Firstly, the digital landscape is rife with cyber threats, and acquiring cybersecurity skills is akin to securing a fortress against potential intruders. It empowers individuals and organizations to safeguard their sensitive data, financial assets, and digital identities from malicious actors.
Cybersecurity education fosters a culture of responsible digital citizenship. It equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about online behavior and stay vigilant in recognizing and avoiding potential threats. This not only protects personal information but also contributes to creating a safer digital environment for all. In essence, learning cybersecurity is an investment in the security, privacy, and resilience of both individuals and society at large.
Business and government sectors increasingly rely on technology, making them lucrative cyberattack targets. By delving into cybersecurity, one can actively contribute to protecting these entities from catastrophic data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other cybercrimes, thus ensuring the stability of critical systems and infrastructure.
Moreover, the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to surge. As cyber threats evolve, there is a burgeoning need for experts who can combat these sophisticated adversaries. A strong foundation in cybersecurity opens up diverse career prospects, offering the potential for a stable, well-compensated career path. Cybersecurity education serves as a pivotal tool in addressing the cybersecurity talent shortage. With a growing demand for skilled professionals in this field, acquiring cybersecurity skills opens the door to a wealth of career opportunities and job security. It enables individuals to become the front line of defense in the ongoing battle against cyber threats, effectively becoming digital guardians.
Furthermore, comprehending cybersecurity principles enhances overall digital literacy. It equips individuals with the knowledge to navigate the digital realm safely, discern phishing attempts, and exercise prudence in online activities. This knowledge is invaluable in an era where personal and professional lives are intricately intertwined with technology.
Additionally, delving into cybersecurity promotes ethical responsibility. Understanding the importance of ethical hacking and using cybersecurity skills can help prevent illicit activities and hacking endeavors that can harm individuals and organizations.
Lastly, cybersecurity is a field in constant flux. By embarking on a cybersecurity journey, one commits to lifelong learning and staying updated with emerging threats and innovative defense strategies. This adaptability is vital when adversaries continuously devise new methods to breach digital defenses. In summary, learning cybersecurity protects one's digital existence and contributes to the safety and resilience of the digital world, offering a pathway to a dynamic and impactful career.
The # Best On-Demand Cybersecurity Classes
- Intrinsec—Official ISC2 Self-Paced Training for the CISSP
- SANS Institute—SEC301: Introduction to Cyber Security
- IAA Energy Resources—Cybersecurity Foundation
- Training Camp—Self-Paced ISC2 CISSP
- ISC2—Systems Security Certified Practitioner
- SANS Institute—SEC388: Introduction to Cloud Computing and Security
#1:Intrinsec—Official ISC2 Self-Paced Training for the CISSP
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is globally recognized as the gold standard in the information security sector, validating the deep technical and managerial knowledge and experience needed to design, engineer, and manage an organization's overall security posture.
This self-paced online training comprehensively covers 8 domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK): Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security.
The course is tailored for information security professionals with substantial technical and managerial expertise, such as Chief Information Officers, Chief Information Security Officers, Security Architects, and related roles.
Upon completing the course, you’ll gain the skills to apply fundamental concepts in IT and security, align organizational goals with security functions, protect organizational assets throughout their lifecycle, and design, implement, monitor, and secure operating systems, networks, and applications.
Additionally, you’ll understand cryptography's significance in digital security, evaluate physical and network security, and leverage access controls for business security needs. The course equips you to assess information systems risks, implement security controls, and mitigate software and system vulnerabilities throughout their life cycles.
The course provides a holistic foundation for success in information security.
Key Information
$940, interactive online, on-demand (self-paced) over a 180-day period. The estimated time to complete the course is 40 hours. As a prerequisite, you should have a firm grasp of basic cybersecurity concepts in your role as an IT professional.
This course costs $940 and is due upfront.
Technology Requirements—
The following system requirements are needed to enhance your overall learning experience:
A stable and continuous internet connection is required. In order to record your completion of the online learning courses, please ensure you are connected to the internet at all times while taking the course.
