First, the increasing reliance on technology and the internet has made individuals and organizations vulnerable to cyber threats. By acquiring cybersecurity skills, you empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to protect your personal information, finances, and digital assets from cyberattacks.
Second, cybersecurity is crucial for safeguarding businesses and government entities. Cyberattacks can result in significant financial losses, reputational damage, and the compromise of sensitive data. Learning cybersecurity allows individuals to contribute to the defense of their organizations against threats like ransomware, data breaches, and phishing attacks.
Moreover, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is rapidly growing. As cyber threats continue to evolve, there is a need for more skilled experts in the field, creating lucrative career opportunities. A strong foundation in cybersecurity can lead to a rewarding and stable career with the chance to make a real impact.
Additionally, understanding cybersecurity enhances your overall digital literacy. It helps you become a responsible and informed internet user, making you less susceptible to online scams and fraud. This knowledge is invaluable in an interconnected world where virtually every aspect of our lives is influenced by technology.
Learning cybersecurity also fosters a sense of ethical responsibility. With great power comes great responsibility, and knowing how to use cybersecurity skills ethically can prevent misuse and hacking activities.
Lastly, cybersecurity is a field that constantly evolves. By learning cybersecurity, you engage in lifelong learning, staying up-to-date with the latest threats and defense strategies. This adaptability is vital in a landscape where cyber threats continually mutate and become more sophisticated.
In summary, learning cybersecurity is about personal protection and contributing to organizations' security, pursuing a rewarding career, enhancing digital literacy, and upholding ethical values in the digital realm. It is an increasingly essential skill set in our modern, technology-driven world.
The # Best Online Cybersecurity Classes
- Technical Institute of America—CompTIA Security+ Certification (Live Online)
- Computer Training Source, Inc.—Security+ (Live Online)
- Noble Desktop—Intro to Cybersecurity & Networks (NYC or Live Online)
- Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants—Introduction to Juniper Security (Live Online)
- cPrime @ Virtual Classroom—Application Security with Snyk (Live Online)
- TLG Learning—Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) (Live Online)
- NetCom Learning—Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (Live Online)
- QuickStart—Certified Ethical Hacker (CEHv12) (Live Online)
#1: Technical Institute of America—CompTIA Security+ Certification (Virtual)
This CompTIA Security+ training comprehensively covers fundamental information security concepts, including communication security, infrastructure security, cryptography, and operational security. It's designed to prepare for the Security+ certification exam, combining lectures and hands-on labs to ensure students are exam-ready.
The course involves practical labs such as securing workgroup and client-server networks, configuring firewalls, network footprinting, managing malware protection, using IPSec, certificates, cryptography, and configuring group policies. Students can access CompTIA's proprietary study materials, including practice questions, customizable presentations, and labs. These resources offer hundreds of practice questions and a cram guide for the exam.
The course is structured into 11 lessons, covering topics ranging from security fundamentals and threats to hardening systems and services, securing network communications, managing PKI and certificates, enforcing organizational security policies, monitoring the security infrastructure, and handling security incidents. Ultimately, this training equips students with the knowledge and skills to pass the CompTIA Security+ certification exam.
Key Information
$699, 4 sessions, beginner level.
This is a full-time course of short duration. It lasts for 4 days at 8 hours per day. Multiple start dates are available. There are no prerequisites.
This course costs $699, and the full price is due upfront.
More Details
You will need a reliable Internet connection as well as a computer or device with which you can access your virtual course. It is recommended you prepare to be a few minutes early to ensure that you can set up your device and connection. This course will be held via Zoom unless otherwise specified.
This course has a 4.2-star rating across 632 reviews.
#2: Computer Training Source, Inc.—Security+ (Online)
This CompTIA Security+ training is a comprehensive program that prepares students for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam, covering various aspects of network security within the broader information technology context. The course equips students with a deep understanding of threats, attacks, vulnerabilities, and how to identify indicators of compromise. It also delves into threat actors, vulnerability scanning, and penetration testing.
The training encompasses many technologies and tools, including network components, security tools, troubleshooting common security issues, and secure protocol implementation. It also explores architectural considerations such as secure network architectures, systems design and deployment, embedded systems, application development, cloud and virtualization, and strategies for resiliency and automation.
