participate in online forums or discussion boards dedicated to cybersecurity topics
  • Engage with others by asking questions, sharing insights, and providing support
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Cybrary cybersecurity fundamentals tutorial
Review fundamental cybersecurity concepts and strengthen your understanding of the field by following this in-depth tutorial.
Browse courses on Cybersecurity Basics
Show steps
  • Sign up for a Cybrary account and navigate to the cybersecurity fundamentals course.
  • Watch the introductory videos and read the accompanying materials.
  • Complete the interactive exercises and quizzes to test your understanding.
  • Join the Cybrary community to connect with other learners and engage in discussions.
  • Apply the concepts you learn to real-world scenarios.
Explore Cybersecurity Tools and Resources
Familiarize yourself with essential cybersecurity tools and resources to enhance your practical knowledge
Browse courses on Cybersecurity Tools
Show steps
  • Research and identify different types of cybersecurity tools available, such as network scanners, vulnerability scanners, and intrusion detection systems
  • Find online tutorials or courses that provide hands-on experience with specific cybersecurity tools
  • Practice using these tools in a simulated environment or test lab to gain practical experience
Cybersecurity Awareness Poster or Presentation
Enhance your communication and teaching skills by creating a cybersecurity awareness resource for your community
Browse courses on Cybersecurity Awareness
Show steps
  • Choose a specific cybersecurity topic or issue that you want to address in your poster or presentation
  • Research and gather information from credible sources to support your content
  • Design and create your poster or presentation using visually appealing and easy-to-understand language
  • Present or share your poster or presentation with your peers, family, or community members
Network Security Practice Problems
Reinforce your understanding of network security concepts through practical exercises and problem-solving
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • Identify online platforms or repositories that offer network security practice problems or challenges
  • Attempt to solve these problems on your own, referring to course materials and other resources as needed
  • Review your solutions, identify areas of improvement, and seek guidance from the course instructor or online forums
Virtual machine cybersecurity lab
Gain hands-on experience in a safe and controlled environment by setting up and configuring a virtual machine for cybersecurity testing.
Show steps
  • Install a virtualization software such as VirtualBox or VMware on your computer.
  • Download a pre-built cybersecurity virtual machine image.
  • Configure the virtual machine settings and network interfaces.
  • Use the virtual machine to practice vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, and other cybersecurity techniques.
  • Document your findings and share your results with others.
Build a Home Network with Security Features
Apply your cybersecurity knowledge by designing and implementing a secure home network
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • Plan the layout and topology of your home network, considering security best practices
  • Select and configure appropriate network devices, such as a router, firewall, and access points
  • Implement security measures, such as strong passwords, encryption, and intrusion prevention systems
  • Test the security of your network using tools like network scanners and vulnerability assessment tools
  • Document your project, including the design, implementation, and testing results

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Security operations center (SOC) analysts monitor and analyze security events and respond to security incidents in an organization's security operations center (SOC). A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ can help you learn the necessary skills to succeed in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Security Tester
Security testers assess the security of an organization's computer networks and systems by conducting penetration tests and vulnerability assessments. They also recommend corrective actions to improve security. A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ può aiutarti a stabilire un livello per un ruolo come Penetration Tester.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Tester
Cloud Security Engineer
Cloud security engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures for cloud computing environments. They also monitor and analyze cloud traffic and respond to security incidents. This course may help someone with no experience in cybersecurity learn the fundamental concepts that are not usually covered in other courses and bootcamps. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ also builds from the Network Fundamentals portion of the learning path and can therefore be quite relevant.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Network security engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures for computer networks. They also monitor and analyze network traffic and respond to security incidents. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ may help somebody with no experience in cybersecurity learn the fundamental concepts that are not usually covered in other courses and bootcamps.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Security Manager
Security managers oversee the security of an organization's computer networks and systems. They also develop and implement security policies and procedures. A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ can help you lay a foundation for a role as a Security Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Manager
Vulnerability Manager
Vulnerability managers identify, assess, and prioritize vulnerabilities in an organization's computer networks and systems. They also track and manage the remediation of these vulnerabilities. A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ may help you learn basic cybersecurity concepts and how to apply these in your role as a Vulnerability Manager.
See salaries and explore the career path for Vulnerability Manager
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Chief information security officers (CISOs) are responsible for the overall security of an organization's information assets. They develop and implement security policies and procedures, and oversee the security of the organization's computer networks and systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Data protection officers (DPOs) are responsible for ensuring that an organization complies with data protection laws and regulations. They also develop and implement data protection policies and procedures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Privacy Officer
Privacy officers are responsible for protecting the privacy of an organization's customers and employees. They develop and implement privacy policies and procedures, and oversee the organization's compliance with privacy laws and regulations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Privacy Officer
Risk Manager
Risk managers identify, assess, and mitigate risks to an organization's assets. They develop and implement risk management policies and procedures, and oversee the organization's risk management program.
See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity analysts plan and implement security measures to protect computer networks and systems from intrusion, damage, or unauthorized access. For this role, a beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ can help you lay a foundation for a role as a Cybersecurity Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Compliance Manager
Compliance managers ensure that an organization complies with laws and regulations. They develop and implement compliance policies and procedures, and oversee the organization's compliance program.
See salaries and explore the career path for Compliance Manager
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. They also monitor and analyze security systems and respond to security incidents. A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ can help you lay a foundation for a role as an Information Security Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Security Architect
Security architects design and implement security measures for an organization's computer networks and systems. They also advise management on security risks and compliance issues. While a beginner level course may be useful, it is not necessary for this role. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ can help you build a beginner level foundation for a role as a Security Architect.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect
Security Consultant
Security consultants help organizations assess and improve their security posture. They also provide advice on security best practices and compliance issues. A beginner level course may be useful, but is not necessary. A course like _Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations_ may help you learn basic cybersecurity concepts and how they apply to your particular field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

