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- IBM -

Please Note: Learners who successfully complete this IBM course can earn a skill badge — a detailed, verifiable and digital credential that profiles the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired in this course. Enroll to learn more, complete the course and claim your badge!

No matter if you are new to the cybersecurity field or are looking to change careers, this course will help you understand the roles of system security professionals available within an organization from the chief information security officier (CISO) to security analysts.

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Please Note: Learners who successfully complete this IBM course can earn a skill badge — a detailed, verifiable and digital credential that profiles the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired in this course. Enroll to learn more, complete the course and claim your badge!

No matter if you are new to the cybersecurity field or are looking to change careers, this course will help you understand the roles of system security professionals available within an organization from the chief information security officier (CISO) to security analysts.

You will also discover the processes that are important for a cybersecurity organization to implement.

It is also important as a cybersecurity professional to understand basic commands and operating systems to secure your organization’s computer security systems or communicate with the security professionals responsible for that function in your organization.

What you'll learn

  • Understand the key cybersecurity roles within an organization.
  • List key cybersecurity processes and an example of each process.
  • Define authentication and access control methods.
  • Describe the architecture, file systems, and basic commands for multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac/OS, Linux and Mobile.
  • Understand the concept of Virtualization as it relates to cybersecurity

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Understand the key cybersecurity roles within an organization.
  • List key cybersecurity processes and an example of each process.
  • Define authentication and access control methods.
  • Describe the architecture, file systems, and basic commands for multiple operating systems including windows, mac/os, linux and mobile.
  • Understand the concept of virtualization as it relates to cybersecurity

Syllabus

Module 1: People, process and technology
This module will take you through a typical Security organization. You will also learn about the service management framework and how it affects how an organization will use this framework to avoid or react to cybersecurity attacks. You will also research ITIL standard processes.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches foundational knowledge of different operating systems, including Windows, Linux, macOS, and mobile
Examines security concepts such as CIA Triad, authentication, and access control
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity roles and processes within an organization
Does not require any prior cybersecurity knowledge or experience
This course is based on ITIL standard processes, which are widely used in the industry
Taught by IBM, a company recognized for its contributions to cybersecurity

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Reviews summary

Foundational cybersecurity and os security basics

Learners say this course provides an excellent foundation for anyone new to cybersecurity, serving as a solid starting point for understanding cybersecurity roles and fundamental operating system security. Many appreciate the well-structured content and clear explanations that make complex topics accessible. The practical insights into Windows and Linux commands are frequently highlighted as strengths, with quizzes effectively reinforcing learning. However, some learners with prior IT experience found the course too basic, expressing a desire for more hands-on labs or simulations. A recurring point of concern is that the MacOS security module felt less in-depth compared to other OS sections.
Perfectly suited for those new to the cybersecurity field.
"Definitely recommend for anyone new to the field looking for a solid starting point."
"Overall, it's a great course for beginners."
"It's probably fine for someone with zero IT knowledge..."
"I found this course perfect as a complete beginner in the domain."
Strong coverage of Windows and Linux commands.
"...particularly Modules 4 and 5 on Windows and Linux commands, which were incredibly practical."
"The modules on operating system security were particularly helpful, providing practical insights..."
"The focus on Windows and Linux basic commands is very practical."
"I appreciated the practical insights on Windows and Linux from this course."
Provides crucial basic knowledge for newcomers.
"This course was an excellent introduction to cybersecurity roles and foundational OS security."
"Fantastic course for anyone looking to enter cybersecurity. It covers all the essential basics..."
"This course provides a great foundation for anyone starting in cybersecurity."
"I found this course to be an excellent starting point for my cybersecurity journey."
More theoretical; could benefit from practical labs.
"The course provides a decent foundation, but I was hoping for more hands-on labs or simulations."
"It was mostly video lectures and readings. I learn best by doing, so I felt some parts were missing."
"I learn by doing, and this course could use more interactive exercises."
MacOS security content less detailed than other OS.
"I found the material on MacOS security (Module 6) a bit light compared to Windows and Linux..."
"The MacOS module was particularly brief."
"The MacOS section was weak."
"I felt the MacOS content was not as comprehensive as other sections."
Not suitable for those with existing IT background.
"I found this course too basic for my needs. As someone already working in IT, I was expecting more technical depth..."
"As someone with a bit of IT background, I found some parts basic..."
"It didn't advance my skills much; I was hoping for more advanced concepts."