Identity and access management are covered extensively, including identity, access, accounts, access services, and management controls. Risk management is another crucial focus, including policies, risk analysis, incident response, disaster recovery, and digital forensics. The course concludes with an in-depth exploration of cryptography, cryptographic concepts, algorithms, wireless security, and public key infrastructure.
It's important to note that certification and book fees are not included in the course price but may be covered for extended training programs. This training offers a comprehensive foundation for those pursuing a career in information security or further specialized security fields.
Key Information
$3,495, duration, prerequisites.
This is a part-time course. It lasts for 5 weeks at 4 hours per week. Multiple sessions are available. It is appropriate for all experience levels. There are no prerequisites.
This course costs $3,495 and the full price is due upfront.
More Details
You will need a reliable internet connection as well as a computer or device with which you can access your virtual course. It is recommended that you prepare to be a few minutes early to ensure that you can set up your device and connection. This course will be held via Zoom unless otherwise specified.
This course has a 4.6-star rating across 19 reviews.
#3: Noble Desktop—Intro to Cybersecurity & Networks (NYC or Live Online)
By taking this introductory course, you’ll understand computer communication and security systems comprehensively—including network models, authentication, authorization, admin roles, foundational cybersecurity concepts, Linux, Python, and networking protocols. You’ll learn cybersecurity fundamentals, foundational models, and terminology for cybersecurity, such as the roles of Linux and Python. You’ll understand how computer communication works by grasping the basic networking protocols. And you’ll discover how to implement networking methodologies into your workspace. You’ll also explore network models and security while gaining a solid understanding of network models and network security protocols.
This course is a hands-on learning experience where you’ll work on projects and exercises that boost comprehension, retention, and engagement. Expert instructors will guide your learning process. These instructors are industry professionals and experienced educators who are driven to help you succeed.
You’ll be given top-notch curricula that have been tried and tested over many cohorts and are consistently improved for an optimal learning experience. Plus, you’ll receive supplemental materials to assist you during and after the course. You can refer to specific course pages to see the additional materials.
Key Information
$1,295, 24 hours, no prerequisites.
This is a part-time course that takes place over a total of 24 hours. Multiple schedules and sessions are available.
There are no prerequisites.
The cost of this course is $1,295. As one of Noble Desktop’s smaller courses, tuition is due in full before the start date. The best way to save on this course is to take it as part of a certificate program.
More Details
If the course is full, you can request to be put on a waiting list for the next available cohort. There is a one-year free retake policy, which allows students to retake any part of the course or program for free to refresh the materials and gain additional practice. Included with your tuition is a certificate of completion to verify your accomplishment.
This course has the highest rating. One student commented that the teaching method at Noble Desktop is “perfect” and the classes provide you with the knowledge that makes you eager to take additional courses they offer.
#4: Dynamic Worldwide Training Consultants—Introduction to Juniper Security (Live Online)
In this cybersecurity training, you will gain foundational knowledge in working with SRX Series devices, primarily utilizing the Junos operating system via the J-Web user interface. The course covers essential topics, including initial system configuration, interface setup, security object and policy configuration, IPsec VPN setup, and NAT configuration. It also explores Layer 7 security aspects like UTM, IDP, and AppSecure, enabling students to understand application-level security and advanced threat blocking. An overview of Sky ATP is included for insight into zero-day network protection technologies.
You'll learn to configure and monitor Junos OS through hands-on labs and demonstrations, gaining practical experience. The course targets network engineers, administrators, support personnel, and Juniper Networks security solutions resellers. After completing the training, you can identify security challenges, understand Juniper's Connected Security solution, and configure SRX Series devices for various security functionalities, including VPNs and NAT. The course is based on Junos OS Release 19.1R1.6 and covers monitoring, reporting features, and other related services like Sky Enterprise and Junos Space Security Director.
Key Information
$2,400, 3 all-day sessions of 8 hours each, students should have basic networking knowledge and an understanding of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model and the TCP/ IP protocol suite.
This is a full-time course of a short duration. The sessions last for 3 days at 8 hours per day.
