CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) CS0-003

Module 1: Security Operations

Objective: Understand security monitoring, detection, and incident response processes.

Lessons:

• Understanding security information and event management (SIEM) tools
• Configuring logging and monitoring (Syslog, SNMP, NetFlow)
• Log analysis techniques and interpreting output
• Setting up and analyzing alerting systems
• Performing threat hunting and threat intelligence correlation
• Using packet capture tools (Wireshark, tcpdump)
• Deploying and interpreting host-based intrusion detection/prevention systems (HIDS/HIPS)

Module 2: Vulnerability Management

Objective: Master the vulnerability management lifecycle and tools.

Lessons:

• Defining and scoping vulnerability management
• Conducting vulnerability scans (Nessus, OpenVAS)
• Interpreting vulnerability scan results (CVSS, false positives)
• Remediation planning and prioritization
• Performing patch and configuration management
• Automating vulnerability assessments in cloud and hybrid environments

Module 3: Incident Response

Objective: Learn how to prepare for, detect, analyze, and respond to incidents.

Lessons:

• Phases of incident response (Preparation, Detection, Containment, Eradication, Recovery, Lessons Learned)
• Creating and testing incident response plans (IRPs)
• Setting up communication plans and escalation paths
• Identifying indicators of compromise (IoC)
• Performing digital forensics basics (data preservation, chain of custody)
• Conducting incident triage and root cause analysis
• Post-incident review and documentation

Module 4: Reporting and Communication

Objective: Build the skills needed to communicate findings and coordinate effectively.

Lessons:

• Reporting findings to stakeholders and executives
• Creating technical and non-technical reports
• Aligning reports with organizational policies and compliance frameworks
• Communicating during incidents (briefings, escalations)
• Building security awareness and training programs
• Creating dashboards and visual reports using tools (Excel, SIEM platforms)

Module 5: Security Architecture and Tool Sets

Objective: Gain technical knowledge of securing systems and managing tools.

Lessons:

• Understanding security frameworks and architecture models (Zero Trust, Defense in Depth)
• Hardening endpoints and systems (GPOs, secure configurations)
• Implementing secure network architecture (firewalls, VPNs, proxies)
• Managing and configuring endpoint detection and response (EDR)
• Securing web applications and APIs
• Using data loss prevention (DLP) tools and mobile device management (MDM)
• Leveraging cloud security tools and architecture principles
• Configuring authentication and identity solutions (MFA, SSO, federation)

Practice Labs & Assessment Activities

• Vulnerability scanning and remediation lab
• SIEM data analysis simulation
• Incident response tabletop exercise
• Hands-on firewall and IDS/IPS configuration
• Report writing and threat communication workshop

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Monitor and Secure IT Systems: Apply behavioral analytics to monitor systems and detect malicious activity in real time using tools like SIEM, packet analyzers, and intrusion detection systems.
• Conduct Threat and Vulnerability Management: Perform vulnerability assessments, prioritize findings, and coordinate effective remediation strategies across enterprise systems.
• Respond to Cybersecurity Incidents: Follow structured incident response procedures to detect, contain, and recover from various types of cybersecurity attacks, including malware, ransomware, and phishing.
• Perform Data Analysis for Threat Detection: Analyze logs, events, and network traffic to identify indicators of compromise (IoCs), attack patterns, and potential breaches.
• Use Cybersecurity Tools and Technologies: Deploy and manage security solutions such as EDR, DLP, firewalls, proxies, antivirus, and mobile device management to enhance organizational security posture.
• Apply Security Policies and Compliance Standards: Understand and implement policies aligned with regulatory frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and PCI-DSS, and support audit and compliance efforts.
• Communicate Findings to Stakeholders: Prepare clear technical and executive-level reports on vulnerabilities, incidents, and security improvements using appropriate documentation and communication protocols.
• Support Organizational Risk Mitigation: Contribute to enterprise risk management by identifying gaps, evaluating controls, and suggesting enhancements to reduce exposure.
• Prepare for the CompTIA CySA+ CS0-003 Certification Exam: Demonstrate the knowledge and hands-on skills required to pass the exam and validate your ability to perform as a cybersecurity analyst in real-world environments.

This course is ideal for:

• IT Professionals Transitioning to Cybersecurity: Those with experience in networking, systems administration, or support roles who are looking to specialize in cybersecurity operations and analysis.
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts (Level 1 & 2): Professionals responsible for monitoring and responding to cybersecurity alerts and incidents.
• Cybersecurity Specialists and Technicians: Individuals seeking to formalize their skills with a recognized certification and expand their capabilities in threat detection and response.
• Vulnerability and Threat Intelligence Analysts: Practitioners involved in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities, analyzing threat intelligence, and supporting proactive defense strategies.
• Incident Response and Risk Management Team Members: Professionals contributing to planning and executing incident response, compliance, and risk reduction efforts.
• Government and DoD Contractors: Those working in security roles under DoD 8570/8140 who require an approved cybersecurity certification such as CySA+.
• Students and Recent Graduates in IT or Cybersecurity: Learners aiming to launch a cybersecurity career with a certification that bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application.