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 Cybersecurity Roles and Operating System Security with these activities:
Review basic networking concepts
Refreshes foundational knowledge in networking, which is essential for understanding cybersecurity principles.
Browse courses on Computer Networking
Show steps
  • Review the OSI model and its layers
  • Understand different network topologies and protocols
Participate in a cybersecurity online discussion forum
Provides opportunities to engage with peers, exchange knowledge, and clarify concepts related to cybersecurity.
Show steps
  • Join an online discussion forum or participate in a virtual study group
  • Post questions, share resources, and engage in discussions about cybersecurity topics
Complete a Linux command-line tutorial
Provides practical experience with basic Linux commands, enhancing understanding of file systems and access control.
Browse courses on Linux Command Line
Show steps
  • Navigate through the Linux file system using the 'cd' and 'ls' commands
  • Create and edit files using 'touch' and 'nano'
  • Manage file and directory permissions using 'chmod' and 'chown'
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Follow a tutorial on security assessment tools
Introduces commonly used security assessment tools, enhancing understanding of security auditing and testing.
Show steps
  • Identify different types of security assessment tools, such as vulnerability scanners, intrusion detection systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems
  • Learn about the capabilities and limitations of these tools
Read 'NIST Cybersecurity Framework'
Introduces a well-recognized framework for organizing cybersecurity in an enterprise environment.
Show steps
  • Read all five core functions of the framework: Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover
  • Identify the Cybersecurity Framework's subcategories and their relationship to your organization's IT environment
Attend a virtual lab on cloud security
Provides practical experience in securing cloud environments, enhancing knowledge of virtualization and access control.
Browse courses on Cloud Security
Show steps
  • Configure security settings for a virtual machine in a cloud platform
  • Implement access control mechanisms for cloud resources
  • Monitor and detect security threats in a cloud environment
Write an article about the importance of cybersecurity
Summarizes the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting information assets and strengthens the understanding of its impact on individuals and organizations.
Show steps
  • Research the different types of cybersecurity threats and their potential impact
  • Explain the importance of cybersecurity measures, such as encryption, access control, and incident response
  • Discuss the ethical and legal implications of cybersecurity breaches
Volunteer at a cybersecurity event
Provides practical experience, exposes students to real-world cybersecurity scenarios, and fosters networking opportunities.
Show steps
  • Identify local cybersecurity events or conferences
  • Contact the organizers to express interest in volunteering
  • Attend the event and contribute in a meaningful way

Career center

Learners who complete Cybersecurity Roles and Operating System Security will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Security Analyst
Security Analysts implement and maintain security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will also learn how to investigate and respond to security incidents, and how to develop and implement security policies and procedures. With this skillset, you will be able to play a key role in enhancing the security posture of many kinds of organizations.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's information systems and data. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will also help you to develop an understanding of basic operating system security and the concept of virtualization, which are essential knowledge to succeed as an Information Security Analyst.
Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects design, implement, and maintain computer networks. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of operating systems, including Windows, Mac/OS, Linux, and Mobile. You will also learn about the concept of virtualization and how it relates to cybersecurity. This knowledge will help you to build and maintain secure computer networks that can meet the needs of your organization.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of computer systems. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of operating systems, including Windows, Mac/OS, Linux, and Mobile. You will also learn about authentication and access control methods, which are essential for securing computer systems. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Systems Administrator.
Security Engineer
Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security systems. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will also learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Security Engineer.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
CISOs are responsible for the overall security of an organization's information systems and data. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will also learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will help you to build the skills and knowledge needed to become a CISO, the most senior cybersecurity role in an organization.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Testers identify and exploit security vulnerabilities in computer systems. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will also learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Penetration Tester.
Cybersecurity Consultant
Cybersecurity Consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on cybersecurity issues. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will also help you develop an understanding of the latest cybersecurity threats and trends, which will enable you to provide valuable advice to your clients.
Data Protection Officer (DPO)
DPOs are responsible for ensuring that an organization complies with data protection laws and regulations. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of data protection, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). You will also learn how to implement data protection policies and procedures, and how to respond to data breaches. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a DPO.
Cloud Security Architect
Cloud Security Architects design, implement, and maintain security systems for cloud computing environments. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of cloud computing, including the different cloud service models and deployment models. You will also learn about the security risks associated with cloud computing, and how to develop and implement security controls to mitigate these risks. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Cloud Security Architect.
Web Application Security Analyst
Web Application Security Analysts identify and exploit security vulnerabilities in web applications. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to identify, assess, and mitigate security risks. You will also learn how to develop and implement security policies and procedures, and how to investigate and respond to security incidents. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Web Application Security Analyst.
Risk Manager
Risk Managers identify, assess, and mitigate risks to an organization. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of risk management, including the different types of risks and the different risk management techniques. You will also learn how to develop and implement risk management policies and procedures, and how to respond to risk events. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Risk Manager.
Compliance Officer
Compliance Officers are responsible for ensuring that an organization complies with laws and regulations. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of compliance, including the different types of laws and regulations that organizations must comply with. You will also learn how to develop and implement compliance policies and procedures, and how to respond to compliance violations. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as a Compliance Officer.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors assess the security of an organization's IT systems and processes. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of IT auditing, including the different types of IT audits and the different IT audit techniques. You will also learn how to develop and implement IT audit policies and procedures, and how to report on IT audit findings. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as an IT Auditor.
IT Security Manager
IT Security Managers are responsible for the overall security of an organization's IT systems and data. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to understand the basics of IT security, including the different types of IT security threats and the different IT security controls. You will also learn how to develop and implement IT security policies and procedures, and how to respond to security incidents. This course will help you to build a foundation for a career as an IT Security Manager.

Reading list

We've selected ten 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 Cybersecurity Roles and Operating System Security.
This widely used textbook provides a comprehensive overview of computer security fundamentals and concepts, serving as an excellent foundational resource.
This comprehensive guide corresponds to Module 5 of the course, offering practical techniques and best practices for securing Linux operating systems.
This advanced guide explores the principles and practices of security engineering, providing valuable insights for those involved in designing and implementing secure systems.
This comprehensive guide prepares readers for the CEH v11 certification, complementing the course's emphasis on ethical hacking and cybersecurity techniques.
This practical guide complements the course's theoretical content with hands-on exercises, helping readers develop essential cybersecurity skills.
This practical guide introduces ethical hacking techniques, providing valuable insights into the methods used by attackers and how to protect against them.
This study guide is ideal for those pursuing the CompTIA Security+ certification, providing a solid foundation in cybersecurity principles and best practices.
This comprehensive guide aligns with Module 7 of the course, providing a thorough understanding of cloud security governance, security, and benefits.
Provides an introduction to cybersecurity concepts and best practices, offering a solid foundation for the course's topics on cybersecurity roles and operating system security.

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