Learn-Cybersecurity-From-Scratch-A-9-Month-Roadmap

This document outlines a 9-month roadmap for learning cybersecurity from scratch, emphasizing hands-on projects and interactive learning. Each month focuses on different aspects of cybersecurity, including fundamentals, Linux mastery, ethical hacking, web application security, and cloud security. The roadmap culminates in career development and a capstone project, preparing learners for a successful career in cybersecurity.

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Learn-Cybersecurity-From-Scratch-A-9-Month-Roadmap

Uploaded by

Emmanuel Mercy

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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

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Learn Cybersecurity From

Scratch: A 9-Month
Roadmap
This roadmap guides you through a structured -month journey to learn
cybersecurity from scratch. It combines interactive learning with real-
world projects, ensuring you build hands-on skills applicable to modern
cybersecurity challenges.

by KOLADE OLUWAFEMI
Month 1-2: Cybersecurity Fundamentals &
Networking Basics
Objective Week 1-2: Introduction to Week 3-4: Networking
Cybersecurity Basics
Build a strong foundation in
cybersecurity concepts and Explore cybersecurity domains, the Dive into networking fundamentals,
networking. Understand key security threat landscape, and fundamental including the OSI and TCP/IP models,
principles and how networks function. security concepts like confidentiality, IP addressing, subnetting, ports,
integrity, and availability (CIA Triad). protocols, and firewalls.
Learn about common cyberattacks and
their impact.

Project: Analyze real-world cyberattacks and their impact (case study) and set up a home lab using VirtualBox/VMware with
different network topologies.
Month 3: Linux & Command Line Mastery
Objective Week 5-6: Linux Basics Week 7-8: Bash Scripting &
Automation
Gain proficiency in Linux, a core skill Learn about the Linux file system, user
for cybersecurity. Master the command management, permissions, and shell Master Bash scripting to automate
line and essential Linux tools. scripting. Understand how to navigate tasks, manage processes, and
and manage a Linux system. streamline your work. Create custom
scripts for repetitive operations.

Project: Set up a Linux server and harden it against basic attacks and create a script to automate user account creation and
permission settings.
Month 4: Security
Essentials & Cryptography
1 Cryptography Basics
Understand symmetric and asymmetric encryption, hashing, and
digital signatures. Learn how these techniques protect data
confidentiality and integrity.

2 Secure Communication & SSL/TLS

Explore secure communication protocols like HTTPS, certificates,
VPNs, and email security. Understand how to encrypt data in transit
and at rest.

Project: Implement a basic encryption and decryption tool using Python

and set up a personal VPN and encrypt email communications.
Month 5: Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing
Basics
Objective Week 13-14: Reconnaissance Week 15-16: Exploitation &
& Scanning Privilege Escalation
Understand offensive security
methodologies. Learn how hackers Master reconnaissance techniques for Explore common vulnerabilities like
think and how to perform ethical gathering information about a target SQL injection, XSS, and LFI/RFI, and
penetration tests to identify system. Learn how to perform network learn how to exploit them. Understand
vulnerabilities. scanning and vulnerability privilege escalation techniques for
assessments. gaining unauthorized access.

Project: Conduct reconnaissance on a test network using Nmap & OSINT tools and use Metasploit to exploit a vulnerable system
in a lab environment.
Month 6: Web Application
Security
OWASP Top 10 Attacks
Learn about the OWASP Top vulnerabilities, including injection
attacks, broken authentication, and sensitive data exposure.
Understand how to identify and mitigate these common threats.

Secure Coding Practices

Discover secure coding principles for developing web applications.
Learn about input validation, authentication mechanisms, and
security headers for building resilient applications.

Project: Perform a security assessment on a test web app and harden a

simple web app against common attacks.
Month 7: Defensive
Security & Incident
Response

Learn to detect and Explore SIEM tools Master incident

mitigate attacks. (Splunk, Graylog) and response frameworks
Understand how to log analysis and forensic
monitor systems, techniques for techniques for
analyze security logs, detecting anomalies investigating security
and respond and suspicious breaches. Learn how
effectively to activities. to recover from
incidents. attacks and prevent
future incidents.

Project: Set up a SIEM tool and analyze logs for suspicious activities and
investigate a simulated security breach using forensic tools.
Month 8: Cloud Security &
Compliance

1 Cloud Security Fundamentals

Explore cloud security principles, including AWS/Azure
security, IAM, encryption, and misconfigurations. Learn
how to secure cloud environments.

2 Security Policies & Compliance

Understand key security policies and regulatory
frameworks like GDPR, NIST, and ISO . Learn how to
implement and maintain compliance.

Project: Secure an AWS S bucket and implement least privilege access

and conduct a compliance audit for a hypothetical company.
Month 9: Career
Development & Final
Project
Red vs. Blue Team Exercises
Engage in red team vs. blue team exercises, simulating real-
1
world attack scenarios. Play both the attacker and defender
roles to gain valuable experience.

Capstone Project
Choose a real-world security problem and build a
2 comprehensive security solution. This could include
vulnerability assessment of a website, setting up a secure
network, or developing a security awareness program.

By completing these projects, you'll demonstrate your understanding of

cybersecurity principles and hands-on skills. This project-based learning
experience will prepare you for a successful career in cybersecurity.
Next Steps: Taking Your
Cybersecurity Journey
Further
Congratulations on completing this -month roadmap! You now have a
solid foundation in cybersecurity. To enhance your skills and advance your
career, I recommend exploring specific tools, labs, and certifications based
on your interests and career goals.