Secure Systems Foundations

This unit introduces foundational concepts for securing systems and networks, including threat modeling, risk assessment, and secure configuration practices. Students will apply hands-on techniques to harden systems and document control effectiveness to prepare for advanced defensive operations and incident response in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze system and network architectures to identify vulnerabilities, threat vectors, and attack surfaces using established threat-modeling techniques
• Apply risk assessment methodologies to prioritize vulnerabilities and recommend appropriate technical and administrative mitigation strategies
• Demonstrate secure configuration and baseline hardening of operating systems and network devices in a lab environment using standard tools and checklists
• Evaluate the effectiveness of implemented security controls and produce clear documentation to inform incident response and policy improvements