Best 10 Cyber Security Courses Online

Are you looking for top cyber security courses online to start a career as a cyber specialist? Here, we present a detailed overview of the top 10 online cybersecurity courses, perfect for anyone looking to start or advance their career in this vital area.

This list of cybersecurity courses is created by our team of experts exploring 50+ courses available online. These courses are for beginners and experienced professionals looking to start a career in cybersecurity and also existing specialists to update their skills.

List of 10 Cyber Security Courses

1. The Complete Cyber Security Course by Nathan House (Udemy)

This extensive course covers everything from malware to network security, encryption, and more.

Nathan House’s course on Udemy offers an extensive and detailed exploration of cybersecurity. It covers a broad range of topics including malware, network security, encryption, and more. The course is structured into four volumes, each delving into different aspects of cybersecurity. The practical, hands-on exercises and real-world examples make it suitable for those seeking a thorough cybersecurity education.

• Provider: Nathan House via Udemy
• Duration: 50 hours
• Cost: $199.99 (frequent discounts available)

Course Highlights:

• In-depth and comprehensive content
• Practical, hands-on exercises
• Covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics

Ideal For: Individuals seeking a thorough and detailed cybersecurity education.

2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) by (ISC)²

The CISSP certification is one of the most respected credentials in the information security industry. It covers eight domains including security and risk management, asset security, and software development security.

The CISSP certification by (ISC)² is considered the gold standard in cybersecurity certifications. It is designed for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives. The course covers eight domains including security and risk management, asset security, and software development security. The certification is globally recognized, making it a valuable credential for advancing in the cybersecurity field.

• Provider: (ISC)²
• Duration: Self-paced
• Cost: $749 (exam fee)

Course Highlights:

• Comprehensive coverage of all aspects of cybersecurity
• Recognized globally by employers
• Access to a community of certified professionals

Ideal For: Experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives interested in proving their knowledge across a wide array of security practices and principles.

3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) by EC-Council

This course teaches the skills needed to think and act like a hacker. It covers various ethical hacking tools and techniques.

EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification provides a deep dive into the mindset and techniques of hackers. This course is perfect for IT professionals who want to understand how to look for weaknesses and vulnerabilities in systems. It covers a wide range of hacking techniques and tools and includes real-world scenarios and hands-on labs.

• Provider: EC-Council
• Duration: 40 hours
• Cost: $950 (exam fee)

Course Highlights:

• Focus on penetration testing and hacking techniques
• Real-world scenarios and hands-on labs
• In-depth knowledge of network security

Ideal For: IT professionals who want to understand how to look for weaknesses and vulnerabilities in systems.

4. Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization by NYU (Coursera)

This specialization provides a comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity. It includes four courses that cover cybersecurity fundamentals, cyber attacks, and incident response.

NYU’s specialization in Coursera offers a comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity. It consists of four courses that cover cybersecurity fundamentals, cyber attacks, and incident response. The practical exercises and quizzes enhance learning and retention, making it a great choice for beginners.

• Provider: NYU via Coursera
• Duration: 4 months (3 hours/week)
• Cost: $49 per month (Coursera subscription)

Course Highlights:

• Practical exercises and quizzes
• Interactive learning experience
• Developed by experts from NYU

Ideal For: Beginners who want a solid foundation in cybersecurity concepts and practices.

5. Cybersecurity Specialization by University of Maryland (Coursera)

This course covers the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including cryptography, software security, and hardware security.

This cybersecurity specialization course by the University of Maryland focuses heavily on cryptography and its applications in cybersecurity. It is suitable for individuals interested in the technical aspects of the field. The course includes a capstone project that provides practical experience in applying the learned concepts.

• Provider: University of Maryland via Coursera
• Duration: 8 months (4 hours/week)
• Cost: $49 per month (Coursera subscription)

Course Highlights:

• Strong focus on cryptography
• Real-world applications and case studies
• Capstone project for practical experience

Ideal For: Individuals interested in a thorough introduction to the technical aspects of cybersecurity.

6. Cyber Security Crash Course for Beginners by StationX

This crash course covers the basics of cybersecurity, including risk management, malware, and social engineering.

This crash course from StationX is ideal for absolute beginners who need a quick and comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity. It covers basics such as risk management, malware, and social engineering. The course is designed to be accessible and easy to understand, with lifetime access to materials.

• Provider: StationX
• Duration: 12 hours
• Cost: $95

Course Highlights:

• Beginner-friendly content
• Lifetime access to course materials
• Access to a community of learners

Ideal For: Absolute beginners who need a quick and comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity.

7. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) by ISACA

The CISM certification focuses on the management and governance of information security programs.

The CISM certification by ISACA is aimed at security professionals looking to advance into management roles. It focuses on managing and governing information security programs, risk management, and compliance. The certification is recognized internationally and emphasizes practical management skills.

• Provider: ISACA
• Duration: Self-paced
• Cost: $760 (exam fee)

Course Highlights:

• Emphasis on managing and governing information security programs
• Recognized internationally
• Focus on risk management and compliance

Ideal For: Security professionals looking to advance into management roles.

