Hi, I'm Mark

Cisco CCST Cybersecurity

Issued by Cisco

I hold the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity certification. This certification from Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity, proves my foundational knowledge in key security areas. The CCST Cybersecurity certification covers a broad range of essential topics, including:

• Security Concepts: Understanding fundamental security principles like confidentiality, integrity, and availability (the "CIA triad"), as well as risk management, vulnerabilities, and exploits.
• Threat Identification and Mitigation: Recognizing common types of attacks (malware, phishing, social engineering, denial-of-service) and implementing basic mitigation techniques.
• Network Security: Understanding network security fundamentals, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), VPNs, and secure network design principles.
• Device Security: Securing endpoints (computers, mobile devices) and understanding best practices for device hardening.
• Access Control: Implementing and managing user authentication, authorization, and access control lists (ACLs).
• Cloud Security: Basic cloud security awareness.
• Incident response: Basic incident response, such as the ability to recognize and report suspected security incidents.

Earning this certification involved rigorous study and a comprehensive exam, demonstrating my practical understanding of these critical cybersecurity areas. This credential assures clients that I have a solid foundation in security best practices and can contribute effectively to protecting their valuable assets. It complements my 30 Year's experience in network administration, and complements my other certifications, such as "Google Cybersecurity Professional certification.

Google Cybersecurity Certificate

Issued by Google

I hold the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. This comprehensive program, developed by Google, provides a robust foundation in cybersecurity principles and practical skills. It demonstrates my ability to identify and mitigate common security risks, protect digital assets, and contribute to a secure online environment. The Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate covers a wide array of critical topics, including:

• Foundations of Cybersecurity: Understanding core cybersecurity concepts, including the CIA triad (Confidentiality, Integrity, Availability), risk management, security frameworks (like NIST), and common attack vectors.
• Network Security: Gaining practical knowledge of network protocols, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and secure network configurations.
• Linux Fundamentals: Developing proficiency in using the Linux command line, a critical skill for cybersecurity professionals, including managing users, permissions, and system processes.
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Learning to use SIEM tools (like Chronicle) to analyze security logs, detect anomalies, and respond to security incidents.
• SQL (Structured Query Language): Understanding how SQL databases work and how to identify and mitigate SQL injection vulnerabilities.
• Python Programming: Utilizing Python for security automation, scripting, and data analysis. This includes writing scripts to identify vulnerabilities, parse logs, and automate security tasks.
• Asset Security: Implementing best practices for securing digital assets, including data encryption, access control, and vulnerability management.
• Incident Response: Understanding the incident response lifecycle and developing skills in identifying, containing, eradicating, and recovering from security breaches.
• Security Auditing: Learning basic security auditing techniques and the importance of regular security assessments.

Completing this program involved hands-on labs and assessments, ensuring I have practical experience in applying cybersecurity principles. This certification demonstrates to clients my commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest security threats and best practices, and my ability to help protect their valuable data and systems. It complements my other relevant skills and enhances my ability to deliver effective cybersecurity solutions.