Month 1-3: Foundations
Networking Fundamentals
- Learn TCP/IP, OSI model, and common protocols
- Study network topologies and architecture
- Practice with tools like Wireshark for packet analysis
Linux Essentials
- Install a Linux distribution (e.g., Ubuntu or Kali Linux)
- Master basic command-line operations
- Learn file system structure and permissions
Programming Basics
- Start with Python for cybersecurity
- Learn basic scripting for automation
- Practice with simple security-related coding projects
Month 4-6: Core Security Concepts
Information Security Principles
- Study CIA triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)
- Learn about access control models and authentication methods
- Understand basic cryptography concepts
Web Application Security
- Learn common web vulnerabilities (e.g., OWASP Top 10)
- Practice identifying and exploiting basic web app flaws
- Study secure coding practices
Network Security
- Understand firewalls, IDS/IPS, and VPNs
- Learn about common network attacks and defenses
- Practice configuring basic network security tools
Month 7-9: Specialization and Practical Skills
Ethical Hacking Basics
- Study penetration testing methodologies
- Learn about reconnaissance and scanning techniques
- Practice with vulnerable virtual machines (e.g., DVWA, Metasploitable)
Incident Response and Forensics
- Understand the incident response lifecycle
- Learn basic digital forensics techniques
- Practice with forensic tools like Autopsy or EnCase
Cloud Security
- Study cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)
- Learn about shared responsibility models
- Practice securing cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure)
Month 10-12: Advanced Topics and Career Preparation
Threat Intelligence
- Learn about threat actors and their motivations
- Study threat intelligence platforms and feeds
- Practice creating threat intelligence reports
Governance, Risk, and Compliance
- Understand common security frameworks (e.g., NIST, ISO 27001)
- Learn about risk assessment methodologies
- Study relevant regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
Career Development
- Build a professional network (join cybersecurity communities, attend webinars)
- Create a portfolio of projects and write-ups
- Prepare for entry-level cybersecurity certifications (e.g., CompTIA Security+)
Throughout the year: