Tips for how to learn cyber security with courses and complete roadmap for beginers who want to learn cyber security and become CEH and enhance their career goals.
Entering the field of cybersecurity can be overwhelming, with a vast amount of information and skills required to become proficient. This beginner-friendly roadmap is designed to guide you through essential topics and skills that can help you gain a solid foundation in cybersecurity and develop expertise over time. Whether you're aiming to become a penetration tester, security analyst, or ethical hacker, these steps will put you on the right path. Here is Complete Cyber Security Roadmap for Beginners for students searching for how to learn Cyber Security in 2024. These are steps to follow
1. Start with the Basics: Computer Fundamentals
For those entirely new to computers, consider starting with CompTIA A+. This certification offers fundamental knowledge about computer operations, though it is not mandatory if you're already familiar with basic computing. The goal is to understand computer fundamentals, not necessarily to earn a certification.
2. Operating Systems Mastery: Windows and Linux
A good cybersecurity professional should be comfortable with both Windows and Linux operating systems:
Windows OS: Familiarize yourself with Microsoft OS versions, basic troubleshooting, and day-to-day tasks. Learn to search online for error resolutions—most issues have documented solutions.
Linux OS: Learn about different Linux distributions, how to navigate the command line, and understand key components like the Linux kernel. While many cybersecurity tools are available on Linux, don’t focus on finding the “best” OS for hacking; the skills matter more than the system.
Search Skills: One of the most important skills in cybersecurity is knowing how to search effectively. Practice using Google with specific queries like “How to become a hacker” or “Cybersecurity job roles.” The ability to find and research information is essential.
3. Dive into Cybersecurity Basics
With a foundation in operating systems, it’s time to explore key cybersecurity concepts and roles:
- What is Cybersecurity? Learn about cybersecurity, hacking, penetration testing, and red/blue team roles.
- Job Roles in Cybersecurity: Look up various roles (e.g., penetration tester, security analyst) on LinkedIn or job boards to understand the skills required and responsibilities.
Take time to review news in cybersecurity to stay current on industry developments.
4. Develop Basic Programming Skills
Programming isn’t always necessary, but it significantly enhances your effectiveness. Focus on these:
- Python: Great for automating tasks, data manipulation, and writing custom scripts.
- JavaScript: As web applications heavily rely on JavaScript, knowing it helps in understanding website vulnerabilities.
- Additional Languages: Basic knowledge of C++, Java, or other languages can be beneficial for understanding different types of applications.
5. Learn Core Cybersecurity Terminology
Cybersecurity has unique jargon that’s essential to understand. Some common terms include:
- Vulnerability, Exploit, Threat, Malware, Botnet, Phishing
- Firewall, Encryption, Penetration Testing, Ransomware, DDoS
Familiarize yourself with these terms by searching for their definitions and examples.
6. Networking Fundamentals
A solid grasp of networking concepts is critical in cybersecurity. Key topics to focus on include:
- Network Devices: Routers, switches, and firewalls.
- IP Addresses and Subnets: Understanding public and private IPs, subnetting, and the OSI model.
- Protocols and Ports: Know common ports and protocols used in network security, such as DHCP, DNS, SSL, and TCP/IP.
7. Practice Virtualization
Setting up and using Virtual Machines (VM) is a safe way to practice cybersecurity skills. Learn about different virtualization software, such as:
- VirtualBox, VMWare, Hyper-V
- Network Modes in VMs: Bridged, NAT, and Host-only networks for setting up isolated lab environments.
Use VMs to practice tasks on Windows and Linux, and explore different network configurations.
8. Build Hands-On Skills: Setting up a Lab
Creating a personal lab environment is essential for safe and legal hacking practice. Some tools and methods to explore:
- Reconnaissance Tools: Start with information gathering using tools like Nmap for network scanning.
- Exploitation Frameworks: Learn tools such as Metasploit to practice exploiting vulnerabilities.
- Privilege Escalation: Practice both Windows and Linux privilege escalation techniques.
- Data Exfiltration: Explore tools like Wireshark for packet capture, and learn about Man-in-the-Middle Attacks.
9. Web Application Security
Understanding how web applications work is vital. Learn about:
- Web Development Basics: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript basics can help you understand web applications better.
- Vulnerabilities: Familiarize yourself with common vulnerabilities, such as SQL Injection, Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF).
- OWASP Top 10: The Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP) provides a list of the top 10 web vulnerabilities, a must-read for anyone in cybersecurity.
10. Cloud Security Fundamentals
As organizations migrate to the cloud, understanding cloud security becomes increasingly important. Learn the basics of:
- AWS, Azure, and GCP security features.
- Container Security: Basics of Docker and securing containerized applications.
11. Defensive Security: Endpoint, Email, and Network Defense
To become a well-rounded cybersecurity professional, learn both offensive and defensive skills. Focus on:
- Endpoint Security: Learn about antivirus solutions, malware prevention, and Data Loss Prevention (DLP).
- Email Security: Understanding email phishing detection, spam filtering, and email gateway security.
- Firewalls and VPNs: How to configure firewalls, maintain ACLs, and secure VPNs.
12. Advanced Topics: Threat Hunting and Incident Response
For more advanced learners, consider exploring threat hunting, malware analysis, and incident response. Some tools and techniques include:
- SIEM Tools: Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) systems are used to monitor and analyze security incidents.
- Malware Analysis: Basics of reverse engineering and malware behavior.
- Incident Handling and Response (IHR): Responding to security incidents, coordinating with teams, and mitigating threats.
13. Certifications and Learning Resources
Some popular cybersecurity certifications include:
- Beginner: CompTIA Security+, Practical Ethical Hacking (TCM).
- Intermediate: eJPT, eCPPTv2.
- Advanced: OSCP, SANS SEC504.
- Specialized: eWPT for web application testing, SANS SEC542.
Resources like TryHackMe, HackTheBox, and PortSwigger Labs offer great environments to practice skills in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion: Cybersecurity is an Ongoing Journey
Becoming a cybersecurity professional is a continuous learning process. Cybersecurity encompasses both offensive (hacking) and defensive (protecting) skills, requiring research, practice, and an ever-expanding skill set. Follow this roadmap, engage with practical labs, and keep up with industry changes to stay on top of your cybersecurity journey.
0 Comments