It can be difficult to find the best online network security courses, classes, and training programs. We have created a list of the best online programs for studying network security. In this guide, you will find a clear definition of network security and current online network security certificate programs.
What Is Network Security?
Network security is the protection of computer networks, systems, and data from unauthorized access and misuse. Organizations need network security to successfully deliver services or products to their customers. There are different types of network security controls including Network Access Control, firewall protection, Virtual Private Networks, and antivirus software.
With good network security, you can protect a system against viruses, Ransomware, Spyware, and Adware. This is why you must learn cyber defense, threat intelligence, cryptography, scripting, data analysis, and access management. You can get this information easily by attending a bootcamp, massive open online course (MOOC), or a university class or course.
By attending an online course in network security, you can find jobs in the tech industry. You can apply for careers such as security analyst, security engineer, cryptographer, and security consultant.
Why Online Network Security Courses Are Important for Professional Development
Online network security courses are important for professional development because they help you keep tabs on the development in the industry. By attending these online courses in network security you’ll learn the tools, technologies, threats, and processes that are trending. This information is vital as network security is always evolving and security threats are on the rise.
The online course will also demonstrate to employers your ability to take the steps to acquire more skills. You can add a certificate of completion to your resume to showcase the skills you have garnered in the cyber security industry. It’s an excellent way to prove your determination and skill level to hiring companies.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Network Security?
Yes, you should attend a coding bootcamp to learn about network security. A coding bootcamp will provide you with a curriculum to learn different programming languages. You should consider learning SQL, Python, C++, Powershell, Ruby, PHP, Java, and C, which are key to network security activities.
The most prevalent cyber security programming language is Python. It is highly reliable in analyzing malware, penetration testing, and scanning. There are also network security bootcamps available online.
Overview: The Best Online Network Security Courses, Classes, or Training
The best online network security courses, classes, and training will help you break into the field of cyber security. Whether you are looking for a career change, advancement, or you just graduated, these courses can help you get to the next level.
It is important to note that not all the programs feature network security as a title. However, online cyber security courses provide the same value and similar knowledge in network security. Below you will find a table featuring the provider’s name, course, tuition cost, duration, and certificate of completion of the best online network security courses, classes, and training.
| Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alison | Computer Networking – Digital Network Security | Free | 1.5-3 hours | Yes |
| Bellevue University | Cybersecurity Certificate of Completion – Graduate | $610 per credit | 24-36 weeks | Yes |
| BrainStation | Cybersecurity Courses Online | $3,250 | 5-10 weeks | Yes |
| Code Fellows | Ops 301: Networking and Systems Administration | $5,000 | 4-9 weeks | No |
| Coding Dojo | Cybersecurity Bootcamp | $16,495 | 24 weeks | Yes |
| Cornell University | Cybersecurity Certificate Program | $3,600 | 4.5 months | Yes |
| Flatiron School | Cybersecurity Engineering | $16,900 | 15-60 Weeks | No |
| Fullstack Academy | Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp | $15,980 | 13-26 weeks | Yes |
| Georgia Tech Bootcamps | Cyber and Network Security Bootcamp | $10,000 | 24 weeks | No |
| Ironhack | Cybersecurity Bootcamp | $12,500-$13,000 | 12-24 weeks | Yes |
| SecureSet Academy | Core Cybersecurity Engineering Program | $16,900 | 20 weeks | No |
| Stanford University | CS155: Computer and Network Security | $495 | 60-day access | No |
| Udacity | Introduction to Cybersecurity | $1,796 | 4 months | No |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Online Undergraduate Certificate: Computer Networking | $306- $499 per credit | 12 months | Yes |
| University of Washington | Certificate in Cybersecurity | $3,999 | 8 months | Yes |
In Detail: The Best Online Network Security Classes, Courses, or Training
Computer Networking – Digital Network Security | Alison
- Learning Format: Single class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Network architecture, protocols, and digital security
In this course, you will learn the basics of network infrastructure, protocols, and information security of web services. You will also learn the features and usability of VPN protocol, as well as how to create encryption services and firewalls.
The instructor will teach you about perimeter networks. You will understand how to control the accessibility of data. Students will learn how the Network Intrusion Detection System and Network Prevention Detection System work. By the end of the program, you will be fully capable of creating a stable and secure network security system.
Key Takeaway: By attending Alison’s program, you can receive a digital or a hard copy certificate that can be added to your professional portfolio or resume.
Cybersecurity Certificate of Completion – Graduate | Bellevue University
- Learning Format: Full certificate course featuring hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Information security management, computer forensics, information warfare, cloud computing, security architecture and design, ethical hacking and response
The cyber security certificate program offers students an opportunity to master network, system, and software security. The program takes students through risk management, protection strategies, business continuity, and ethical issues. It also touches on information recovery, tactical analysis, target identification, network forensics, and data acquisition.
