This course is part of the Advanced Cyber Defence & Offensive Security ExpertTrack
Core Principles of Network Defence Strategies
Build hands-on skills to design, secure, and monitor resilient enterprise networks that stand up to evolving security threats.
Duration
4 weeksWeekly study
1 hourIncluded in an ExpertTrack
Course 1 of 4
Core Principles of Network Defence Strategies
This course has been certified by the CPD Certification Service as conforming to continuing professional development principles. Find out more.
Master network security fundamentals for enterprise systems
Securing enterprise networks requires both solid foundations and practical skills to defend against modern cyber threats. This course gives you a comprehensive overview of network architecture, access control, device security, and monitoring techniques essential for robust defence.
You’ll build the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to protect enterprise networks across industries—from understanding how networks are structured to implementing the security measures that keep them safe.
Network security fundamentals and architectural design
Explore the core concepts of network design including VLANs, subnetting, and layered security zones. You’ll learn how to apply threat modelling principles to protect enterprise assets and control network traffic effectively, building networks that are secure by design.
Access control, VPNs, and securing network devices
Gain practical experience implementing Access Control Lists (ACLs), configuring Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), and securing network devices. You’ll understand encryption protocols and techniques to safeguard data as it moves across public and private networks.
Centralised authentication, monitoring, and wireless security
Learn to deploy centralised authentication using TACACS+ to manage administrative access and monitor network activity effectively. You’ll explore wireless security challenges and operations, culminating in a practical project that brings together everything you’ve learned.
You’ll walk away with confidence in your ability to secure enterprise networks in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government.
Syllabus
Week 1
Network Security Fundamentals & Architecture
Lesson 1: Course Introduction
Introduction to the course, key topics to be covered, and call to action.
Lesson 2: Understanding Network Security Basics
Learn fundamental network security concepts, threats, and basic defence mechanisms.
Lesson 3: Designing Secure Network Architectures
Explore principles of secure network design and architectural patterns for defence in depth.
Lesson 4: Implementing VLANs in Real Network
Hands-on implementation of Virtual LANs for network segmentation and security isolation.
Week 2
Access Control, VPNs, and Device Security
Lesson 5: Controlling Access with ACLs
Master Access Control Lists (ACLs) for granular network access management and traffic filtering.
Lesson 6: VPNs and Securing Traffic in Transit
Comprehensive VPN technologies and protocols for secure remote access and data transmission.
Lesson 7: Securing Network Devices Locally
Local security hardening techniques for routers, switches, and other network infrastructure devices.
Week 3
Centralised Authentication and Network Monitoring
Lesson 8: AAA and TACACS+ Integration
Authentication, authorisation, and accounting systems with TACACS+ for centralised user management.
Lesson 9: Monitoring Network Traffic and Performance
Learn to monitor network traffic patterns, analyse performance metrics, and implement effective monitoring solutions for network security.
Lesson 10: Building a Layered Defence Strategy
Design and implement comprehensive layered security approaches, combining multiple defence mechanisms for robust network protection.
Week 4
Wireless Security, Operations & Final Project
Lesson 11: Wireless Network Security Fundamentals
Essential concepts of wireless network security, including encryption protocols, access control, and vulnerability assessment techniques.
Lesson 12: Wireless Monitoring and Intrusion Prevention
Advanced techniques for monitoring wireless networks, detecting intrusions, and implementing prevention measures for wireless environments.
Lesson 13: Capstone – Building a Secure Network
Comprehensive capstone project integrating all course concepts to design, implement, and secure a complete network infrastructure.
Prove you're job ready
Highlight the new, job-relevant skills you’ve gained and supplement existing qualifications with a hard-earned, industry-specific digital certificate – plus one for every course within your ExpertTrack.
- Learn the latest in your chosen industry or subject.
- Complete each course and pass assessments.
- Receive certificates validated by the educating organisation.
- Impress employers with learning outcomes you can add to your CV.
- Make your career dreams a reality.
Download a PDF
Who is this accredited by?
The CPD Certification Service was established in 1996 and is the leading independent CPD accreditation institution operating across industry sectors to complement the CPD policies of professional and academic bodies.
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you‘ll be able to...
- Apply secure design using threat modeling, VLANs, subnetting, and layered zones to control traffic and reduce enterprise risk.
- Implement ACLs and VPNs to regulate traffic by IP, protocol, port, and encrypt data across public/private networks.
- Configure AAA with TACACS+ to manage admin access and monitor network activity for threat detection and response.
- Apply advanced techniques to design and validate a secured enterprise network using integrated prior skills.
- Apply secure network design principles, VLANs, VPNs, ACLs, and monitoring tools to build, protect, and operate enterprise networks, demonstrating the ability to design and defend infrastructure using modern layered defense strategies.
Who is the course for?
This course is ideal for network engineers, cybersecurity specialists, IT professionals, and anyone pursuing advanced skills in securing enterprise networks, particularly in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government.
Who will you learn with?
Who developed the course?
Starweaver
Starweaver is a next generation platform that engages your workforce as no other. Combining business and technical skills, Starweaver provides real-time skill building that is in line with your business objectives and strategies, and in your associates day to day tasks and jobs.
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