Course Description

Course Overview

The Council Certified Network Defender (CCND) course is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect and defend network infrastructures against cyber threats. This course covers various domains of network defense, including network security controls, protocols, perimeter defenses, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and incident response. The CCND certification validates the expertise of professionals in network defense and security.

The Certified Network Defender (CND) certification is a comprehensive, hands-on, and vendor-neutral training program focused on network security. This program is designed to provide participants with practical skills and knowledge in network defense, aligning with industry standards and the cybersecurity education framework presented by the National Initiative of Cybersecurity Education (NICE).

Prerequisites

To enroll in the CCND course, individuals should have a basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols, as well as some experience in network administration or security. Familiarity with TCP/IP, routing, switching, and network security fundamentals is recommended. The CCND course is suitable for network administrators, security analysts, and individuals aspiring to specialize in network defense and security.

Methodology

The CCND course employs a comprehensive and interactive approach to learning. It combines theoretical lectures, hands-on lab exercises, group discussions, and practical scenarios to ensure a deep understanding of network defense concepts and practices. Participants will learn from experienced instructors with expertise in network security, engage in collaborative activities and discussions, and work on real-world scenarios and simulations. The course emphasizes practical application and hands-on experience to develop the necessary skills in network defense.

Course Outline

Network Security Controls and Protocols

Introduction to network security fundamentals

Understanding network protocols and their security implications

Implementing network security controls and countermeasures

Network Perimeter Defense

Implementing network perimeter defenses

Configuring firewalls and intrusion detection/prevention systems

Securing wireless networks and protecting against attacks

Network Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems

Deploying and managing intrusion detection/prevention systems

Analyzing network traffic and detecting potential threats

Responding to and mitigating network attacks

Incident Response and Handling

Developing an incident response plan and procedures

Identifying and responding to network security incidents

Investigating and analyzing network security breaches

Network Vulnerability Assessment and Management

Conducting network vulnerability assessments and scans

Identifying and prioritizing vulnerabilities

Implementing vulnerability management processes

Outcome

Upon completing the CCND course and obtaining certification, professionals will have the knowledge and skills necessary to protect and defend network infrastructures against cyber threats. They will be equipped to implement network security controls, configure perimeter defenses, detect and respond to network attacks, and conduct vulnerability assessments. Graduates of the course will be well-prepared for roles such as network administrators, network security analysts, or incident response handlers. The CCND certification enhances career prospects and validates expertise in network defense.

Labs

The CCND course includes hands-on lab exercises that allow participants to apply their knowledge and skills in a simulated network environment. The labs cover various aspects of network defense and provide practical experience in configuring security controls, analyzing network traffic, and responding to network attacks. The specific labs may vary based on the training provider and curriculum, but some examples of lab activities may include:

• Configuring firewall rules and testing perimeter defenses
• Setting up and managing intrusion detection/prevention systems
• Analyzing network traffic using packet capture and analysis tools
• Conducting vulnerability assessments and prioritizing remediation
• Responding to simulated network security incidents and performing incident analysis