Beginner Level: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Course Outline:

1. Introduction to Cybersecurity

   • Definition and importance
   • Historical context and evolution

2. Types of Cyber Threats

   • Malware (viruses, worms, ransomware)
   • Phishing and social engineering
   • Insider threats and advanced persistent threats (APTs)

3. Basic Security Concepts

   • Confidentiality, integrity, availability (CIA triad)
   • Authentication and authorization
   • Encryption basics

4. Network Security Fundamentals

   • Overview of network architecture
   • Firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS)
   • Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

5. Cybersecurity Policies and Procedures

   • Importance of security policies
   • Incident response plans
   • Compliance and legal considerations (GDPR, HIPAA)

6. Safe Computing Practices

   • Password management
   • Safe browsing habits
   • Recognizing phishing attempts

7. Introduction to Cybersecurity Tools

   • Antivirus software
   • Network monitoring tools
   • Basic command-line tools for security

8. Case Studies and Current Events

   • Recent cybersecurity breaches
   • Discussion on lessons learned

Intermediate Level: Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Course Outline:

1. Review of Cybersecurity Basics

   • Recap of key concepts and terms
   • Importance of a security mindset

2. Understanding Vulnerabilities and Threats

   • Common vulnerabilities (OWASP Top Ten)
   • Threat modeling and risk assessment

3. Network Security Strategies

   • Implementing firewalls and IDS/IPS
   • Network segmentation and security zones
   • Wireless security protocols

4. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

   • User provisioning and de-provisioning
   • Role-based access control (RBAC)
   • Multi-factor authentication (MFA)

5. Incident Response and Recovery

   • Phases of incident response (preparation, detection, containment)
   • Forensics basics and evidence collection
   • Business continuity planning

6. Application Security

   • Secure coding practices
   • Web application security testing (e.g., penetration testing)
   • API security considerations

7. Data Protection and Encryption

   • Data classification and data loss prevention (DLP)
   • Encryption standards and protocols (AES, TLS)
   • Backup and recovery strategies

8. Regulatory Compliance and Frameworks

   • Overview of major compliance frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001)
   • GDPR, CCPA, and other legal requirements

Advanced Level: Cybersecurity Management

Course Outline:

1. Cybersecurity Governance

   • Role of cybersecurity in organizational strategy
   • Frameworks for governance (COBIT, NIST Cybersecurity Framework)

2. Risk Management and Assessment

   • Risk assessment methodologies
   • Quantitative vs. qualitative risk analysis
   • Developing a risk management plan

3. Advanced Threats and Defense Strategies

   • Understanding zero-day exploits
   • Threat hunting and intelligence
   • Red teaming vs. blue teaming

4. Security Operations Center (SOC)

   • SOC roles and responsibilities
   • Monitoring and incident response tools
   • Metrics and reporting

5. Cloud Security

   • Security considerations for cloud environments
   • Shared responsibility model
   • Cloud compliance issues

6. Emerging Technologies and Trends

   • IoT security challenges
   • Artificial intelligence in cybersecurity
   • Blockchain and its implications

7. Ethics and Legal Issues in Cybersecurity

   • Ethical hacking and penetration testing
   • Privacy concerns and data ethics
   • Cyber laws and international regulations

8. Career Development in Cybersecurity

   • Certifications and qualifications (CISSP, CEH, etc.)
   • Networking and professional organizations
   • Staying updated with trends and threats

Specialized Course: Cybersecurity for Small Businesses

Course Outline:

1. Cybersecurity Basics for Small Businesses

   • Importance of cybersecurity for SMBs
   • Common threats facing small businesses

2. Developing a Security Policy

   • Crafting a basic cybersecurity policy
   • Employee training and awareness programs

3. Cost-Effective Security Solutions

   • Affordable tools and resources
   • Utilizing open-source security software

4. Data Protection on a Budget

   • Effective backup solutions
   • Basic encryption practices

5. Incident Response for Small Businesses

   • Developing a simple incident response plan
   • Establishing communication protocols

6. Compliance and Best Practices

   • Understanding relevant regulations (PCI DSS, etc.)
   • Best practices for securing customer data

7. Building a Security Culture

   • Engaging employees in cybersecurity
   • Regular training and drills

8. Community Resources and Support

   • Utilizing local cybersecurity resources
   • Networking with other SMBs