Cisco free cybersecurity course

The Introduction to Cybersecurity course is offered through Cisco Networking Academy, Cisco's global technology education platform. Cisco currently promotes the course as one of its free online learning opportunities for people who want to begin developing technology and cybersecurity skills.

The course introduces learners to cybersecurity trends, common threats and attacks, online privacy, personal and organisational data protection, and the growing importance of cybersecurity skills in modern workplaces.

It is designed as an introductory course, so applicants do not need previous cybersecurity knowledge or technical experience. Cisco lists the estimated completion time as approximately six hours and states that the course includes five modules, seven practice labs, interactive activities, quizzes and a final assessment.

One of the main advantages is that successful learners can earn a digital badge recognising the knowledge and skills developed through the course. Cisco states that its digital badges are free and can be shared through social media, résumés, websites and other professional profiles.

This course can also serve as an entry point for learners considering more advanced Cisco Networking Academy courses or a future career in cybersecurity.

• Open to learners interested in gaining introductory cybersecurity knowledge.
• No previous cybersecurity experience is required.
• No formal academic degree requirement is stated.
• Cisco identifies the target audience as secondary-level learners, two-year college students and the general public.
• Applicants need access to a computer or suitable mobile device and an internet connection.
• No IELTS or formal English-language test requirement is stated.
• Learners need to create or use a Cisco Networking Academy account to access self-paced learning.

• Free access to introductory cybersecurity training.
• Approximately six hours of structured learning.
• Five learning modules.
• Seven practice labs.
• Interactive activities and quizzes.
• Final assessment.
• Cisco digital badge following successful completion.
• Introduction to cyber threats, vulnerabilities and online safety.
• Practical understanding of protecting personal and organisational information.
• Exposure to cybersecurity career possibilities.
• Flexible self-paced online learning.
• Opportunity to continue into more advanced Cisco Networking Academy cybersecurity courses.

No formal application documents such as a CV, passport, academic transcript or recommendation letter are listed for the self-paced course.

Learners generally need:

• A Cisco Networking Academy account.
• A valid email address for account registration.
• Internet access.
• A computer or suitable mobile device.

• Learn cybersecurity fundamentals directly through Cisco.
• Suitable for beginners with no prior cybersecurity experience.
• Study online at your own pace.
• Build awareness of cyber threats and online security.
• Gain an introductory understanding of an in-demand technology field.
• Earn a shareable Cisco digital badge.
• Explore whether cybersecurity could be a suitable future study or career pathway.
• Build foundations before progressing to more advanced cybersecurity training.