This is where learners follow text-based or video training modules and learn at their own pace. It requires self-discipline from the learner, in terms of time management and willingness to complete challenges in the lessons.
The benefits of this type of learning are numerous and range from flexibility to cost-effectiveness. In this type of training, the student does not have to go at the pace of other students or that of the trainer. Fast learners will complete it quickly, while slow learners will have the chance to stretch their learning timelines over a longer duration so that they can grasp what is being taught. This method of learning is also cost-effective. Institutions that offer self-study modules often price them cheaply or for free. For instance, you can learn many skills by watching and using YouTube tutorials, which are free of charge. A course that might cost thousands of dollars to take in college could be priced at under $1,000.
Self-study and assessment modules have been gaining traction due to the large number of people that want to learn at their own pace and convenience. Cybersecurity is seeing an increase in the number of experts due to these learning platforms. The industry is quickly responding to the shortage in the number of trained specialists. Projections suggest that in 2020, there will be a shortage of 1.5 million cybersecurity personnel, but this might just be averted.
One of the best methods for doing self-study and assessment in cybersecurity is through online cybersecurity labs. These expose you to real-world threats that you will have to respond to. There is a wide selection of labs that you can perform on the internet. However, some of them are costly.
This chapter focuses on the cheaper alternatives where you can set up and utilize security labs free of charge. It explores labs that are meant to improve your mastery of different types of threats and their resolutions.