Security Analyst Fundamentals Specialization By IBM Course Syllabus

A comprehensive and practical specialization that equips learners with foundational cybersecurity skills for entry-level roles in the security industry. This program consists of three core courses and a capstone project, totaling approximately 40 hours of learning. Learners will gain hands-on experience with security tools, explore cybersecurity roles and processes, and understand compliance frameworks, preparing them for roles such as Security Analyst or SOC Analyst.

Module 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity Tools & Cyber Attacks

Estimated time: 11 hours

• Key cybersecurity concepts and principles
• Types of threat actors and attack vectors
• Overview of malware and cyber attacks
• Introduction to preventive measures and defense strategies

Module 2: Cybersecurity Roles, Processes & Operating System Security

Estimated time: 14 hours

• Roles and responsibilities of cybersecurity professionals
• Operating system security fundamentals
• System hardening and access control mechanisms
• Security processes in incident detection and response

Module 3: Cybersecurity Compliance Framework & System Administration

Estimated time: 14 hours

• Cybersecurity compliance standards and frameworks
• Regulatory requirements in cybersecurity
• System administration tasks for security
• Logging, monitoring, and auditing practices

Module 4: Security Analyst Tools and Methodologies

Estimated time: 8 hours

• Data and endpoint protection tools
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems
• Network and system fundamentals for security analysts
• Open-source and industry-specific security tools

Module 5: Digital Forensics and Incident Response

Estimated time: 10 hours

• Incident response lifecycle
• Digital forensics fundamentals
• Identifying attack vectors and vulnerabilities
• Evidence collection and analysis techniques

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 12 hours

• Investigate a simulated real-world security breach
• Identify the attack type, exploited vulnerabilities, and impact
• Deliver a comprehensive report with prevention recommendations

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of computer systems and networks
• Familiarity with operating systems (Windows, Linux)
• No prior cybersecurity experience required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Apply foundational cybersecurity concepts to protect organizational assets
• Use industry-standard tools like SIEM and endpoint protection platforms
• Analyze and respond to security incidents effectively
• Evaluate system vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation strategies
• Prepare for entry-level roles in cybersecurity analysis and operations