7: Automate Cybersecurity Tasks with Python
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Automate Cybersecurity Tasks with Python
In this course, you will learn how to leverage Python to automate common cybersecurity tasks and improve efficiency in security operations. You’ll explore how Python is used in real-world security scenarios, create custom functions, extract information using regular expressions, and practice debugging code to ensure reliability.
Throughout this course, you will:
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Explain how the Python programming language is applied in cybersecurity tasks
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Create new, user-defined Python functions to automate workflows
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Use regular expressions to extract and analyze information from text and logs
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Practice debugging Python code to identify and fix errors
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Complete over 20 hands-on labs to reinforce Python skills and apply automation to cybersecurity tasks
By the end of this course, you’ll have practical experience writing Python scripts to automate security processes, analyze data, and streamline threat detection and response.
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Introduction to the Course -
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Course Overview -
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Seth - My Personal Career Journey
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Helpful Resources and Tips
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Welcome the Module 1
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LAB - Installing Python -
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Python and Cybersecurity
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Getting to Know Python
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LAB - Getting Started with Python – Variables, Data Types, and User Input
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Create a basic Python Script
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Python Environments
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LAB - Writing Your First Python Code with print()
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Ethan - Python and the Cybersecurity Professional
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Quiz - Introduction to Python Programming in CybersecurityQuiz - Introduction to Python Programming in Cybersecurity -
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Data Types in Python
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More About Data Types
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Work With Variables in Python
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Assign and Reassign Variables in Python
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LAB - Working with Python Variables
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Quiz - Core Python ComponentsQuiz - Core Python Components
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Conditional statements in Python
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More Conditionals in Python
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LAB - Using Conditional Statements in Python
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LAB - Python Conditional Statements – Making Decisions
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For Loops
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While Loops
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More on Loops in Python
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LAB - Python Loops – Automating Repetitive Tasks
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Quiz - Select the Correct Iterative StatementQuiz - Select the Correct Iterative Statement
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LAB - Automating Tasks with Loops in Python
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Quiz - Conditional and Iterative StatementsQuiz - Conditional and Iterative Statements
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Module 1 Wrap-Up
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Reference Guide - Python Concepts from Module 1
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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 understanding of fundamental Python concepts commonly used in cybersecurity tasks. You will answer questions covering variables, data types, conditional statements, iterative statements, and basic functions. The questions include code snippets, multiple-choice items, and True/False prompts, focusing on practical scenarios such as automating log analysis, controlling program flow with loops and conditionals, and handling data correctly. By completing this quiz, you will reinforce your ability to read, interpret, and write Python code that can help streamline security operations and automate repetitive tasks.
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Welcome to Module 2
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Introduction to Functions
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Create a Basic Function
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LAB - Python Functions – Organizing and Reusing Your Code
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Python Functions in Cybersecurity
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LAB - Defining and Calling Functions in Python
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Quiz - Introduction to FunctionsQuiz - Introduction to Functions
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Use Parameters in Functions
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Return Statements
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Functions and Variables
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Explore Built-In Functions
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LAB - Conditional Logic and Decision Making in Python
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Work with Built-in Functions
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LAB - Using Built-in and Custom Functions in Python
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Quiz - Arguments, Parameters, and Return StatementsQuiz - Arguments, Parameters, and Return Statements
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Modules and Libraries
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Import Modules and Libraries in Python
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LAB - Python Lists and Dictionaries – Organizing Data
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Code Readability
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Ensure Proper Syntax and Readability in Python
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Dora - Use Python Efficiently on a Cybersecurity Team
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Quiz - Learn From the Python CommunityQuiz - Learn From the Python Community
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Module 2 - Wrap-Up
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Reference Guide - Python Concepts from Module 2
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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 test your understanding of key Python programming concepts, including functions, parameters and arguments, built-in functions, modules and libraries, and proper code syntax. You will answer questions on defining and calling user-defined functions, using Python’s built-in functions, identifying correct syntax for function headers and return statements, and understanding the difference between modules, libraries, and data types. Additionally, the quiz evaluates your knowledge of best practices such as using comments and following stylistic guidelines to ensure readable and maintainable code. Completing this quiz will help reinforce your ability to write and interpret Python code effectively in practical scenarios.
