5 Best Cyber Security Courses Online Reviews in 2023 | Pick the One Which Meets Your Needs

The best cyber security courses online should equip you with skills to help protect yourself from cybercriminals. Further, the courses should have a simple design for ease of learning.

As you determine the most suitable course that will meet your needs, ensure that the course is flexible enough to fit into your daily schedules. Some of the elements of interest include the availability of downloadable resources and duration classes.

The best course should meet your immediate needs and offer you resources for future reference. In this article, we have reviewed five resourceful online courses that you can enroll in and start your path to becoming an exceptional IT expert.

3 Top Best Cyber Security Courses Online

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[Best Overall] 

1. The Complete Cyber Security Course (Udemy)

This course is packaged to transform you from a cyber security specialist or beginner and covers the major OS such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.

4.9/5 

  • Download materials available on demand.
  • The course is very practically oriented.
  • It is suitable for both beginners and experienced learners
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[Best for the Money] 

2. Introduction to Cyber Security (Udacity)

Introduction to cyber security is a simplified course for beginners in cyber security learning. Besides the beginners, the program also offers valuable information to advanced learners by refreshing their knowledge.

4.8/5 

  • Content includes learning using real projects from around the globe.
  • Learning plan fits your daily life schedule.
  • You will receive free assistance optimizing your LinkedIn profile, resume support, and Github portfolio.
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[Best for Advanced Level] 

3Cyber Security Certification Courses (Simplilearn)

This course has a combination of programs from introduction to advanced level for learners such as cybersecurity professionals seeking advanced knowledge.

4.7/5 

  • Self-paced learning makes it flexible enough to fit your daily life schedule
  • Accredited instructors from around the globe
  • Access to course content and practice tests even after completing the course

5 Best Cyber Security Courses Online

To give you the best, we have gathered our information on the best online cyber security courses from the following trainers:

1.      Udemy-The Complete Cyber Security Course.

2.      Udacity- Introduction to Cyber Security.

3.      Simplilearn- Cyber Security Certification Courses.

4.      Skillshare- Cyber Security For Normal People: Protect Yourself Online.

5.      Edx- Microbachelors Program In Cyber Security Fundamentals By Nyu.

Here we shall give you a complete evaluation of each course, such as how to register, its duration, and how it will benefit you.

This course is the highest rated among all the Udemy cyber security courses. It is packaged to transform you from a cyber security specialist or beginner and covers the major OS such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.

The complete program has three volumes that cover a wide range of areas such as network security, anonymous browsing, and the prevention of hacking. Below is a brief analysis of each volume.

instructor of the Udemy course

1. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Hackers Exposed

This volume is a twelve-hour duration cyber security course. It will cover the following areas of cyber security to help you gain skills in getting ahead of cybercriminals.

  • The program will equip you with basic knowledge of building blocks. That will make you understand the threat modeling and risk assessment concepts.

  • The program will train you on exploring the thinking of cybercriminals, ethical hacking, and how the cybersecurity threats such as phishing and malware work.

  • You will be able to understand the global tracking network and infrastructures.

  • The program will equip you with privacy modes of Windows 10 and how best to navigate around them.

  • You will receive an encryption crash course. That will entail training on how to manage encryption-related risks.

  • You will receive training on defending the systems from cyber threats such as identity theft and vishing.

2. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Network Security

This program equips you with advanced knowledge of designing a network that guarantees high security. Such a system should protect from all local and remote attacks and seal the network security vulnerabilities.

This program covers the following areas of knowledge:

  • You will learn how to detect vulnerabilities in network security using hacking and scanning techniques.

  • You will receive training on how to develop and handle password managers.

  • The training will equip you with knowledge of advanced authentication solutions such as multi-factor authentication.

  • You will gain in-depth knowledge of search engine privacy and browser security.

  • The training will equip you with knowledge on how online tracking is done and the techniques such as browser fingerprinting.

3. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Anonymous Browsing

This volume will give you skills on how to remain anonymous online and manage privacy. It covers the major OS platforms such as android, windows, macOS, and Linux. By the end of this program, you will have gained skills on how to lose any online trackers completely.

