Endpoints and Systems from Coursera

•By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Describe the history of the Windows operating system and vulnerabilities.

• Describe the Windows OS architecture and components.

• Describe Windows processes, threads, and handles.

• Describe virtual memory allocation in the Windows OS.• Describe Windows services and how they are used.

• Describe the functionality of Windows NTFS.

• Describe the Windows NTFS structure.

• Describe Windows domains and local user accounts.

• Describe the Windows graphical user interface and its use.

• Describe how to perform tasks in Windows which may require administrator privileges.• Describe the Windows command line interface use and features.

• Describe the features of the Windows PowerShell.

• Describe how the net command is used for Windows administration and maintenance.

•Describe how to control Windows startup services and execute a system shutdown.

• Describe how to control Windows services and processes that are operating on a host.

• Describe how to monitor Windows system resources with the use of Windows Task Manager.

• Describe the Windows boot process, starting services, and registry entries.

• Describe how to configure Windows networking properties.

•Use the netstat command to view running networking functions.

•Access Windows network resources and perform remote functions.

•Describe the use of the Windows registry.

•Describe how the Windows Event Viewer is used to browse and manage event logs.

• Use the Windows Management Instrumentation to manage data and operations on Windows-based operating systems.• Understand common Windows server functions and features.

• Describe commonly used third-party tools to manage to manage Windows operating systems.

• Explore the Windows operating system and services.

The knowledge and skills that students are expected to have before attending this course are:

1. Skills and knowledge equivalent to those learned in Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (CCNA) v1.0 course

2. Familiarity with Ethernet and TCP/IP networking

3. Working knowledge of the Windows and Linux operating systems

4. Familiarity with basics of networking security concepts.

What's inside

Syllabus

Understanding Windows Operating System Basics

The three most used endpoint operating systems are Windows, Linux, and Mac. When investigating security incidents, security analysts often encounter these operating systems running on servers or user end hosts. If you are an associate-level cybersecurity analyst who is working in security operation centers, this course will help you understand basic Windows operations principles. By the end of the course, you will be able to: •By the end of the course, you will be able to: • Describe the history of the Windows operating system and vulnerabilities.• Describe the Windows OS architecture and components.• Describe Windows processes, threads, and handles.• Describe virtual memory allocation in the Windows OS.• Describe Windows services and how they are used.• Describe the functionality of Windows NTFS.• Describe the Windows NTFS structure.• Describe Windows domains and local user accounts.• Describe the Windows graphical user interface and its use.• Describe how to perform tasks in Windows which may require administrator privileges.• Describe the Windows command line interface use and features.• Describe the features of the Windows PowerShell.• Describe how the net command is used for Windows administration and maintenance.• Describe how to control Windows startup services and execute a system shutdown.• Describe how to control Windows services and processes that are operating on a host.• Describe how to monitor Windows system resources with the use of Windows Task Manager.• Describe the Windows boot process, starting services, and registry entries.• Describe how to configure Windows networking properties.• Use the netstat command to view running networking functions.• Access Windows network resources and perform remote functions.• Describe the use of the Windows registry.• Describe how the Windows Event Viewer is used to browse and manage event logs.• Use the Windows Management Instrumentation to manage data and operations on Windows-based operating systems.• Understand common Windows server functions and features.• Describe commonly used third-party tools to manage to manage Windows operating systems.• Explore the Windows operating system and services. The knowledge and skills that students are expected to have before attending this course are: 1. Skills and knowledge equivalent to those learned in Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (CCNA) v1.0 course 2. Familiarity with Ethernet and TCP/IP networking 3. Working knowledge of the Windows and Linux operating systems 4. Familiarity with basics of networking security concepts.

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Provides foundational knowledge in Microsoft Windows operating systems' and services' basic functions, architecture, and principles

Examines common Microsoft Windows' tools to manage and configure networks and connectivity

Suitable for associate-level cybersecurity analysts who work in security operation centers

Covers advanced topics such as sandboxing and file integrity checking, which are essential for network security

Taught by Cisco Learning & Certifications, a reputable organization known for its expertise in networking and cybersecurity

Reviews summary

Foundational cybersecurity for endpoint systems

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in cybersecurity for endpoint operating systems, particularly excelling in its coverage of Windows operations and security principles. Many found the hands-on labs and practical exercises highly relevant for an associate-level SOC analyst role. However, a significant number of students noted the Linux section felt less comprehensive than the Windows content. While praised as an excellent starting point for newcomers, some experienced professionals found the material to be somewhat basic, suggesting the stated prerequisites might lead to different expectations regarding depth. A few mentioned certain tools discussed felt slightly outdated, though core concepts remain valuable.

Best for those newer to cybersecurity; may be too basic for experienced learners.

"Found the content a bit basic given the CCNA prerequisite; I was expecting more advanced concepts."

"As someone new to cybersecurity, this course was an excellent foundation."

"Prerequisites are overstated; it's more for beginners than intermediate analysts."

"This course is a must-have for anyone aiming for a SOC analyst role; it provides a solid foundation."

Labs and exercises offer valuable hands-on experience for real-world application.

"The labs were practical but could use more guided troubleshooting scenarios."

"I really appreciated the hands-on exercises; they definitely set me up for further study."

"The practical exercises are highly relevant and a strong point of the course."

