Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity roadmap

Follow the line, from first step to goal.

1. 1

   How computers & networks work

   Start

   Learn the basics of operating systems and networks. You can't protect a system you don't understand.

2. 2

   Linux fundamentals

   Most servers and security tools run on Linux, so getting comfortable with it early pays off.

3. 3

   Networking & protocols

   Learn how data travels between computers. Learn the common rules, like HTTP and DNS, that attackers try to exploit.

4. 4

   Security fundamentals

   Learn core ideas like encryption — scrambling data so only the right people can read it — and authentication, proving who you are.

5. 5

   Common vulnerabilities

   Learn the classic mistakes that let attackers in, like weak passwords or unchecked user input, known as SQL injection.

6. 6

   Hands-on labs (CTFs)

   CTFs, or Capture The Flag challenges, are safe, legal puzzles. You practice 'hacking' into systems built to be broken into.

7. 7

   Tools of the trade

   Learn tools like Wireshark, which watches network traffic, and Nmap, which scans for open doors into a system.

8. 8

   Web app security

   Specifically protecting websites and apps, since that's where most everyday attacks happen.

9. 9

   Security certifications path

   Recognized credentials, like CompTIA Security+, that prove your skills to employers.

10. Incident response basics

    Goal

    Learn what to do when a breach happens: contain the damage, then figure out what went wrong.