Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

Write snort rules
Analyze pcaps using wireshark and tcpdump
Create virtual machines using virtualbox
Configure security onion

Test snort rules using automated scripts
Analyze snort nids alerts using squert
Configure kali linux
Test exploits and analyze resulting network traffic

Write snort rules
Analyze pcaps using wireshark and tcpdump
Create virtual machines using virtualbox
Configure security onion
Test snort rules using automated scripts
Analyze snort nids alerts using squert
Configure kali linux
Test exploits and analyze resulting network traffic

Syllabus

Lectures

This video will cover the primary aspects of this course, and what is to be expected from you as a student.

Hands-on Labs

Lab 1 will provide a step-by-step demonstration of how to set up a Security Onion virtual machine using VirtualBox as a software hypervisor.

Lab 2 will show you how to write effective Snort rules for indicators derived from a packet capture. Please refer to the attached "Boleto Snort Rules" file for all of the rules written within this lab. There may be issues with copying and pasting them due to formatting, so it's recommended that you type it in yourself. Tcpreplay will be used to test the Snort rules by replaying the PCAP through the sniffing interface. If there's any issues completing this lab, please let me know in the questions section.

Download PCAP:

https://www.malware-traffic-analysis.net/2016/12/17/index.html

Lab 3 will expose you to an effective automated Snort rule checking script.

This video will show you how to implement offset and depth into one of the previously written Snort rules.

*IMPORTANT* You must use the command sudo rule-update after every change to the local.rules file for it to be active.

This bonus lab was not originally included in the curriculum, and will cover the writing and testing of two custom Snort rules which includes SSH and FTP. The first rule will cover the detection of internal SSH brute force, and the second rule will cover the detection of SSNs in a plaintext file transfer. There will also be a break down of Snort rule requirements and options. This lab will be performed using Security Onion, Kali Linux, and Metasploitable.

This lecture will show you how and where to download and configure the latest version of Kali Linux, 2020, which is tailor made for my Udemy course Hands-on Penetration Testing Labs 4.0. It's also being made available for all other courses, as the newest version has some slight differences which may make an impact.

This video will show you how to download and configure Kali Linux within VirtualBox.

This video will cover how to set up a Windows 7 Enterprise 32-bit virtual machine that is intentionally vulnerable to the eternalblue exploit. VirtualBox will be used as a software hypervisor to set it up.

This video will cover the exploitation of Windows 7 with Kali Linux, using an Eternalblue Python standalone exploit. To follow along with this tutorial, you'll need Security Onion, Windows 7 Enterprise 32-bit, and Kali Linux VM's set up to communicate with one another with host-only interfaces. After the exploitation, analysis will be conducted on the Snort alerts and associated rules, and PCAP to identify the network evidence of the successful compromise. These are real-world skills that are crucial for cyber security analysts.

This video will show you how to analyze the PCAP derived from the previous labs, and create two custom Snort rules. One Snort rule will focus upon detection of the Eternablue exploit attack, and the other one will detect the subsequent reverse shell. This will all be done within a Security Onion VM using VirtualBox.

This video will show you how to install and configure Ubuntu Server 12.04 to be vulnerable to Heartbleed. VirtualBox will be used as a software hypervisor for this process.

This video will cover the exploitation of Ubuntu Server 12.04 using a Heartbleed Metasploit auxiliary module. To follow along with this tutorial, you'll need Security Onion, Ubuntu Server 12.04, and Kali Linux VM's set up to communicate with one another with host-only interfaces. After the exploitation, analysis will be conducted within Security Onion on the Snort alerts and associated rules, and PCAP to identify the network evidence of the successful compromise. These are real-world skills that are crucial for cybersecurity analysts.

This video will show you how to analyze the PCAP heartbleed.pcap which was saved from the previous lab, and write a Snort rule based on the network traffic.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Provides hands-on labs, which are highly valued in the field

Develops expertise in Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS), a core skill for cybersecurity analysts

Provides comprehensive coverage of Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis, and exploitation techniques, building a strong foundation in cybersecurity

Taught by Jesse Kurrus, an experienced cybersecurity professional with industry-recognized certifications, ensuring high-quality instruction

Emphasizes real-world skills, preparing learners for practical application of cybersecurity techniques

Requires access to multiple Virtual Machines (VMs), which may not be readily available to all learners

Reviews summary

Pcap analysis course review

According to students, this course on Snort intrusion detection, rule writing, and PCAP analysis receives largely positive reviews for its clear and helpful lectures and engaging, hands-on activities.

Easy to understand and engaging lectures

"The lectures are very clear and easy to understand."

Hands-on activities reinforce learning

"The hands-on activities really helped me to reinforce what I was learning in the lectures."

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 Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis with these activities:

Review Course Materials and Quizzes

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Strengthens understanding of course concepts and identifies areas for improvement by reviewing existing materials and assessments.

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Review lecture notes, slides, and handouts.
Complete practice quizzes or assignments to test comprehension.
Seek clarification on any concepts that require further understanding.

Introduction to Security Onion

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Provides familiarity with the Security Onion platform, enabling efficient use of its tools and capabilities for security monitoring and analysis.

Browse courses on Security Onion

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Visit the Security Onion website and ознакомьтесь with its features.
Follow online tutorials or documentation to install and configure Security Onion.
Explore the various tools and modules within Security Onion.

Virtual Machine Configuration and Security Setup

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Provides hands-on experience in configuring and securing virtual machines, building a solid foundation for conducting security analysis and testing.

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Install and set up VirtualBox.
Configure and deploy Security Onion and Kali Linux virtual machines.
Implement basic security measures such as hardening the operating systems and enabling security monitoring.

Four other activities

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Review Snort Rule Syntax

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Reinforces the structure and syntax of Snort rules to ensure accurate and effective rule writing.

