Path to Infosec

Start your cybersecurity journey!

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Beginner’s Path in Cybersecurity

Welcome to the Beginner’s Path in Cybersecurity. This guide is crafted for individuals who have fundamental computer knowledge and are eager to explore the realm of cybersecurity. Here, we outline a structured approach to advance your skills and prepare you for an entry-level role in the field.

Strengthening Foundations in IT and Networking

Solidify your IT and networking foundations, crucial for understanding cybersecurity practices.

• Intermediate Networking Concepts:
  • Learn about IP addressing, subnetting, routing, and switching.
  • Resources:
    • Khan Academy: Computer Networking
    • Cisco’s Networking Basics
• Operating Systems and Server Management:
  • Gain proficiency in operating systems, especially Windows and Linux, and understand basic server management.
  • Resources:
    • edX: Introduction to Linux
    • Microsoft Learn: Windows Server Fundamentals

Core Cybersecurity Concepts

Develop a thorough understanding of core cybersecurity principles and practices.

• Cybersecurity Principles and Frameworks:
  • Understand the core principles of cybersecurity, including CIA triad, and learn about frameworks like NIST.
  • Resources:
    • Coursera: Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization
    • NIST Cybersecurity Framework
• Threats and Vulnerabilities:
  • Learn about different types of cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and how to mitigate them.
  • Resources:
    • Cybrary: CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep

Practical Skills in Cybersecurity

Begin developing practical cybersecurity skills that are essential in the industry.

• Basic Cryptography:
  • Understand the fundamentals of cryptography, including encryption and decryption techniques.
  • Resources:
    • Crypto101
    • Coursera: Cryptography
• Introduction to Security Tools:
  • Get hands-on experience with basic security tools for vulnerability assessment, network scanning, and antivirus software.
  • Resources:
    • OWASP: Web Application Security Testing Tools
    • Guru99: Top 30 Network Testing Tools

Cybersecurity Labs and Simulations

Engage in practical labs and simulations to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.

• Hands-on Labs and Exercises:
  • Perform guided exercises and labs to simulate cybersecurity scenarios.
  • Resources:
    • Hack The Box
    • OverTheWire: Wargames

Preparing for Certification

Consider obtaining a basic cybersecurity certification, which can be a significant asset for entry-level job seekers.

• CompTIA Security+ Certification:
  • Start preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam, a widely recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification.
  • Resources:
    • CompTIA Security+ Certification Guide
    • Professor Messer’s Free CompTIA Security+ Training Videos

Building a Cybersecurity Portfolio

Create a portfolio showcasing your skills, projects, and any practical work you’ve done.

• Develop a Personal Portfolio:
  • Document your learning journey, projects, lab results, and any relevant volunteer or internship experience.
  • Resources:
    • GitHub Pages for hosting your portfolio
    • LinkedIn Learning: Creating a Portfolio

Job Search and Application

Start your journey towards landing an entry-level position in cybersecurity.

• Resume Building and Interview Prep:
  • Craft a strong cybersecurity-focused resume and prepare for common interview questions.
  • Resources:
    • Indeed: How to Write a Resume
    • Glassdoor: Cybersecurity Interview Questions
• Networking and Job Hunting:
  • Leverage platforms like LinkedIn and attend cybersecurity meetups and conferences to network with professionals.
  • Resources:
    • Meetup: Find Cybersecurity Events Near You
    • LinkedIn Jobs