Ethical Hacker Essential / IT Support

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Course Overview

This course is designed to equip students with essential skills in IT support, networking, and ethical hacking. Students will gain hands-on experience through labs and practical exercises, preparing them for industry-recognized certifications and entry-level positions in IT.

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals of computer hardware and software.
• Gain networking knowledge, including setup and troubleshooting.
• Acquire skills to manage and secure network infrastructures.
• Learn ethical hacking techniques to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Prepare for certification exams in A+, Net+, CCNA, and CEH.

Weekly Breakdown

Week 1: Introduction to IT Support

• Topics: Overview of IT support roles, career paths, and certification importance.
• Labs: Setting up a virtual lab environment using VirtualBox or VMware.
• Outcome: Understand the role of IT support and the certifications available.

Week 2: CompTIA A+ Fundamentals

• Topics: Computer hardware, operating systems, and software troubleshooting.
• Labs: Disassemble and reassemble a computer; install an operating system.
• Outcome: Grasp essential hardware and software concepts.

Week 3: A+ Software Troubleshooting

• Topics: Operating system installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Labs: Troubleshoot common software issues in a controlled environment.
• Outcome: Develop effective software troubleshooting skills.

Week 4: Networking Basics (CompTIA Network+)

• Topics: Introduction to networking, OSI model, and TCP/IP.
• Labs: Configure a simple network with Cisco Packet Tracer.
• Outcome: Understand fundamental networking concepts.

Week 5: Network Configuration and Troubleshooting

• Topics: IP addressing, subnetting, and troubleshooting network issues.
• Labs: Set up and troubleshoot a network configuration.
• Outcome: Identify and resolve common networking problems.

Week 6: CCNA Fundamentals

• Topics: Introduction to Cisco networking devices and routing concepts.
• Labs: Configure routers and switches using Cisco Packet Tracer.
• Outcome: Understand basic Cisco device configuration and management.

Week 7: Network Security Essentials

• Topics: Security best practices, firewalls, and VPNs.
• Labs: Configure basic security settings on network devices.
• Outcome: Implement security measures to protect network infrastructures.

Week 8: Ethical Hacking Fundamentals

• Topics: Introduction to ethical hacking and penetration testing methodologies.
• Labs: Set up a testing environment using Kali Linux and Metasploit.
• Outcome: Understand the ethical implications and techniques in ethical hacking.

Week 9: Footprinting and Scanning

• Topics: Information gathering, footprinting, and network scanning.
• Labs: Conduct footprinting exercises using Nmap and Wireshark.
• Outcome: Gather information about target systems and networks.

Week 10: System and Web Application Security

• Topics: Common vulnerabilities (SQL Injection, XSS) and prevention.
• Labs: Test web applications for vulnerabilities using Burp Suite.
• Outcome: Identify and mitigate common web application vulnerabilities.

Week 11: Incident Response and Reporting

• Topics: Incident response procedures and reporting findings.
• Labs: Draft a report based on a simulated ethical hacking assessment.
• Outcome: Produce clear documentation and reports outlining security findings.

Week 12: Career Preparation and Job Opportunities

• Topics: Overview of IT job roles, certifications, and interview preparation.
• Labs: Mock interviews, resume writing, and job search strategies.
• Outcome: Be prepared to apply for positions in IT support and cybersecurity.

Job Opportunities and Average Salary

• Job Titles:
  • IT Support: Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, Systems Administrator.
  • Network Technician: Network Administrator, Network Engineer.
  • Ethical Hacker: Ethical Hacker, Penetration Tester, Security Consultant.
• Average Salary:
  • IT Support:
    • Entry-level: $40,000 - $60,000
    • Mid-level: $60,000 - $80,000
  • Network Roles:
    • Entry-level: $50,000 - $70,000
    • Mid-level: $70,000 - $90,000
  • Ethical Hacking:
    • Entry-level: $60,000 - $80,000
    • Mid-level: $80,000 - $110,000