Network Security Fundamentals

About this course

The Network Security Fundamentals labs introduce the concepts you need to recognize and defend home networks and mission-critical infrastructure. Topics include network architecture, common attack vectors, defense strategies, and security policy implementation.

Network Security Fundamentals is included in the Fundamental Training Bundle.

Cybersecurity Academy Curriculum

What you'll learn

01 Identify network-based threats including malware, phishing, and denial-of-service attacks

02 Describe next-generation firewall capabilities and their role in network defense

03 Analyze network traffic patterns to detect suspicious activity

04 Implement network segmentation strategies based on zero trust principles

Course outline

1 module · 8 labs

Labs

8 items

Lab 01: Configuring DHCP

Lab 02: Configuring Virtual IP Addresses

Lab 03: Creating Packet Captures

Lab 04: Analyzing Packet Captures

Lab 05: Managing Certificates

Lab 06: Decrypting SSH Traffic

Lab 07: Decrypting SSL Inbound Traffic

Lab 08: Backing up Firewall Logs

What's in this course

Lab Exercises

Prerequisites

• No prior network security experience required
• Basic understanding of networking concepts (IP addressing, protocols) is helpful

Best for

• Beginners learning network security concepts and defense strategies
• Professionals preparing for the Palo Alto Networks PCCET certification
• IT staff responsible for securing network infrastructure
• Learners building a foundation for advanced firewall and SOC courses

Certification

This course aligns to the Palo Alto Networks Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) certification. The PCCET validates foundational knowledge of network security concepts, including network architecture, defense strategies, and security policy implementation.

Resources

• Palo Alto Networks PCCET Certification
• Palo Alto Networks Next-Gen Firewall