π’ IBM Cybersecurity Analyst (Coursera) Β
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Β Β Β Β Β Β Here is a comprehensive analysis of the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate offered through Coursera.
π§ 1. Certification Name and Issuing Body
Full name: IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate
Issuing organization: IBM, delivered via Coursera
Reputation and global recognition: This program is recognized as a robust entry-level certification in cybersecurity. It is accredited by the American Council on Education (ACE), allowing for the potential to earn college credits upon completion. (IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist Professional Certificate, Google Cybersecurity Certification Vs IBM … – Tolulope Michael)
π 2. Curriculum and Skills Covered
Covered domains:
Cybersecurity tools and cyber attacks
Cybersecurity roles, processes, and operating system security
Cybersecurity compliance framework and system administration
Network security and database vulnerabilities
Penetration testing, incident response, and forensics
Cyber threat intelligence
Cybersecurity capstone: breach response case studies
IBM cybersecurity analyst assessment (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate course 2023 | 3C, Google Cybersecurity Certification Vs IBM … – Tolulope Michael)
Depth of content: The program offers a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, including hands-on labs and real-world case studies.
Technologies and tools included: Wireshark, IBM QRadar, IBM MaaS360, IBM Guardium, IBM Resilient, i2 Enterprise Insight Analysis, Python, and SQL.
Relevance in the current job market: Highly relevant; the certification addresses foundational cybersecurity skills that are essential for many IT security roles.
Mapping to frameworks: The program aligns with several frameworks, including:
NIST Cybersecurity Framework
NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate course 2023 | 3C)
π§© 3. Prerequisites and Recommended Level
Prior certifications or experience required: None.
Expected skill level: Beginner; suitable for individuals new to cybersecurity or those looking to transition into the field.
Required knowledge: A basic understanding of IT concepts is beneficial but not mandatory.
π΅ 4. Cost
Total cost:
Coursera subscription: $49 USD per month
Estimated completion time: 4β8 months
Total estimated cost: $196β$392 USD
Study materials or lab access included: Yes; all necessary study materials and lab access are included within the Coursera platform.
Discounts, scholarships, or regional pricing: Coursera offers a 7-day free trial and financial aid options for eligible learners. (Google Cybersecurity Certification Vs IBM … – Tolulope Michael)
β³ 5. Estimated Preparation Time
Recommended study hours: Approximately 211 hours total; around 8β10 hours per week over 4β8 months.
Self-paced or instructor-led: Self-paced.
Learning modes: Self-study with interactive labs and assessments.
π― 6. Target Roles and Career Path
Job roles prepared for:
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC Analyst
Penetration Tester
Network Security Specialist
Cyber Threat Analyst (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Free Professional Certificate | Coursera Free …, IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate | Review, Cost, Syllabus & Pay)
Alignment with career goals: Ideal for individuals aiming to start a career in cybersecurity.
Technical, managerial, or both: Primarily technical, focusing on foundational cybersecurity concepts and operations.
π§ͺ 7. Exam Format and Difficulty
Exam delivery: Online, integrated within the Coursera platform.
Exam content: Each course concludes with quizzes and assessments; the final course includes a comprehensive capstone project.
Proctored exam or testing center: No; assessments are completed online without proctoring.
Real-world labs or simulations: Yes; the program includes hands-on labs and a capstone project simulating real-world scenarios.
Length and number of questions: Varies by course; assessments are designed to test comprehension and practical application.
Difficulty level or average pass rate: Moderate difficulty; designed for beginners with no prior experience. (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate Online – Franklin University, IBM and ISC2 Cybersecurity Specialist Professional Certificate)
π 8. Validity and Renewal
Expiration: The certificate does not expire.
Renewal process: No renewal required; however, staying updated with industry developments is recommended.
π§° 9. Study Resources Available
Official documentation: All necessary materials are provided within the Coursera platform.
Recommended books: Not specified; the program relies on its own curated content.
Online labs or platforms: Integrated virtual labs within Coursera.
YouTube channels, community guides, paid or free courses:
Supplementary resources may be found on platforms like YouTube and Reddit for additional practice and insights.
Online communities:
Reddit communities such as r/ITCareerQuestions and r/netsecstudents. (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate course 2023 | 3C, IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate Good Coursea …)
πΌ 10. Industry Value and Demand
Mention in job postings: Increasingly recognized in job listings for entry-level cybersecurity roles.
Profile boost with recruiters: Demonstrates a commitment to learning and foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.
Recognition by top companies or certain countries: Endorsed by IBM; recognized by organizations valuing practical, hands-on experience.
Average salary for certified professionals:
Junior Cybersecurity Analyst: $68,000
Cybersecurity Analyst: $90,000
Penetration Tester: $95,000
Network Security Specialist: $96,000
Cyber Threat Analyst: $120,000 (IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Certificate | Review, Cost, Syllabus & Pay)
π§ 11. Related Certifications and Progression
Part of a larger learning path or career track: Yes; serves as a foundational certification in IBM’s cybersecurity pathway.
Subsequent certifications:
CompTIA Security+
(ISC)Β² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
Cisco CyberOps Associate
GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
Comparison or complement to other certs: Comparable to CompTIA Security+ and (ISC)Β² CC in terms of foundational knowledge, but with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience through labs and projects.
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