The following are  anonymizing and privacy methods that you will learn

  • SSH secure shell.

  • Live OS such as Tiny Core Linux, Puppy Linux, etc.

  • Bulletproof hosting.

  • Virtual private networks.

  • Cellular networks

  • 12p- The invisible internet

  • Proxy servers such as HTTPS, HTTP, Web, etc.

The following are the areas of knowledge to cover

You will receive training in detail on the anonymizing methods covering the following areas:

  • Strengths and weaknesses of each privacy and anonymizing method

  • Techniques of protecting the system from attackers who try to break the privacy walls.

  • You will receive advanced training on using virtual private networks.

  • You will receive an advanced set of skills on Tor and how to cover its weaknesses.

4. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Endpoint Protection

This package is equipped with knowledge on securing endpoints from cybercriminals. You will learn the following skills for executing the endpoint security:

  • Ways of securing emails and online messengers.

  • You will learn how to apply the techniques of deleting forensic traces so that a digital forensics expert can't trace data.

  • You will learn how to trace and mitigate the threats of malware.

  • You will receive skills in endpoint protection methods such as artificial intelligence and application control.

  • You will receive skills in assessing and implementing advanced antivirus solutions.

Pros

  • You will receive cyber security certification signed by a leading cyber security expert.
  • Download materials available on demand.
  • The course is very practically oriented.
  • It is suitable for both beginners and experienced learners

Cons

  • The course has many volumes that may be challenging to learners with a busy schedule.

4.8/5 

Introduction to cyber security is a simplified course for beginners in cyber security learning. Besides the beginners, the program also offers valuable information to advanced learners by refreshing their knowledge.

Udacity course preview screenshot

Requirements for Enrolling in the Course

This course offers a good platform for go-getters who want to advance in a cyber security career. It will develop your basic skills in maintaining and monitoring computer security.

The course takes four months, covering ten hours per week. The following are the basic entry requirements to enroll in the course:

  • You will need a basic understanding of operating system fundamentals. That includes basic knowledge of the major OS such as Windows, macOS, and Linux.

  • You will need a basic understanding of computer networks. That includes the theoretical and practical knowledge of tools and concepts of computer networks.

The course content covers four areas of study, which are:

1.      Cyber security foundations.

2.      Defending and securing systems.

3.      Threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.

4.      Governance, risk, and compliance.

1. Cyber Security Foundations

This program covers the following areas:

  • You will learn the best practices in cyber security.

  • You will learn about cyber security fundamentals, such as basic concepts and principles.

  • The program will train you in evaluating the techniques used in managing systems security.

  • At the end of the program, you will have the basic knowledge of applying security controls and assessing risks and vulnerabilities.

  •  At the end of the program, you will gain practical knowledge on maintaining computer systems security.

2. Defending and Securing Systems

This program will equip you with knowledge in the following areas:

  • You will gain sufficient knowledge necessary to enroll in cyber security specialization courses.

  • You will have the ability to defend your computers from external attacks by cybercriminals.

  • At the end of the program, you will have gained knowledge in analyzing and improving the level of systems security.

  • The program will train you to detect security vulnerabilities and apply risk management and mitigation techniques such as data encryption.

3. Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Incident Response

You will cover the following content under this program:

  • The course will equip you with knowledge on detecting security gaps in a computer system.

  • You will learn how to fix security issues and mitigate inevitable attacks.

  • At the end of the training, you will be able to apply the concepts of MITRE ATT&CK framework in understanding the methods of attackers.

4. Governance, Risk, and Compliance

This program will cover the following areas of knowledge:

  • You will gain an understanding of strengthening organizational security by applying operational controls.

  • The program will equip you with knowledge of the functions of security governance.

  • You will learn how to assess the security risks and effectiveness of control measures to determine the level of organization preparedness.