Hardware Specifications:
- Processor 2 GHz (minimum)
- RAM 4 GB (minimum)
- Monitor minimum resolution (1024 x 768)
- Video Card
- Keyboard and mouse or other assistive technology
- Computer Peripherals: Speakers/Headphones – (Noise-canceling headset is recommended); Microphone; Camera
Supported Operating Systems:
- Macintosh OS X 10.10 to present
- Windows 10 to present
Supported Browsers:
- Google Chrome
- Microsoft Edge
- Mozilla Firefox
More Details
This self-paced online CISSP training course offers 180 days of flexible access to its content, totaling approximately 40 hours of study time. With the purchase of Official ISC2 CISSP Self-Paced Training, learners receive a comprehensive package, including the ISC2 Student Training Guide, over 15 hours of multimedia content, numerous applied scenario and content-specific activities, end-of-chapter quizzes with answer feedback, a 180-question post-course assessment, interactive online flashcards, a glossary, and 24/7 technical chat support, along with instructor email support.
Additionally, learners benefit from the CISSP Study Group, an official ISC2 Certificate of Completion, and a Course Completion Badge. The package also offers the ISC2 CISSP Certified Cloud Security Professional Official Study Guide and Practice Tests in hard copy, Pearson VUE Exam Support, ISC2 Preferred Partner CPE Submission Program, and post-class instructor email support. Please note, however, that the Official ISC2 CISSP exam voucher is not included but can be purchased separately for $749 during checkout, and it is valid for one year from the purchase date.
This course is not yet rated.
#2:SANS Institute—SEC301: Introduction to Cyber Security
The SANS SEC301 course is designed for anyone who’s new to cybersecurity or seeking fundamental knowledge. It caters to those overwhelmed by complex security jargon, those needing basic security understanding, aspiring career changers, and managers concerned about potential breaches. The course, led by industry experts, covers various topics, including core terminology, network functionality, mobile device and IoT security, AI, authentication, authorization, cryptography, social engineering, network attacks, wireless security, firewalls, web security, virtualization, and cloud computing. It presents these subjects in an easy-to-understand manner, making it suitable for those with minimal tech background.
SEC301 prepares you for the GISF certification test and imparts practical, real-world insights. Business benefits include securing assets through the Principle of Least Privilege, understanding authentication, authorization, cryptography, and defensive technologies, and awareness of diverse cyber threats to prevent headline-making breaches.
Upon completion of the course, you can confidently discuss cybersecurity topics, handle technical acronyms, apply the Principle of Least Privilege, understand the CIA framework (Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability), navigate GUI and CLI in Windows and Linux, create secure passphrases, deploy password managers, grasp cryptographic principles, comprehend IoT and AI's cybersecurity impact, understand computer functioning, network basics, wireless technologies, malware, various attack types, and defensive technologies. You will also be able to implement simple firewall configurations and differentiate surface, deep, and dark web. Finally, you’ll understand browser security, system hardening, patching, virtualization, cloud computing, backups, and data protection strategies.
Key Information
$7,215 plus an additional $949 for GISF Certification (GIAC Information Security Fundamentals), 5 full days of material, no prerequisites.
For on-demand delivery, the course consists of 5 full days or 40 hours of material that can be accessed at your own pace.
This course does not have prerequisites and assumes only the most basic knowledge of computers. SEC301 makes no assumptions regarding your prior cybersecurity experience.
Make sure to bring your own properly configured laptop for the course to fully participate in hands-on exercises. It's crucial to follow the specified requirements and back up your system before class, ideally using one without sensitive data. OnDemand students will use the SANS OnDemand player when their class access begins. All hands-on labs are in a virtualized cloud environment, accessible via a web browser, and a computer running a browser with a larger screen, physical keyboard, and mouse is recommended. For more laptop specifications, contact [email protected].
This course costs $7,215 plus an additional $949 if you want GISF certification (GIAC Information Security Fundamentals). OnDemand course access will be provided 24 hours after your payment has been processed.
More Details
In this course, you’ll receive the following: electronic courseware for each day of training that includes the slides presented and notes to explain them, plus an electronic lab workbook explaining the hands-on labs; access to the SEC301.com website containing more than 680 quiz questions, videos of the author performing each lab, and additional helpful materials; 5 full days' worth of high-quality instruction and explanation; and MP3 audio files of the complete course lecture.
This course has received positive reviews and excellent feedback from students. One commented on the range of information provided that is applicable at work and in life. This student also pointed out the effectiveness and usefulness of the labs in reinforcing the material. Another student highlighted getting a better understanding of cyber threats and acquiring the means to mitigate those threats.
