Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ibm-penetration-testing-threat-hunting-cryptography
In today’s digital landscape, the escalating cost of security breaches, averaging nearly $5 million according to IBM, underscores the critical need for cybersecurity professionals. Businesses are actively seeking individuals who can proactively identify and neutralize threats before they materialize. This is precisely where IBM’s “Penetration Testing, Threat Hunting, and Cryptography” course on Coursera shines.
This comprehensive program is designed to equip learners with the essential skills to not only identify vulnerabilities but also to protect valuable assets and leverage cutting-edge AI and cryptography techniques to bolster an organization’s cybersecurity posture. The course meticulously breaks down the often-complex world of cybersecurity into digestible modules, making it accessible for both aspiring and seasoned professionals.
The syllabus begins with a deep dive into the **Penetration Testing: Planning and Discovery Phases**. Here, you’ll grasp the fundamental concepts and the crucial phases of penetration testing, from initial planning and ethical rule-setting to reconnaissance methods like passive and active scanning, and even Google Dorking. This foundational knowledge is paramount for any ethical hacker.
Moving into the **Penetration Testing: Attack Phase**, the course gets hands-on. You’ll explore the critical actions involved in an attack, including exploit execution, defense evasion, privilege escalation, and post-attack activities. The practical application comes through utilizing various penetration testing tools, performing port and website scans, and solidifying understanding with network scanning and protocol analysis labs.
The **Penetration Testing: Reporting Phase** module emphasizes the importance of clear and actionable reporting. It introduces software and application pen testing, the benefits of scanning code repositories for vulnerabilities, and how to create comprehensive reports adhering to industry standards like the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES) framework.
Beyond penetration testing, the course addresses the proactive side of security with **Threat Hunting and Threat Intelligence**. You’ll learn about threat hunting practices, the vital role of threat intelligence, exploring various sources, and utilizing platforms like IBM X-Force Threat Exchange. The integration of AI in threat intelligence and hunting is also a key highlight, offering a glimpse into the future of cybersecurity.
Finally, the **Cryptography: Principles and Techniques** module provides a robust understanding of cryptographic fundamentals. It covers essential techniques for data integrity, confidentiality, and authenticity, including symmetric and asymmetric encryption (AES, RSA), hashing, key management, and securing SSL/TLS. The module also touches upon common cryptographic attacks and cryptanalysis, offering a well-rounded perspective on securing data.
The course culminates in a **Final Project and Wrap-Up**, allowing you to apply your learned skills in a practical scenario and consolidate your knowledge. This course is an excellent recommendation for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in practical cybersecurity, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience that is highly valued in the industry.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ibm-penetration-testing-threat-hunting-cryptography