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Welcome to Module 3
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String Operations
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String Indices and Slices
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Strings and the Security Analyst
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Quiz - Matching - Work with Index ValuesQuiz - Work with Index Values
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LAB - Working with Strings in Python
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Quiz - Work with StringsQuiz - Work with Strings
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List Operations in Python
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LAB - Python File Handling – Reading and Writing Files
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Write a Simple Algorithm
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Lists and the Security Analyst
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LAB - Managing Data with List Methods in Python
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Quiz - Work with Lists and Develop AlgorithmsQuiz - Work with Lists and Develop Algorithms
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Regular Expressions in Python
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More About Regular Expressions
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LAB - Extracting Information with Lists in Python
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Module 3 - Wrap-UP
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Reference Guide - Python Concepts from Module 3
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Module 3 Glossary Terms
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Module 3 Final QuizModule 3 Final Quiz Description: This quiz is designed to test your understanding of fundamental Python concepts relevant to cybersecurity, including strings, lists, built-in functions, methods, slicing, and regular expressions. You will apply your knowledge to identify correct syntax, manipulate data, extract information from strings and lists, and recognize patterns using Python functions and methods. Each question includes practical examples similar to real-world scenarios, helping you reinforce your coding skills and problem-solving abilities.
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Welcome to Module 4
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Automate Cybersecurity Tasks with Python
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Automating Tasks in CI/CD
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LAB - Automating Tasks with Python – Practical Security Scripts
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Essential Python Components for Automation
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Nancy - Continual Learning and Python
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Quiz - Python and AutomationQuiz - Python and Automation
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Access a Text File in Python
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Import Files into Python
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LAB - Importing and Parsing Text Files with Python
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Parse a Text File in Python
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Work with Files in Python
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Develop a Parsing Algorithm in Python
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LAB - Developing Algorithms to Manage Access Lists in Python
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Quiz - Work with Files in PythonQuiz - Work with Files in Python
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LAB - Python Algorithms and Automation – Solving Problems Efficiently
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Debugging Strategies
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Mike - Learning from Mistakes
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Apply Debugging Strategies
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Explore Debugging Techniques
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LAB - Debugging Python Code
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Quiz - Debug Python CodeQuiz - Debug Python Code
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LAB - Debugging Python Scripts – Finding and Fixing Errors
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Dialogue - Automate Security Tasks and Parse Files with Python
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Module 4 Wrap-Up
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Reference Guide - Python Concepts from Module 4
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Module 4 Glossary Terms
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Module 4 Final QuizModule 4 Final Quiz Description: This quiz assesses your understanding of Python programming concepts related to automation, file handling, and debugging in a cybersecurity context. You will be tested on your ability to work with loops, conditional statements, and string and list methods to automate tasks such as monitoring login activity and updating files. The quiz also evaluates your knowledge of common types of errors in Python, including syntax, logic, and runtime exceptions, as well as your ability to parse and manipulate data from files. By completing this quiz, you will demonstrate both your practical coding skills and your understanding of how Python can be applied to streamline cybersecurity workflows.
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Reflect and Connect with Peers
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Course Wrap-Up
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Reference Guide - Python Concepts from Course
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Course Glossary
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Getting Started on the Next Course
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Course Title: Automate Cybersecurity Tasks with Python
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Course Level: Beginner / Intermediate
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Duration: 25-30 hours
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Delivery Format: Online
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Prerequisites: Foundations of Cybersecurity recommended
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Estimated Time Commitment: 5–6 hours per week
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Course Type: Video Lessons
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Hands-On Labs: Over 20 practical labs on Python scripting, regular expressions, and debugging
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Focus: Automating cybersecurity tasks using Python, data extraction, and coding best practices
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.
