10 IT Security Courses to Boost Your Career

Want to discover the best IT security courses at the moment that you can study and equip your skill set for the job market? Then this article is just for you. We have discussed what IT security and Cybersecurity are all about, their differences, and how they play an important role in safeguarding critical data against the hands of hackers.

I also discovered that people want to learn how to get started in this field, and what they can achieve by being IT experts. Remember to start, an individual will have to take a course provided by accredited institutions. Afterward, they can proceed with acquiring the relevant training and certification that will equip them for the immersive job market of IT security.

Information Technology Security (IT security) is a subset of cybersecurity and given the fact that it is a skill that's transferable across various industries, anyone with the skill will always be in demand. They are hotcakes, and organizations are ready to employ them into their ranks.

If you plan on learning the skill, there are a plethora of options including learning on your own, online courses, and a traditional four-year degree, however, if the idea of getting a degree sounds expensive to you and learning IT security on your own proves to be a difficult task, then consider taking an online course. The challenge you will encounter in choosing an online course is choosing the right one for yourself.

Although that shouldn't be a challenge as we have compiled a list of the best IT security courses, what makes them unique so that you can choose the right one.

What is an IT security course?

IT security course covers the fundamentals, procedures, and systematic approach that an organization uses in protecting against theft, identity theft, or any other cybercrime.

In addition to all these, you will learn about data security workflows, digital signature authentication, network and program security architecture, and cryptography.

10 IT Security Courses to Boost Your Career

These information technology security and cybersecurity courses are for individuals with no cybersecurity experience. They are also for beginners as well as for those with existing knowledge about cybersecurity.

The massive job market will be waiting for you after completing any of these courses, including some of the highest-paying cybersecurity courses.

Here are some information technology security courses that have been carefully handpicked for you.

1. Cybrary: Introduction to IT & Cybersecurity

Rating:

Gartner Peer Insights: 4.1

G2: 4

Trustpilot: 3.7

Average: 3.9

Duration: The course is a little under 2 hours long.

Prices Starting: Free

Who is this for?

This course is for anyone who wants to get started in cybersecurity and information technology but he's not yet sure which niche he wants to study. This course has a complete hands-on learning resource that enumerates the entire context of cybersecurity from the start to the bottom.

It covers the responsibility of common cybersecurity roles, the tools used by experts in the field, and what the learner can expect from the different roles. The course will equip and nurture you so by the time you are finished you should be able to identify a field to work in.

2. The Complete Cybersecurity Course: Hackers Exposed!

Rating:

Udemy: 4.5 (based on 44,818 ratings on the course website)

Duration: With over 120 lectures, this course spans 12 hours.

Prices Starting: $42.50

Overview

This hacking course will teach you the basic and advanced topics related to some of the biggest software including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

The course covers:

  • Global tracking and hacking
  • Darknet and other threat landscapes
  • Phishing, vishing, and identity theft
  • Social engineering and cybersecurity threats
  • Encryption
  • Application isolation, sandboxes

If you have the burning desire to understand the essential workings of the internet and software download, you will love this course. The course gave a complete approach to having infrastructure from a home security perspective.

Who is this for?

The course is for anyone including those who want a complete course that takes them from beginners to experts in cybersecurity. However, the course wasn't created to make you job-ready, as it was tailored for those looking for cybersecurity resources on home internet security. 

3. Springboard: Cybersecurity Bootcamp

Rating:

Course Report: 4.64

SwitchUp: 4.68

CareerKarma: 4.65

Average: 4.65

Duration: 6 months

Prices Starting: $9,900-$15,314

Overview

This course offered by Springboard's online cybersecurity boot camp is another one that is tailored to take learners from beginner to advanced level, covering 380 hours of study and pre-recorded sessions. It also allows you to complete a capstone project while taking the course.

The good part is that it is job-ready, meaning your portfolio will be shown to organizations and hiring managers who would want to hire you into their ranks.

Who is this for?

This course is geared to help those who want to start from beginners up to advanced level, as it covers a complete, all-encompassing course, and perpetual career support before and after.

4. IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate

Rating:

4.6 (based on 7,435 ratings on the course website)

Duration: You can choose among the following course timelines: 1 month, three months, or six months

Prices Starting: $48 (one month), $95(three months), and $143(6 months)

Overview

This course offered by a renowned organization is another professional IT course that covers eight fields in cybersecurity including introductory concepts and other foundational knowledge related to cybersecurity, cybersecurity roles and tools, compliance frameworks, network security, penetration testing, and cyber threat intelligence.

The course also allows you to do case studies while you complete a capstone project. Once you have finished, you will be able to take a full role as a cybersecurity analyst.

Who is this for?

It aims to help those without prior knowledge of cybersecurity or IT security altogether. The course makes it a complete step towards becoming an IT and cybersecurity expert by improving your CV and tailoring you towards an advanced career.

5. StationX VIP Membership 

Rating:

Trustpilot: 4.8

Duration: There are about 240 courses of various durations, but you get yearly access to complete these.

Prices Starting: $1199 (currently available for $149/year)

Overview

VIP access at StationX unlocks many benefits for aspiring cybersecurity professionals and opens many resources that take members from beginners to experts in IT security. Members get access to training materials, courses, and practical tests and exams to prepare them for the information security landscape.

