Overview

Coursera Plus Monthly Sale: All Certificates & Courses 40% Off!

Grab it

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of cybersecurity, giving you a solid foundation to understand and protect digital environments. By the end of the course, you will have a deep understanding of how cybersecurity works and how to safeguard sensitive data using techniques such as encryption, password security, and web application vulnerability management. You will be empowered to make informed security decisions in various environments, from personal data protection to organizational strategies. The journey begins with foundational cybersecurity principles like security literacy and threat modeling. You will learn how to identify and assess risks, dive into the significance of metadata, and understand how it can expose sensitive information. Additionally, you will explore defense mechanisms against spear phishing attacks and gain an understanding of how man-in-the-middle attacks work, allowing you to make well-informed security decisions. Next, the course explores the critical topic of data security. This section focuses on risk management, encryption techniques, and best practices for protecting sensitive data, including passwords. You will also delve into the importance of access control, securing communications, and storing passwords securely, enabling you to implement effective data protection strategies for both personal and organizational use. Finally, the course wraps up with a focus on application security, particularly web application protection. You will learn how to secure web apps using techniques such as TLS and authentication strategies. Through practical exercises like hashing passwords in JavaScript and PHP, you'll gain hands-on experience in applying security protocols. You will also become familiar with industry standards, including OWASP's Top 10 vulnerabilities, which will equip you with the tools to mitigate risks and protect against real-world threats. No prior cybersecurity experience is required, but a basic understanding of computers and the internet is helpful. Familiarity with web technologies and basic programming concepts will be beneficial for the application security and practical exercises sections. This course is designed for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of cybersecurity, IT professionals. It's also suitable for web developers and software engineers who want to enhance their understanding of application security and secure coding practices.

Syllabus

Security Literacy

In this module, we will build a strong foundation in cybersecurity, covering key concepts like threat modeling, encryption, and password security. You'll learn how cyber threats operate and how to protect yourself and your systems effectively.

Introduction to Data Security

In this module, we will explore the essentials of data security, including encryption, hashing, and access control. You’ll gain practical knowledge on safeguarding sensitive data and ensuring secure communications.

Introduction to Application Security

In this module, we will dive into the fundamentals of securing web applications, covering authentication, TLS implementation, and vulnerability management. You'll learn how to build security-first applications that protect user data.

Practice Hashing Passwords in JavaScript

In this module, we will apply password hashing techniques in JavaScript through hands-on exercises. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of secure password storage and best practices.

Practice Hashing Passwords in PHP

In this module, we will explore secure password hashing in PHP, focusing on real-world implementation. You'll gain practical skills in protecting user credentials effectively.

OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities

In this module, we will examine the OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities, learning how they impact web applications and how to defend against them. You'll gain hands-on knowledge of secure coding practices and risk mitigation strategies.