Looking Back at a Year of Real Cyber Nation and Dr. Ikhalia Bootcamp
Dr. Joseph Ikhalia, a cybersecurity expert with over a decade of experience, founded The Real Cyber Nation (RCN), a thriving community. Dr. Ikhalia is passionate about assisting those with technical backgrounds in entering the cybersecurity field. Dr. Ikhalia frequently points out that "success in cybersecurity doesn't rely on degrees or certifications," motivated by his commitment to skill-based success. What really counts is having the necessary abilities and a desire to excel.
Through its flagship program, the Dr. Ikhalia Cyber Bootcamp, RCN's main goal is to assist motivated individuals in unlocking their potential in cybersecurity. This month-long, intensive training focuses on honing skills and knowledge in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
The boot camp's curriculum is designed to provide participants with expertise in cutting-edge fields, with an emphasis on Blockchain Technology and Artificial Intelligence. RCN aims to prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals for the changing digital landscape by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Highlights of Dr. Ikhalia Cyber Bootcamp
September 2023: The first edition gave a thorough analysis of the cyber threat landscape. Topics covered examining links for phishing threats, DKIM signature verification for email sources, and analyzing real-world cybersecurity examples. The participants were encouraged to ask questions and participate in discussions.
This session covered key concepts like password management, the CIA Triad, the importance of cybersecurity, and the Layers of Cybersecurity Defense.
Learners used pentest-tools.com to conduct a real risk assessment of a website in November 2023 as they explored Risks and Incident Response. Additionally, the session covered various risk types, with examples from the real world for use in real-world situations.
February 2024: A malware comprehensive analysis of AI's impact on cybersecurity was discussed as the new year rolled around how AI can increase efficiency and maintain relevance as automation becomes more commonplace in the sector.
In April 2024, a thorough analysis of blockchain security was conducted that covered key technology characteristics like immutability, decentralization, transparency, security, irreversibility, efficiency, and blockchain architecture. In addition, this investigation focused on three essential tools: OpenZeppelin, an open-source tool enabling developers to write Solidity contracts directly in a web browser, and copyright, a popular copyright wallet that integrates with web browsers for interaction with Ethereum-based decentralized applications (copyright). This thorough analysis sought to give a thorough understanding of smart contract development techniques and blockchain security principles.
May 2024: Dr. Ikhalia extensively covered Vulnerability Management, introducing key concepts like the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) and the Common Vulnerability Exposures (CVE). Participants got hands-on instruction on creating a strong CV, building a portfolio, and networking through Qualys and Jira, as well as hands-on training.
With a thorough examination of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Framework, Learners delved into the world of risk management in July 2024. Hands-on exercises included using Auvik Collector and Jira Service Management to identify crucial infrastructures, and using RCN Headquarters as a case study to identify nine devices and clarify the definition of assets for various departments.
The NIST Framework's Protect sub-section, where learners were taught how to create Organizational Units (OUs) in Active Directory, manage user permissions, and organize resources, became the focus of the study in August 2024. To demonstrate these ideas, Dr. Ikhalia led a practical session using Microsoft Windows Server 2019 to lead the session.
RCN members gain thorough knowledge of real-world events and are well-prepared for the cybersecurity industry thanks to Dr. Ikhalia's unique teaching style and passion for sharing his expertise. More industry-relevant courses and exciting opportunities are planned for the upcoming months.
Follow us at https://www.josephikhalia.com/realcybernation to stay up to date on the boot camp.