Cybersecurity 101: Foundations for Absolute Beginners
What you'll learn
- Understand core cybersecurity concepts including the CIA Triad, threats, vulnerabilities, and risk.
- Identify and respond to common cyberattacks like phishing, malware, and insider threats.
- Secure home and small business networks using firewalls, encryption, and best practices.
- Use tools like Nmap, Wireshark, and password managers for basic cybersecurity tasks.
- Create, implement, and review basic cybersecurity policies for personal or team use.
- Navigate legal and ethical issues including GDPR, HIPAA, and responsible disclosure.
- Explore cybersecurity career paths and certifications to continue growth in the field.
Requirements
- No prior cybersecurity or IT experience required — this course is designed for complete beginners.
- Basic computer literacy is helpful (e.g., navigating files, using a browser, installing applications).
- A willingness to learn, explore, and solve problems is the most important prerequisite!
- For hands-on labs, a personal computer or laptop (Windows, macOS, or Linux) is recommended.Some labs may benefit from the use of free tools such as: Nmap for network scanning, Wireshark for packet analysis, TryHackMe for guided hacking labs, VirtualBox for setting up safe practice environments
- An internet connection is required to access course content and download tools or updates.
- Optional: A notebook or digital note-taking app to track terminology, commands, and key takeaways.
Description
Are you curious about cybersecurity but don’t know where to start? Worried about digital threats, online privacy, or securing your home network? Or maybe you're considering a future career in cybersecurity and want a strong foundation? Cybersecurity 101: Foundations for Absolute Beginners is your perfect starting point.
This course is designed specifically for beginners—no prior experience in tech or IT required. You’ll learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity, from key principles like the CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability) to the most common types of cyberattacks such as phishing, malware, and social engineering.
We’ll take you step-by-step through the core concepts of digital defense, showing you how to protect personal data, secure devices, and understand the basic tools and techniques used by cybersecurity professionals. You'll gain hands-on practice using Wireshark, Nmap, and password managers, and even simulate a phishing attack in a safe, controlled lab.
Through engaging lessons, practical labs, and real-world examples, you will:
Understand the role of cybersecurity in today's digital world
Identify threats, vulnerabilities, and risks
Learn how to secure home networks, smart devices, and personal accounts
Explore tools like Nmap for scanning and Wireshark for packet analysis
Practice safe browsing, password hygiene, and multi-factor authentication (MFA)
Create your own cybersecurity policy for personal or organizational use
Understand basic incident response, legal frameworks, and ethical hacking
Whether you're a student, a career switcher, or simply someone who wants to become more cyber-aware, this course will give you the knowledge and confidence to navigate the online world more securely. It’s also a great first step toward pursuing industry certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, or the Google Cybersecurity Certificate.
By the end of this course, you’ll not only be able to recognize and respond to common cyber threats, but also contribute to a safer online environment for yourself, your family, or your organization.
We keep the material engaging and beginner-friendly—focusing on clarity, application, and real-world relevance. You’ll get access to downloadable resources, checklists, and step-by-step lab guides that you can use to keep learning long after the course is done.
Start your journey into cybersecurity today—no jargon, no stress, just practical skills you can use right away.
Who this course is for:
- No prior experience is required—just a passion for technology and a desire to understand how to protect systems, people, and data in today’s digital world.
- Students and recent graduates exploring cybersecurity as a career path
- Professionals transitioning into tech or security-related roles from other industries
- IT support staff or helpdesk technicians looking to expand into security roles
- Entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to protect their digital assets
- Home users and parents seeking to secure their devices, data, and networks
- Job seekers preparing for entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+
- Lifelong learners who are curious about ethical hacking, privacy, and digital safety
Instructor
- 4.5 Instructor Rating
- 4,822 Reviews
- 163,779 Students
- 73 Courses
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