Introduction

The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate (CBROPS) certification is a recognized credential for professionals aiming to validate their skills in cybersecurity operations, monitoring, and incident response. This 5-day intensive training course covers essential topics in network security, security monitoring, incident response, and troubleshooting, equipping participants with the tools needed to work in a Security Operations Center (SOC). By the end of the course, participants will be prepared to pass the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate exam and begin or advance their careers in cybersecurity operations.

Course Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will:

1. Understand cybersecurity principles, operations, and the role of a Security Operations Center (SOC).
2. Gain proficiency in implementing network security monitoring and incident response procedures.
3. Learn to detect and respond to common security threats and attacks.
4. Master the configuration and management of cybersecurity tools and technologies.
5. Be fully prepared to take the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate exam.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Security operations center (SOC) analysts and network security professionals.
• Network engineers and system administrators interested in cybersecurity operations.
• IT professionals looking to transition into a cybersecurity-focused role.
• Anyone preparing for the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate exam.

Day 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity Operations and Network Security

• Session 1: Overview of Cybersecurity Operations

  • Introduction to cybersecurity concepts: Confidentiality, integrity, availability (CIA triad)
  • Roles and responsibilities in a Security Operations Center (SOC)
  • The importance of security operations in protecting network infrastructure
  • Cybersecurity incidents: Detection, response, and reporting

• Session 2: Network Security Fundamentals

  • Understanding network protocols, IP addressing, and routing basics
  • Introduction to common networking devices: Routers, switches, firewalls
  • TCP/IP model and common network attacks (DoS, DDoS, MITM)
  • Introduction to firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems (IDS)

Day 2: Security Monitoring and Threat Intelligence

• Session 3: Security Monitoring

  • Introduction to security monitoring: Logs, alerts, and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management)
  • Configuring and using Syslog, SNMP, and NetFlow for monitoring network traffic
  • Analyzing network traffic for signs of security breaches and anomalies
  • Understanding and configuring network sensors, firewalls, and monitoring tools (e.g., Cisco Firepower, SNORT)

• Session 4: Threat Intelligence and Detection

  • The role of threat intelligence in cybersecurity operations
  • Types of threats: Malware, ransomware, phishing, APTs (Advanced Persistent Threats)
  • Threat intelligence frameworks and tools: IOCs (Indicators of Compromise), MITRE ATT&CK
  • Using threat intelligence to detect and mitigate attacks
  • Analyzing security events and creating threat reports

Day 3: Incident Response and Forensics

• Session 5: Incident Response Basics

  • Incident response process: Preparation, identification, containment, eradication, recovery, and lessons learned
  • Key elements of an incident response plan (IRP)
  • Incident escalation and communication with stakeholders
  • Hands-on incident response simulation: Identifying and responding to security incidents

• Session 6: Digital Forensics

  • Introduction to digital forensics in a security operations context
  • Collecting and preserving digital evidence: Disk, memory, network, and application forensics
  • Forensic tools and methodologies for investigating incidents
  • Hands-on practice with tools like Wireshark, Volatility, and FTK Imager

Day 4: Security Technologies and Tool Configuration

• Session 7: Security Technologies Overview

  • Introduction to key security technologies: Firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, proxies, and endpoint protection
  • How security technologies protect networks from attacks
  • Configuring basic firewalls and intrusion prevention systems (IPS)
  • The role of endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems in network security

• Session 8: Configuring Security Tools and Technologies

  • Configuring and managing Cisco security devices (e.g., Firepower, ASA, AMP)
  • Integrating security tools with SIEM systems for centralized monitoring
  • Best practices for configuring security tools to detect and mitigate threats
  • Hands-on lab: Setting up a basic firewall, IDS, and VPN for network security

Day 5: Advanced Incident Response, Threat Analysis, and Exam Preparation

• Session 9: Advanced Incident Response and Handling

  • Advanced incident detection and response techniques
  • Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) and countermeasures
  • Analyzing malware behavior and leveraging sandboxing techniques
  • Incident documentation and creating post-incident reports

• Session 10: Threat Analysis and Mitigation

  • Deep dive into advanced attack vectors: SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and buffer overflows
  • Identifying and mitigating sophisticated threats such as ransomware and DDoS attacks
  • Advanced network traffic analysis and correlation of logs for threat identification
  • Using threat intelligence feeds to enhance detection capabilities

• Session 11: Exam Preparation and Final Review

  • Review of key topics covered throughout the course
  • Practice exam questions and mock tests for Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate exam
  • Exam-taking strategies: Time management, understanding question formats, and study tips
  • Final Q&A session to address participant queries and ensure exam readiness