Semester-wise syllabus for a Diploma in Cybersecurity

Semester 1: Fundamentals of Cybersecurity & Networking

1. Introduction to Cybersecurity

   • Basics of Cybersecurity, Threats, and Attacks

   • CIA Triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability)

   • Cybersecurity Ethics & Laws

2. Computer Networks & Protocols

   • OSI & TCP/IP Models

   • IP Addressing, Subnetting, DNS, DHCP

   • HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SSH, VPNs

3. Operating System Security

   • Windows & Linux Security Basics

   • User Permissions & Access Control

   • Hardening OS against Attacks

4. Basic Programming for Security

   • Python Scripting for Cybersecurity

   • Automating Security Tasks

5. Cyber Hygiene & Safe Computing

   • Password Security, Phishing Awareness

   • Malware Protection & Antivirus Tools

Semester 2: Network Security & Defensive Techniques

1. Network Security Fundamentals

   • Firewalls, IDS/IPS (Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems)

   • VPNs & Secure Remote Access

2. Cryptography & Encryption

   • Symmetric vs. Asymmetric Encryption

   • SSL/TLS, AES, RSA, Hashing (SHA-256)

   • Digital Signatures & Certificates

3. Ethical Hacking Basics

   • Footprinting & Reconnaissance

   • Scanning Networks (Nmap, Wireshark)

   • Vulnerability Assessment

4. Security Policies & Risk Management

   • Security Frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001)

   • Risk Assessment & Mitigation

5. Hands-on Labs

   • Setting Up Secure Networks

   • Using Security Tools (Wireshark, Metasploit)

Semester 3: Penetration Testing & Cyber Defense

1. Advanced Ethical Hacking

   • Exploitation Techniques (Metasploit, Burp Suite)

   • Social Engineering Attacks

2. Web Application Security

   • OWASP Top 10 Vulnerabilities (SQLi, XSS, CSRF)

   • Web Penetration Testing (Kali Linux, OWASP ZAP)

3. Wireless & Mobile Security

   • Wi-Fi Security (WPA3, WPS Attacks)

   • Mobile Device Security (Android/iOS)

4. Incident Response & Forensics

   • Digital Forensics Basics

   • Log Analysis & Malware Investigation

5. Hands-on Projects

   • Simulated Cyber Attacks & Defense

   • Capture The Flag (CTF) Challenges

Semester 4: Advanced Security & Professional Practice

1. Cloud & IoT Security

   • Securing AWS/Azure Cloud Environments

   • IoT Vulnerabilities & Protection

2. Advanced Threat Detection

   • SIEM (Security Information & Event Management)

   • Threat Intelligence & SOC Operations

3. Cybersecurity Compliance & Auditing

   • GDPR, HIPAA, PCI-DSS Compliance

   • Security Audits & Reporting

4. Capstone Project / Internship

   • Real-world Security Project

   • Vulnerability Assessment Report

5. Career Preparation

   • Cybersecurity Certifications (CompTIA Security+, CEH)

   • Resume Building & Job Interview Prep

Key Tools & Technologies Covered

• Networking: Wireshark, Nmap, Nessus

• Pen Testing: Kali Linux, Metasploit, Burp Suite

• Forensics: Autopsy, FTK, Volatility

• Defensive Security: Snort, Splunk, SIEM Tools

• Cloud Security: AWS/Azure Security Tools