#3: IAA Energy Resources—Cybersecurity Foundation
In this 33-hour on-demand cybersecurity course, you'll develop a global perspective on secure system design and gain insights into various cybersecurity roles necessary for a comprehensive security solution. Through lectures and hands-on labs, you'll explore current threat trends on the internet and their impact on organizational security, covering standard cybersecurity terminology, compliance requirements, sample exploits, and hands-on control mitigation. The course is suitable for network professionals looking to advance in cybersecurity, executives and managers aiming to communicate effectively with security professionals and enhance organizational security, and individuals seeking to strengthen their understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals, threats, control measures, and organizational responsibilities.
The course includes 90 days of access, comprehensive study materials, 33 hours of study content, and lab environments. By the end of the course, you'll have increased security awareness, the ability to interpret and analyze network mapping/footprinting tool output, and the skills to reduce system attack surfaces. You’ll also gain knowledge of networking in the context of security controls, understanding of data protection principles, insights into PKI/certificates for building trusted device relationships, implementation of login security and identity management solutions, and expertise in minimizing attack surfaces of network devices. In addition, you’ll get familiar with malware threats and anti-malware solutions, become aware of social engineering threats and techniques, understand software vulnerabilities and security solutions, and acquire knowledge of monitoring capabilities and privacy concerns.
Last but not least, you’ll grasp the identification of physical security controls and their relationship with IT security. You’ll benefit from explanations of incident response capabilities, recognition of legal considerations and investigative techniques in cybersecurity, and the ability to research cybersecurity trends.
Key Information
The cost of tuition is disclosed when you set up an account, log in, and apply for the course;33 hours of material; prerequisites include a comprehensive understanding of TCP/IP networking or equivalent knowledge.
The duration of this course is 33 hours of material, and you can learn at your own pace with 90 days of access.
Prerequisites for this course include a comprehensive understanding of TCP/IP networking or equivalent knowledge, which can be obtained by taking specific on-demand courses.
The tuition cost and payment methods/terms are disclosed when you set up an account, log in, and apply for the course.
More Details
What’s included:
- 90 days access to the course
- comprehensive course materials
- 33 hours of study material
- lab environments
#4: Training Camp—Self-Paced ISC2 CISSP
Training Camp’s self-paced on-demand course is tailored for the ISC2 CISSP certification exam. It offers interactive study materials, advanced search features to target specific topics, analytics dashboards to monitor your progress, 24/7 course accessibility, and email support. Achieving CISSP certification demonstrates your ability to effectively design, implement, and oversee a top-tier cybersecurity program.
This CISSP training course provides:
- Interactive exercises for practical experience
- Adaptive performance-based practice questions
- Data-driven instruction and engaging videos
- Official ISC2 study materials and exam preparation resources
- CISSP Exam Practical Assessments
This official ISC2 CISSP on-demand training course harnesses artificial intelligence to guide students through a personalized self-paced learning journey. You’ll get a comprehensive overview of information systems security concepts and industry best practices found in the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). This data-driven experience offers interactive study materials tailored to individual levels of understanding and confidence, fostering your self-awareness and enhancing your learning efficiency.
Key Information
$1,595 for 180 days of online access, and a prerequisite is to have a minimum of 5 years’ cumulative work experience in 2 or more of the 8 domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
This course costs $1,595 and is due upfront. There are group discounts available.
More Details
The comprehensive package includes official CISSP course content with a generous 180-day access period. You'll benefit from a self-paced online adaptive learning journey, guided by a data-driven analytics dashboard that offers real-time feedback on your progress. The course also provides robust search functionality for pinpointing specific topics, a digital textbook, interactive elements such as sliders to assess your confidence with question answers, key takeaways, and online interactive flash cards to reinforce your learning. Additionally, you'll have access to practical assessments, email learner support, and round-the-clock technical support through 24x7x365 chat.
This course is for those who plan to pursue the CISSP certification. The CISSP is intended for professionals who have a minimum of 5 years’ cumulative work experience in 2 or more of the 8 domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Earning a 4-year college degree or regional equivalent or a recognized credential from the (ISC)² approved list will satisfy 1 year of the required experience. Education credit will only satisfy 1 year of experience.
This course is not yet rated or reviewed.
