Zero To Hero Cybersecurity Accelerator Program

MODULE 1

Create Your Personal Cybersecurity Lab

A personal cybersecurity lab is a vital part of your training, providing a hands-on, real-world experience in a safe, controlled environment. It allows you to practice setting up secure networks, simulate cyberattacks, and master industry-standard cybersecurity tools.

This lab offers the flexibility to customize your learning journey, builds your confidence, and prepares you to handle actual security threats. By experimenting, troubleshooting, and collaborating with peers, you gain the skills, independence, and experience needed to transition seamlessly into the job market as a capable, job-ready cybersecurity professional.

MODULE 2

Computer Networking

Learning computer networking in a cybersecurity accelerator program equips participants with essential skills to secure and analyze network infrastructures. You gain a deep understanding of network fundamentals, protocols, and security devices like firewalls and IDS/IPS.

Through hands-on labs, you learn to detect and mitigate network threats, analyze traffic and apply secure design principles such as segmentation and Zero Trust.

Additionally, you develop expertise in network hardening, encryption, and incident response, preparing them to identify, prevent, and respond to cyber threats effectively.

MODULE 3

Active Directory

Learning Active Directory (AD) and its role in administering a Windows network equips participants with essential skills to manage users, devices, and security policies efficiently. They gain expertise in AD components such as domains, forests, organizational units (OUs), and Group Policy, enabling centralized management and access control.

Understanding authentication protocols like Kerberos and NTLM helps in securing user identities and preventing unauthorized access. Additionally, participants learn how to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot AD to ensure network stability, scalability, and security.

Mastering AD is crucial for IT administrators to enforce policies, streamline user management, and protect enterprise environments from cyber threats.

MODULE 4

Cybersecurity Fundamentals

Learning cybersecurity fundamentals is crucial for administering a Windows network securely and efficiently. Participants gain a strong understanding of core security principles, including authentication, encryption, access control, and threat detection.

They learn to identify vulnerabilities, defend against common attacks like phishing, malware, and privilege escalation, and implement security best practices such as least privilege, patch management, and network segmentation.

By mastering security policies, monitoring tools, and incident response strategies, administrators can safeguard Windows environments against cyber threats, ensuring data integrity, compliance, and operational resilience.

MODULE 5

Cybersecurity Frameworks

Cybersecurity frameworks are essential for effectively administering a Windows network, ensuring security, compliance, and risk management. You gain an understanding of industry-standard frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, CIS Controls, and MITRE ATT&CK, which provide structured guidelines for securing systems.

You learn to implement security policies, conduct risk assessments, and align security controls with regulatory requirements. Understanding these frameworks helps you establish a proactive security posture, streamline incident response, and enhance resilience against cyber threats.

By applying these best practices, you can protect Windows environments, ensure data integrity, and maintain compliance with industry and organizational standards.

MODULE 6

Vulnerability Management

Vulnerability management is crucial for administering a Windows network, as it enables proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation of security risks. You gain hands-on experience with vulnerability scanning tools, patch management, and risk prioritization techniques to address weaknesses in operating systems, applications, and configurations.

You learn to implement security best practices, such as regular updates, least privilege access, and automated remediation strategies, to reduce attack surfaces. Understanding vulnerability management helps you enhance network security, prevent exploitation by cyber threats, and maintain compliance with industry regulations, ensuring a resilient and well-protected Windows environment.

MODULE 7

EDR / NDR / XDR

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), Network Detection and Response (NDR), and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) are essential for securing and administering a Windows network. 

You gain expertise in using these advanced security solutions to monitor, detect, and respond to threats across endpoints, networks, and integrated systems. You learn how to analyze behavioral patterns, leverage threat intelligence, and automate incident response to mitigate attacks such as ransomware, lateral movement, and zero-day exploits.

Understanding EDR, NDR, and XDR helps you enhance threat visibility, improve security operations, and build a proactive defense strategy to protect Windows environments from evolving cyber threats.

MODULE 8

Security Information and Event Management System (SIEM)

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) is essential for administering a Windows network, as it enables real-time monitoring, threat detection, and incident response.

You gain hands-on experience with log collection, correlation, and analysis to identify security events across endpoints, servers, and network devices. You learn how to configure alerts, investigate anomalies, and leverage threat intelligence to respond to cyber threats effectively.

Understanding SIEM helps you enhance visibility, streamline security operations, and ensure compliance with industry regulations, ultimately strengthening the overall security posture of a Windows environment.

MODULE 9

Resume and LinkedIn Optimization Plus Interview Prep

Learning about résumé and LinkedIn optimization, along with interview preparation, is essential for advancing your career. You gain skills to craft compelling résumés and LinkedIn profiles that highlight you technical expertise, certifications, and hands-on experience.

You learn strategies for effective job searching, personal branding, and networking within the IT and cybersecurity industries. Additionally, interview preparation equips them with the ability to confidently discuss technical concepts, troubleshoot scenarios, and demonstrate problem-solving skills. Mastering these career development skills enhances job prospects, positioning professionals for success in securing roles related to Windows network administration and cybersecurity.

MODULE 10

Capstone Project

A capstone project in the context of Cybersecurity allows you to apply your knowledge in a real-world, practical scenario.

You work on a comprehensive project that involves designing, configuring, and securing an enterprise network environment, integrating various concepts such as Active Directory, vulnerability management, and security protocols.

This hands-on experience helps solidify your understanding of network administration tasks, problem-solving, and troubleshooting.

The capstone project demonstrates your ability to manage complex systems, implement security measures, and address operational challenges, ultimately preparing them for real-world responsibilities and showcasing their skills to potential employers.