Pros

  • The course content includes learning using real projects from around the globe.
  • You will have access to free mentorship from tested and accredited mentors who will motivate and guide you.
  • You will receive free assistance optimizing your LinkedIn profile, resume support, and Github portfolio.
  • The course constitutes a tailored learning plan to fit your daily life schedule.

Cons

  • The course content is shallow since it focuses on beginners.

4.7/5 

This course has a combination of programs from introduction to advanced level. The advanced level is for learners such as cybersecurity professionals seeking advanced knowledge.

Simplilearn partners with leading universities to offer you quality instruction from accredited cyber security instructors.

Simplilearn course capture

Areas Covered Under Introduction Level

  • You will receive basic knowledge of cyber security and what it constitutes.

  • You will learn about the basic principles and cyber security concepts.

  • You will learn about challenges encountered in developing a foolproof cyber security system.

  • You will learn the basics of developing a cyber security program and how to manage it. Managing the security program involves piloting and analyzing the system to assess its impact.

Programs Covered Under Advanced Level

The advanced level is for experienced cybersecurity professionals or those with online cybersecurity basics. The advanced level covers the following programs:

  • CompTIA security+501

  • Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT 2019)

  • Certified  Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

  • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

  • Certified Information System Auditors (CISA)

  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

  • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH v11)

  • Cyber Security Expert (CSE)

The Cyber Security Concepts You Will Learn in This Course

  • At the end of the course, you will be able to set up and manage network security professionally. Businesses use different IT platforms, and this course will equip you with hands-on training on managing security on all platforms.

  • This course will equip you with practical knowledge on handling issues that relate to COBIT IT platforms. It will also give you a theoretical understanding of COBIT principles and concepts.

  • The course will equip you with technical skills to manage and secure cloud data. That will include online cybersecurity concepts and cloud infrastructure and applications policies.

  • At the end of the course, you will be able to manage information security professionally. You will also be able to expertly govern program development and manage security risks in information systems.

  • The course will equip you with systems auditing knowledge. You will be able to assess and validate organizational business information systems.

  • The course will prepare you to work as an information systems expert in areas such as cyber security consultant, security analyst, network architect, system administration, etc.

  • You will learn the methodologies and tools used by hackers. You will further learn ethical techniques for countering hackers and ethical hacking.

  • You will receive training to be an all-around technical expert in managing hardware, software, and network systems.

  • You will receive advanced knowledge on creating and developing a cyber security program and managing it professionally.

  • At the end of the course, you will have cybersecurity professional knowledge on carrying out disaster recovery and assessing its impact on business.

Pros

  • You will have access to expert and accredited instructors from around the globe.
  • You will receive a certification signed by an accredited instructor.
  • You will benefit from continued access to course content and practice tests even after completing the course.
  • The self-paced learning makes the course flexible enough to fit your daily life schedule.

Cons

  • The content design may not be friendly to beginners since the course is designed for advanced learning.

This course is tailor-made to prepare beginners for an exciting career in cyber security and individual protection from malware and cybercriminals. It is designed with a simple language and easy access to learning resources.

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Why This Course Is Very Important

  • You are a constant target of identity thieves, hackers, and cybercriminals. So you need basic knowledge on how to protect your data and information from them.

  • The technological revolution presents new security challenges in the digital world. So, you need to remain knowledgeable on emerging cyber threats.

  • You need knowledge on how to detect malware in your computer programs so that you can be able to mitigate the potential risks.

  • You will save yourself money and effort consulting cyber security experts since you can handle basic security risk management.

Areas of Knowledge You Will Cover in This Course

At the end of the course, you will have acquired the following cyber security skills:

  • You will be able to apply encryption techniques to make your data unreadable by intruders. Encryption codes the data such that only authorized receivers can read it.

  • You will learn to protect yourself from security loopholes that identity thieves use to access your accounts without a password.

  • You will learn how to protect data and information from attackers who manage to break your passwords.

  • You will acquire skills in creating secure systems and managing foolproof passwords. Creating strong passwords is a skill you need to be ahead of cybercriminals.

  • You will equip yourself with knowledge on securing your smartphone information. Your smartphone carries a lot of private data and information that your attackers are after.

