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IT Security

Defense against the digital dark arts

Google Career Certificates

This course covers a wide variety of IT security concepts, tools, and best practices. It introduces threats and attacks and the many ways they can show up. We’ll give you some background of encryption algorithms and how they’re used to safeguard data. Then, we’ll dive into the three As of information security: authentication, authorization, and accounting. We’ll also cover network security solutions, ranging from firewalls to Wifi encryption options. The course is rounded out by putting all these elements together into a multi-layered, in-depth security architecture, followed by recommendations on how to integrate a culture of security into your organization or team.

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This course covers a wide variety of IT security concepts, tools, and best practices. It introduces threats and attacks and the many ways they can show up. We’ll give you some background of encryption algorithms and how they’re used to safeguard data. Then, we’ll dive into the three As of information security: authentication, authorization, and accounting. We’ll also cover network security solutions, ranging from firewalls to Wifi encryption options. The course is rounded out by putting all these elements together into a multi-layered, in-depth security architecture, followed by recommendations on how to integrate a culture of security into your organization or team.

At the end of this course, you’ll understand:

● how various encryption algorithms and techniques work as well as their benefits and limitations.

● various authentication systems and types.

● the difference between authentication and authorization.

● how to evaluate potential risks and recommend ways to reduce risk.

● best practices for securing a network.

● how to help others to grasp security concepts and protect themselves.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Understanding Security Threats
Welcome to the IT Security course of the IT Support Professional Certificate! In the first module of this course, we will cover the basics of security in an IT environment. We will learn how to define and recognize security risks, vulnerabilities and threats. We'll identify the most common security attacks in an organization and understand how security revolves around the "CIA" principle. By the end of this module, you will know the types of malicious software, network attacks, client-side attacks, and the essential security terms you'll see in the workplace.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches concepts, tools, and security best practices commonly used in industry
Covers various encryption algorithms, authentication systems, network security solutions, and security architecture
Emphasizes the importance of a culture of security within organizations
Introduces cryptology, including encryption and hashing algorithms
Explores the three pillars of information security: authentication, authorization, and accounting
Requires some prior knowledge and experience in IT security

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Reviews summary

It security fundamentals for beginners

According to learners, this course is a fantastic introduction and a really helpful resource for getting a solid understanding of IT security basics. Students highlight that the lectures were clear and concise, covering essential concepts like encryption, authentication (AAA), and network security very well. It's seen as a must-take for anyone starting in IT or pursuing the Google IT Support Certificate. However, some reviewers note that the course is somewhat basic and lacks depth if you have prior IT background. Opinions are mixed on the labs and assignments; while some found them practical, others felt they were too simple or wished for more challenging assignments and practical application.
Mixed feedback on practical exercises.
"...and the labs were practical."
"I wish there were more hands-on labs for each module."
"The labs were too simple."
"However, I encountered some issues with the virtual labs not working properly at times..."
"I wish there were more challenging assignments or a final project to apply everything learned."
"I would have preferred more hands-on exercises that simulate real-world scenarios..."
Complex topics made accessible and easy to follow.
"The lectures were clear and concise..."
"The explanations of threats and network security were particularly useful."
"covered the core concepts like CIA triad, encryption, and networking security very well."
"The explanations of AAA (Authentication, Authorization, Accounting) were particularly clear."
"This course demystified IT security for me. The instructor's explanations were easy to follow..."
Strong foundation for those new to IT security.
"This course was really helpful in getting a solid understanding of IT security basics. As someone new to the field, I found the pace just right."
"Fantastic introduction to IT Security!... This course is a must-take for anyone starting in IT."
"Solid course for beginners. It provides a good overview of various security topics."
"Excellent course part of the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. Provides a strong foundation in security concepts vital for any IT role."
May be too basic for learners with prior experience.
"Okay course, but somewhat basic if you already have some IT background."
"Needed more depth and maybe some real-world case studies."
"Was expecting more technical depth. This course is very high-level and geared towards absolute beginners."
"If you have any prior IT experience, you might find it too simple. The labs were basic exercises, not challenging enough."

