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Greg Williams
The world runs computers. From small to large businesses, from the CEO down to level 1 support staff, everyone uses computers. This course is designed to give you a practical perspective on computer security. This course approaches computer security in a way that anyone can understand. Ever wonder how your bank website is secure when you connect to it? Wonder how other business owners secure their network? Wonder how large data breaches happen? This is practical computer security. It will help you answer the question – what should I focus on?
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What's inside
Syllabus
What is Practical Computer Security
Understand the basics of computer security for business
The CIA Triad
Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability are the cornerstones of security. Do you know how they apply?
Read more
Syllabus
What is Practical Computer Security
Understand the basics of computer security for business
The CIA Triad
Confidentiality, Integrity and Availability are the cornerstones of security. Do you know how they apply?
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores practical computer security concepts and assessments, suitable for individuals with various levels of experience
Introduces the CIA Triad, a cornerstone of security practices
Provides hands-on insights into assessing daily security through tools, ports, and protocols commonly used in computing
Covers attack surface assessment and risk analysis as part of the course project
Requires students to come in with necessary technical understanding and background knowledge in computer security
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Reviews summary
Cybersecurity basics for business professionals
According to students, this course provides a practical perspective on cybersecurity specifically tailored for a business context. It's described as an effective clear introduction designed so anyone can understand the fundamentals, including concepts like risk assessment and attack surfaces. While many appreciate its accessibility and focus on helping understand business risk, some reviewers note it may be too basic for technical users or lacks technical depth for those seeking more advanced knowledge. Overall, it serves well as a foundational course for its intended audience.
Opinions vary on pace and engagement.
"The lectures were a bit slow at times, could be more dynamic."
"Found the course engaging and the instructor clear."
"Pace was just right for digesting the new information."
Focuses on relevant daily security scenarios.
"The sections on assessing risk and daily security tools were directly applicable to my work."
"Loved the attack surface project, made me think about security for my own system."
"Helped me identify specific areas our company needs to improve based on real-world examples."
Excellent starting point for beginners.
"Great start for someone with zero tech background. Explained security in a way relevant to my small business."
"Finally understand why cybersecurity is important from a business risk angle, not just tech."
"Perfect for managers or owners who need the basics without diving deep into code or networking."
Too basic for technically inclined learners.
"If you know anything about IT, this course is probably too simple."
"Wished they went deeper into *how* some attacks work or *how* specific tools function."
"Felt more like a high-level overview than a technical foundation."
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 Introduction to Cybersecurity for Business with these
activities:
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
This activity will help you stay organized and ensure that you have a solid foundation for the course.
Show steps
-
Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, and readings.
-
Organize the materials into a logical structure.
-
Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review basic computer security principles
Show steps
This activity will help you refresh your understanding of the fundamental principles of computer security and prepare you for learning more advanced concepts in this course.
Browse courses on
Computer Security
Show steps
-
Read through the course syllabus and identify the key concepts that will be covered.
-
Review your notes or textbooks from previous computer security courses or certifications.
-
Take a practice quiz or online assessment to test your knowledge of basic computer security.
Read "Computer Security: Art and Science"
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of computer security principles and techniques, offering valuable insights and practical guidance.
View
Cryptographic Security Architecture: Design and...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of the book.
-
Set aside regular time for reading and studying the material.
-
Take notes and summarize key concepts.
-
Apply the knowledge gained from the book to your course assignments and discussions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow a tutorial on how to set up a firewall
Show steps
This activity will help you gain hands-on experience with a practical aspect of computer security and reinforce your understanding of how firewalls work.
Browse courses on
Firewall
Show steps
-
Find a reputable online tutorial or video on how to set up a firewall on your computer or network.
-
Follow the steps in the tutorial carefully, taking notes as needed.
-
Test the firewall by attempting to access your computer or network from an unauthorized device.
Participate in a study group or online forum for computer security
Show steps
This activity will provide you with opportunities to interact with other learners, exchange ideas, and reinforce your understanding of course concepts.
Show steps
-
Find a study group or online forum dedicated to computer security.
-
Attend regular meetings or participate in online discussions.
-
Contribute to the group by sharing your knowledge, asking questions, and working together on problems.
Practice identifying and mitigating common security risks
Show steps
This activity will challenge you to apply your knowledge of computer security to real-world scenarios, helping you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on
Security Risks
Show steps
-
Find a set of practice questions or scenarios that involve identifying and mitigating security risks.
-
Work through the questions or scenarios, taking the time to analyze the situation and identify potential risks.
-
Develop and implement strategies to mitigate the identified risks.
Write a blog post or article on a current topic in computer security
Show steps
This activity will not only solidify your understanding of a specific topic in computer security but also enhance your communication and writing skills.
Show steps
-
Choose a current topic in computer security that you are interested in.
-
Research the topic thoroughly, gathering information from credible sources.
-
Organize your thoughts and ideas into a logical outline.
-
Write the blog post or article, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and proper grammar.
-
Publish your work on a relevant platform or share it with others for feedback.
Connect with a computer security professional
Show steps
This activity will provide you with valuable guidance and support from an experienced professional in the field.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
-
Identify potential mentors within your network or through professional organizations.
-
Reach out to your preferred mentors and introduce yourself.
-
Arrange a meeting to discuss your career goals and seek advice.
Organize and review course materials
Show steps
This activity will help you stay organized and ensure that you have a solid foundation for the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, and readings.
- Organize the materials into a logical structure.
- Review the materials regularly to reinforce your understanding.
Review basic computer security principles
Show steps
This activity will help you refresh your understanding of the fundamental principles of computer security and prepare you for learning more advanced concepts in this course.
Browse courses on
Computer Security
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read through the course syllabus and identify the key concepts that will be covered.
- Review your notes or textbooks from previous computer security courses or certifications.
- Take a practice quiz or online assessment to test your knowledge of basic computer security.
Read "Computer Security: Art and Science"
Show steps
This book provides a comprehensive overview of computer security principles and techniques, offering valuable insights and practical guidance.
View
Cryptographic Security Architecture: Design and...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of the book.
- Set aside regular time for reading and studying the material.
- Take notes and summarize key concepts.
- Apply the knowledge gained from the book to your course assignments and discussions.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Follow a tutorial on how to set up a firewall
Show steps
This activity will help you gain hands-on experience with a practical aspect of computer security and reinforce your understanding of how firewalls work.
Browse courses on
Firewall
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a reputable online tutorial or video on how to set up a firewall on your computer or network.
- Follow the steps in the tutorial carefully, taking notes as needed.
- Test the firewall by attempting to access your computer or network from an unauthorized device.
Participate in a study group or online forum for computer security
Show steps
This activity will provide you with opportunities to interact with other learners, exchange ideas, and reinforce your understanding of course concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study group or online forum dedicated to computer security.
- Attend regular meetings or participate in online discussions.
- Contribute to the group by sharing your knowledge, asking questions, and working together on problems.
Practice identifying and mitigating common security risks
Show steps
This activity will challenge you to apply your knowledge of computer security to real-world scenarios, helping you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on
Security Risks
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a set of practice questions or scenarios that involve identifying and mitigating security risks.
- Work through the questions or scenarios, taking the time to analyze the situation and identify potential risks.
- Develop and implement strategies to mitigate the identified risks.
Write a blog post or article on a current topic in computer security
Show steps
This activity will not only solidify your understanding of a specific topic in computer security but also enhance your communication and writing skills.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a current topic in computer security that you are interested in.
- Research the topic thoroughly, gathering information from credible sources.
- Organize your thoughts and ideas into a logical outline.
- Write the blog post or article, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and proper grammar.
- Publish your work on a relevant platform or share it with others for feedback.
Connect with a computer security professional
Show steps
This activity will provide you with valuable guidance and support from an experienced professional in the field.
Browse courses on
Mentorship
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify potential mentors within your network or through professional organizations.
- Reach out to your preferred mentors and introduce yourself.
- Arrange a meeting to discuss your career goals and seek advice.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Cybersecurity for Business will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Computer Security Specialist
Computer Security Specialist
The course’s practical approach to cybersecurity gives you an advantage in this role by grounding you in the principles of computer security. This will give you the knowledge needed to secure your business or organization’s computer systems from threats. It will also help you assess risk, identify attack surfaces, and implement security measures to protect against cyberattacks. The hands on nature of the course will provide you with real life knowledge of the tools, ports, and protocols used in everyday computing to remain secure. This is a great course for those wanting to work as a Computer Security Specialist.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst
This course will be useful for you to understand and assess risk as an Information Security Analyst. Risk in business is inevitable and this course will help you navigate that risk to protect your organization or business from cyberattacks. The hands on nature of the course will give you experience with practical application of daily security measures, this will give you a background in assessing attack surfaces and securing data. This course was designed to give you a practical perspective on computer security.