Classes cover cloud computing adoption, data security, cloud services, and access management. You will learn the different issues that come with cloud computing governance. Students also learn different software and hardware components, distributed systems, and computer organization.
To complete the program, you will learn about offensive and defensive processes and techniques. You will learn security testing, threat response, and risk mitigation techniques. You will cover penetration testing, wireless networks, systems, and intrusion detection. This information will help you identify network vulnerabilities and threats.
Key Takeaway: Bellevue University provides career services to help students prepare for job interviews and learn networking techniques.
Cybersecurity Courses Online | BrainStation
- Learning Format: Full course offered part-time
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Security and technology foundations, threats and defenses, risk management and business analysis, strategy and incident management
In this course, you will learn the fundamentals of cyber security. The curriculum covers information security, data security, and secure systems. Through the course, you will increase your skills in preventative measures, cyber attacks, data classification, threat identification, and information security.
You will also learn about risk management. You will learn the skills and frameworks used to identify and respond to cybersecurity attacks effectively. This means you will be able to develop the best security strategies.
Key Takeaway: You can pay for the cyber security online program through various tuition financing options. You can choose employer sponsorship, monthly installments, or scholarships.
Ops 301: Networking and Systems Administration | Code Fellows
- Learning Format: Full course featuring a hands-on training
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Network security, user identity management, scripting and automation, firewall configuration, network design, Agile project management, Microsoft Windows Server 2019, virtual machine administration, network service administration, Bash, Python
This course covers networking concepts, infrastructure, network operations, and network troubleshooting and tools. These are the main domains of the CompTIA Network+ certification. The platform issues a CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam to test students’ grasp of the five domains.
This is a great course if you want to become a systems administrator or network operations specialist. You will gain extensive skills in Agile project management, deploying client-server networks, scripting languages, and cloud systems. You will also be well-versed in deploying network infrastructure and troubleshooting network problems.
The bootcamp provides career transitioning services for beginners in the cyber security field. The program features career-building strategic training to positively impact your job search. You will also make connections with and receive advice from industry partners.
Key Takeaway: Code Fellows has an employment rate of 82 percent within six months of graduation.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp | Coding Dojo
- Learning Format: This full course features hands-on online training.
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: Foundations of cyber security, network architecture, Windows Powershell, Nmap, Wireshark, IPv4, networking and subnets, threat actors, commodity malware, virtualization and containerization, protocols for risk mitigation
If you are a beginner, you should consider attending the two-week course that covers the basics of cyber security. The course also features information on stack expectations, certification process, scheduling, and graduation requirements.
The first weeks cover network architecture, operating systems, and identifying risks in the systems. You will gain skills in installing and configuring computer systems, conducting threat analysis, mitigation strategies, and policies and regulations. This will help you prepare for the CompTIA Security+ certification exam.
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You will learn vulnerability assessment, threat intelligence, and identifying indicators of compromise. By the end of the bootcamp program, you will receive a voucher for pursuing the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+ certification exam.
Key Takeaway: You can pursue CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+, Network+, Linux+, and Cloud+ certifications.
Cybersecurity Certificate Program | Cornell University
- Learning Format: Full course offering a certificate of completion
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Systems security, authenticating machines, authenticating humans, discretionary access control, mandatory access control, enforcement mechanisms and strategies
As part of the certificate course by Cornell University, you will assess computer and information system security. You will also establish the security and viability of computers and networks. You will use case studies with successful protocols. You will gain an in-depth understanding of shared and public cryptography.
Students will also learn protocols for authenticating passwords and biometrics. You will gain knowledge of the process used by a computing system that authenticates a human user. You will also learn enforcement mechanisms that protect system integrity and prevent attackers from bypassing controls.
Key Takeaway: This is an excellent program for IT professionals, software developers, cyber security specialists, and programmers.
Cybersecurity Engineering | Flatiron School
- Learning Format: Full course providing flex learning as an option
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Network security, system security, Python, Governance, risk, and compliance, logs and detection
The cyber security engineering course will cover different network protocols like HTTP, DHCP, TCP, and UDP. After mastering these basic protocols, you will learn technologies such as TCP hijacking and ARP cache poisoning. You will also learn different firewalls, port scanning, and wireless security protocols. You will also cover operating system architecture, scripting techniques, Kali Linux, PenTesting Execution Standard, and cryptographic algorithms.