Although this is technically beginner-level training, you need to have basic networking knowledge and an understanding of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model and the TCP/ IP protocol suite as a prerequisite.
This class/course costs $2,400, which is due upfront. If you have questions before enrolling, ask the CourseHorse community.
More Details
Upon registration, the instructor will send along additional information about how to log on and participate in the class.
This course is not yet rated.
#5: cPrime @ Virtual Classroom—Application Security with Snyk (Live Online)
In this cybersecurity training, you'll learn how to protect your applications from malicious attacks using Snyk, a software intelligence product designed to identify and address security vulnerabilities. Security is a critical pillar of any application, and this course emphasizes the importance of integrating security from the outset to prevent potential breaches. Malicious actors are patient and can exploit security gaps in your application, even during its early stages. The course covers various aspects of Snyk, teaching you how to install Snyk CLI, conduct vulnerability checks, address high-severity vulnerabilities, analyze code using Snyk's JetBrains IDE plugin, test Docker container images, scan Kubernetes configuration files, and configure Snyk notifications. This training suits cybersecurity specialists, IT security professionals, data security specialists, system analysts/admins, and developers looking to specialize in Snyk.
The course is structured into seven parts, covering topics from Snyk introduction to administration.
Key Information
$1,595, 2 consecutive full-day sessions, no prerequisites.
This is a beginner-level course. There are no prerequisites.
This course costs $1,595, which is due upfront.
More Details
You will need a reliable Internet connection as well as a computer or device with which you can access your virtual class. It is recommended that you be ready to attend class 5-10 minutes early to ensure you're able to set up your device and connection.
This course has a 4.7-star rating across 18 reviews.
#6: TLG Learning—Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) (Live Online)
In this cybersecurity training, you'll gain essential skills and knowledge to manage cybersecurity risks effectively, recognize common threats, assess an organization's security posture, gather and analyze cybersecurity intelligence, and respond to incidents promptly. It's primarily designed for cybersecurity professionals responsible for safeguarding information systems, emphasizing defense in a cybersecurity context, including protection, detection, analysis, investigation, and response processes. The training is structured into eleven modules, covering risk assessment, reconnaissance threats, attacks, vulnerability management, cybersecurity intelligence, log analysis, incident response, and security architecture.
This course is also available for remote learning, enabling you to join live instructor-led sessions online and making it accessible to a broader audience with internet-enabled devices.
Key Information
$2,475, 5 sessions that are 8 hours long, must have CompTIA Security+ Certification.
This is a full-time course with a short duration. It lasts for 5 consecutive days at 8 hours per day.
A prerequisite for this course is holding a CompTIA Security+ Certification.
Students must also ensure their system meets specific requirements for a successful experience in Anywhere LIVE OLT. This includes having a Windows 7 or later operating system, a 2 GHz processor or faster, 4 GB of RAM or more, and using Internet Explorer (IE) 10.0, Firefox, or Chrome with enabled cookies and session cookies. Students should have dual monitors or two computers with a minimum display resolution of 1280x1024 and a High Color (16-bit) display definition. A VOIP headset with a noise-canceling microphone is essential, and a quiet, distraction-free office environment is recommended during class sessions. Permission to load an ActiveX applet is required, and while Java is not mandatory, it can simplify the download process if installed.
A wired broadband internet connection with a minimum speed of 2.5 Mbps is necessary, although results may vary based on connection speed. It's crucial to avoid being connected to a Corporate VPN when joining the class, and testing Adobe Connect and LogMeIn from the intended system and location is a must before the class.
This class/course costs $2,475, which is due upfront.
More Details
The class delivery method is Live Online Training (LIVE OLT). When you attend a Live Online Training class from TLG Learning -- your instructor will be teaching the course live from a remote training center, but your learning experience will be virtually the same as if your trainer was present in the room with you.To ensure a successful experience, Anywhere LIVE OLT students must have access to a system that meets system requirements.
This class has a 5.0-star rating among reviewers.
#7: NetCom Learning—Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (Live Online)
This Azure training is designed to prepare students for the AZ-500: Microsoft Azure Security Technologies exam, a requirement for the Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer Associate certification. It equips IT Security Professionals with the skills to enforce security controls, maintain security posture, and address vulnerabilities across identity and access, platform protection, data and applications, and security operations.