Members also get access to thousands of classes, virtual labs, and advanced certifications to boost their CVs.

Some of the areas of study include:

  • Network hacking
  • Social engineering
  • Ethical hacking
  • Software security
  • Endpoint protection

Being a member of StationX had a lot of benefits on many scales including having access to advanced certifications like CompTIA Security+ certification, CompTIA CySA+ certification, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and more.

Who is this for?

Anyone who wants a customized cybersecurity career, professional support, hands-on experience, and a resource that covers every aspect of cybersecurity.

6. Heimdal Security: Cyber Security for Beginners

Rating:

G2: 4.4

Gartner: 4.8

Capterra: 4.8

Average: 4.6

Duration: 5 weeks 

Prices Starting: Free

Overview

This course was organized to deliver a wide range of Cybersecurity aspirants through an email newsletter. Once you register for the course, you will receive 20 lessons in your inbox every two days for five weeks. The course oversees a complete overview of cybersecurity systems and the most popular terms also known as domains. You will learn how to pick the right antivirus software and identify the security architecture in your chosen field.

The course was created by Heimdal Security to provide cybersecurity services and learning resources to millions of people. The course is jam-packed with numerous advice based on the millions of vulnerabilities and home security systems they analyze every day.

Who is this for?

Although it is not a career-oriented course,  however, you will learn interesting tips and tricks that even some cybersecurity experts may not know.

7. University of Washington: Professional Certificate in Essentials of Cybersecurity

Rating:

Not available 

Duration: This course will take about six months to complete, with a recommended commitment of 2-5 hours per week.

Prices Starting: $717

Overview

Professional Certificate in Essentials of Cybersecurity by the University of Washington is a bundle of four courses put together to cover cybersecurity operations, the role of a Chief Information Security Officer, and the skills that make an individual become a cybersecurity expert.

The course allows learners to engage in self-assessment projects to identify which cybersecurity role is right for them.

Who is this for?

Ideal for beginners looking for a complete understanding of the cybersecurity field, and a guide to transitioning into the tech industry with the intention of upskilling.

8. Harvard’s Cybersecurity: Managing Risk in the Information Age

Rating:

Not available

Duration: 9 weeks, with the first week dedicated to orientation, with 8-12 hours of learning per week

Prices Starting: $1293

Overview

This course by Harvard is all about business risks that have to do with cyber threats. It covers the overview of cyber risk management and how they are crucial in protecting businesses and assets.

The course encompasses the following aspects of risk management:

  • Analysis of an organization’s risk profile
  • How to respond to cyberattacks
  • Communication of security breaches
  • Containment of cyberattacks
  • Legal compliances
  • Overall risk mitigation strategy

Who is this for?

The course was designed to help those in high business class including those who want to understand how cyber attacks affect the numerous business systems in organizations. Cyber professionals and experts who want to start a business can also benefit from this course.

9. GIAC Security Essentials

Rating:

Not available

Duration: Depending on your chosen course structure, the duration can be four months, a few weeks, or six days.

Prices Starting: $8275

Overview

This course was designed for anyone who wants to get GSEC (GIAC Security Essentials) certified, which happens to be a professional accreditation that shows that the individual has advanced knowledge of information security. It will teach you how to create a software program that encompasses the basics of information security. You will also learn about malware, network security, and multi-cloud security.

You will learn how to identify vulnerabilities within a system and the wide range of tools needed to mitigate against those threats.

Who is this for?

For those with prior knowledge of information security, which includes IT engineers, security managers, penetration testers, and forensic analysts.

10. (ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional

Rating:

Not available 

Duration: The course videos span over 12 hours, and you can get access on a yearly subscription.

Prices Starting: $299/year

Overview

This is a certification course that encompasses cloud security and can help you pass the Certified Cloud Security (CCSP) exam. It covers nine mini-courses, all of which cover the concept of cloud security architecture. You will also get access to hands-on lab experience.

The course features include practical tests, skill assessment, and access to professional support.

Who is this for?

The course is for those who want a complete IT and cybersecurity learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About IT Security Courses

Find the answers to some of your burning questions about information security courses that most individuals passionate about a career in the field might find useful.

How Long Does It Take To Get Certified in Information Security?

The best IT security as well as some cybersecurity course can last for weeks or even years. To get certified by institutions like ISC, which happens to have the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, you need at least five years of experience in IT security. In addition, you are required to have solid knowledge in at least two domains. Once you meet the requirements you can take the exam and get certified.

Will Information Security Courses Qualify Me for a Job in the Cybersecurity Industry?

The answer is yes. You can apply for entry-level cybersecurity jobs once you complete an IT security course. Some of these jobs may include security analyst or security consultant roles. In addition, you can make your way into higher roles like director of security or the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Essentially, you can build a career in cybersecurity the way you like.

What Skills Are Needed Before Pursuing the Information Security Course?

There are no specific skills needed to pursue a career in information security unless specified by the institution. If you need more information about the course you plan to pursue, you can go through a few videos that highlight the roles in information security, and their requirements, or even check out a few websites online.

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