What do you do if you want to learn cybersecurity skills online?

Online courses it’s a best way and opportunities to learn new skills, I recommend to check for reviews and course descriptions to find the one that best fits your learning style and objectives.

Online courses, free resources at a local library or YouTube for example, online bootcamps if affordable as well. There are a few ways to begin that are low cost but still involve putting the necessary amount of work in for the information to stick. Networking is key as well, the sooner you can meet new people to assist you and possibly mentor if possible then that is a huge benefit as well.

Learning cybersecurity online can be a rewarding and accessible pursuit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how I will get started: Set Clear Goals: Define your specific areas of interest within cybersecurity, such as network security, ethical hacking, cryptography, or information security management. Research Learning Paths: Explore different online learning platforms and resources that offer cybersecurity courses and certifications. Some popular platforms include Coursera, Udemy, Pluralsight, Cybrary, and edX. Seek Mentorship: Build relationships with professionals in the cybersecurity industry by attending virtual events, webinars, and networking sessions. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals.

1. Explore Reliable Online Platforms: Find trustworthy websites and courses that provide thorough cybersecurity training. Platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and Cybrary are excellent resources. 2. Select an Appropriate Course: Choose a course that matches your existing skills and career aspirations. 3. Engage in Practical Exercises: Cybersecurity is a hands-on discipline. Make sure the course incorporates practical exercises and real-life scenarios. 4. Monitor Industry Developments: Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Choose courses that stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends to ensure you stay informed about emerging threats and defense strategies.

Of course, computer science is the milestone of better understanding security issues in data processing. We need to have a clear view of all devices involved in such processing in other to be fairly familiar with theses environments. so, don't worry about the principles networking that you will have to learn.

First and foremost, it is important to understand that cybersecurity is a vast and complex field that encompasses various sub-disciplines such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, incident response, and risk management. To effectively learn cybersecurity skills online, it is essential to have a clear understanding of your goals and objectives. it is crucial to engage in hands-on practice and real-world scenarios to reinforce your learning and build practical experience.Setting up a virtual lab environment using tools like VirtualBox or VMware allows you to experiment with different security configurations, conduct penetration testing exercises, analyze malware samples, and simulate cyber attacks in a controlled environment.

Once you have a good grasp of the basics, you can delve into cybersecurity-specific courses. Platforms like Cybrary, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a range of courses tailored to different aspects of cybersecurity, from network security to ethical hacking and beyond. These platforms often feature courses designed by industry professionals, providing practical insights and real-world problem-solving scenarios.

Cybersecurity is a field that benefits greatly from hands-on practice. Look for online resources that offer virtual labs and simulation environments. For example, platforms like Hack The Box or TryHackMe provide controlled, gamified environments where you can practice hacking skills safely and legally. These exercises help solidify your theoretical knowledge through practical application.

Capture the Flag Competitions, Cybersecurity Defense Competitions, and Bug Bounties are the best way to "Sharpen your sword."

Creating a study schedule that allows for consistency and regularity is crucial for effective learning. By prioritizing understanding the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity, such as network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and risk management, a solid foundation can be established. In addition to theoretical knowledge, actively engaging in practical exercises and hands-on activities is essential. This could involve setting up virtual labs or experimenting with cybersecurity tools and software. Tracking progress and ensuring full comprehension of the material can be done by regularly reviewing and assessing one's understanding through quizzes, assessments, or practical projects.

One thing I've found helpful is connecting with other individuals in the industry. Make time to meet with someone near you or just a quick message to pick their brain. I’ve noticed in the IT/Cybersecurity industry people are always happy to help and share their journey, tips, and resources. Also, be sure to attend any conferences or group meetings in your area if possible. Trust me, it will pay off!

Participating in CTF’s is a good way to build a horde that you can network with for good training exercises you can do together or on your own, create crib sheets, offer encouragement and job leads, etc.

Know what you are most interested in. There are several areas of cyber security. Consider the following. Do you want to find holes by doing simulated attacks? Do you want to try to identify attacks coming in? Do you want to review code to make sure it meets secure standards? These are just some of the areas of cyber security. Identifying what aspects you want to focus on will help determine what learning routes you'll want to include in your journey.