  • Not all browsing is safe. You will learn browsing ethics and the right mindset to protect yourself from malware.

  • You will receive suitable training on cyber security risks that you expect and how to prepare yourself. When handling computers, you should be aware of the fragile nature of hardware and software. Any mistakes can open you to your enemy.

  •  You will receive an in-depth understanding of why security is a serious matter of attention and how to approach it. Think about someone gaining access to your bank account, and you will see how important this course is.

Practical Lessons That You Will Apply

You will engage in the following practical activities to gain hands-on knowledge:

  • You should be able to apply two-factor authentications on your online banking account and email.

  • You should be able to install a password manager and successfully create secure passwords.

  • You should be able to apply mobile security passcodes provided by your smartphone, such as facial recognition.

  • You should be able to update apps and operating systems. To build secure systems, you should mainly focus on the major OS such as Android, Windows, macOS, etc.

  • You should be able to apply skills of healthy skepticism whenever you are online. Healthy skepticism means you are aware that you are a target of cybercriminals at all times.

Pros

  • You will have unlimited access to study resources. The class constitutes simple short lessons that you can learn at your own pace.
  • You will receive instruction and mentorship from world-class leaders in cyber security.
  • You will receive instruction in simplified language and simple, practical lessons to suit even the novice learner.
  • The course constitutes real-life practical lessons such as setting up secure passwords.

Cons

  • The course is designed for beginners with no prerequisite cyber security knowledge. That may be unsuitable for advanced learners.

This edX course from Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, focuses on penetration testing, network security, and information security.

Trainers in microbachelors programs in cyber security fundamentals use python scripting for practical experiences. Applying cyber security labs and python scripting helps students learn through practical skills.

edx online course capture

Duration and Courses of Study

The program has nine courses that you will cover in one year with six academic credits. That will take you eight to ten hours per week. The following are the courses in this program:

1.      Information security- Introduction to information security.

2.      Information security- Authentication and access control

3.      Information security- Advanced topics.

4.      Network security- Introduction to network security.

5.      Network security- Protocols.

6.      Network security- Advanced topics.

7.      Penetration testing- Exploitation

8.      Penetration testing- Post exploitation.

9.      Program certificate and college credit.

The Objectives of Microbachelors Program in Cyber Security Fundamentals Course

The course is equipped with knowledge of valuable fundamentals of cyber security to bolster your technical know-how. You will have mastered technical and theoretical skills at the end of the course, as highlighted here.

  • Attain high ethical standards in the management of cyber security. To achieve high standards, you must possess a moral security mindset so that your integrity is above board.

  • You should be able to implement the principles of cyber security design. Security principles are fundamental since they govern and guide the settings of your security protocols.

  • Credible cyber security should have strong access controls. The course will equip you with enough theoretical knowledge to clearly explain these access control concepts.

  • Cyber security reference monitors are core to implementing access controls. This course will equip you with the technical know-how for implementing reference monitors.

  • The revolution of computer technology has seen a major shift in operating systems functionality, more so in managing security policies. This course will equip you with knowledge on applying modern OS security policies.

  • This course will equip you with basic knowledge on analyzing the impact of virtualization on the security and efficiency of the system.

  •  At the end of this course, you will be able to analyze a computer system and identify all the security weaknesses. Further, you should be able to explain effective solutions to the identified security vulnerabilities candidly.

  • This course will train you in presenting a professional report on your security analysis. A professional report is one that can stand the test of time and be applied to develop new cyber security ideas.

  • Computer systems have basic security fundamentals that guide the design of network systems. At the end of the course, you will be able to demonstrate these fundamentals and how they apply to enforce a secure network system.

Pros

  • You will have the privilege to receive free mentorship from experts at New York University.
  • You will get free mentorship on career exploration and problem-solving insights.
  • You will be prepared for employment opportunities in the cyber security sector.
  • The course will equip you with basic knowledge of programming, networking, and operating systems.

Cons

  • The course has nine courses, each going for five weeks which may lack flexibility for persons with busy schedules.

