Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/network-security
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, a solid understanding of network security is paramount. For those of us working in Security Operation Centers (SOCs) or aspiring to, Coursera’s ‘Network Security’ course offers a comprehensive and practical introduction to the core concepts. This course is particularly well-suited for associate-level cybersecurity analysts seeking to bolster their knowledge in network infrastructure and the tools used for monitoring security.
The syllabus is thoughtfully structured, beginning with ‘Understanding Network Infrastructure and Network Security Monitoring Tools.’ Here, you’ll delve into the intricacies of Access Control Lists (ACLs), understanding their operation and purpose. The course also demystifies Network Address Translation (NAT) and provides a clear overview of various Network Security Monitoring (NSM) tools, including commercial, open-source, and homegrown solutions commonly found in SOC environments. You’ll also gain insights into network-based malware protection, the advantages of load balancing and web application firewalls, AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting), and fundamental access control models.
To truly grasp network security, one must understand how networks can be attacked. The second module, ‘Understanding Common TCP/IP Attacks,’ does just that. It meticulously examines vulnerabilities within the TCP/IP protocol suite, covering everything from ARP mapping to legacy TCP/IP flaws, and specific vulnerabilities in IP, ICMP, TCP, and UDP protocols. The course highlights the concept of an attack surface and its relation to an organization’s vulnerability. You’ll learn about reconnaissance attacks, access attacks, Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attacks, Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, reflection attacks, and various spoofing and DHCP attacks. The practical demonstration of several attacks against the TCP/IP protocol suite is a standout feature, offering invaluable hands-on understanding.
Prerequisites for this course are realistic for its target audience: skills equivalent to Cisco’s CCNA, familiarity with Ethernet and TCP/IP, working knowledge of Windows and Linux, and a basic grasp of networking security concepts. If you meet these, you’ll find yourself well-equipped to absorb the material.
**Recommendation:**
Coursera’s ‘Network Security’ course is an excellent resource for cybersecurity professionals looking to solidify their foundational knowledge. The blend of theoretical understanding and practical insights into common attacks makes it a highly valuable learning experience. It provides the essential building blocks for anyone involved in network defense and threat analysis.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/network-security