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EC-Council

Network Defense Essentials covers the fundamental concepts of information security and network defense. This introductory cybersecurity course is designed for today's entry-level information security or cybersecurity careers and is ideal for learners aspiring to pursue a career in cybersecurity.

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Network Defense Essentials covers the fundamental concepts of information security and network defense. This introductory cybersecurity course is designed for today's entry-level information security or cybersecurity careers and is ideal for learners aspiring to pursue a career in cybersecurity.

The course gives a holistic overview of the key components of Information Security such as Identification, Authentication and Authorization, Virtualization and Cloud Computing, Wireless Networks, Mobile and IoT Devices, and Data Security. The interactive labs component of this course ensures that learners receive the hands-on, practical experience required for a future in cybersecurity.

NDE-certified learners have an assured means of formal recognition to add to their resumes and show off their expertise and skills to prospective employers. The purpose of the NDE certification is to recognize the competency and expertise of a professional in network defense and information security skills, thereby adding value to their workplace and employer.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Network Security Fundamentals
With the increase in the usage of emerging technology, it has become increasingly important to secure information and data being processed online. As the Internet and computer networks are continually growing, network security has become a challenging task for organizations. This module provides insight into the network security fundamentals, such as network defense approaches, network security controls, network security protocols, etc.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides practical, hands-on experience through interactive labs, which is helpful for learners with no prior experience in cybersecurity
Covers a comprehensive range of topics in information security and network defense, making it a well-rounded course for beginners
Examines various security controls, such as administrative, physical, and technical controls, which is essential knowledge for those responsible for securing networks
Includes topics such as mobile device security and IoT device security, which are highly relevant to individuals working in enterprise security
Requires learners to have some background knowledge in information security, which may not be suitable for complete beginners with no prior exposure to the field

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Reviews summary

Foundational network defense with practical labs

Learners say Network Defense Essentials (NDE) is a highly beneficial foundational course for those starting in cybersecurity. It provides a comprehensive overview of network security concepts, appreciated by many for its breadth. A significant strength highlighted by students is the inclusion of interactive and practical labs, which are deemed incredibly helpful for gaining hands-on experience crucial in the field. While excellent for true beginners and aspiring professionals, some reviewers noted a potential lack of in-depth coverage on certain topics, suggesting it serves more as a broad introduction. The NDE certification is also seen as a valuable asset for career advancement.
The NDE certification enhances career prospects.
"...The certification aspect is a nice bonus for my resume."
"Prepares you well for the NDE exam."
"The NDE certification is an assured means of formal recognition to add to my resume and show off my expertise."
Excellent for newcomers to cybersecurity concepts.
"Fantastic introduction to network defense! ... I feel much more confident applying for entry-level security roles after this."
"As someone new to cybersecurity, this course was perfect. It introduces all the key concepts clearly and the explanations are easy to follow."
"Absolutely essential for anyone starting in network defense."
Labs provide crucial hands-on experience for learners.
"The interactive labs were incredibly helpful for getting hands-on experience, which is crucial."
"The virtual labs were a bit challenging initially but ultimately very rewarding."
"The practical exercises solidify the theoretical knowledge."
Covers many topics but some lack detailed exploration.
"Some topics could use a bit more depth, but for an essentials course, it does a great job of laying the groundwork."
"Disappointed. While it touches on many areas, it doesn't go deep enough into any. It felt more like a glossary of terms..."
"The course covers a lot of ground... making some sections feel rushed. I had to do a lot of external research..."

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 Network Defense Essentials (NDE) with these activities:
Review Network Security Concepts
Refresh your knowledge of network security concepts and protocols to prepare for the course.
Show steps
  • Review your notes or textbooks on network security.
  • Go through online resources or tutorials to refresh your memory.
Read 'Network Security Essentials: Applications and Standards' by William Stallings
Supplement your theoretical knowledge with practical insights by reading this book that covers various aspects of network security.
Show steps
  • Go through the chapters and understand the concepts of network security.
  • Refer to the book for additional information and examples.
Organize and Review Course Resources
Organize and review your notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams to enhance your understanding of the course material.
Show steps
  • Gather all the course materials and organize them.
  • Review the materials to identify areas where you need further clarification.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Practice Network Security Concepts and Protocols
Practice and test your understanding of network security fundamentals, protocols, and defense strategies through drills.
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  • Review the key concepts of network security.
  • Identify and practice using different network security protocols.
  • Simulate and respond to various network security attacks.
Participate in Discussion Forums on Network Security
Engage with fellow learners and experts to discuss network security topics, share knowledge, and get different perspectives.
Browse courses on Network Security
Show steps
  • Join online discussion forums or groups related to network security.
  • Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your insights.
  • Collaborate with others to solve problems or explore new ideas.
Follow Tutorials on IoT Device Security
Expand your knowledge of IoT device security by exploring and following online tutorials and resources.
Browse courses on IoT Device Security
Show steps
  • Search for reputable tutorials on IoT device security.
  • Follow the tutorials and implement the recommended security measures.
  • Test the effectiveness of the implemented security measures.
Develop a Plan for Implementing Cloud Security
Solidify your understanding of cloud security by creating a comprehensive plan for implementing cloud security measures.
Browse courses on Cloud Computing
Show steps
  • Research and analyze cloud security best practices.
  • Identify potential cloud security risks and vulnerabilities.
  • Develop a strategy for implementing cloud security controls and monitoring.
  • Create a documentation of your cloud security plan.
Build a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Gain practical experience by setting up and configuring a VPN to protect your network traffic.
Browse courses on Network Security Controls
Show steps
  • Determine the requirements and design for your VPN.
  • Select and install the necessary hardware and software.
  • Configure the VPN and test its functionality.
  • Monitor and maintain the VPN for optimal performance.