#5: ISC2—Systems Security Certified Practitioner
ISC2’s SSCP online self-paced training gives you the freedom to learn anytime and anywhere. The targeted courseware aligns with the SSCP exam outline and enhances your learning with instructional videos, audio presentations, interactive exercises, and assessments across the following SSCP domains:
- Domain 1. Security Operations and Administration
- Domain 2. Access Controls
- Domain 3. Risk Identification, Monitoring and Analysis
- Domain 4. Incident Response and Recovery
- Domain 5. Cryptography
- Domain 6. Network and Communications Security
- Domain 7. Systems and Application Security
The official training offers 180-day access to the course content, featuring over 22 hours of video-based instructional material, 20 content-specific learning activities, and 12 applied scenarios. Additionally, it includes 61 knowledge checks, 8 end-of-chapter quizzes with answer feedback, a 160-question post-course assessment with answer feedback, online interactive flash cards, and a comprehensive glossary of terms. Technical support is available around the clock via 24x7x365 chat, and instructor email support is also provided. Moreover, ISC2 Members and Associates of ISC2 can earn 40 CPE credits upon course completion. Furthermore, the Official ISC2 CBK Training Seminar for the SSCP has received ACE CREDIT for students, allowing them to apply for two hours of lower division credit at participating universities and colleges.
Key Information
$600 for training only, plus an additional $249 if you choose to bundle training with the SSCP CBT Exam Voucher, 22 hours of material with 180-day access, no prerequisites.
By taking this course, you get 22 hours of material to learn at your own pace within the 180-day access period.
There are no prerequisites.
This course costs $600 (training only) or $849 (exam voucher bundle) and is due upfront.
More Details
ISC2 offers an education guarantee: If you do not pass the exam on your first attempt after taking the online self-paced course directly through ISC2, you can access the self-paced training course through ISC2 again at no cost to you (within one year from the end of the initial course). This education guarantee covers the cost of the second course only.
This course is not yet rated or reviewed.
#6: SANS Institute—SEC388: Introduction to Cloud Computing and Security
In the fast-paced realm of cybersecurity, cloud security advances even more rapidly. Starting or transitioning into a career in this field can be daunting without a solid foundation for success. That's where SANS SEC388 steps in, offering a solution to this challenge by providing you with the essential building blocks of contemporary cloud computing and security. This course is your inaugural step on the path to becoming a SANS Cloud Ace, offering an introductory yet pivotal exploration of cloud security. Specifically centered around Azure and AWS, it acquaints you with fundamental terminology, cloud services, security considerations, and solutions for addressing security gaps in the cloud environment. SEC388 goes beyond theory with hands-on labs, immersing you in real-world scenarios that deepen your understanding of AWS, Azure, and pertinent cloud computing and security concepts, offering a total of 12 labs to enrich your learning experience.
In this course, you'll embark on a comprehensive Cloud Security Ground School. This course equips you with the fundamental knowledge of cloud computing and security by immersing you in AWS and Azure. By exploring these platforms, you'll gain insights into crucial concepts, services, and the intricacies of each vendor's environment. It will empower you to confidently address contemporary cybersecurity issues arising from cloud adoption while becoming well-versed in the associated terminology.
You won't just learn about cloud security in theory; you'll master the practical "how" and "what" behind the key cloud security matters impacting businesses today. The course encompasses hands-on labs that involve direct interaction with Azure and AWS, giving you a browser-based and command-line tools experience, enabling you to swiftly comprehend cloud security issues and effectively respond to simulated cloud breaches. Additionally, you'll be well-prepared to communicate effectively with technical security professionals, automate common tasks using cloud shells, and defend cloud services from potential attacks.
For businesses, this course empowers professionals, whether technical or managerial, to proficiently use AWS and Azure services, anticipate cloud security threats, mitigate these threats, and cultivate a security-aware culture that drives business success. You’ll learn how to make sense of diverse cloud-based services, assess risks in the cloud, integrate cloud services in AWS and Azure, and manage budgeting in cloud environments.
The course is structured into three sections, covering cloud terminology and computing topics, implementing common cloud services, and identifying cloud threats while applying relevant solutions. Hands-on labs, focused on Azure and AWS, play a pivotal role, making up approximately one-third of the course's duration. Through these labs, you’ll engage with cloud providers directly and build a strong foundation in cloud computing and security.
Key Information
$3,305, no set duration, no prerequisites.
This on-demand cybersecurity course provides unlimited access to your training wherever and whenever you want it. All labs, exercises, and live support from SANS subject matter experts are included in the cost of tuition.