8. Google IT Support Professional Certificate by Google (Coursera)

This certificate includes a course specifically on IT security, which covers the basics of network security and how to respond to security incidents.

Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera includes a dedicated course on IT security. This course covers the basics of network security, system security, and how to respond to security incidents. The program offers a comprehensive overview of IT fundamentals and is ideal for those starting their career in IT with a focus on security.

• Provider: Google via Coursera
• Duration: 6 months (10 hours/week)
• Cost: $49 per month (Coursera subscription)

Course Highlights:

• Comprehensive coverage of IT fundamentals with a focus on security
• Hands-on projects
• Developed by Google

Ideal For: Beginners looking to start a career in IT with a focus on security.

9. CompTIA Security+ Certification by CompTIA

Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates baseline skills needed to perform core security functions.

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the baseline skills needed to perform core security functions. The course covers essential topics such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, application, data, and host security, access control, and identity management. The certification is widely recognized by employers, making it an excellent starting point for aspiring IT security professionals.

• Provider: CompTIA
• Duration: Self-paced
• Cost: $370 (exam fee)

Course Highlights:

• Focus on practical skills
• Widely recognized by employers
• Covers a broad range of security topics

Ideal For: Aspiring IT security professionals and those looking to validate their foundational skills.

10. Cybersecurity for Business Specialization by University of Colorado (Coursera)

This course focuses on the cybersecurity skills needed by business professionals, including risk management and threat identification.

This specialization cybersecurity course from the University of Colorado focuses on the cybersecurity skills needed by business professionals, including risk management and threat identification. It covers topics such as cybersecurity policy, risk management, and the impact of security measures on business operations. The course provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the importance of cybersecurity in the business context.

• Provider: University of Colorado via Coursera
• Duration: 5 months (3 hours/week)
• Cost: $49 per month (Coursera subscription)

Course Highlights:

• Business-oriented approach to cybersecurity
• Real-world examples and case studies
• Emphasis on risk management

Ideal For: Business professionals and managers who need to understand cybersecurity from a business perspective.

Comparison Table of Cybersecurity Courses

Additional Resources:

For more detailed information, course comparisons, and user reviews, you can visit platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and official certification provider websites. These platforms offer comprehensive insights into the course content, duration, costs, and user experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a cybersecurity course?

Prerequisites vary depending on the course and provider. For beginner-level courses like the “Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization” by NYU on Coursera, there are typically no prerequisites other than basic computer literacy. Advanced courses like the CISSP by (ISC)² or CEH by EC-Council may require prior experience in IT or cybersecurity, as well as a foundational understanding of networking and security principles.

2. How long does it take to complete a cybersecurity course?

The duration of cybersecurity courses can range from a few weeks to several months:

• Short Courses: For instance, the “Cyber Security Crash Course for Beginners” by StationX is about 12 hours long.
• Medium-Length Courses: The “Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization” by NYU on Coursera takes approximately 4 months at a pace of 3 hours per week.
• Long Courses: The “Cybersecurity Specialization” by the University of Maryland on Coursera spans 8 months, requiring 4 hours of study per week.

3. Are there free cybersecurity courses available?

Yes, there are free cybersecurity courses available online. Platforms like Coursera and edX offer free access to course materials, though a fee is usually required to obtain a certificate of completion. For example, “Cybersecurity Fundamentals” by IBM on Coursera can be audited for free, but you need to pay for certification.

4. What certifications can I earn from these courses?

Certifications vary by course:

• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) by (ISC)²
• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) by EC-Council
• CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) by ISACA
• CompTIA Security+ Certification by CompTIA

These certifications are globally recognized and can significantly enhance your career prospects in cybersecurity.

Which cybersecurity course is best for beginners?

For beginners, the “Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization” by NYU (Coursera) and the “Cyber Security Crash Course for Beginners” by StationX are excellent options. These courses cover fundamental concepts in an accessible manner and do not require prior cybersecurity experience.

Can I get a job after completing a cybersecurity course?

Completing a cybersecurity course, especially one that provides certification, can significantly improve your job prospects. Certifications like CISSP, CEH, and CompTIA Security+ are highly valued by employers. Entry-level positions such as Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, and IT Security Specialist are common roles that course graduates can pursue.

How much does a cybersecurity course cost?

The cost of cybersecurity courses varies widely:

• Low-Cost: Some courses on Coursera and Udemy may cost around $50 per month or $200 for the complete course.
• Mid-Range: Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH cost between $370 to $950, including exam fees.
• High-End: The CISSP certification exam fee is $749, with additional costs for study materials and training courses.

Are there any cybersecurity courses specifically for business professionals?

Answer: Yes, the “Cybersecurity for Business Specialization” by the University of Colorado on Coursera is tailored for business professionals. It focuses on risk management, threat identification, and the application of cybersecurity principles in a business context.

What is the job market like for cybersecurity professionals?

The job market for cybersecurity professionals is robust and growing. With the increasing number of cyber threats, companies are investing heavily in cybersecurity. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Do these courses provide hands-on experience?

Many cybersecurity courses offer hands-on labs and practical exercises. For example, the CEH by EC-Council includes hands-on labs with real-world scenarios, while the “Complete Cyber Security Course” by Nathan House on Udemy includes practical exercises to reinforce learning.