Network Security Learning Roadmap

From fundamentals to expert, build the skills to protect the digital world.

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Phase Main Domain Knowledge & Tools Objective
1. Solid Foundation Networking & Operating Systems
  • Networking: OSI/TCP-IP Model, DNS, DHCP
  • OS: Linux (CLI), Windows Server
  • Scripting: Python, Bash
 Understand how data travels and how systems operate at a fundamental level.
2. Core Principles Cryptography & Basic Security
  • Cryptography: Symmetric & Asymmetric Encryption, Hashing, PKI
  • Security: CIA Triad, AAA
  • Firewall & VPN: Basic Configuration
 Master the fundamental concepts and technologies of information security.
3. System Protection System & Application Security
  • Hardening: OS & Service Hardening
  • Web Vulnerabilities: OWASP Top 10
  • Vulnerability Scanning: Nessus, OpenVAS
 Protect servers, applications, and services from common threats.
4. Attacker's Mindset Offense & Defense
  • Pentesting: Metasploit, Burp Suite
  • Wi-Fi Hacking: Aircrack-ng
  • Defense: IDS/IPS (Snort, Suricata)
 Understand how attackers operate to build effective defensive measures.
5. Monitoring & Response SOC & Digital Forensics
  • SIEM: Splunk, ELK Stack
  • Packet Analysis: Wireshark
  • Forensics: Autopsy, FTK Imager
 Detect, analyze, and respond to network security incidents.
6. Specialization Cloud & IoT Security
  • Cloud Security: AWS/Azure Security
  • IoT/OT Security: Embedded Device Security
  • AI in Security: Behavioral Analysis
 Delve into specialized areas and keep up with new security trends.

Important Notes

1. Continuous Practice

Build a virtual lab for practice. Learning security without practice is meaningless. Platforms like Hack The Box and TryHackMe are very useful.

2. Logical & Creative Thinking

Security is a battle of wits. Always ask "What if...?" to find weaknesses that others might overlook.

3. Stay Updated

The security field changes daily. Follow blogs, forums, and conferences (like Black Hat, DEF CON) to stay current.

4. Professional Ethics

Security knowledge is a double-edged sword. Always adhere to the law and use your skills for good (White Hat).