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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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What's inside

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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Cybersecurity Fundamentals
This course introduces you to the basic concepts that are usually not covered in other classes and bootcamps for people entering the industry. If you've been trying to break into cybersecurity and felt like the courses you've taken didn't address enough of the foundational aspects of cybersecurity and technology in general, this course is for you. It is the missing piece for brand-new cybersecurity students.
Network Fundamentals
This course is an introduction to networking and how networks work. When data moves, it generally moves from one network to another. Here, we teach the learner about the fundamentals of networking and how network technologies apply to cybersecurity.
Cloud Computing Fundamentals
This course is an introduction to cloud computing. It builds from the Network Fundamentals course in this path and prepares the learner for learning cloud security.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, 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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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
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  • 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
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  • 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
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  • 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
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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
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  • 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
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  • 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
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  • 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
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  • 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.
Provides a comprehensive overview of network security, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to protect networks from attack.
Provides a comprehensive overview of penetration testing, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to assess and improve the security of systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security engineering principles, which are essential for designing and implementing secure systems.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security, which are essential topics for cybersecurity professionals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer security principles and practices, which are essential for cybersecurity professionals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of reverse engineering, which is essential for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to analyze and exploit malware.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity fundamentals, covering topics such as network security, cryptography, and security assessment.
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.
Provides a hands-on approach to hacking techniques, which can be valuable for cybersecurity professionals in understanding how to prevent and mitigate attacks.
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.
Provides an introduction to cloud computing concepts, which are becoming increasingly important in cybersecurity.

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