"The hands-on coding and projects are the strongest part of the course for me."

Windows OS topics are detailed and highly practical for security analysts.

"The Windows segment was robust, covering a lot of ground essential for SOC analysts."

"The Windows modules were incredibly detailed and useful for my SOC role."

"I found the coverage of Windows registry and event logs very helpful for my work."

"The course excels in breaking down Windows operations for security analysis."

Some tools mentioned may be slightly outdated, but core concepts remain relevant.

"Some of the content felt slightly outdated, particularly some tools mentioned, but the core concepts are still relevant."

"While the core principles are solid, I noticed a few references to tools that aren't as widely used today."

The Linux content is less comprehensive compared to the Windows modules.

"The Linux section was a bit rushed and didn't go as deep as I hoped, especially for advanced commands."

"The Linux part was particularly weak; I felt the information was readily available elsewhere."

"While the Linux section served as a good refresher, it lacked the depth of the Windows part."

"I was hoping for more in-depth coverage of Linux concepts, but it felt a bit superficial."

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 Endpoints and Systems with these activities:

Practice Linux Commands

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Practice Linux Commands: Completing practice drills on Linux commands will solidify your understanding of them and prepare you for successfully using them in the course.

Browse courses on Linux Commands

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Use the course materials to practice using Linux commands.
Find online resources and tutorials that provide practice exercises for Linux commands.

Troubleshoot Linux Issues

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Refresh your skills in Troubleshooting Linux Issues: Revisiting and practicing troubleshooting techniques will improve your problem-solving abilities and prepare you for real-world scenarios in the course.

Browse courses on Linux Troubleshooting

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Review the course materials on Linux troubleshooting.
Create a virtual environment or use a physical device to simulate Linux issues.

Discuss Windows Features

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Discuss Windows Features: Engaging in peer discussions on Windows Features will enhance your understanding of the concepts and allow you to learn from others' perspectives.

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Join or create a study group with classmates.
Choose a specific topic related to Windows Features to discuss.

Two other activities

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Configure Endpoint Security

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Configure Endpoint Security: By practicing configuring Endpoint Security, you will improve your ability to apply these concepts to your projects and assignments in the course.

Browse courses on Endpoint Security

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Review the course materials on Endpoint Security.
Set up a virtual environment or use a physical device to practice configuring Endpoint Security.

Consolidate Course Notes

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Consolidate Course Notes: Compiling your notes will help you synthesize the information and reinforce your understanding of the course materials.

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Review your lecture notes, readings, and assignments.
Create a centralized document or digital space to organize your notes.

Career center

Learners who complete Endpoints and Systems will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Information Security Analyst

The Information Security Analyst role is responsible for protecting an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of endpoint devices, their vulnerabilities, and how to protect them from attack. You will also learn about the different types of security controls that can be implemented to protect an organization's network and systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Security Engineer

The Security Engineer role is responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining an organization's security infrastructure. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of security technologies that are available, and how to deploy and configure them to protect an organization's network and systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Network Administrator

The Network Administrator role is responsible for managing an organization's computer networks. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of network devices that are available, and how to configure and manage them to provide a secure and reliable network.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Systems Administrator

The Systems Administrator role is responsible for managing an organization's computer systems. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of operating systems that are available, and how to configure and manage them to provide a secure and reliable computing environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Cybersecurity Analyst

The Cybersecurity Analyst role is responsible for analyzing an organization's security risks and threats. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of security threats that are available, and how to detect and mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst

Security Consultant

The Security Consultant role is responsible for providing advice and guidance to organizations on how to improve their security posture. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of security threats that are available, and how to develop and implement security solutions to mitigate them.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Consultant

IT Auditor

The IT Auditor role is responsible for reviewing an organization's IT systems and controls to ensure that they are compliant with regulations and standards. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of IT audits that are performed, and how to conduct them effectively.

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Penetration Tester

The Penetration Tester role is responsible for testing an organization's security defenses to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of penetration tests that are performed, and how to conduct them effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Incident Responder

The Incident Responder role is responsible for responding to and investigating security incidents. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of security incidents that can occur, and how to respond to them effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder

Forensics Analyst

The Forensics Analyst role is responsible for investigating and analyzing digital evidence to identify and apprehend criminals. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of digital evidence that can be collected, and how to analyze it effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensics Analyst

Malware Analyst

The Malware Analyst role is responsible for analyzing malware to identify its capabilities and how to mitigate it. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of malware that are available, and how to analyze them effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Malware Analyst

Vulnerability Manager

The Vulnerability Manager role is responsible for identifying and managing vulnerabilities in an organization's IT systems. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of vulnerabilities that are available, and how to assess and mitigate them.

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Security Architect

The Security Architect role is responsible for designing and implementing an organization's security architecture. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different types of security architectures that are available, and how to develop and implement them effectively.

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Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) role is responsible for overseeing an organization's security strategy and operations. The course on Endpoints and Systems will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in this role. You will learn about the different aspects of information security, and how to develop and implement a comprehensive security strategy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Information Security Manager

The Information Security Manager role is responsible for managing an organization's information security program. The course on Endpoints and Systems may be useful for this role, as it will provide you with a foundation in information security. You will learn about the different aspects of information security, and how to develop and implement a comprehensive security program.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Manager