Transition Year
In partnership with TU Dublin, the Cisco Networking Academy have put together a free, self-paced Cybersecurity training programme aimed at Transition Year students. The goal of this initiative is to support schools and educators offering activities for Transition Year students, whilst also giving students a unique insight into the working world of IT and enabling them to gain industry-aligned IT credentials that are well regarded by employers. Whilst aimed at Transition Year students, the courses are open to any learner in Ireland over the age of 13 years.
How does it work?
The training programme follows the Cisco Networking Academy Junior Cybersecurity Analyst pathway. The pathway is broken into six individual courses, as shown by the image below. Each course progresses in complexity and experience, so the courses should be taken in order as each course assumes that you have acquired the knowledge and experience from the previous one.
How can students enrol?
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To enrol, students need to simply click on the links provided below and create an account. Then you can get started right away.
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Students are advised to enrol in the first course to begin with; Introduction to Cybersecurity.
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Students are not required to complete the entire pathway and can choose to enrol in just one or some of the courses that make up the pathway. All courses are self-paced and self-enrol so learners can step in and out as other personal and academic commitment may arise.
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At the end of each course, learners will have the opportunity to gain a Digital Badge. This can be obtained by scoring over 70% in the end of course exam. The Digital Badge is unique to you and can be added to CVs, applications, and other job-related resources.
The Courses
Introduction to Cybersecurity
Estimated duration: 6 hours
Overview: This introductory course takes you inside the world of cybersecurity. You will learn cybersecurity basics to protect your personal digital life and gain insights into the biggest security challenges companies, governments, and educational institutions face today. Cybersecurity professionals who can protect and defend an organisations network are in high demand.
Networking Basics
Estimated duration: 22 hours
Overview: The internet is built on computer networks. So no matter what kind of tech career you are interested in, it is essential to know some networking basics! Whether you are preparing for a career in networking, refreshing your knowledge for an industry-recognised certification, or are just curious about what networking is all about, this is the place for you.
This course covers the foundation of networking and network devices, media, and protocols. You will observe data flowing through a network and configure devices to connect to networks. Finally, you will learn how to use different network applications and protocols to accomplish networking tasks. The knowledge and skills you gain can give you a starting point to find a rewarding career in tech.
Networking Devices & Initial Configuration
Estimated duration: 22 hours
Overview: If you know the basics of networking, then get ready to strengthen your foundation. A strong networking background is key if you are interested in exciting fields such as Cybersecurity and Network Development (DevNet) or want to continue towards a networking certification like Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
This course covers the essentials of network devices and how to configure them. Learn the characteristics and benefits of Cloud and Virtualisation technologies. Explore how to provide Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to devices both manually and automatically. Using this knowledge, you will calculate an IP addressing scheme, configure Cisco devices to create a small network, and test for connectivity issues.
Estimated duration: 27 hours
Overview: Gain the foundational knowledge you will use in the workplace as a Cybersecurity Technician. Each day billions of devices are connected to the network, and each one needs to be protected. Build the skills to secure your network all the way to the edge, including hardware, software, and media.
In this course, you will learn how to assess the network, operating systems, and endpoints for vulnerabilities, and how to secure the network. You will also gain skills to maintain the integrity, confidentiality, and availability in your network and your data.
Estimated duration: 27 hours
Overview: Gain the essential knowledge you will use in the workplace as a Cybersecurity Technician. This course covers ways to monitor your network and how to evaluate security alerts. Delve into the tools and techniques used to protect a network, including access control, firewalls, cloud security, and cryptography. These monitoring and defence tools, along with others, work together to create a layered defence-in-depth cybersecurity strategy. The knowledge and skills that you learn will help you defend networks against many types of attacks and quickly react to any exploits that may occur.
Estimated duration: 16 hours
Overview: Develop advanced knowledge that you will use in the workplace as a Cybersecurity Technician. This course explores governance in cybersecurity and threat management. Learn to develop policies and ensure your organisation complies with ethics standards and legal and regulatory frameworks. You will also gain skills for managing threats, such as how to assess a network for vulnerabilities, manage risks, and respond to security incidents.
Careers in Cybersecurity
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Visit here for more information on Cybersecurity careers: https://www.netacad.com/cybersecurity#careers-in-cybersecurity
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Visit here for free career preparation resources including a workshop and Discover Cisco: https://www.netacad.com/careers