To ensure Flatiron School graduates are successful, the bootcamp provides individualized career coaching, a job-search framework, and a vast employer network. You will work with a career coach to prepare for job interviews and review resumes. Flatiron School alumni work for PWC, Akamai, Carbon Black, Forcepoint, and Coal Fire.
Key Takeaway: Learn a wide variety of network security skills in a structured or flexible program with one-on-one mentorship sessions.
Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp | Fullstack Academy
- Learning Format: Complete bootcamp program on a full-time or part-time schedule
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: AWS basics, Linux command line, computing and networking concepts, data encoding, basic cryptography, networking and HTTP, ethical hacking, penetration testing methodology, attack types, OWASP Top 10, threat modeling, AWS best security practices and tools, firewalls, system hardening, identity, and access management
With a competitive curriculum and extensive career services, this bootcamp is popular amongst professionals. This program helps students prepare for different certification exams. You’ll be able to take the CompTIA Security+ and AWS Cloud Practitioner exams. The curriculum will also help you become an information security analyst, cyber threat analyst, or SOC analyst.
Fullstack Academy career success services will help you prepare for the job market. As part of the curriculum, you will learn about optimizing your LinkedIn profile, networking with industry peers, crafting cover letters, and building technical resumes.
Key Takeaway: Fullstack Academy provides four tuition financing options for prospective students. You can choose to pay upfront, use a personal loan, apply for a scholarship, or use your veteran benefits.
Cyber and Network Security Bootcamp | Georgia Tech Bootcamps
- Learning Format: Full bootcamp on a part-time schedule
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Networking, systems, cyber security, ethical hacking and penetration testing, cyber security careers, programming and scripting
At Georgia Tech’s bootcamp program, you will learn tools and technologies like Wireshark, Metasploit, and Nessus. You will also learn offensive and defensive cyber security tactics. In addition, you will cover Windows and Linux hardening and administration techniques. This program can help you prepare for CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker exams.
The curriculum covers secure network architecture and design, risk management, Bash scripting, and vulnerability assessment. By the time you complete the bootcamp program, you can successfully land a job in digital forensics methods, penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, or security operations.
Key Takeaway: At Georgia Tech Bootcamps, you can expect support from the admissions team, instructors, and student success and career services teams.
Cybersecurity Bootcamp | Ironhack
- Learning Format: Full bootcamp program with hands-on projects
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Introduction to cyber security, security, and threats
You can become a cyber security professional in less than 24 weeks if you attend Ironhack. The bootcamp program covers communication principles, network protocols, telecommunication concepts, and network security principles. Through this, you will be able to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities. You will learn about access controls, firewalls, and hardening techniques.
Before completing the course, you will also cover cyber forensic methodologies, incident response, and damage assessments. This will contribute towards building a secure environment. A combination of the modules will lead towards developing a real-world project. You will perform a security analysis and architecture evaluation as part of your practice.
Key Takeaway: Ironhack’s cyber security bootcamp can help you become a cyber security analyst, incident reporter, or penetration tester.
Core Cybersecurity Engineering | SecureSet Academy
- Learning Format: Full course with a real-world lab environment
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Cryptography, GRC, logs and detection, network intro, network security, security culture, strategy and analysis, system intro, system security, threat intelligence
In 20 weeks, you will learn basic skills to help you become a cyber security engineer, penetration tester, or technical analyst. It’s an excellent program for professionals with some programming experience. The programming experience will help in creating a solid foundation to advance in the cyber security industry.
As part of the program, you will learn high-level security protocols, delivering system security, intrusion detection, security management, and network layers. You will also cover web-based security, threat intelligence, criminal psychology, standard attacks, and security systems. The instructor will also teach you about industry expectations and professionalism.
Key Takeaway: SecureSet Academy provides a real-world project-based curriculum featuring lab environments.
CS155: Computer and Network Security | Stanford University
- Learning Format: Standalone class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Web security, network security, malware privacy
In this Stanford University course, you will learn different attack techniques and how to defend the system. You will also cover security apps, legacy code, and authentication. The course also features web security, whereby you will build robust websites. To enroll, you should have a foundational knowledge of programming languages and networking protocols.
Key Takeaway: Stanford Center for Professional Development manages Stanford University’s online platform. It works in collaboration with schools, departments, and centers in providing high-quality programs.
Introduction to Cybersecurity | Udacity
- Learning Format: Full course that includes self-paced learning
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Cyber security foundations, defending and securing systems, threats, vulnerabilities and incident response, governance, risk, and compliance
To enroll in this program, you need a good foundation in network connectivity and operating systems such as Windows or Linux. This will make it easier to grasp core cyber security principles. The program covers vector attacks, security maintenance on different computer systems, and core controls. By the end of the program, you will know how to mitigate network vulnerabilities.
