Cyber Security & Ethical Hacking (Module)

Creating a module on cybersecurity and ethical hacking involves structuring a comprehensive curriculum that covers theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on experience. Here’s a suggested outline for such a module:

Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking Module Overview:

This module provides an introduction to the principles, techniques, and best practices of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. Participants will learn essential concepts, tools, and methodologies to protect digital assets and conduct ethical hacking assessments.

Module Duration:

Approximately 8-12 weeks (can be adjusted based on the depth of coverage and available time)

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the fundamentals of cybersecurity and ethical hacking.
2. Identify common cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
3. Develop skills in risk assessment and mitigation strategies.
4. Learn ethical hacking methodologies and tools.
5. Gain practical experience in conducting ethical hacking assessments.
6. Practice responsible disclosure and reporting of security findings.
7. Understand legal and ethical considerations in cybersecurity and ethical hacking.

Module Structure:

1. Introduction to Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacking

• Overview of the cybersecurity landscape
• Ethical hacking vs. malicious hacking
• Legal and ethical frameworks

1. Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities

• Types of cyber threats (malware, phishing, etc.)
• Common vulnerabilities (software flaws, misconfigurations, etc.)
• Threat modeling and risk assessment

1. Foundations of Network Security

• Network architecture and protocols
• Secure network design principles
• Firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs

1. Introduction to Cryptography

• Basic concepts of cryptography
• Encryption algorithms and protocols
• Cryptographic applications in cybersecurity

1. Web Application Security

• Common web vulnerabilities (SQL injection, XSS, CSRF, etc.)
• Secure coding practices
• Web application security testing

1. Penetration Testing Methodologies

• Overview of penetration testing
• Reconnaissance and information gathering
• Vulnerability assessment and exploitation

1. Tools of the Trade

• Introduction to ethical hacking tools (Nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, etc.)
• Hands-on practice with tools

1. Ethical Hacking Techniques

• Footprinting and reconnaissance
• Scanning and enumeration
• Exploitation and post-exploitation

1. Wireless Network Security

• Wireless security protocols (WEP, WPA, WPA2, etc.)
• Wireless attacks and defenses
• Wi-Fi security best practices

1. Incident Response and Handling
   • Incident detection and classification
   • Incident response process
   • Post-incident analysis and lessons learned
2. Legal and Ethical Considerations
   • Legal frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
   • Ethical guidelines and codes of conduct
   • Responsible Disclosure
3. Capstone Project: Ethical Hacking Assessment
   • Participants conduct a simulated ethical hacking assessment on a virtual environment, applying the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the module.
   • Presentation of findings and recommendations.

Assessment:

• Quizzes and exams to evaluate theoretical understanding
• Practical assignments and labs to assess hands-on skills
• Capstone project evaluation based on the quality of the ethical hacking assessment and reporting

Resources:

• Textbooks, online courses, and reference materials
• Virtual labs and simulation environments
• Ethical hacking tools and software

Conclusion:

This module aims to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and ethical mindset necessary to navigate the complex landscape of cybersecurity and ethical hacking. By understanding both defensive and offensive security techniques, participants will be better prepared to protect digital assets and contribute to the cybersecurity community responsibly.