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IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts

A solid, hands-on intro to IT security fundamentals—perfect for IT generalists and beginners aiming to build strong foundational knowledge before diving deeper into security disciplines.

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

What will you learn in IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts Course

  • Master core IT security concepts: threats, vulnerabilities, and defensive strategies within the CIA triad.

  • Understand encryption algorithms (symmetric, asymmetric, hashing) and their practical use-cases.

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  • Learn authentication, authorization, accounting (AAA) systems and how they support secure access.

  • Explore network security tools—firewalls, Wi‑Fi encryption—and layered defense architectures.

Program Overview

Module 1: Understanding Security Threats

⏳ ~4 hours

  • Topics: Threat, vulnerability, risk; malware, network attacks, DOS/DDOS, client-side and password-based exploits, deception techniques.

  • Hands-on: 10 videos (~35 min), 7 readings (~70 min), 4 lab assignments, and 2 discussion prompts.

Module 2: Cryptography Fundamentals

⏳ ~5–7 hours

  • Topics: Symmetric vs asymmetric encryption, hashing algorithms, cryptographic use cases, limitations.

  • Hands-on: Videos, readings covering core algorithms; assignments applying encryption in simulated scenarios.

Module 3: Authentication, Authorization & Accounting (AAA)

⏳ ~4 hours

  • Topics: Identity management systems, access control models, authorization workflows, accounting/logging practices.

  • Hands-on: Quizzes and practical exercises implementing AAA principles.

Module 4: Network Security Solutions

⏳ ~4 hours

  • Topics: Firewalls, VPNs, Wi‑Fi encryption standards, network segmentation and layered defensive techniques.

  • Hands-on: Labs configuring secure network settings and encrypting wireless communications.

Module 5: Building Security Architecture & Culture

⏳ ~3 hours

  • Topics: Designing multi-layered (defense-in-depth) architectures, integrating security into organizational processes, promoting security awareness culture.

  • Hands-on: Quizzes, scenario-based assignments applying secure architecture patterns and policy recommendations.

Module 6: Course Wrap-Up & Best Practices

⏳ ~2 hours

  • Topics: Key takeaways, next steps in IT security career progression, aligning with professional certifications.

  • Hands-on: Final recap quizzes and reflection assignments.

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Job Outlook

  • This course equips learners for roles like IT Support Specialists, Junior Security Administrators, and Help Desk Technicians. It forms a foundation for advanced certs such as CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity.

    Skills gained help with common SOC tasks, network hardening, identity governance, and incident planning.

9.7Expert Score
Highly Recommendedx
This course offers a well-paced, practical, and structured overview of IT security. It’s ideal for beginners or IT generalists seeking core security skills. Strong multimedia content and hands-on labs are notable strengths. A next step could be digging into specialized areas like SIEM, incident response, or cloud security.
Value
9
Price
9.2
Skills
9.4
Information
9.5
PROS
  • Professionally produced videos and high-quality summarized readings.
  • Structured labs and assignments help reinforce learning via real examples and code.
  • Optional quizzes and interactive features add depth to self-study.
CONS
  • Quizzes are relatively basic and short; may lack depth for advanced learners.
  • Labs are limited; deeper exposure to advanced tools (e.g., SIEM platforms) requires additional training.

Specification: IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

FAQs

  • No prior IT knowledge is required.
  • Designed for IT generalists and beginners.
  • Concepts are explained with real-world examples.
  • Hands-on labs guide learners step by step.
  • Prepares learners for further advanced security training.
  • Includes labs on network configuration and encryption.
  • Demonstrates AAA systems, firewalls, and layered defense strategies.
  • Reinforces learning with quizzes and scenario-based exercises.
  • Provides insight into SOC tasks and incident planning.
  • Prepares for real-world IT security tasks in junior roles.
  • Concepts are explained without deep programming.
  • Helps understand threats, risks, and defense strategies.
  • Supports decision-making regarding organizational security.
  • Improves communication with technical teams.
  • Enhances awareness of cybersecurity best practices.
  • Provides foundational knowledge relevant to certifications.
  • Introduces concepts like cryptography, AAA, and network security.
  • Not a complete certification prep but acts as a strong starting point.
  • Prepares learners for more advanced cybersecurity courses.
  • Builds confidence before attempting professional exams.

  • Entry-level roles like IT Support Specialist or Help Desk Technician.
  • Junior Security Administrator or Network Support roles.
  • Provides foundation for SOC analyst or cybersecurity engineer progression.
  • Helps prepare for specialized roles like incident responder.
  • Strengthens skill set for further IT security education and certifications.
IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts
IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts
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