Roadmap for Learning Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a broad field, so the best approach is step-by-step, starting with the basics and gradually moving into more advanced areas. Here’s a structured path you can follow:
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🔹 Step 1: Build Strong Fundamentals
Before diving into hacking or security tools, you need a foundation.
• Networking basics: IP, TCP/UDP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, firewalls, VPNs.
• Operating Systems: Windows (Active Directory, PowerShell), Linux (commands, permissions, SSH).
• Programming/Scripting: Python (automation, exploit scripts), Bash, PowerShell.
📚 Resources:
• CompTIA Network+ (for networking)
• Linux Essentials
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🔹 Step 2: Understand Core Cybersecurity Concepts
• CIA triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)
• Malware types (virus, worm, trojan, ransomware, rootkit)
• Encryption & cryptography basics
• Authentication, authorization, and access control
• Security policies & compliance (GDPR, ISO 27001, NIST, etc.)
📚 Resource: CompTIA Security+
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🔹 Step 3: Learn Practical Security Skills
• Setting up firewalls, IDS/IPS, SIEM tools
• Configuring secure systems (Windows Server, Linux hardening)
• Vulnerability scanning (Nessus, OpenVAS)
• Penetration testing basics (Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap, Wireshark)
• Web application security (OWASP Top 10)
🛠️ Practice on:
• TryHackMe (guided labs)
• HackTheBox (practical challenges)
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🔹 Step 4: Specialize
Cybersecurity has many domains. Choose based on interest:
• Penetration Testing / Ethical Hacking
• Incident Response & Digital Forensics
• Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering
• Cloud Security (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• SOC Analyst / Threat Hunting
• Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC)
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🔹 Step 5: Get Certified (Optional but Valuable)
• Beginner: CompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
• Intermediate: OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), CySA+
• Advanced: CISSP, CISM, GIAC certifications
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🔹 Step 6: Continuous Learning
• Follow cybersecurity news (KrebsOnSecurity, BleepingComputer, HackerNews)
• Join communities (Reddit r/cybersecurity, Discord groups, local CTFs)
• Practice Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges
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✅ Tip: Don’t just read—practice hands-on in labs & VMs. Cybersecurity is learned by doing.
I’ll give you a 6-month structured roadmap for learning cybersecurity step by step. This will include what to learn each week, practice resources, and when to do hands-on labs.
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