If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, now is an excellent time to dive into this dynamic and ever-evolving field. With an abundance of training options available, you can find resources that suit your budget and learning preferences.
Diverse Training Opportunities
Cybersecurity training spans a wide range, from high-end commercial training programs to accessible online resources. On the higher end, some vendors offer comprehensive digital forensics training programs priced around $11,000 AUD (SANS). For those on a tighter budget, options range from a few thousand dollars to even $500 (Mossé Cyber Security Institute), with online providers offering monthly subscriptions for under $50 (Cybrary). Additionally, platforms like YouTube host an array of free content created by experienced researchers and practitioners.
Building Your Home Lab
To get started in cybersecurity, particularly in digital forensics and incident response, setting up a home lab is essential. This doesn’t need to be complicated. Begin with open-source tools to practice and hone your skills.
Key Decision: Blue Team or Red Team?
Before diving into training, it’s important to determine which path you want to pursue in cybersecurity.
- Blue Team (Defensive): These professionals focus on digital forensics and incident response. They act as the firefighters of the cyber world, investigating incidents, eradicating attackers, and mopping up after breaches. Blue Team members are critical in understanding what happened during an incident and ensuring that the environment is secure from further threats.
- Red Team (Offensive): If you’re interested in a more offensive role, consider becoming a professional hacker or penetration tester. Red Team members simulate attacks to find vulnerabilities before malicious actors do.
Starting with Limited Resources
Even if you’re still in school or on a tight budget, there are numerous ways to get started in cybersecurity:
- Research Online Resources (paragraph 2 above): Explore various websites and vendors offering cybersecurity training. As you delve into these resources, you’ll uncover methodologies and tools used in the industry, allowing you to build a foundational knowledge base.
- Leverage Free Content: Utilise forums, Reddit/r/cybersecurity/,/r/AskNetsec/,/r/securityCTF/) YouTube (@13Cubed,@Kroll,@@SANSForensics), and other free resources to learn. Many experts share valuable insights and tutorials that can kickstart your learning journey.
- Utilize AI Tools: Tools like ChatGPT or Gemini can answer questions and provide guidance on digital forensic investigations and other cybersecurity topics. This AI assistance can complement your learning from other resources.
Benefits of Paid Training
While free resources are a great starting point, paid training can significantly streamline your learning process. These courses often condense complex topics into manageable formats, such as 5-7 day intensive courses or longer formal education programs. Paid training also frequently offers certifications or degrees that are recognized and respected in the industry. As mentioned above, Mossé Cyber Security Institute or SANS are excellent providers.
No Excuses, Just Start
With the wealth of resources available online, there are no excuses not to begin your cybersecurity journey. Whether you start with free content or invest in formal training, the knowledge and skills you need are accessible. Take advantage of the resources available and start building your career in cybersecurity today.