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Access the Snort User's Manual or other online resources on Snort rule syntax.
Review the basic components of a Snort rule, including the rule header, options, and actions.
Practice writing simple Snort rules using the provided syntax.

PCAP Analysis with Wireshark and Tcpdump

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Builds practical skills in analyzing network traffic using industry-standard tools, enhancing understanding of network communication and intrusion detection.

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Install and familiarize yourself with Wireshark and Tcpdump.
Obtain sample PCAP files or capture live network traffic.
Analyze PCAP files to identify patterns, anomalies, and potential security threats.

Custom Snort Rule Development

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Applies the concepts learned to create custom Snort rules tailored to specific security scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Browse courses on Intrusion Detection

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Identify a specific security threat or vulnerability.
Research the network traffic patterns associated with the threat.
Develop a Snort rule that detects and alerts on the identified traffic pattern.

Security Audit Report

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Synthesizes knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course to conduct a comprehensive security audit, fostering a holistic understanding of cybersecurity practices.

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Define the scope and objectives of the security audit.
Gather and analyze data from various sources, including network traffic, system logs, and vulnerability scans.
Identify vulnerabilities, risks, and potential threats.
Develop recommendations for remediation and improvement of security measures.

Career center

Learners who complete Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. Courses such as Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provide valuable insights into writing Snort rules, analyzing PCAPs using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and configuring Security Onion. With these skills, individuals can build a strong foundation for a successful career as an Information Security Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Security Engineer

Security Engineers protect an organization's computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be valuable for Security Engineers, as it provides a deep understanding of Snort rules, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can equip aspiring Security Engineers with the technical knowledge required to succeed in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Engineer

Penetration Tester

Penetration Testers search for vulnerabilities in an organization's computer networks and systems to improve their security. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provides a strong foundation for Penetration Testers, as it covers topics such as Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and VirtualBox usage. This course can help aspiring Penetration Testers develop the skills necessary to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer networks.

See salaries and explore the career path for Penetration Tester

Network Security Engineer

Network Security Engineers design, implement, and maintain security measures to protect an organization's computer networks. Courses such as Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provide valuable insights into network security concepts and technologies, such as Snort rule creation, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can help Network Security Engineers enhance their understanding of network security and strengthen their ability to protect organizations from cyber threats.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Security Engineer

Incident Responder

Incident Responders handle security incidents and breaches in an organization's computer networks and systems. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provides relevant skills for Incident Responders, such as Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion configuration. This course can aid aspiring Incident Responders in developing the expertise needed to detect, respond to, and mitigate security incidents effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Incident Responder

Forensic Computer Analyst

Forensic Computer Analysts investigate and analyze computer systems and networks to uncover evidence of cybercrimes or other illegal activities. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis offers valuable knowledge in this field, covering topics such as Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion usage. This course can provide aspiring Forensic Computer Analysts with the foundational skills needed to conduct thorough digital investigations and contribute to legal proceedings.

See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Computer Analyst

Security Architect

Security Architects design and implement security solutions to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. The Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis course provides foundational knowledge necessary for Security Architects, including expertise in Snort rule creation, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can help aspiring Security Architects develop the skills required to design, implement, and maintain robust security architectures.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Architect

Malware Analyst

Malware Analysts identify, analyze, and mitigate malware infections within an organization's computer networks and systems. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be valuable for Malware Analysts, providing insights into Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion usage. This course can help aspiring Malware Analysts develop the skills needed to detect, analyze, and respond to malware threats effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Malware Analyst

Cybersecurity Consultant

Cybersecurity Consultants provide guidance and support to organizations on cybersecurity best practices and risk management. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be beneficial for Cybersecurity Consultants, offering expertise in Snort rule creation, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can help aspiring Cybersecurity Consultants develop the skills needed to assess, advise, and support organizations in enhancing their cybersecurity posture.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Consultant

Security Auditor

Security Auditors assess an organization's cybersecurity posture and compliance with security regulations. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provides relevant knowledge for Security Auditors, covering Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion usage. This course can help aspiring Security Auditors develop the skills needed to conduct thorough security audits and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

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Risk Analyst

Risk Analysts assess and manage risks associated with an organization's computer networks and systems. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be beneficial for Risk Analysts, providing insights into Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion usage. This course can help aspiring Risk Analysts develop the skills needed to identify, assess, and mitigate cybersecurity risks effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) are responsible for overseeing an organization's overall cybersecurity strategy and risk management. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be valuable for CISOs, offering expertise in Snort rule creation, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can help aspiring CISOs develop the skills needed to lead and manage an organization's cybersecurity program effectively.

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

Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst

Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts research and analyze cyber threat trends and patterns to provide insights and guidance to organizations. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis can be beneficial for Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts, providing knowledge in Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and Security Onion usage. This course can help aspiring Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts develop the skills needed to monitor, analyze, and interpret threat intelligence to support proactive cybersecurity measures.

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Ethical Hacker

Ethical Hackers use their skills to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organization's computer networks and systems with the goal of improving security. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provides relevant knowledge for Ethical Hackers, covering topics such as Snort rule writing, PCAP analysis using Wireshark and Tcpdump, and VirtualBox usage. This course can help aspiring Ethical Hackers develop the skills needed to conduct ethical hacking engagements and support organizations in enhancing their cybersecurity posture.

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Computer Science Professor

Computer Science Professors teach and conduct research in the field of computer science, including cybersecurity. Snort Intrusion Detection, Rule Writing, and PCAP Analysis provides valuable knowledge for Computer Science Professors specializing in cybersecurity, offering expertise in Snort rule creation, PCAP analysis, and Security Onion configuration. This course can help aspiring Computer Science Professors develop the skills needed to prepare students for careers in cybersecurity and advance the field through research and teaching.

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