Career center

Learners who complete Network Defense Essentials (NDE) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analysts identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Cybersecurity Analysts who are responsible for protecting computer systems from cybersecurity risks.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's information systems. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Information Security Analysts who are responsible for protecting information systems from security breaches.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Testers identify and exploit security vulnerabilities in computer systems. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, data security, and network traffic monitoring. This knowledge can be helpful for Penetration Testers who are responsible for identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities in computer systems.
Cloud Security Engineer
Cloud Security Engineers design, implement, and manage security for cloud computing environments. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, virtual and cloud computing, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Cloud Security Engineers who are responsible for securing cloud computing environments.
Incident Responder
Incident Responders respond to and handle security incidents. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, data security, and network traffic monitoring. This knowledge can be helpful for Incident Responders who are responsible for responding to and handling security incidents.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts monitor and analyze computer systems for security breaches. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Security Analysts who are responsible for protecting computer systems from security breaches.
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, wireless network security, and network traffic monitoring. This knowledge can be helpful for Network Engineers who are responsible for securing computer networks.
Malware Analyst
Malware Analysts analyze malware to identify its purpose and behavior. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, data security, and cryptography. This knowledge can be helpful for Malware Analysts who are responsible for analyzing malware to identify its purpose and behavior.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors evaluate an organization's IT systems to ensure that they are secure and compliant with regulations. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for IT Auditors who are responsible for ensuring that IT systems are secure and compliant with regulations.
Risk Analyst
Risk Analysts identify, assess, and mitigate risks to an organization's IT systems. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Risk Analysts who are responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to IT systems.
DevSecOps Engineer
DevSecOps Engineers integrate security into the software development process. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for DevSecOps Engineers who are responsible for integrating security into the software development process.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an organization's computer systems, including network security and data backup. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, identification, authentication, and authorization, network security controls, and data security.
Digital Forensic Analyst
Digital Forensic Analysts investigate and analyze digital devices for evidence of crimes. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Digital Forensic Analysts who are responsible for investigating and analyzing digital devices for evidence of crimes.
Technical Support Specialist
Technical Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems. The Network Defense Essentials course can help you build a foundation in network security by covering topics such as network security fundamentals, network security controls, and data security. This knowledge can be helpful for Technical Support Specialists who are responsible for providing technical support to users of computer systems.

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 Network Defense Essentials (NDE).
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security. It covers topics such as symmetric-key algorithms, public-key algorithms, and network security protocols. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to understand the cryptographic techniques used in network security.
Provides a comprehensive overview of security engineering principles and practices. It covers topics such as risk assessment, security architecture, and security testing. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to design and implement secure systems.
Offers a comprehensive overview of network security fundamentals, covering topics such as network defense approaches, network security controls, and network security protocols. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to build a strong foundation in network security concepts.
Provides a comprehensive overview of computer security principles and practices. It covers topics such as cryptography, access control, and software security. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to gain a broad understanding of computer security concepts.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud security. It covers topics such as cloud security models, cloud security controls, and cloud security best practices. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to understand the security challenges of cloud computing.
Provides a comprehensive guide to network security assessment. It covers topics such as vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and security auditing. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to gain hands-on experience with network security assessment.
Provides a comprehensive guide to web application security. It covers topics such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and buffer overflow. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to secure web applications from attacks.
Provides a comprehensive reference on malware. It covers topics such as malware types, malware propagation, and malware detection. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to understand the threats posed by malware.
Provides a fascinating insider's perspective on the world of hacking and social engineering. It covers topics such as phishing, pretexting, and identity theft. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to understand the techniques used by attackers.
Provides a practical guide to hacking techniques. It covers topics such as buffer overflows, stack smashing, and rootkits. It is particularly useful for learners seeking to understand the techniques used by attackers.

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