How to Choose the Best Online Cyber Security Course

You should have valid criteria for determining the best online course that suits your needs. If you are a beginner seeking basic skills or an IT expert seeking to advance your career, you should apply the following criteria in making your decision.

Duration 

You should consider the duration that it will take you to complete the cybersecurity course. Further, you should choose a course that you can complete within a reasonable time. For example, if you take a course that has long classes, you may not be able to follow it through to the end.

In addition, the course should equip you with all the necessary skills within the specified timelines. Although a shorter course is more attractive, it may be too short and leave out important content. Ensure that the course covers in detail all the areas of skills you want to learn.

Minimum Requirements

Some trainers will specify the minimum qualifications you need to take the cybersecurity course. That is because every course is developed for a specific level of knowledge.

If you are a beginner, some courses will not require any prerequisite knowledge. Other courses may require you to have some basic skills, such as the installation of programs.

If you are an expert, some courses will require you to have advanced skills as a condition to enroll. For example, some courses are for IT experts who are seeking to specialize in particular expertise such as ethical hacking.

You should ensure that the course you pick will not be irrelevant to your needs. If you pick a course that is beyond your level, you may be forced to drop it since it will be difficult to understand. Likewise, if you pick a course that is below your level, it will be irrelevant, and you may be forced to drop it.

Flexibility 

The cybersecurity course should be flexible enough not to burden you. As you determine which course to take, you should look at your daily life schedule. 

If you are working on a full-time basis, you should consider a course that does not have long classes.  On the other hand, if you have enough time for studying, you can choose a course with long study hours.

In addition, flexibility also refers to instruction methodology. A good course should be interactive enough to allow you the opportunity to engage your instructor. A poor course may overlook the human aspect of learning and rely too much on technology.

Course Certification

The trainer should give a certificate of completion as evidence of successful completion of the course.  It is not enough for you to just gain knowledge. It's important that you have a certificate that you can present as evidence that you have the required technical knowledge. 

Depending on the objectives of the course, most trainers will give you a certificate after you have completed the course. Other courses like beginner courses may lack a certificate since their objective may be to provide simple knowledge for personal use.

The purpose of taking the course is very important in guiding you. If you are taking an advanced course for career advancement, then a certificate will be a prime factor of consideration.   

Cyber Security-Go From Zero to Hero

If you are a computer engineering, information technology, or computer science graduate, you must be looking forward to a great career in the future. You can specialize in many areas available in the computer field and make a great computer specialist.

As you shop around, take your time and think of the least explored area of specialization. That is how you will get to stand out and gatecrash the crowded computer field. Your objective should be to go beyond common knowledge and grab the best opportunities available in the market. 

Cybercriminals constantly threaten the current business world and individual persons, making them pay a heavy price for negligence. They invest heavily in other areas of security but forget their data and information zipped in their small flash disks, computer chips, hard disks, and emails.

If you are a graduate of any computer science discipline, you might want to consider joining other cyber security professionals. All you need is a little dedication and a small cost to enroll in cybersecurity courses online.

You may have zero knowledge on how to go about programming and managing internet security threats. With the complete cybersecurity courses and online study programs available, you will transform from a novice to the hero that internet users need.

Many cybersecurity courses are online with certifications from developers such as Udemy, Udacity, Simplilearn, Skillshare, and Edx. 

Can I Study Cyber Security Online?

You can take cyber security courses online in the comfort of your room. The packaging of the courses is professional, and you will receive certification from certified online training institutes such as Udemy.

There is no difference between taking the courses online and manual training in terms of quality. You will learn the same skills online as you would learn attending physical lectures. One main advantage for you is that the online courses are less costly and readily available.

Which Cyber Security Course Is the Best?

The best cybersecurity course online is the one that gives you all-around training to sharpen both physical and psychological skills. It is not enough to get equipped with theoretical skills, but you fall short of the ethical or moral part of knowledge.

The trainers have packaged their online cybersecurity courses to give you an all-around experience of transforming you into a cyber security hero.