Security+ Prep Sample Content

CompTIA Security+ Certification Crush Course

Module 1: Introduction to Security+

Lesson 1: Overview of the Security+ Certification

  • What is Security+ and why is it important?

  • Overview of the exam structure and objectives

  • Certification benefits and career opportunities

Note

Instructor Note: Emphasize the relevance of Security+ for entry-level IT security roles and compliance requirements (e.g., DoD 8570/8140).

Practical Exercise

  1. Research job roles requiring Security+ certification in your area.

  2. List at least three skills mentioned in the job postings that align with Security+ objectives.

Module 2: Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities

Lesson 1: Common Threats and Attack Types

  • Malware: Viruses, Trojans, Ransomware

  • Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks

  • Insider Threats and Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

Lesson 2: Tools for Threat Analysis

  • Vulnerability Scanning Tools

  • Penetration Testing Basics

  • SIEM Tools and Their Usage

Practical Exercise

  1. Use an online tool like VirusTotal to analyze a suspicious file or URL.

  2. Simulate a phishing attack scenario: Identify weak points in a mock email.

Module 3: Technologies and Tools

Lesson 1: Networking Tools and Protocols

  • Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and VPNs

  • Secure Protocols: HTTPS, SSH, SFTP

  • Networking Commands for Troubleshooting (e.g., tracert, ping, netstat)

Lesson 2: Device Security and Hardening Techniques

  • Endpoint Protection Tools

  • Mobile Device Management (MDM)

  • Securing IoT Devices

Practical Exercise

  1. Configure a basic firewall rule on your home router.

  2. Use netstat and tracert to analyze network traffic.

Module 4: Identity and Access Management (IAM)

Lesson 1: IAM Concepts and Best Practices

  • Authentication vs. Authorization

  • Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)

  • Single Sign-On (SSO) and Federation

Lesson 2: Access Control Models

  • Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

  • Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

  • Discretionary Access Control (DAC)

Practical Exercise

  1. Create and test MFA on a personal email or cloud account.

  2. Design an access control policy for a small business scenario.

Module 5: Risk Management

Lesson 1: Basic Risk Management Concepts

  • Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies

  • Business Impact Analysis (BIA)

  • Incident Response Plans

Lesson 2: Policies, Regulations, and Compliance

  • GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS

  • The role of security policies in risk mitigation

  • Data Classification and Handling

Practical Exercise

  1. Create a risk assessment matrix for a mock company.

  2. Write a draft incident response plan for a phishing attack scenario.

Module 6: Cryptography and PKI

Lesson 1: Cryptography Fundamentals

  • Symmetric vs. Asymmetric Encryption

  • Hashing and Digital Signatures

  • Applications of Cryptography in Modern Security

Lesson 2: Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

  • Understanding Certificates and Certificate Authorities

  • Key Management Best Practices

  • Common PKI Implementations

Practical Exercise

  1. Use OpenSSL to create a self-signed certificate.

  2. Analyze the SSL/TLS settings of a popular website.

Module 7: Security in the Cloud and Virtual Environments

Lesson 1: Cloud Security Fundamentals

  • Cloud Service Models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)

  • Security Concerns in Cloud Computing

  • Shared Responsibility Model

Lesson 2: Securing Virtualized Environments

  • Virtual Machine Security Best Practices

  • Snapshot and Backup Techniques

  • Container Security Basics

Practical Exercise

  1. Deploy a virtual machine using VirtualBox or VMware.

  2. Implement a basic security group in a cloud platform (e.g., AWS, Azure).

Module 8: Exam Preparation and Test-Taking Strategies

Lesson 1: Study Plans and Resources

  • Creating a Study Schedule

  • Recommended Study Resources and Tools

  • Practice Exams and Their Importance

Lesson 2: Test Day Tips and Strategies

  • Time Management During the Exam

  • How to Handle Performance-Based Questions

  • Staying Calm and Focused

Practical Exercise

  1. Take a full-length Security+ practice exam.

  2. Write a reflection on areas of strength and improvement.

Appendices

Appendix A: Glossary of Key Security+ Terms

  • Definitions and Examples

Appendix B: Practice Exam Answer Key

  • Detailed Explanations for Each Question

Appendix C: Online Resources and Tools

  • Links to Simulators, Tools, and Study Guides.

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