The course covers role-based access control, Azure policies, Azure AD infrastructure setup, Azure AD Identity Protection, and Azure AD Privileged Identity Management. It also delves into perimeter and network security with Azure Firewall, Network Security Groups, and Application Security Groups. Host security strategies, container security, Azure Key Vault, application security, storage security, and database security are part of the curriculum.
Azure Monitor and Azure Security Center are also included, along with Azure Sentinel, for threat detection and response. Prerequisites for this training include familiarity with security best practices and protocols like VPNs, IPSec, and SSL, experience deploying Azure workloads, knowledge of Windows and Linux operating systems, and scripting skills.
This training is ideal for Azure Security Engineers seeking certification or performing security-related tasks in their roles. It's also valuable for engineers specializing in securing Azure-based digital platforms and safeguarding an organization's data. The course is structured around four key areas: Identity and Access Management, Platform Protection, Data and Application Security, and Security Operations.
Key Information
$2,495, 4 sessions, all experience levels.
This is a full-time course of short duration. It lasts for 4 days at 8 hours per day. The following prerequisites are strongly recommended:
- Know security best practices and industry security requirements such as defense in depth, least privileged access, role-based access control, multi-factor authentication, shared responsibility, and zero trust model.
- Be familiar with security protocols such as Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Internet Security Protocol (IPSec), Secure Socket Layer (SSL), disk and data encryption methods.
- Have some experience deploying Azure workloads. This course does not cover the basics of Azure administration, instead the course content builds on that knowledge by adding security specific information.
- Have experience with Windows and Linux operating systems and scripting languages. Course labs may use PowerShell and the CLI.
This course costs $2,495, and the full price is due upfront.
More Details
In addition to the prerequisites listed above, there are basic requirements for live online training and system requirements for this course. You will need a reliable Internet connection, preferably a wired connection. Use a recent PC or Mac computer that is less than 4 years old. Two display monitors are highly recommended: one for joining the virtual classroom and, if applicable, viewing digital books; the other is for doing your labs. Lastly, you will need a computer USB headset (with headphone and microphone in one unit), such as Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000 or Logitech ClearChat H390.
This course has a 4.1-star rating across 16 reviews.
#8: QuickStart—Certified Ethical Hacker (CEHv12) (Live Online)
This Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) training program equips you with the skills and knowledge to address security breaches and protect information systems effectively. The course is designed for professionals seeking to defend against cyber threats by learning the tactics employed by hackers. This ethical hacking is focused on identifying vulnerabilities within your systems and fixing them, making it a proactive and defensive approach. It covers various hacking strategies, including virus creation, buffer overflows, DDOS attacks, social engineering, and more.
The course teaches the five phases of ethical hacking: gaining access, maintaining access, reconnaissance, track covering, and enumeration. Completing this course can lead to careers as an Information Security Engineer, Security Analyst, Security Consultant, Network Engineer, Penetration Tester, and others, with potential annual earnings of around $100,000.
The course objectives include understanding information security attack vectors, threat categories, attack types, hacking concepts, ethical hacking scope, enumeration, system hacking steps, and defense against keyloggers. The target audience includes security officers, auditors, site administrators, and IT professionals concerned about network integrity. Prerequisites for taking the CEH certification exam include at least two years of experience in information security and IT expertise. The course outline covers various topics, from introduction to ethical hacking to cryptography, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking techniques.
Key Information
$3,499, 5 sessions, intermediate level.
This is a full-time course of short duration. It lasts for 5 days at 8 hours per day. The following prerequisites are strongly recommended:
- Please visit this link to review system requirements and test your connection.
- You must have at least two years of experience in the field of information security to be able to take the CEH certification exam.
- You must also have experience in IT in order to work professionally. For the most current requirements please check the eligibility requirements on the EC-Council website.
This course costs $3,499 and the full price is due upfront.
More Details
In addition to the prerequisites listed above, you will need to use Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers and have a reliable high-speed internet connection.
This course is not yet rated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of online Cybersecurity classes?
