Learn why you're at risk and what you can do to protect your precious personal and business data from the outside world. This course will quickly bring you up to speed on the fundamentals of PC and network security.
You will understand and explore the vulnerability of operating systems, software, and networks. Then, you will get into the minds of hackers and crackers, developing an understanding of the exploits they use to access your computer without your knowledge. You will find out why, where and how viruses, worms, and blended threats are created. You will learn a safe way to handle files and data across the Internet through a virtual private network. By the end of this course you will be able to install and configure a firewall to build an impenetrable moat around your computer or network.
Alan Simpson is an award-winning author with over 100 published books on computers, technology, and the internet, translated into more than a dozen languages. With extensive experience across nearly every aspect of the computer industry—including web development, operating systems, programming, networking, and security—he is widely regarded as a leading expert in the field.
Alan’s journey in tech began in the 1980s as an author, teacher, consultant, and software developer. His work in app development and web design sparked a deep interest in cybersecurity. This passion led him to pursue formal studies, and in 2007, he earned his Security+ certification from CompTIA, demonstrating his broad knowledge of the computer security field. The insights he shares in his courses reflect his years of experience and his commitment to building safe, secure applications and websites.
The instructional materials required for this course are included in enrollment and will be available online.
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Lesson 1
Introduction to PC Security
In this lesson, you will learn the facts and myths about PC security. By the end of the lesson, you will be able to assess your own risk, whether you're an individual or manage a network of any size. You will also perform a self-assessment to evaluate just how vulnerable you are to security flaws.
Your PC and Network
If you ever wondered what technical gurus are speaking about when they talk about LANs, WANs, VPNs, and P2P, you will find detailed answers in this lesson. Discover the basics of networks and how your PC connects to them.
PCs, Networks, and Software Demystified
Most people don't stop to think about how a Mac can talk to a PC and vice versa. Yet, different types of machines talk to each other on a daily basis across networks. They also talk to printers, fax machines, and a host of other devices. The OSI model for network connections lets you accomplish this, and you will learn all about it in this lesson.
Viruses, Worms, Blended Threats, and More
Get ready to investigate the world of viruses, worms, and blended threats. You'll learn what they are and the differences between all three. Of course, all this knowledge will also teach you how to protect yourself and your network from the hackers and crackers of the world.
The Family of Malware
This lesson introduces you to the ware family. What is the ware family? They are the products that download themselves onto your computer without your consent or knowledge—spyware, scumware, malware, and adware. You will meet them and learn all about where they live, places they frequent, and how to remove these unwelcome guests.
Exploits and Vulnerabilities
You may have heard of them: vulnerabilities, exploits, and exposure. But what are they? Have you ever wondered if someone really can control your computer without your knowledge? If you've been pondering these questions lately, then you will find your answers here, along with priceless information on protecting your computer and your network to keep your business and personal data private.
Network Attacks
Have you ever tried to access the web but received an error saying the page can't be displayed, you aren't connected, or you don't have access? Denial of Service attacks and SYN flooding are two types of network attacks that seem to go unnoticed on personal PCs and small networks. After this lesson, you will no longer be left wondering what happened to your Internet connection.
Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part One)
This lesson will introduce you to firewalls. Join me in this lesson, and you will soon start building an impenetrable moat around your network.
Everything You Wanted to Know About Firewalls (Part Two)
Now that you have your moat built, it's time to arm up and defend yourself. In this lesson, you will learn how to configure your firewall and maximize your network security.
Laptops, Notebooks, Netbooks, and Wireless Networking
Laptops and wireless connectivity aren't as secure as they appear. You will understand why in this lesson.
Virtual Private Networking (VPN)
This lesson explores the Virtual Private Network and how it's different from standard networks, how it works, how to secure it, and how to set up your own. You can share files with family across the miles by allowing them to connect remotely to your designated shared folders. You can share music files, family pictures, and anything else you choose to give them access to.
Changing Face of Security
Now that you know what's out there, how can you possibly keep on top of security issues? There's so much information out there, how will you know what applies to you? You will learn about emerging security technology that will help make managing and securing your network easier. Finally, you can test yourself against the first security assessment to see how well you've secured your own PC or network.
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