As cyber threats continue to evolve, so does the need for individuals to arm themselves with the knowledge and skills to protect their online presence.
Whether you are a tech enthusiast looking to dive into the world of cybersecurity or a seasoned IT professional seeking to enhance your skills, there’s a wealth of valuable resources available at your fingertips.
In this article, we will explore seven online resources where you can access free online courses in cybersecurity, ranging from comprehensive cybersecurity beginner courses to advanced topics, all designed to help you safeguard your digital world effectively. Read on to learn about these online courses in cybersecurity:
Top 7 Cybersecurity Beginner Courses
1. Cyber Security Course for Beginners – Level 01 By Udemy
This Udemy’s cybersecurity beginner course explores vital concepts and practices in the field. This course being in English doesn’t just scratch the surface; it delves deep into the core fundamentals of cybersecurity. From the intricate workings of encryption to the powerful tools of sandboxing and antiviruses, you’ll gain a solid foundation.
That’s not all – this course goes further, teaching you how to safeguard your WordPress website and protect your online identity. Additionally, you can learn the tactics of secure online transactions, fortify your email security, and even discover the secrets of conducting cyber activities.
With 15 video training sessions and supplementary materials, you’ll have all the resources you need to succeed. The icing on the cake? It’s absolutely free, and you can learn at your own pace, without any pressure to meet deadlines.
2. CISSP® Introduction to Information Security by Simplilearn
This cybersecurity beginner course provides thorough coverage of IT security for any IT professional wishing to thrive in the CISSP certification exam. Its curriculum, aligned with the (ISC)2 CBK 2018 framework, provides as a full introduction to the area of information security, preparing you to define IT architecture and craft and manage a secure business environment.
The course includes 12 hours of self-paced video sessions, and successful completion gives you a valued certificate.
However, it’s worth mentioning that free access to this cybersecurity online course is only available for 90 days, after which a small price may be required. This course is ideal for security consultants, IT directors, security auditors, IT managers, and IT workers.
3. Staying Safe Online by Udemy
This is another cybersecurity beginner course that you can consider taking. This cybersecurity online course, “Staying Safe Online: Cyber Security Best Practices for Kids” designed for young individuals who frequently engage in online activities such as YouTube, gaming, and social media.
It’s also beneficial for parents seeking guidance on ensuring their children’s online safety. By enrolling in this free course, you’ll acquire knowledge about essential online safety practices, including the creation of secure passwords and fundamental computer security measures.
Additionally, you’ll gain insights into potential hacker strategies and ways to counteract them. The course will also cover the identification and avoidance of common online scams, along with providing tips for safe engagement on social media platforms and while playing video games.
The course comprises six sections with a total of 24 lectures, allowing you to progress at your own pace and at no cost. Start enhancing your online safety knowledge today!
4. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate by Coursera
The Google Cybersecurity Professional certificate offered through Coursera equips you with practical skills, making you job-ready in under six months, regardless of your prior experience or education.
This cybersecurity beginner course emphasizes the significance of cybersecurity practices for organizations and teaches you to recognize typical risks, threats, and vulnerabilities, along with methods to minimize them.
You’ll also learn to safeguard networks, devices, individuals, and data from unauthorized access and cyberattacks using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. Additionally, the course provides hands-on experience in Python, Linux, and SQL. Based on your flexibility, you can access this course.
5. IBM: Cybersecurity Basics by edX
This online cybersecurity beginner course offers the essential background knowledge necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the basics of Cybersecurity.
It encompasses the evolution of information security, explores different cybercriminal profiles and cybersecurity threats, and concludes with an examination of the essential tools for thwarting potential attacks.
The course spans a duration of four weeks and permits learners to progress at their own pace. Furthermore, those who successfully complete this IBM course can earn a skill badge—a detailed and verifiable digital credential that highlights the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course, isn’t this icing on the cake.
6. Building a Cybersecurity Toolkit by edX
This self-paced online cybersecurity course spans six weeks and focuses on equipping you with the essential tools and skills required for a modern professional cybersecurity toolkit.
You’ll learn how to select the right tools for various aspects of cybersecurity management and integrate the knowledge acquired throughout the course into a self-assessment of your abilities and alignment with the diverse roles within the cybersecurity field.
It’s important to note that access to the course materials is limited due to its free nature.
7. Python for Cybersecurity Specialization by Coursera
This intermediate-level cybersecurity course focuses on mastering Python for various cybersecurity functions. It offers practical insights into using Python for cybersecurity tasks and creating custom scripts to automate them.
You’ll learn to apply Python throughout the cybersecurity attack lifecycle, automating both offensive and defensive activities. This course, provided by Infosec, concludes with the opportunity to earn a certificate upon completion.
Pros and Cons of Free Online Courses in Cybersecurity
Free online cybersecurity courses have various advantages, but they also have some disadvantages. Here are a few examples:
Pros:
- Affordability: When it comes to cybersecurity course fee, people often think it will make big hole in their pocket. Perhaps the most significant advantage of online free cybersecurity courses is that they are cost-free, making quality education accessible to a broader audience.
- Flexibility: Free online courses allow learners to set their own schedules, making it easier for working professionals or those with busy lives to acquire cybersecurity skills.
- Diverse Topics: A wide range of topics and skill levels are available, catering to beginners and experts alike.
- Global Access: Anyone with an internet connection can access these courses, eliminating geographical barriers.
Cons:
- Lack of Certification: Free courses often lack recognized certifications, which can be a drawback for those seeking formal recognition of their skills.
- Limited Interactivity: They may lack the interactive elements and networking opportunities found in paid courses or traditional classroom settings.
- Quality Varies: The quality of free courses can be inconsistent, with some lacking up-to-date content or expert instruction.
- Self-Discipline Required: Self-motivation and discipline are crucial, as there’s no external pressure to complete the course.
Though free online cybersecurity courses can be a great resource for skill development, students should carefully assess the benefits and drawbacks before combining them with practical experience and recognized credentials for a well-rounded education.
Moreover, the key lies in leveraging these resources wisely to fortify your cybersecurity expertise in an ever-changing digital landscape.
Media Disclaimer: This report is based on internal and external research obtained through various means. The information provided is for reference purposes only, and users bear full responsibility for their reliance on it. The Cyber Express assumes no liability for the accuracy or consequences of using this information.