Cisco NetAcad Partner
Cybersecurity
Career Pathway
From Beginner to CCST Cybersecurity & Beyond — Free
A structured, hands-on program that builds your skills from IT basics to advanced threat defense — and positions you for Cisco’s CCST Cybersecurity certification and real security careers.
4
Learning Phases
7
Courses Included
4–8
Months to Cert
$0
Cost to Enroll
Program Structure
Your Path to Cybersecurity Certification
No prior experience required. Each phase sharpens your defensive and analytical skills. Tap any course to see what you’ll learn.
1
Phase 1 · Foundation
Build Your IT & Network Base
4–6 weeks · Beginner
Introduction to Cybersecurity
+
Cyber threats overview
Privacy & data security
Cyber best practices
Network vulnerabilities
Threat detection
Networking Basics
+
Network fundamentals
IP addressing
Wireless concepts
Cisco Packet Tracer intro
Basic troubleshooting
2
Phase 2 · Networking Core
Network Devices & Configuration
4–6 weeks · Beginner–Intermediate
Networking Devices and Initial Configuration
+
Router configuration
Switch configuration
Basic security settings
Protocol fundamentals
Network testing
3
Phase 3 · Endpoint & Defense
Protect Systems and Networks
6–8 weeks · Intermediate
Endpoint Security
+
OS hardening
Antimalware tools
Device encryption
Access control
Endpoint monitoring
Network Defense
+
Firewall configuration
IDS/IPS systems
ACLs
VPNs
Security monitoring
4
Phase 4 · Threat Management
Advanced Threat Analysis
4–6 weeks · Intermediate–Advanced
Cyber Threat Management
+
Threat intelligence
Risk assessment
Incident handling
Vulnerability management
SIEM basics
Ethical Hacker
+
Penetration testing
Reconnaissance techniques
Exploitation basics
Red team concepts
Reporting
Recommended Add-On Courses
Python Essentials 1
Linux Essentials
Introduction to IoT
Estimated Timeline
Built Around Your Schedule
Whether you’re studying full-time or balancing other commitments, this pathway works for you. Both tracks lead to the same destination.
Full-time student
4–6 months
15–20 hours per week
Part-time student
6–8 months
8–10 hours per week
Career Outcomes
Jobs You Can Land
Many students qualify for entry-level security roles while still in the program. The CCST certification opens doors to more specialized positions.
During Program
IT Help Desk (Security Focus)
Tier 1 SOC Analyst
Junior Security Technician
IT Support Specialist
Desktop Support Technician
After Certification
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC Analyst (Tier 1–2)
Information Security Specialist
Network Security Technician
Cybersecurity Technician
Ready to Start Your
Cybersecurity Career?
Training is free for eligible veterans and underserved community members nationwide.