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 IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts with these activities:
Organize and Summarize Course Materials
Improve your retention and understanding by organizing and summarizing the course materials in your own words.
Show steps
  • Review lecture notes, readings, and other course materials.
  • Create a structured outline or summary that captures the key concepts and takeaways.
  • Identify areas where you need further clarification or practice.
Review 'Cryptography and Network Security'
Explore the foundational principles of cryptography and network security to solidify your understanding of the concepts covered in the course.
View Computer Security: Principles and Practice PDF... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read chapters 1-3 of the book.
  • Summarize the key concepts and terminologies introduced in each chapter.
  • Identify real-world examples of the cryptographic and network security principles discussed.
Follow Tutorials on Encryption Algorithms
Reinforce your understanding of encryption algorithms and their applications by working through hands-on tutorials.
Browse courses on Encryption Algorithms
Show steps
  • Explore video tutorials on symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms.
  • Follow step-by-step guides to implement encryption algorithms in code.
  • Test and analyze the performance of different encryption algorithms.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Discuss IT Security Best Practices
Engage in peer discussions to exchange perspectives and deepen your understanding of industry best practices in IT security.
Browse courses on Information Security
Show steps
  • Join a study group or online forum dedicated to IT security.
  • Participate in discussions on topics such as secure network configurations, access control, and incident response.
  • Share experiences and case studies to learn from the insights of others.
Wireshark Packet Analysis Exercises
Enhance your network security analysis skills by performing hands-on exercises with Wireshark.
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • Capture network traffic using Wireshark.
  • Analyze captured packets to identify security threats and vulnerabilities.
  • Filter and inspect packets based on specific criteria.
Attend Security Vulnerability Assessments
Gain practical insights into security vulnerability assessments by participating in real-world workshops.
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • Register for a security vulnerability assessment workshop.
  • Participate in hands-on exercises to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in a simulated network environment.
  • Interact with industry experts to learn best practices for vulnerability management.
Develop a Security Awareness Training Module
Solidify your understanding of security concepts by creating a training module that educates others about IT security best practices.
Browse courses on Security Awareness Training
Show steps
  • Research best practices and resources for security awareness training.
  • Develop engaging content that covers key topics such as phishing, malware, and password security.
  • Design interactive exercises and assessments to reinforce learning.
Provide Mentorship to Junior IT Professionals
Reinforce your own knowledge and gain valuable leadership experience by mentoring junior IT professionals.
Show steps
  • Connect with junior IT professionals through mentorship programs or online communities.
  • Provide guidance on technical topics, career development, and industry best practices.
  • Share your experiences and insights to help mentees overcome challenges and achieve their goals.

Career center

Learners who complete IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts help protect companies from cyber attacks. They implement a variety of security measures, from firewalls and intrusion detection systems to security policies and procedures. To succeed in this role, you need to understand the latest security threats and how to counter them. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to get started as an Information Security Analyst. You will learn about cryptography, authentication, network security, and more.
See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst
Security Architect
Security Architects design and implement security solutions for organizations. They work to protect systems and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. To succeed in this role, you need to have a deep understanding of security principles and best practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to design and implement security solutions that meet the needs of your organization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect
Cybersecurity Engineer
Cybersecurity Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems to protect networks and data from unauthorized access. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of security technologies and protocols. As a Cybersecurity Engineer, you will be responsible for protecting your company's systems and data from cyber threats. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in this role.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect networks from unauthorized access. They work to prevent network attacks, such as hacking and malware, and to ensure that networks are secure and reliable. To succeed in this role, you need to have a deep understanding of networking and security technologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed as a Network Security Engineer. You will learn about network security principles, technologies, and best practices.
See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer
Cloud Security Engineer
Cloud Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect cloud computing environments. They work to protect cloud-based systems and data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. As a Cloud Security Engineer, you need to have a deep understanding of cloud computing technologies and security principles. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to design and implement secure cloud computing solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Security Engineer
Security Analyst
Security Analysts monitor and analyze security data to identify threats and vulnerabilities. They also investigate security incidents and provide recommendations on how to mitigate risks. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of security principles and best practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Security Analyst. You will learn about security threats, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst
Security Consultant
Security Consultants provide security advice and guidance to organizations. They help organizations to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. To succeed in this role, you need to have a deep understanding of security principles and best practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed as a Security Consultant. You will learn about security risks, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures.
See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant
Ethical Hacker
Ethical Hackers use their knowledge of hacking techniques to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks. They help organizations to fix these vulnerabilities and improve their security posture. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of hacking techniques and security principles. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become an Ethical Hacker.
See salaries and explore the career path for Ethical Hacker
IT Manager
IT Managers plan, implement, and manage IT systems and services. They also oversee IT staff and ensure that IT systems are running smoothly. To succeed in this role, you need to have a deep understanding of IT systems and technologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to succeed as an IT Manager. You will learn about IT infrastructure, security, and management.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They work to ensure that software applications are secure, reliable, and efficient. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of software development principles and best practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Software Engineer. You will learn about software development, security, and testing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and maintain computer hardware. They work to ensure that computer hardware is reliable, efficient, and secure. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of computer hardware technologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Computer Hardware Engineer. You will learn about computer hardware, security, and testing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Science Teacher
Computer Science Teachers teach computer science concepts and skills to students. They help students to develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity skills. To succeed in this role, you need to have a deep understanding of computer science principles and best practices. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Computer Science Teacher. You will learn about computer science concepts, teaching methods, and assessment techniques.
See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Science Teacher
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation. They work to ensure that technical documentation is clear, accurate, and complete. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of technical concepts and writing principles. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Technical Writer. You will learn about technical writing, security, and documentation.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Business Analyst
Business Analysts help organizations to identify and solve business problems. They work to improve business processes and systems. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of business processes and systems. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Business Analyst. You will learn about business analysis, security, and risk management.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret data to help organizations make better decisions. To succeed in this role, you need to have a strong understanding of data analysis techniques and technologies. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills to become a Data Analyst. You will learn about data analysis, security, and visualization.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Reading list

