Network protection (Cybersecurity) safeguards PC frameworks, organizations, and data from
unapproved access, assaults, harm, or burglary. It involves implementing measures and
processes to prevent, detect, and respond to cyber threats and ensure the confidentiality,
integrity, and availability of data. Cybersecurity includes various technologies, tools, and
practices such as firewalls, antivirus software, encryption, authentication, intrusion detection
systems, incident response, and risk management. Organizations, governments, and
individuals must protect their digital assets and sensitive information in the increasingly
connected and technologically driven world.
WGU Cybersecurity Programs
WGU cybersecurity refers to the cybersecurity program offered by Western Governors
University (WGU). WGU is a non-profit, online university that provides competency-based
education in various fields, including cybersecurity.
The WGU cybersecurity program is designed to prepare students for careers in the field of
cybersecurity. It covers various topics such as network security, ethical hacking, digital
forensics, risk management, and compliance. The curriculum is regularly updated to align
with industry standards and trends.
The program offers flexibility in terms of scheduling and pace of learning. Students can study
at their own pace and complete their coursework online, allowing them to balance their
studies with work or other commitments.
Students in the WGU cybersecurity program have access to resources such as virtual labs,
practice exams, and industry certifications. These resources help them develop practical
skills and enhance their knowledge in the field. Students also have the opportunity to earn
industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems
Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and more.
The WGU cybersecurity program aims to equip students with the skills to secure information
systems from cyber threats. Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths such
as information security analyst, network security engineer, vulnerability assessor, or
penetration tester.
Overall, WGU’s cybersecurity program provides a comprehensive education combining
theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It is designed to meet the needs of individuals
seeking a flexible and affordable way to enter or advance their careers in cybersecurity.
WGU Cybersecurity Crimes
These crimes include:
- 1. Phishing: This is a type of cybercrime where criminals send deceptive emails or
- messages to trick individuals into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or
- financial details.
- 2. Ransomware: Ransomware is a common type of malware that encrypts a victim’s files or
- locks them out of their devices, followed by a demand for payment (typically in
- cryptocurrency) in exchange for restoring access.
- 3. Data breaches: Data breaches involve unauthorized access to sensitive data, such as
- customer information or intellectual property. Cybercriminals can use this information for
- illegal activities, such as identity theft or selling data on the dark web.
- 4. Insider threats: Insider threats occur when individuals within an organization misuse their
- access privileges to steal or expose sensitive data or disrupt critical systems.
- 5. Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks: DDoS attacks overwhelm a network,
- website, or system with a flood of traffic, rendering it unavailable to users. Cybercriminals
- often use botnets to target specific organizations or individuals.
- 6. Social engineering: Social engineering involves manipulating individuals to gain
- unauthorized access, often using psychological tricks or deception
- Cybersecurity Career Options in real life
There are several different career options within the field of cybersecurity. Here are some of
the most common roles:
- 1. Cybersecurity Analyst: This role involves analyzing and monitoring systems for potential
- security breaches, investigating incidents, and implementing security measures to protect
- against threats.
- 2. Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester: Ethical hackers are responsible for attempting to
- breach systems and networks in a controlled environment to identify vulnerabilities and
- recommend security improvements.
- 3. Security Engineer: Security engineers design, implement, and manage security systems
- and solutions, such as firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems, to protect
- against cyber threats.
- 4. Security Architect: Security architects develop and design the overall security
- infrastructure of an organization, including networks, systems, and applications, to ensure
- they are secure and in compliance with industry regulations.
- 5. Security Consultant: Security consultants provide advice and guidance to organizations on
- improving their security posture and protecting their systems and data from cyber threats.
- 6. Incident Responder: Incident responders are responsible for quickly responding to and
- mitigating security incidents, such as malware outbreaks or data breaches, and coordinating
- the response and recovery efforts.
- 7. Cryptographer: Cryptographers develop and design cryptographic algorithms and
- protocols to secure data and communications against unauthorized access.
- 8. Security Auditor: Security
WGU Cybersecurity Skills and Qualifications
To excel in the field of cybersecurity, some several skills and qualifications are typically
required or preferred:
1. Technical Knowledge: A strong foundation in computer science, networking, systems
administration, and programming languages such as Python or Java is essential. Knowledge
of operating systems, databases, and cloud technologies is also important.
2. Cybersecurity Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications such as CompTIA
Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical
Hacker (CEH), or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) demonstrate expertise in
specific areas of cybersecurity.
3. Threat Intelligence: Understanding the current threat landscape, staying up-to-date with
the latest cyber threats, and having knowledge of threat intelligence tools and techniques are
crucial for effective cybersecurity.
4. Risk Assessment and Management: The ability to identify and assess security risks,
prioritize them based on impact and likelihood, and implement risk mitigation strategies is an
essential skill in cybersecurity.
5. Communication and Collaboration: Strong communication skills are essential for
effectively communicating with stakeholders, explaining technical concepts in non-technical
terms, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.
6. Problem-solving and Analytical Skills
- WGU Cybersecurity Courses List 2023
- Here is a list of WGU cybersecurity courses available in 2023.
- 1. C299 – Cybersecurity Foundations
- 2. C376 – Network and Security – Foundations
- 3. C377 – Operating Systems for Cybersecurity
- 4. C841 – Scripting and Automation for Cybersecurity Professionals
- 5. C842 – System Administration and Maintenance for Cybersecurity Professionals
- 6. C843 – Cybersecurity Management and Leadership
- 7. C844 – Network Security
- 8. C845 – Cybersecurity Tools and Technology
- 9. C846 – Offensive Cybersecurity
- 10. C847 – Defensive Cybersecurity
- 11. C848 – Digital Forensics and Incident Response
- 12. C849 – Security Operations and Incident Response
- 13. C850 – Cybersecurity Capstone Project