Online cybersecurity classes come in various formats to cater to different learning preferences and levels of expertise. Live online courses provide real-time instructor interaction, allowing you to ask questions and engage in discussions. At the same time, on-demand classes offer flexibility, enabling you to access materials at your own pace. For beginners, free or low-priced introductory courses and seminars are widely available, covering topics such as cybersecurity fundamentals, essential threat detection, and online safety. More advanced courses delve into specialized areas like ethical hacking, network security, cryptography, and incident response.
Regardless of the format or level, these online cybersecurity classes are crucial in equipping you with the knowledge and skills to protect digital assets and combat evolving cyber threats in today's interconnected world.
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 online for free?
You can learn some basic cybersecurity concepts online for free through various resources like YouTube videos, online tutorials, blogs, and forums. These resources provide a valuable introduction to cybersecurity fundamentals, helping you understand password security, basic network defense, and common cyber threats. They can be a great starting point for anyone interested in exploring the field.
However, enrolling in a structured cybersecurity course or program is highly recommended to truly grasp up-to-date and advanced cybersecurity skills. While free online resources are excellent for building foundational knowledge, they often need more depth and comprehensive coverage to keep up with the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats and defense strategies. Formal courses, whether online or in-person, typically offer a structured curriculum, access to expert instructors, hands-on labs, and the opportunity to earn recognized certifications, such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
These courses provide a more systematic and in-depth understanding of cybersecurity principles, tools, and practices, allowing you to gain the skills and knowledge required to pursue a career in the field or enhance your existing cybersecurity expertise. In summary, while free online resources can be a helpful starting point, investing in a formal cybersecurity education is crucial for those who aim to excel in this ever-evolving domain.
Is it better to learn Cybersecurity in a live or self-paced class?
The choice between learning cybersecurity in a live (synchronous) class or a self-paced (asynchronous) class depends on your learning style, preferences, and individual circumstances. Each approach has its own set of pros and cons. Live classes offer real-time interaction with instructors and peers, promoting immediate clarification of doubts, while self-paced classes offer flexibility and the freedom to tailor your schedule. Consider your time availability, need for structured guidance, and your ability to stay disciplined when making this choice, as both options can effectively equip you with valuable cybersecurity skills.
Live Classes:
Pros:
- Structured Learning: Live classes provide a structured curriculum with set schedules and clear milestones. This can be beneficial for those who thrive in a formal classroom setting.
- Immediate Feedback: In live classes, you can ask questions and receive quick responses from the instructor, which can help clarify doubts and deepen your understanding.
- Interaction: You can interact with instructors and classmates, fostering discussions, group projects, and collaborative problem-solving.
- Accountability: The fixed schedule and instructor oversight can help you stay on track with your studies and meet deadlines.
Cons:
- Less Flexibility: Live classes have set schedules, which might not be convenient for individuals with busy or unpredictable lifestyles.
- Limited Pace: The class moves at a fixed pace, which can be challenging if you need more time to grasp certain concepts or find the pace too slow.
- Geographical Limitations: You may need to attend physical classes or follow specific time zones, which can be limiting for remote learners.
Self-Paced Classes:
Pros:
- Flexibility: Self-paced classes allow you to learn quickly, accommodating varying schedules and commitments.
- Personalized Learning: You can spend more time on challenging topics and breeze through familiar ones, tailoring the learning experience to your needs.
- Location Independence: You can access self-paced courses from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating geographical constraints.
- No Pressure: There's no pressure to keep up with the pace of the class, reducing potential stress.
Cons:
- Lack of Immediate Interaction: Self-paced classes often need more real-time interaction with instructors and peers, making it harder to answer questions quickly or engage in discussions.
- Self-Motivation Required: Since no set schedules or deadlines exist, self-paced learners need strong self-discipline and motivation to complete the course.
- Potential Isolation: The absence of a traditional classroom environment can lead to isolation, as you may miss out on the collaborative aspects of learning.
In conclusion, choosing between live and self-paced cybersecurity classes depends on your learning style and personal circumstances. Live classes offer structure, interaction, and immediate feedback, making them suitable for those who thrive in a traditional classroom setting. On the other hand, self-paced courses provide flexibility and personalized learning but require strong self-discipline. Consider your individual preferences and goals when deciding which approach is better suited to your needs.