Introduction to Cybersecurity

Your cybersecurity career path begins with this free course. Explore the exciting field of cybersecurity and learn why it's a future-proof career. No experience necessary.

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With Billions of Devices Now Online, New Threats Pop-up Every Second

Today’s interconnected world makes everyone more susceptible to cyber-attacks. Whether you’re attracted to the relativity new world of cybersecurity as a professional, or just interested in protecting yourself online and in social media, this introductory course is the answer. It explores cyber trends, threats—along with the broader topic of cybersecurity in a way that will matter to YOU. For instance, you’ll learn how to protect your personal privacy online while gaining additional insight on the challenges companies, and governmental and educational institutions face today. No prerequisites required.

You'll Learn These Core Skills:

  • Learn what cybersecurity is and its potential impact to you.
  • Understand the most common threats, attacks and vulnerabilities.
  • Gain insights for how businesses protect their operations from attacks.
  • Find the latest job trends and why cybersecurity continues to grow.
Length Icon
Length: 
15 hours
Cost Icon
Cost: 
Free*
Level Icon
Level: Beginning
Learning type icon
Learning Type: Instructor-led, Online self-paced
Achievements type icon
Achievements: Badge
*Self-paced classes at NetAcad.com are free. Cost for Instructor-led classes is determined by the institution.

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Coursework

Engaging learning experiences with interactive content such as practice labs, interactive activities, videos, and assessments along the way. Bring it all together and test what you learned with a final exam.

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Community

Once enrolled, you have access to student forums where you can ask questions and interact with instructors and peers. Connect & network with classmates and alumni through our Facebook or LinkedIn communities.

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Proof of Completion

Verification may come as a certificate of completion, statement of attendance, or a digital learning badge depending on the course. Share on social media or your resume to tell the world of your achievement.

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Cisco Networking Academy is an IT skills and career building program for learning institutions and individuals worldwide. Self-paced courses are designed to take at your own pace, at any point in your career journey. More than 9 million people have joined Networking Academy and become a force for change in the global economy since 1997.
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Coursework icon

Coursework

Coursework may take place in our online learning environment, in the classroom—or both. Once you enroll, you'll be asked to create an account, then taken to your learning dashboard. Course materials and tests may be accessed from there.

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Help from your peers

Once enrolled, you have access to student forums where you can ask questions and interact with instructors and peers. Also use our Facebook community, which has more than a million members available for support.

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Certificate of completion

Get a certificate of completion when you complete the course. Then add your coursework to LinkedIn so that hiring recruiters can find you for potential job opportunities.