IT Security: Defense against the digital dark arts Course Syllabus

Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to IT security, designed for beginners and IT generalists. Over approximately 22–26 hours, learners will explore core security principles, cryptography, access controls, network defenses, and organizational security architecture. The course features professionally produced videos, hands-on labs, and practical exercises that reinforce key concepts. Structured modules build from foundational threats to defense-in-depth strategies, preparing learners for further specialization in cybersecurity.

Module 1: Understanding Security Threats

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Threat, vulnerability, and risk concepts
• Malware types and behaviors
• Network attacks including DoS/DDoS
• Client-side exploits and password-based attacks
• Deception techniques such as phishing and social engineering

Module 2: Cryptography Fundamentals

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms
• Hashing algorithms and data integrity
• Practical use cases of cryptography
• Limitations and vulnerabilities in cryptographic systems

Module 3: Authentication, Authorization & Accounting (AAA)

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Identity management systems
• Access control models and policies
• Authorization workflows and best practices
• Accounting and logging for security monitoring

Module 4: Network Security Solutions

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Firewalls and packet filtering
• VPNs and secure remote access
• Wi-Fi encryption standards (e.g., WPA2, WPA3)
• Network segmentation and layered defense

Module 5: Building Security Architecture & Culture

Estimated time: 3 hours

• Defense-in-depth security architectures
• Integrating security into organizational processes
• Promoting a security awareness culture

Module 6: Course Wrap-Up & Best Practices

Estimated time: 2 hours

• Review of key takeaways and concepts
• Career pathways in IT security
• Preparation for professional certifications

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic computing concepts
• Basic understanding of networking fundamentals
• No prior security experience required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Identify common security threats and vulnerabilities
• Apply core cryptographic techniques in real-world scenarios
• Implement AAA principles for secure access control
• Configure and evaluate network security tools like firewalls and VPNs
• Design layered defense strategies and contribute to security-aware cultures