Cybersecurity Basics

Overview

This two-week course offers an introduction to the fundamentals of cybersecurity, providing students with the foundational knowledge needed to protect information systems from threats. Participants will explore common cyber threats, security practices, and the tools used to safeguard data and networks. The course is designed for beginners who want to understand how cybersecurity impacts businesses and personal information in today’s digital landscape.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the Cybersecurity Basics course, students will be able to:

Understand the basic principles of cybersecurity and its importance in the digital world.
Identify common cyber threats, such as malware, phishing, and ransomware.
Implement basic security measures to protect data and networks.
Understand password management and encryption techniques.
Recognize the role of firewalls, antivirus software, and other protective technologies.
Learn how to create safe online behaviors and practices.
Understand legal and ethical considerations in cybersecurity.
Develop a basic security plan for personal or small business use.

This course provides foundational cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills that can be applied to enhance information safety in both personal and organizational contexts.

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Course Structure

Duration: 2 weeks
Study Time: 1-2 hours per day (equivalent to 14-28 hours total)

Course Modules

The course is structured into two weeks, with each day offering a carefully designed module that builds on the knowledge from the previous day, ensuring a steady and practical learning progression.

Week 1:

Introduction to cybersecurity: Understanding digital threats and the importance of security.
Common cyber threats: Malware, phishing, ransomware, and more.
Basic security practices: Password management, two-factor authentication, and encryption basics.
Protecting your network: Firewalls, antivirus software, and security patches.

Week 2:

Safe online behaviors: How to browse and communicate securely online.
Data protection laws and ethical considerations in cybersecurity.
Developing a basic cybersecurity plan: Protecting personal or small business data.
Final project: Design a basic cybersecurity plan and present security strategies based on the concepts learned.

Assessment

Daily quizzes to reinforce learning.
Final project: Create a cybersecurity plan for a personal or small business system (50%).

Tools and Software

Password management tools (e.g., LastPass)
Antivirus software (e.g., Avast, Norton)
Encryption tools (e.g., VeraCrypt)

Professional Certificate of Completion

Students who successfully complete all course requirements will receive a Professional Certificate of Completion issued by AIES, recognizing their achievement in this short-term learning course.

Jumpstart Your Cybersecurity Journey in Two Weeks

This two-week Cybersecurity Basics course introduces participants to the core concepts and tools used to protect digital systems and data. Through hands-on exercises and beginner-friendly content, students will explore how to recognize cyber threats, apply basic protective measures, and understand the broader importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital environment.

Ideal for learners looking to build confidence in digital safety, this course lays the groundwork for further exploration in the field of cybersecurity and supports informed practices in personal, academic, or organizational contexts.