Cybersecurity Basics

Essential Cybersecurity Concepts for Beginners: Threats, Defenses, Careers, and Best Practices

What you'll learn

Identify core principles of cybersecurity, including the CIA Triad and Defense in Depth.

Understand and recognize common cyber threats such as malware, phishing, and social engineering.

Learn about foundational security measures, like firewalls, access control, and multi-factor authentication.

Differentiate between key access control models: MAC, DAC, RBAC, and ABAC, and understand layered security practices.

Requirements

No prior experience in cybersecurity needed. A basic understanding of IT concepts is helpful but not required.

Description

This foundational course introduces you to the core principles and practices of cybersecurity. Designed for beginners, it covers the most critical topics needed to understand today’s digital security landscape. You’ll start with the basics of cyber threats, including phishing, malware, and insider threats, and explore how each impacts the security of networks and data.Through engaging lessons and practical assignments, you’ll learn the fundamentals of defense strategies such as firewalls, intrusion detection, and endpoint security, as well as networking concepts within the OSI and TCP/IP models. To promote strong cyber hygiene, we’ll delve into best practices for keeping systems secure, including patch management and secure browsing habits.To help you chart a path in cybersecurity, we’ll discuss career options, skill requirements, and certifications essential for various roles in the field. By the end of this course, you’ll have a strong grasp of cybersecurity terminology and practices, equipped with the foundational knowledge to pursue more advanced studies or entry-level roles.Throughout the course, you will engage in interactive quizzes and hands-on assignments to reinforce your learning. Each section includes practical exercises to apply what you've learned, helping you develop a real-world understanding of cybersecurity concepts. From identifying phishing attacks to configuring firewall rules, you'll build the skills necessary to recognize and mitigate potential security risks. This course is an ideal starting point for individuals interested in building a strong cybersecurity foundation, whether for personal knowledge, further education, or pursuing a cybersecurity career.

Overview

Section 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Lecture 1 Cybersecurity Basics Introduction

Section 2: Understanding Cyber Threats

Lecture 2 Understanding Cyber Threats

Section 3: Networking Layers

Lecture 3 Understanding Networking Layers – The OSI and TCP/IP Models

Section 4: Fundamentals of Cyber Defense

Lecture 4 Fundamentals of Cyber Defense

Section 5: Cyber Hygiene Best Practices

Lecture 5 Cyber Hygiene Best Practices

Section 6: Cybersecurity Terminology

Lecture 6 Cybersecurity Terminology

Section 7: Cybersecurity Careers

Lecture 7 Learn about Cybersecurity Career Options

This course is ideal for beginners and IT professionals who want to understand cybersecurity fundamentals, including students, tech enthusiasts, and entry-level IT specialists looking to build foundational knowledge in cybersecurity practices.