Free IR Training Plan: Part 1 – Core

This plan is based on what I wish I would have learned before starting in Incident Response. Being that I haven’t been in the field very long, I do keep coming across things I didn’t know that I needed to know, so I will adjust this accordingly.

This plan assumes that you’re a complete beginner to IT.

General IT

Introduction to Computing Fundamentals (Roppers Academy)

Networking

Choose One of These Video or Reading Based Courses:

• Reading Based: CS402: Computer Communications and Networks (Saylor Academy) – Has Certificate of Completion
• Video Based: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Training Course (Professor Messer – YouTube)

Then do one or more of these Hands-On Courses:

• Discovering Computer Networks: Hands-On in the Open Networking Lab (OpenLearn) – Includes Certificate of Completion
• Introductory Networking (Free TryHackMe Room)
• Practical Networking (Roppers Academy)

Cybersecurity

Introduction to Security (Roppers Academy)

Security+ Training Course – (Professor Messer – YouTube)**

**I recommend getting the Security+ certification. This is the certification I’ve seen requested in entry-level IR positions and it’s required if you end up in a government position (see the DoD Approved 8570 Baseline Certifications).

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Extra: If you haven’t participated in a CTF before, take Roppers Academy Capture the Flag Bootcamp course.

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Go to Part 2: Free Training Plan for New (or aspiring) Incident Responders