The instructor will also take you through security threats and responses during cyber attacks. You will learn the relationship between vulnerabilities, threat actors, and exploits. You will also learn to measure security risks and assess control effectiveness.
Key Takeaway: Udacity provides its students access to portfolio reviews, resume support services, and LinkedIn profile optimization. It also provides a technical mentor to ensure you are always on track with your studies.
Online Undergraduate Certificate: Computer Networking | University Of Maryland Global Campus
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Computer hardware components, network design, network security, Cisco Switches, Windows Server Operating Systems
This is an excellent course to build a solid foundation in computer networks. You will cover aspects such as network security and Window server installation. You will also learn how to install and maintain computer hardware components.
The instructor will teach you how to identify and mitigate risks and apply network security safeguards. You will also learn different methods of troubleshooting IT system challenges. By the end of the course, you will have the skills to solve problems affecting active directory, DNS, desktop security, remote access, and user accounts.
To acquire the certificate, you will need a total of 18 college credits. You can get the credits from computer troubleshooting, networking, network security, cloud technologies, and wireless essentials courses. It’s an excellent certificate to showcase your skills in computer network security.
Key Takeaway: This undergraduate certificate program can help you prepare for Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA A+, CompTIA Linux+, CompTIA Network+, or CompTIA Security+ professional certification exams.
Certificate in Cybersecurity | University of Washington
- Learning Format: Full course accessible online in the evenings
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Foundations of information security, security tools and technologies, applied security solutions and emerging trends
This certificate program offered by the University of Washington covers data threats, protective strategies, locally hosted networks, and techniques of threat categories. You will also learn different information security management best practices, security measures in the development lifecycle, networking technologies, and physical security threat techniques.
As part of the program, you will learn basic security tools and techniques, offensive security, and application security technologies. It is also important for you to grasp techniques used to plan and build secure environments. You will also learn cryptography concepts and risks in different cloud environments.
Key Takeaway: At the end of this program, you will receive a certificate approved by the Paul G Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering. The University of Washington is ranked number 10 in the best schools for studying computer science.
Online Network Security Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?
The right option for you depends on your learning style and career goals. If you want to learn theories and concepts of network security, you should opt for a course. Courses offer hands-on training and theoretical sessions to help students master the ins and outs of network security.
Classes last a few hours or days to help students learn the basics of the field. They can be workshops, lectures, or webinars. In contrast, training offers students an opportunity to specialize in a particular skill set in network security. Training programs can last for months.
How to Choose the Right Online Network Security Course, Class, or Training Program
Certificate of Completion
You should check if the program you are attending issues a certificate of completion at the end. A certificate of completion can help boost your resume and your job prospects. Through the certificate, you can demonstrate you went through the required training to acquire particular skills and knowledge.
Curriculum
It is important to research the quality of the curriculum. The best way to identify the relevance of the curriculum is by establishing the school or program’s graduation and job placement rate. The curriculum should touch on endpoint security, access rights management, firewalls, security monitoring, and wireless security.
Career Support
You should opt for an online program that offers extensive career support. The career support services will help polish your interview skills, resume, and cover letter. You will also receive soft skills training. Some online programs offer students job search support.
Network Security Course Certificates vs Certifications
A network security certificate shows that a professional has completed a training course or class. It is not regionally or globally recognized, but it can be used as a standard measure of skills.
A professional certification indicates that a professional has passed a recognized exam to demonstrate their skills in network security. It professionally validates the skills one has acquired in a particular area.
Importance of Network Security Certifications
Network security certifications are important for validating your security skills in the field. By getting certified, you will prove to employers that you are capable of handling specialized areas in security. For example, earning a Certified Ethical Hacker certification demonstrates that you can penetrate systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities.
There are more network security certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Security Manager, and Certified Cloud Security Professional. These are top certifications in the field that will boost your resume and land you better-paying cyber security jobs.
Why You Should Take Online Network Security Courses or Classes
You should take online network security courses or classes because of their flexibility. These programs provide the best platforms for working professionals to upskill or change careers without quitting their jobs. You can choose to attend a part-time or self-paced program that fits your schedule.
In addition, an online network security course or class is a much cheaper alternative to four-year degree programs. Most online courses help students acquire in-demand knowledge and skills. You can cover all the basic and advanced concepts on network security through an online course. Taking courses can lead you to a promising career path with job security.
These programs can help you become a penetration tester, cyber security architect, or vulnerability assessor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a 33 percent job outlook rate for information security analysts between 2020 and 2030. These online programs are excellent at helping professionals land entry-level network security jobs.
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