Reading list

We've selected 14 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 Cybersecurity Foundations.
Cover image
Practical Malware Analysis
Save
Provides a hands-on approach to malware analysis, which critical skill for cybersecurity professionals.
Practical Malware Analysis: The Hands-On Guide to...
Paperback
$$
Practical Malware Analysis: The Hands-On Guide to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Online Danger
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of network security, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to protect networks from attack.
Online Danger: How to Protect Yourself and Your...
Paperback
$$
Online Danger: How to Protect Yourself and Your...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Penetration Testing
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of penetration testing, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to assess and improve the security of systems.
Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to...
Paperback
$$
Penetration Testing: A Hands-On Introduction to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of security engineering principles, which are essential for designing and implementing secure systems.
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security, which are essential topics for cybersecurity professionals.
Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Art of Computer Virus Research and Defense, The,...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer security principles and practices, which are essential for cybersecurity professionals.
Art of Computer Virus Research and Defense, The
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Reversing
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of reverse engineering, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to analyze and exploit malware.
Reversing: Secrets of Reverse Engineering
Paperback
$$
Reversing: Secrets of Reverse Engineering
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Applied Cryptography
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of applied cryptography, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to use cryptography to protect data and systems.
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms and...
Hardcover
$$$
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, and...
Hardcover
$$$$
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, and...
Paperback
$$
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, and...
Paperback
$$$$
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Eleventh Hour Cissp
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity fundamentals, covering topics such as network security, cryptography, and security assessment.
Eleventh Hour Cissp
Paperback
Check
Eleventh Hour Cissp
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
International Conference on Computer Applications...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of big data security, which is becoming increasingly important for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to protect big data environments from attack.
International Conference on Computer Applications...
Paperback
Check
International Conference on Computer Applications...
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Core Python Applications Programming
Save
Provides a solid foundation in networking concepts, which are essential for understanding cybersecurity.
Core Python Applications Programming
Paperback
Check
Core Python Applications Programming
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Save
Provides a hands-on approach to hacking techniques, which can be valuable for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to prevent and mitigate attacks.
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Paperback
$$
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of Invisibility
Save
Provides insights into the techniques used by hackers and other cybercriminals, which can be valuable for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to prevent and mitigate attacks.
The Art of Invisibility: The World's Most Famous...
Paperback
$$
The Art of Invisibility: The World's Most Famous...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Service-oriented Architecture
Save
Provides an introduction to cloud computing concepts, which are becoming increasingly important in cybersecurity.
Service-oriented Architecture
Paperback
Check
Service-oriented Architecture
Kindle Edition
Check

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Instructor
Keatron Evans
Language
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This course belongs to a collection called Cybersecurity Foundations. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Operating System Foundations
  2. Cybersecurity Policy Foundations
  3. Introduction to Cybersecurity Foundations (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops fundamental cybersecurity concepts, preparing learners for further study in the field
Suitable for beginners with no prior cybersecurity knowledge
Covers foundational networking and cloud computing concepts, providing a comprehensive overview
Taught by experienced cybersecurity professional Keatron Evans
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