We've selected 15 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 IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts .
Cover image
Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and...
Save
Covers the principles and practices of cryptography and network security in depth, providing a comprehensive overview of the field.
Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Network Security Essentials: Applications and...
Save
Provides a practical overview of network security, covering the essential concepts, applications, and standards.
Network Security Essentials: Applications and...
Paperback
$$$
Cover image
Techniques for Designing and Analyzing Algorithms
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography, covering the mathematical foundations and practical applications.
Techniques for Designing and Analyzing Algorithms...
Kindle Edition
$$$$
Cover image
Applied Cryptography
Save
Provides a practical guide to cryptography, covering the essential algorithms and protocols used in real-world applications.
Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms and...
Hardcover
$$$
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
Zero Trust Networks: Building Secure Systems in...
Save
Provides a practical guide to implementing zero trust security, covering the concepts and technologies involved.
Zero Trust Networks: Building Secure Systems in...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Security in Computing
Save
Comprehensive introduction to computer security, covering a wide range of topics from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Security in Computing
Paperback
$$$$
Security in Computing
Mass Market Paperback
$$
Security in Computing, 4th Edition
Hardcover
$$
Security in Computing
Hardcover
$$
Security in Computing
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 3
Save
Classic reference on TCP/IP, providing a detailed overview of the protocols and their implementation.
TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 3
Paperback
Check
TCP/IP Illustrated, Volume 3
Kindle Edition
Check
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Save
Provides a practical guide to security engineering, covering the design and implementation of secure systems.
Security Engineering and Tobias on Locks Two-Book...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
CUCKOO'S EGG
Save
Classic account of a real-world cyber attack, providing insights into the techniques and motivations of attackers.
CUCKOO'S EGG
Kindle Edition
$$
High-Tech Heretic: Reflections of a Computer...
Paperback
$$
Silicon Snake Oil: Second Thoughts on the...
Paperback
$$
(日本語) The Cuckoo's Egg: Tracking a Spy Through the Mazeof...
Tankobon Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Network Security
Save
Provides a practical overview of network security, covering the essential concepts and technologies.
Network Security
Paperback
Check
Network Security
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Art of Deception
Save
Provides insights into the human element of security, covering social engineering and other techniques used by attackers.
The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element...
Hardcover
$$
The Art of Deception: Controlling the Human Element...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer networking, covering the essential concepts and protocols.
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Paperback
Check
Computer Networking [Global Edition]
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Fermat's Enigma
Save
Provides a popular overview of cryptography, covering the history and development of the field.
Fermat's Enigma
Paperback
Check
Fermat's Enigma
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Save
Provides a practical guide to hacking, covering the techniques and tools used by attackers.
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Paperback
$$
Hacking: The Art of Exploitation, 2nd Edition
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Ghost in the Wires
Save
Memoir of a former hacker, providing insights into the world of cybercrime.
Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World's...
Paperback
$$
Ghost in the Wires: My Adventures as the World's...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Effort
Estimated workload 8-10 hours per module
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Google
Instructor
Google Career Certificates
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch العربية 한국어 日本語 українська мова Bahasa Indonesia
IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts belongs to the following collections:
  1. Google IT Support Professional Certificate
  2. Google IT Support
  3. Google IT Support
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches concepts, tools, and security best practices commonly used in industry
Covers various encryption algorithms, authentication systems, network security solutions, and security architecture
Emphasizes the importance of a culture of security within organizations
Introduces cryptology, including encryption and hashing algorithms
Explores the three pillars of information security: authentication, authorization, and accounting
Requires some prior knowledge and experience in IT security
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