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Cryptography

Learn Public Key Infrastructure from Scratch

Packt

This video course explains how Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) works on websites and the importance of digital certificates in securing communication between clients and web servers. You'll learn to deploy and manage a two-tier PKI on Windows Servers, supporting applications requiring certificate-based security.

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This video course explains how Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) works on websites and the importance of digital certificates in securing communication between clients and web servers. You'll learn to deploy and manage a two-tier PKI on Windows Servers, supporting applications requiring certificate-based security.

Starting with an introduction to PKI and digital certificates, the course covers cryptographic methods used for online data security. You'll explore certification authorities (CA), certificate requests, and services, and configure Network Device Enrollment Service (NDES), Certificate Enrollment Service (CES), and Certificate Enrollment Policy (CEP). A bonus topic includes migrating hashing algorithms from SHA1 to SHA2 on Windows Server 2016.

By the end, you'll be proficient in deploying and configuring PKI on Windows Servers. Key learnings include

- Managing a two-tier PKI on Windows Server 2012 R2

- Understanding encryption and decryption

- Using SSL certificates for website security

- Configuring CDP/CIA extensions and OCSP servers

This course is ideal for candidates with basic knowledge of Windows Servers and networking, IT professionals wanting to learn about Active Directory Certificate Services (ADCS) on Windows infrastructure, and those in cybersecurity or identity and access management.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
In this module, we will provide an overview of the course, outlining the main objectives and the topics that will be explored in the subsequent modules. You will also get a brief on what to expect in terms of learning outcomes and assessments.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and digital certificates, which are fundamental concepts for securing online communication
Covers cryptographic methods and algorithms used for data encryption and decryption, providing a strong foundation for understanding online security
Teaches how to deploy and manage a two-tier PKI on Windows Servers, equipping learners with practical skills for securing applications
Includes hands-on activities and exercises, allowing learners to apply their knowledge and gain practical experience
Requires basic knowledge of Windows Servers and networking, making it suitable for IT professionals seeking to enhance their skills in PKI management

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Reviews summary

Practical pki on windows server

According to students, this course provides a highly practical and thorough guide to Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) deployment and management, particularly within Windows Server environments. Learners consistently highlight the hands-on labs and step-by-step guidance as invaluable, enabling them to confidently deploy and configure PKI infrastructure, including topics like NDES and SHA2 migration, which are directly applicable to professional roles. The instructor's clear explanations are frequently praised for simplifying complex concepts. While most find it builds a solid foundation, some note that despite the 'from scratch' title, a basic understanding of Windows Server is beneficial for keeping pace. Overall, it's considered an essential resource for IT professionals and those in cybersecurity.
Course is highly specific to Windows Server environments.
"The course has good information, but it's very specific to Windows Server. If you're working in a mixed environment or with Linux, much of the practical 'how-to' won't apply directly."
"Good course for IT professionals seeking to understand PKI deployment on Windows Server. It provides practical insights."
"Very useful course for anyone dealing with ADCS."
Covers critical real-world topics like NDES and SHA2 migration.
"I especially appreciated the modules on NDES and SHA2 migration, which are directly applicable to my job as an IT administrator."
"The migration section was a bonus I wasn't expecting but really needed."
"The SHA2 migration part was a nice addition."
Instructor explains complex topics simply and effectively.
"The instructor's explanations are clear and the hands-on labs were invaluable."
"The instructor is very knowledgeable and explains difficult concepts simply."
"The instructor breaks down complex topics like CRLs and OCSP effectively."
Focuses on real-world deployment on Windows Server.
"This course is incredibly thorough and practical for anyone looking to understand PKI in a Windows environment. The instructor's explanations are clear and the hands-on labs were invaluable."
"The step-by-step guidance on setting up CAs was very helpful."
"Perfect for my needs! I needed to set up a new PKI infrastructure at work and this course walked me through every step. The practical labs were spot on."
"The course is very hands-on, which is essential for PKI."
Assumes basic Windows Server knowledge, can be fast-paced.
"While the content aims to be 'from scratch', I found it assumes more prior knowledge than stated. For someone completely new to even basic Windows Server administration, it can be overwhelming."
"The pace was fast in some sections. I struggled to keep up with the labs."
"It assumes some basic Windows Server knowledge, which is fair given the title."

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 Cryptography: Learn Public Key Infrastructure from Scratch with these activities:
Review Basic Networking Concepts
A solid understanding of basic networking concepts will enhance your comprehension of PKI and its role in securing network communications.
Browse courses on Networking Fundamentals
Show steps
  • Go over notes or online resources on networking concepts such as IP addresses, subnetting, and network protocols.
  • Review basic network configuration and troubleshooting techniques.
Read 'Cryptography and Network Security: Principles and Practice'
This comprehensive book provides an in-depth look at cryptography and network security, offering a strong foundation for understanding PKI and its applications.
View Cryptography and Network Security: Principles... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Read the relevant chapters on cryptography, digital certificates, and PKI.
  • Take notes or highlight important concepts.
Practice Encryption and Decryption
Regular practice of encryption and decryption techniques will reinforce your understanding and boost your confidence in these foundational skills.
Browse courses on Encryption
Show steps
  • Find online resources or tools that provide encryption and decryption challenges.
  • Attempt to encrypt and decrypt messages using different algorithms and key sizes.
  • Compare your results with the expected outcomes to identify areas for improvement.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Configuring PKI on Windows Server
Following along with a guided tutorial will help you dive deeper into the intricacies of PKI on Windows Server, enhancing your understanding.
Browse courses on Public Key Infrastructure
Show steps
  • Find a reputable tutorial on configuring PKI on Windows Server.
  • Set aside enough time to complete the tutorial thoroughly.
  • Follow the instructions in the tutorial carefully, paying attention to the details.
  • Take notes or highlight important information for future reference.
Create a Visual Guide to PKI
Creating a visual guide will help you synthesize and retain information by translating complex concepts into a more accessible and memorable format.
Browse courses on Public Key Infrastructure
Show steps
  • Brainstorm key concepts and relationships within PKI.
  • Choose a visual format that effectively conveys the information (e.g., flowchart, diagram, comic strip).
  • Design and create the visual guide, using clear language and engaging visuals.
  • Share your visual guide with others for feedback and discussion.
Attend an Industry Conference on Public Key Infrastructure
Attending an industry conference will provide valuable insights into the latest PKI trends, best practices, and real-world applications.
Browse courses on PKI
Show steps
  • Research and identify upcoming industry conferences focused on PKI.
  • Register for the conference and make travel arrangements.
  • Actively participate in sessions, workshops, and networking events.

Career center

Learners who complete Cryptography: Learn Public Key Infrastructure from Scratch will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Course image
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
Packt
Instructor
Packt
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and digital certificates, which are fundamental concepts for securing online communication
Covers cryptographic methods and algorithms used for data encryption and decryption, providing a strong foundation for understanding online security
Teaches how to deploy and manage a two-tier PKI on Windows Servers, equipping learners with practical skills for securing applications
Includes hands-on activities and exercises, allowing learners to apply their knowledge and gain practical experience
Requires basic knowledge of Windows Servers and networking, making it suitable for IT professionals seeking to enhance their skills in PKI management
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