Cybersecurity For Beginners: Network Architecture

It seems you've outlined a comprehensive course on network fundamentals, focusing on the OSI model, IP and MAC addressing, subnetting, and the practical aspects of network layer attacks. You also emphasize ethical hacking, penetration testing, and the use of tools like Wireshark, nmap, and Metasploit within a legal and ethical framework.

Here's how you might structure the course content based on your outline:

Part 1: Network Fundamentals

1. Introduction to Networking

   • Overview of networking concepts
   • Understanding OSI Model layers
   • Introduction to IP and MAC addresses, and their roles in network communication

2. IP Addressing and Subnetting

   • Basics of IPv4 and IPv6
   • Subnetting for efficient network design
   • CIDR notation and VLSM (Variable Length Subnet Masking)

3. Ethernet Operation

   • Frame structure and operation
   • Understanding MAC addresses and ARP
   • Ethernet switching vs. routing

4. Ports and Protocols

   • TCP/UDP and port numbers
   • Introduction to common transport layer protocols
   • Protocol analysis with Wireshark

5. Lab Setup for Penetration Testing

   • Installing virtualization software (e.g., VirtualBox, VMware)
   • Setting up a lab environment with Kali Linux and Windows machines
   • Introduction to virtual networking with your chosen virtualization platform

Part 2: Network & Data Link Layer Attacks

1. Layer 2 Attacks Overview

   • MAC Address Table Overflow attack
   • ARP Cache Poisoning (ARP Spoofing)
   • DHCP Starvation and Spoofing attacks
   • VLAN Hopping

2. Network Security

   • Firewalls, IDS/IPS, and their role in security
   • Securing network devices with appropriate configurations
   • Understanding encryption and VPNs for secure communication

3. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing

   • Ethical guidelines and frameworks (e.g., CEH, OSCP)
   • Nmap usage for network discovery and vulnerability scanning
   • Metasploit framework for exploitation and post-exploitation techniques

4. Bug Bounty and Website Hacking

   • Overview of bug bounty platforms (e.g., HackerOne, Bugcrowd)
   • Web application vulnerabilities and common web hacking techniques
   • Social Engineering and Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) collection

5. Final Project: End-to-End Penetration Test

   • Planning and executing a penetration test in a controlled environment
   • Documenting findings and providing recommendations for security improvements

Course Objectives:

• To provide a solid foundation in network fundamentals for beginners.
• To offer advanced knowledge for those looking to deepen their understanding of network layer attacks.
• To cover the practical aspects of using penetration testing tools and techniques within an ethical framework.
• To prepare students for CISCO examinations, if that's a goal they have.
• To educate on Network Security principles to protect against common vulnerabilities.

Target Audience:

• Beginners in cyber security looking to start their journey.
• Professionals who wish to enhance their network hacking skills.
• Aspiring cybersecurity experts seeking to understand and defend against network attacks.
• Individuals preparing for CISCO certification exams.
• Anyone interested in learning about Network Security and ethical hacking.

Remember, the key to a successful course is not only the breadth of content covered but also ensuring that students can apply what they've learned in practical scenarios. Encourage hands-on experience through lab exercises, and always reinforce the importance of ethical considerations when applying these skills.