Description

IT Support Professional Networking & Security microcredential badgeBuilding upon the skills learned in IT Support Professional – Desktop Support, the Networking and Security courses include network device installation, configuration and management, network protocols, cabling, wired and wireless networks, firewalls, device and physical security, security policies, network and host defense, disaster and recovery planning and vulnerability assessments.

Courses include one attempt at the TestOut® Network Pro and TestOut® Security Pro performance-based certification exams, passing both of which is required in order to earn the microcredential. Students must download the digital certificate and submit the original certificate to the Records Office to be eligible for the microcredential.  Students are required to complete the IT Support Professional – Desktop Support microcredential or must receive permission by the Center for Cyber Defense Education Chair.

Courses include one attempt at the TestOut® Network Pro and TestOut® Security Pro performance-based certification exams, passing both of which is required in order to earn the microcredential.

Courses also prepare students for these industry-recognized IT Certifications*:

  • CompTIA® Network+
  • CompTIA® Security+

*Students are eligible to purchase discount exam vouchers directly from Pearson VUE.

Associated job roles:

  • IT Support Specialist
  • IT Systems Administrator
  • Network Administrator
  • Security Specialist

Courses Required

Description:
The knowledge of computer networking is essential to be successful in the computer field. Topics include but not limited to networking concepts, network devices and their application, network cables, IP configuration, setting up wireless and wired networks, managing networks, basic network security, software updates, hardware upgrades, network protocols, and network policies and procedures, and defense strategies. The course also prepares the student for the CompTIA Network+ industry certification.

Description:
An introduction to network security. Students will learn about current computer security issues related to networks, hardware, users, operating systems and applications and how to address them. Topics include access control, authentication, authorization, threats, vulnerabilities, policies, cryptography, disaster recovery, public key infrastructure, physical security and risk assessment. This course helps prepare students for the COMPTIA Security+ exam.

Description:
The TestOut® Network Pro exam measures an examinee’s management of hardware and software networking components and includes IP configuration, setting up wireless and wired networks, managing networks, basic network security, software updates, hardware upgrades and network protocols.

  • Configuration
  • Management
  • Networking

Description:
The TestOut® Security Pro Certification measures an examinee’s ability to implement layered security through group policy objects, access control lists, wireless and wired local area network security measures, and workstation and mobile device security measures.

Pre-requisite(s):

  • CSP 20200 (pre-requisite CYB 24900 or permission of the instructor)
  • CYB 13000 (pre-requisite CYB 11700)

Method(s) of delivery: Asynchronous, Hybrid, In-person

Credit or Non-credit:  Credit

Minimum Grade Proficiency: B-

Minimum TestOut® Certification Proficiency:

  • Must achieve 1360 passing rate on TestOut® Networking Pro exam (Non-credit)
  • Must achieve 1400 passing rate on TestOut® Security Pro exam (Non-credit)

(Grades will be recorded on the student’s transcript. Students who meet the grade proficiency are eligible to earn the microcredential. If a grade is earned below the proficiency level, the course grade cannot be used toward the microcredential, but is eligible for graduation requirements.)

Credits Earned Upon Completion:  8

Student Outcomes

  • Demonstrate basic knowledge and configuration of network hardware including routers, switches, cabling, PCs, and wireless devices
  • Implement cybersecurity practices to defend against cyber threats
  • Develop critical thinking, troubleshooting, and problem- solving skills
  • Pass TestOut® Network Pro Certification (Accredited by: TestOut Corporation)

Pass TestOut® Security Pro (Accredited by: TestOut Corporation)

Skills

  • Network topologies and protocols
  • Cable selection and installation
  • Network adapter configuration
  • Router and switch configuration
  • IP configuration
  • DHCP configuration
  • DNS configuration
  • VLAN configuration
  • Wireless network configuration
  • Network security
  • Network hardening
  • Network management
  • DMZ configuration
  • VPN configuration
  • Network device security
  • Identity, access and account management
  • Cryptography and Public Key Infrastructure
  • Data and application security
  • Network attack analysis
  • Vulnerability assessment
  • Critical thinking and troubleshooting
  • Cyber defense

Visit the Student Accounts page for information on tuition and fees.

Learn more about our degree and certificate programs.