3: Connect and Protect - Networks and Network Security
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- Curriculum
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Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security
In this course, you will explore the fundamentals of computer networks and learn how to secure them against potential threats. You’ll gain an understanding of how data travels across networks, the components that make networks function, and the strategies used to protect them from intrusion.
Throughout the course, you will:
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Define the different types of networks and their key components
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Illustrate how data is sent, received, and routed over a network
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Understand common network intrusion tactics and how to defend against them
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Learn system hardening techniques to strengthen network security
By the end of this course, you’ll have practical knowledge of network operations and the skills needed to secure systems and data against cyber threats.
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Introduction to the Course -
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Course Overview -
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Resources and Tips
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Welcome to Module 1
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Chris - My Path to Cybersecurity
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What are Networks?
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Sophie - Work in Network Security
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Damian - Useful Skills for Network Security
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Network Tools
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Network Devices and Diagrams
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Cloud Networks
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Cloud Computing and Software-Defined Networks
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Quiz - Matching - Function of Network ToolsQuiz - Matching - Function of Network Tools -
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Quiz - Introduction to NetworksQuiz - Introduction to Networks
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Introduction to Network Communication
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The TCP/IP Model
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The Four Layers of the TCP/IP Model
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Learn More About the TCP/IP Model
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The OSI Model
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Quiz - Network CommunicationQuiz - Network Communication
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IP Addresses and Network Communication
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Components of Network Layer Communication
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Quiz - Local and Wide Network CommunicationQuiz - Local and Wide Network Communication
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Module 1 Wrap-up
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Module 1 Glossary Terms
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Module 1 Final QuizModule 1 Final Quiz Description: This quiz is designed to test your foundational knowledge of computer networks, devices, and protocols. You will answer questions about how different network components function, the purpose of common protocols, and key concepts such as IP addressing, cloud computing, and data transmission. Each question includes explanations for both correct and incorrect answers to help reinforce your understanding and clear up common misconceptions. Completing this quiz will strengthen your ability to identify essential networking principles and apply them in real-world cybersecurity and IT scenarios.
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Welcome to Module 2
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Network Protocols
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Common Network Protocols
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Additional Network Protocols
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Priya- Working in Network Security
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Wireless Protocols
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The Evolution of Wireless Security Protocols
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Quiz - Recognize Different Network ProtocolsQuiz - Recognize Different Network Protocols
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Firewalls and Network Security Measures
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Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
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Security Zones
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Subnetting and CIDR
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Proxy Servers
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Virtual Networks and Privacy
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VPN protocols - Wireguard and IPSec
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Quiz - System IdentificationQuiz - System Identification
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Module 2 Wrap-Up
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Module 2 Glossary Terms
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Module 2 Final QuizModule 2 Final Quiz Description: This quiz is designed to assess your understanding of fundamental network security concepts, including firewalls, VPNs, proxy servers, and network zones. You will be tested on key protocols, tools, and practices used to protect data, manage secure connections, and control access to internal and external networks. The questions include multiple-choice and true/false formats, challenging you to apply your knowledge of both technical definitions and practical implementations. Successfully completing this quiz demonstrates your ability to identify, configure, and use essential network security measures in real-world scenarios.
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Welcome to Module 3
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The Case for Securing Networks
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How Intrusions Compromise Your System
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Daniel - A Professional on Dealing with Attacks
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Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks
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Read tcpdump Logs
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Real Life DDoS Attack
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Assignment - Analyze Network Layer Communication -
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Assignment Example - Network Security Analysis
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Quiz - Secure Networks Against Denial of Service (DoS) AttacksQuiz - Secure Networks Against Denial of Service (DoS) Attacks
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Malicious Packet Sniffing
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IP Spoofing
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Overview of Interception Tactics
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Quiz - Matching - Network AttacksQuiz - Matching - Network Attacks
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Assignment - Analyze Network Attacks
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Assignment Example
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Quiz - Network Interception Attack TacticsQuiz - Network Interception Attack Tactics
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Module 3 Wrap-UP
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Module 3 Glossary Terms
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Quiz - Module 3 Final QuizModule 3 Final Quiz Description: This quiz is designed to test your understanding of common network attacks, their characteristics, and their impact on systems. You will answer questions about denial of service (DoS) and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, packet sniffing, IP spoofing, and other interception techniques. Each question will challenge you to identify the correct definitions, scenarios, and mitigation strategies that security professionals use to protect networks. By completing this quiz, you will reinforce your ability to recognize different types of attacks and strengthen your skills in analyzing how they disrupt systems and how they can be prevented.
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Welcome to Module 4
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Security Hardening
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OS Hardening Practices
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Brute Force Attacks and OS Hardening
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Assignment - Apply OS Hardening Techniques
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Assignment Example
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Quiz - OS HardeningQuiz - OS Hardening
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Network Hardening Practices
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Network Security Applications
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Assignment - Analysis of Network Hardening
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Assignment Example
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Quiz - Network HardeningQuiz - Network Hardening
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Network Security in the Cloud
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James - Cloud Security Explained
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Securing the Cloud
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Cryptography and Cloud Security
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Quiz - Cloud HardeningQuiz - Cloud Hardening
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Dialogue - Reinforce system Hardening and Vulnerability Defense
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Module 4 Wrap-Up
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Module 4 Glossary Terms
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Module 4 Final QuizModule 4 Final Quiz Description: This quiz is designed to assess your understanding of key concepts in network security and system hardening. You will be tested on topics such as security hardening, OS and network hardening practices, cloud security measures, penetration testing, network segmentation, port filtering, baseline configurations, and multi-factor authentication. Through a series of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions, you will demonstrate your ability to identify vulnerabilities, recommend appropriate security measures, and explain how various tools and practices help protect systems and networks from potential threats. Explanations for correct and incorrect answers are provided to reinforce learning and clarify common misconceptions.
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Assignment - Use the NIST Cybersecurity Framework to Respond to a Security Incident
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Assignment - Example
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Reflect and Connect with Peers
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Course Wrap-Up
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Course Full Glossary
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Get Started on the Next Course
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Course Title: Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security
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Course Level: Beginner / Intermediate
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Duration: 11 hours
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Delivery Format: Online
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Prerequisites: Foundations of Cybersecurity recommended
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Estimated Time Commitment: 3–5 hours per week
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Course Type: Video Lessons
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Hands-On Labs: 7 practical labs covering network setup, data flow, and security
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Focus: Network fundamentals, data communication, intrusion tactics, and system hardening
Technical Requirements:
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A computer (Windows, macOS, or Linux) with reliable internet access
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At least 8 GB of RAM and 30 GB of free storage space
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Ability to install and run virtual machines (e.g., VirtualBox)
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Basic web browser and text editor (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, VS Code)
Software Requirements:
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Kali Linux Virtual Machine (provided in course instructions)
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Python (latest version)
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OpenSSL
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Access to cybersecurity tools introduced in labs (free and open-source)
Academic Requirements:
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Completion of all assigned readings and video lessons
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Participation in hands-on labs and exercises
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Submission of lab reports or reflections (as assigned)
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Passing scores on quizzes and final assessment
Recommended Skills (not required):
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Basic computer navigation (file management, installing software)
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Interest in technology, problem-solving, and digital safety
This course is designed for beginners who are interested in learning the fundamentals of cybersecurity. It is ideal for:
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Students exploring a career in cybersecurity or IT
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Professionals looking to strengthen their digital security knowledge
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Individuals interested in understanding how networks, systems, and data are protected
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Anyone with curiosity about online threats, hacking, and cyber defense
No prior technical experience or programming knowledge is required—just a willingness to learn and explore the world of cybersecurity.
