Getting started in the exciting and lucrative field of cybersecurity can seem daunting, especially for those with limited budgets for training and certifications. Thankfully, there are a plethora of free cybersecurity training opportunities available to help you gain fundamental knowledge and skills without going broke.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 5 free cybersecurity certifications ideal for beginners looking to launch their career in 2023. We’ll break down what you’ll learn, who offers the certifications, and their key benefits. Additionally, we’ll provide bonus tips for getting the most value from free cybersecurity training.
With the right strategy, you can become proficient in cybersecurity without paying a dime. Let’s dive in!
Free Cybersecurity Certification #1: Introduction to Cyber Security by Open University
The Introduction to Cyber Security course offered by Open University provides an excellent starting point for cybersecurity newcomers. This self-paced online course takes around 24 hours to complete over 8 weeks, with a multiple choice quiz after each module.
During the 8 weeks, you’ll gain well-rounded knowledge covering cybersecurity fundamentals, including:
- The cyber threat landscape and real-world examples of attacks
- Assessing organizational digital assets and security vulnerabilities
- Authentication methods like passwords and multi-factor authentication
- Different types of malware like viruses, worms, Trojans and botnets
- Protecting devices and networks from threats
- Network security essentials like firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems
- Cryptography concepts including encryption keys and public key infrastructure
- Cybersecurity laws, governance, and risk management
One of the best aspects of this course is that the content builds on itself week-after-week. By the end, you’ll have progressed from cybersecurity basics to more advanced concepts in a structured manner.
Completing the course and passing the quizzes earns you a printable certificate. Given the comprehensiveness of the material, this certification indicates fundamental cybersecurity proficiency ideal for entry-level roles.
Free Cybersecurity Certification #2: Risk Management by Open University
Risk management is a crucial skill for any cybersecurity professional. That’s why Open University’s free online Risk Management course is an excellent choice for developing core competencies.
Created in collaboration with luxury automaker Rolls-Royce, this course examines risk management principles and best practices through a corporate lens. The estimated 24 hours of material is divided into the following key domains:
- Introduction to risk, risk management fundamentals, and definitions
- Risk identification techniques like top-down and bottom-up approaches
- Risk assessments, treatment, monitoring, reviewing and reporting
- Risk communication strategies
- Risk management specializations
Since effective cybersecurity is inherently about risk mitigation, understanding risk frameworks provides a huge advantage. Most organizations lack personnel well-versed in practical risk management.
Gaining these in-demand skills from this free course can accelerate your cybersecurity career progression and unlock more lucrative job opportunities. The included certificate is another nice addition to showcase on your CV and LinkedIn profile.
H2: Free Cybersecurity Certification #3: CCSI by (ISC)2
Earning the Certified Cybersecurity Introduction (CCSI) credential from (ISC)2 provides a solid baseline of knowledge for cybersecurity newcomers. It’s designed specifically for beginners looking to embark on an entry-level career.
The CCSI domains encompass:
- Security principles
- Business continuity and disaster recovery
- Incident response
- Access management
- Network security
- Security operations
After passing the exam, you can opt to become an Associate of (ISC)2 for a $50 annual fee. This retains your certification and unlocks tons of valuable member benefits, including:
- Ongoing training and skill-building opportunities
- CPE credits to maintain credentials
- Webinars and discounted events access
- Study tools and publications
- Chapter engagement and mentoring
- Cybersecurity job boards
The continuing education and community aspects make getting involved with (ISC)2 extremely advantageous beyond just a one-and-done certificate. It’s an affordable, self-paced program tailored perfectly for kickstarting your cybersecurity career.
Free Cybersecurity Certification #4: Google IT Support Professional Certificate
For those seeking a more comprehensive and technical cybersecurity program, Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate should be on your radar.
Offered on the Coursera platform, this beginner-friendly certificate takes roughly 5-6 months of part-time study to complete. The 180+ hours of material is broken down into the following learning modules:
- Technical support fundamentals
- Computer networking
- Operating systems and system administration
- IT security
- Cloud computing
- Troubleshooting and customer service
The content features a hands-on learning approach, including virtual labs and real-world troubleshooting scenarios. You’ll gain proficiency across essential infrastructure, networking, and security domains while developing practical job-ready skills.
After completing all modules and passing the assessments, you can add the Google IT Support Professional Certificate to your CV. Given the reputability of Google’s training programs, this credential can give you a competitive edge when applying for entry-level IT and cybersecurity roles.
Free Cybersecurity Certification #5: Self-Guided Online Learning
While structured certifications are valuable, much of the best cybersecurity training is completely free through self-guided online learning channels. Using resources like YouTube, blogs, forums, and social media, you can teach yourself highly marketable skills at your own pace.
For example, Heath Adams’ (The Cyber Mentor) free 11-hour Practical Ethical Hacking course on YouTube provides an interactive introduction to penetration testing. You’ll get hands-on experience using Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite and other go-to offensive security tools.
Likewise, Twitter lists allow you to curate feeds from industry experts and stay on top of the latest cybersecurity news and threats. Reddit communities like r/cybersecurity provide feedback opportunities by discussing concepts with like-minded beginners.
Building a tailored self-directed curriculum blending free online courses, blogs, forums and social networks can equip you with diverse skills quickly and effectively. While the knowledge itself holds the most value, you can also market your skills and convey your dedication through documenting the experience on LinkedIn, a blog or portfolio site.
Conclusion
Launching a successful cybersecurity career doesn’t require expensive pay-walled training or certifications – at least initially. Leveraging free resources allows you to gain fundamental knowledge and skills most vital for entry-level roles.
Keep learning beyond check-the-box certifications by engaging with online communities, practicing hands-on skills and staying on the pulse of the industry. As your career progresses, certain paid credentials will become necessary. But with the right strategy, you can absolutely get your cybersecurity career started without spending a dime.
Ref: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLPPSylqrVk