■■ Cybersecurity Beginner Notes (Detailed)
1. Introduction to Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital
attacks. Its goal is to safeguard data, privacy, and financial assets.
■ CIA Triad (Goals of Cybersecurity)
Principle Meaning Example
Confidentiality Only authorized people can access data Login with password
Integrity Data should not be altered without permission Digital Signatures
Availability Data and systems should be accessible when needed Cloud servers, storage
2. Types of Cyber Threats
• Malware – Virus, Worms, Trojans, Ransomware, Spyware.
• Phishing – Fake emails/messages to steal data.
• DoS/DDoS – Overloading servers.
• SQL Injection – Malicious SQL queries to hack databases.
• Man-in-the-Middle Attack – Intercepting communication.
• Password Attacks – Brute force, Dictionary attacks.
3. Cybersecurity Concepts
• Encryption → Converting data into unreadable form (AES, RSA).
• Hashing → One-way conversion (SHA-256, MD5).
• Firewall → Blocks unauthorized traffic.
• VPN → Creates a secure tunnel over internet.
• IDS/IPS → Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems.
4. Security Practices for Users
• Use Strong Passwords with mix of letters, numbers, symbols.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
• Regularly Update OS & Apps.
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi for sensitive work.
• Don’t click suspicious links/emails.
• Take regular backups of data.
5. Operating System & Networking Basics
Linux (Kali/Ubuntu) is important for cybersecurity tools.
• ls, cd, pwd – File navigation.
• chmod – File permissions.
• ifconfig/ip – Network info.
• ping, nmap – Network testing.
Term Meaning
IP Address Device identifier (IPv4/IPv6)
Ports Service identifiers (HTTP=80, HTTPS=443, FTP=21, SSH=22)
TCP vs UDP TCP=Reliable, UDP=Faster but less reliable
DNS Converts website names into IP addresses
6. Cybersecurity Tools (Beginner)
• Wireshark → Packet analysis.
• Nmap → Network scanning.
• Burp Suite → Web app testing.
• Metasploit → Penetration testing.
• TryHackMe / HackTheBox → Practice labs.
7. Careers in Cybersecurity
• Security Analyst → Monitor threats.
• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) → Find vulnerabilities.
• Network Security Engineer → Protects infrastructure.
• Incident Responder → Handles cyber attacks.
• Forensics Expert → Investigates digital crimes.
8. Cyber Laws & Ethics
• Hacking without permission = Illegal.
• Ethical hacking requires written authorization.
• In India: IT Act 2000 governs cyber crimes.
9. Summary Roadmap for Beginners
• Learn Networks + Linux + Python basics.
• Understand threats & security concepts.
• Practice with tools (Wireshark, Nmap, Burp Suite).
• Stay ethical & updated.
• Explore certifications (CompTIA Security+, CEH, Google Cybersecurity).