While this course does not have prerequisites, you should have a basic understanding of computers before enrolling.
You should also have an OpenSSH client installed on your laptop. Cloud accounts for AWS and Azure will be provided by SANS for the course's duration. The SEC388 host configuration and software requirements stipulate that your host operating system must be the latest version of Windows 10, Windows 11, or macOS 10.15.x or newer. Make sure to fully update your host operating system before the class to ensure the right drivers and patches are in place.
It's important to note that Linux hosts are not supported, due to their numerous variations. If you opt for Linux as your host, you are responsible for configuring it to work with the course materials and virtual machines. Your course materials will include a "Setup Instructions" document detailing essential steps to be completed before attending a live class event or starting an online class. These instructions may take 30 minutes or more to complete. For any further inquiries regarding laptop specifications, you can reach out to [email protected].
This course costs $3,305 and is due upfront.
More Details
When you enroll in this course, you’ll receive electronic courseware containing the entire course content, printed course books, access to repeatable interactive hands-on labs, MP3 audio files of the complete course lecture, and access to the Slack Cloud Security Alumni channel.
Students who have taken this course have reviewed it positively. One appreciated the “explanation of AWS and Azure, and the supporting slides.” Another commented that it’s “a great course for system administrators and security practitioners who are transitioning… from a primarily on-premises workload to a public cloud workload.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an on-demand Cybersecurity class worth it?
The value of an on-demand cybersecurity class hinges on one's learning style, objectives, and situation. These courses offer flexibility, letting learners access materials at their own pace, making them ideal for self-motivated individuals with hectic schedules. However, success depends on self-discipline and motivation since the absence of regular class structures may challenge some. Conversely, those who thrive in self-directed learning can excel. Quality varies, so thorough research is vital, prioritizing courses with current content, hands-on labs, and real-world applications. In conclusion, the worth of an on-demand cybersecurity class depends on your ability to stay motivated and disciplined, making it suitable for busy, self-driven learners when coupled with the right, high-quality course.
What will I need for an online Cybersecurity class?
To enroll in an online cybersecurity class, you will need a computer with a reliable internet connection. Additionally, depending on the specific course requirements, you may need to download and install software tools commonly used in cybersecurity, such as VirtualBox or VMware for creating virtual environments, Wireshark for network analysis, and Kali Linux for ethical hacking purposes. Familiarity with programming languages like Python can benefit some courses, so installing Python is advisable. However, the course instructor or syllabus will typically guide you on any specific software or coding languages required for the class.
Can I learn Cybersecurity on-demand for free?
You can start learning some basic cybersecurity concepts on-demand for free through resources like YouTube videos and online tutorials. These materials can provide foundational knowledge and insights into cybersecurity practices. However, to truly master up-to-date and comprehensive cybersecurity skills, it is highly beneficial to enroll in structured courses or programs. These formal education options often offer a more in-depth and organized curriculum, access to industry experts, hands-on labs, and certification opportunities, ensuring that you acquire the necessary expertise to navigate the rapidly evolving field of cybersecurity effectively.
Is it better to learn Cybersecurity in a live or self-paced class?
The choice between learning cybersecurity in a live or self-paced class depends on your learning style, preferences, and specific goals. Live classes offer the advantages of a structured, traditional classroom setting with a live instructor who can answer your questions immediately and facilitate interactive discussions with classmates. This can enhance engagement, accountability, and the opportunity to network with peers, which is valuable in cybersecurity, where collaboration is essential. However, live classes may be less flexible in terms of scheduling and may require you to adhere to a set pace, which may only suit some.
On the other hand, self-paced classes provide flexibility, allowing you to learn quickly and tailor your study schedule to your convenience. This is particularly advantageous for individuals with busy lifestyles or those who prefer independent learning. Self-paced courses also enable you to revisit materials as needed, which can be beneficial for complex topics. However, they need more real-time support from an instructor and the interactive dynamic of a live classroom, making it challenging to get immediate answers to questions or engage in collaborative learning experiences.
In summary, choosing between live and self-paced cybersecurity classes depends on your learning style and preferences. Live classes may be the better choice if you value structured guidance, immediate feedback, and peer interaction. Conversely, if flexibility and independence are your priorities, self-paced classes could be more suitable. Ultimately, the effectiveness of either approach depends on your commitment, self-discipline, and willingness to adapt your learning style to the chosen format.