IT Security Consultant
IT Security Consultant
This course was designed to give you a practical perspective on computer security making it an excellent choice for those wishing to work as a IT Security Consultant. As a IT Security Consultant you will need to understand the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. This course covers those principles along with teaching you the tools, ports, and protocols used in everyday computing to remain secure. The hands on nature of the course will provide you with real life knowledge needed for this role.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineer
The practical application of daily security is a key component to success as a Network Security Engineer. This course provides you with the hands on experience needed in this role. You will learn practical computer security in a way that anyone can understand. This course will give you experience with assessing attack surfaces and risk based off of the attack surfaces. Those skills will contribute to your success in this role.
Security Engineer
Security Engineer
As a Security Engineer you will need to have a practical understanding of computer security and this course will help you with that. It is designed to give you a practical perspective on computer security. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Security Engineer. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Cybersecurity Analyst
Cybersecurity Analyst
As a Cybersecurity Analyst you will need to understand the basics of computer security for business. This course approaches computer security in a way that anyone can understand. It covers the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied in the business field. You will also learn about assessing risk in business and applying daily security measures to protect against cyberattacks.
Cloud Security Architect
Cloud Security Architect
This course may be useful for working as a Cloud Security Architect. It covers practical computer security and gives you a practical perspective on computer security. The hands on nature of the course will provide you with some of the tools, ports, and protocols used in everyday computing to remain secure. Understanding these concepts will help you with your work as a Cloud Security Architect.
IT Auditor
IT Auditor
As an IT Auditor, you help businesses and organizations to assess their computer security. This course is a useful foundational tool to help you gain the skills needed to enter this career. The hands on nature of the course will give you experience with assessing attack surfaces and risk based off of the attack surfaces. This will contribute to your success as an IT Auditor.
Penetration Tester
Penetration Tester
This course may be useful for those who wish to work as a Penetration Tester. It covers the basics of computer security for business with a practical approach. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Penetration Tester. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Security Consultant
Security Consultant
This course may be useful for those who want to work as a Security Consultant. It covers the basics of computer security for business. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Consultant. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
This course may be useful for those wanting to become a Chief Information Security Officer. It covers practical computer security and gives you a practical perspective on computer security. The hands on nature of the course will provide you with some of the tools, ports, and protocols used in everyday computing to remain secure. Understanding these concepts will help you with your work as a CISO.
Network Architect
Network Architect
This course may be useful for a career as a Network Architect. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Network Architect. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrator
This course may be useful for those who want to work as a Systems Administrator. It covers the basics of computer security for business. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Systems Administrator. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Cybersecurity Manager
Cybersecurity Manager
This course may be useful for a career as a Cybersecurity Manager. The hands on nature of the course will give you the experience needed to work as a Cybersecurity Manager. You will learn about the CIA Triad and how confidentiality, integrity, and availability are applied to secure data. You will also learn about risk assessment and how to remain secure in your daily work.
Information Technology (IT) Manager
Information Technology (IT) Manager
This course may be useful for those who wish to work as an IT Manager. It covers the basics of computer security for business. The hands on nature of the course will provide you with some of the tools, ports, and protocols used in everyday computing to remain secure. Understanding these concepts will help you with your work as an IT Manager.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/yz4i2m/introduction
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
Introduction to Cybersecurity for Business.
Provides a comprehensive overview of information security management. It covers a wide range of topics, including risk assessment, security controls, and incident response. It valuable resource for anyone responsible for the security of an organization.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptography and network security. It covers a wide range of topics, including encryption, authentication, and network security protocols. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these topics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of malware analysis. It covers a wide range of topics, including malware detection, malware analysis techniques, and malware mitigation. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these topics.
Provides a concise overview of the ISO 27001:2013 standard. It valuable resource for anyone responsible for the implementation of an information security management system (ISMS).
Provides a comprehensive overview of network security. It covers a wide range of topics, including network protocols, security threats, and security controls. It valuable resource for anyone responsible for the security of a network.
Provides a practical overview of computer security for business professionals. It covers a wide range of topics, including risk assessment, security controls, and incident response. It valuable resource for anyone responsible for the security of a business.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cybersecurity. It covers a wide range of topics, including network security, cloud security, and mobile security. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these topics.
Provides an overview of the art of hacking. It covers a wide range of topics, including penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and social engineering. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these topics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam. It covers a wide range of topics, including network security, penetration testing, and vulnerability assessment. It valuable resource for anyone preparing for the CEH exam.
Save
Provides an overview of the ethical and professional issues surrounding the use of computers. It valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these issues.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/yz4i2m/introduction
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Rating
4.7
Effort
Approx. 11 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado System
Instructor
Greg Williams
Language
English
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Cybersecurity for Business. It's comprised of four courses:
- Introduction to Cybersecurity for Business (viewing)
- Proactive Computer Security
- Detecting and Mitigating Cyber Threats and Attacks
- Cyber Threats and Attack Vectors
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