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.
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.
Explore More Learning Paths
Strengthen your cybersecurity expertise with these carefully curated courses, designed to help you defend systems, manage risks, and build a strong foundation in IT security.
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Computer Security and Systems Management Specialization Course – Gain hands-on skills in securing computer systems, managing vulnerabilities, and responding to cyber threats effectively.
Related Reading
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Specification: IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts Course
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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.
