Pre-Course Reading Material PDF for Cyber Commandos

Pre-Course Reading Material for Cyber Commandos Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305...

Pre-Course Reading Material for Cyber Commandos Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Welcome, Future Cyber Commandos! Congratulations on taking the first step toward becoming a Cyber Commando! As you embark on this challenging and rewarding journey, it is essential to build a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that will prepare you for the advanced training and operations ahead. This pre-course reading material has been carefully curated to provide you with the fundamental concepts and insights needed to excel in the field of cyber operations. Purpose of This Pre-Course Material The purpose of this pre-course reading material is to: Familiarize you with key concepts and terminology in cybersecurity. Introduce fundamental principles of cyber defense, offense, and intelligence. Prepare you for the rigorous training and practical exercises you will encounter. Enhance your understanding of the evolving cyber threat landscape and the importance of cyber operations in modern warfare. What to Expect This reading material covers a wide range of topics critical to your development as a Cyber Commando. These topics include: Basics of Information Technology: Understanding the foundational elements of IT, including hardware, software, and data management. Network Fundamentals: Learning the principles of network design, protocols, and security measures. Operating Systems Overview: Exploring the core functions and architecture of various operating systems. Introduction to Linux Programming: Gaining hands-on experience with Linux, a crucial platform for cyber operations. Introduction to Cybersecurity: Acquiring knowledge about protecting systems, networks, and data from cyber threats. Digital Forensics: Developing skills to investigate and analyze cyber incidents and recover critical information. Governance, Risk, and Compliance: Understanding the frameworks for managing organizational policies, assessing risks, and ensuring regulatory compliance. How to Use This Material Read Actively: Take notes, highlight key points, and make sure you understand the concepts before moving on. Engage with the Content: Reflect on how each topic applies to real-world scenarios and consider its relevance to cyber operations. Prepare Questions: Note any questions or areas of uncertainty to discuss during the course. Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Supplement Your Learning: Use additional resources such as online articles, videos, and practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. Setting the Stage for Success As a Cyber Commando, you will be at the forefront of securing the nation’s digital realm. The knowledge and skills you acquire during this pre-course phase will set the stage for your success in the comprehensive training program that follows. Embrace this opportunity to learn, challenge yourself, and prepare for the critical role you will play in cyber operations. We are excited to have you on board and look forward to seeing you excel in your training and beyond. Welcome to the future of cyber warfare—where your journey to becoming a Cyber Commando begins! Stay Motivated, Stay Curious, Stay Vigilant! Cyber Command Training Team Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Table of Contents Basics of Information Technology..................................................................... 9 Definition of Information Technology........................................................................... 9 Data Storage............................................................................................................................... 9 Data Retrieval............................................................................................................................ 9 Data Transmission..................................................................................................................... 9 Data Encryption....................................................................................................................... 10 Data Manipulation.................................................................................................................... 10 Database Management Systems (DBMS)................................................................................. 10 Summary.................................................................................................................................. 10 History of IT.............................................................................................................. 12 Early Computing Machines...................................................................................................... 12 The Advent of Digital Computers.............................................................................................. 12 Summary.................................................................................................................................. 13 Importance of IT in Business..................................................................................... 15 EBiciency and Productivity....................................................................................................... 15 Decision Making....................................................................................................................... 15 Innovation................................................................................................................................ 15 Customer Engagement............................................................................................................. 16 Cost Reduction........................................................................................................................ 16 Summary.................................................................................................................................. 16 Components of IT Systems........................................................................................ 17 Hardware................................................................................................................................. 17 Software................................................................................................................................... 17 Data......................................................................................................................................... 18 Human Resources.................................................................................................................... 18 Latest Trends and Advancements............................................................................................ 18 Summary.................................................................................................................................. 19 IT Applications.......................................................................................................... 20 Healthcare............................................................................................................................... 20 Finance.................................................................................................................................... 20 Education................................................................................................................................. 20 Entertainment.......................................................................................................................... 21 Retail........................................................................................................................................ 21 Manufacturing.......................................................................................................................... 22 Summary.................................................................................................................................. 22 Introduction to Networking................................................................................ 23 Definition and Purpose of a Network.......................................................................... 23 Definition:................................................................................................................................ 23 Purpose:................................................................................................................................... 23 Examples:................................................................................................................................ 25 Networking Devices and Types of Networks............................................................... 26 Types of Networks.................................................................................................................... 26 Networking Devices................................................................................................................. 27 Network Topologies.................................................................................................................. 30 Networking Protocols............................................................................................................... 33 Networking Models................................................................................................... 37 OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection Model).................................................................. 37 TCP/IP Model (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol Model).................................. 38 Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  IP Addressing Schemes............................................................................................. 41 IPv4 Addressing:....................................................................................................................... 41 IPv6 Addressing........................................................................................................................ 58 Operating Systems Overview............................................................................. 64 Types of Operating Systems...................................................................................... 64 1. Windows Operating System................................................................................... 64 2. macOS................................................................................................................. 65 3. Linux.................................................................................................................... 66 4. Mobile Operating Systems..................................................................................... 66 Functions of an Operating System............................................................................. 67 1. Process Management........................................................................................................... 67 2. Memory Management........................................................................................................... 68 3. File System Management..................................................................................................... 68 4. Device Management............................................................................................................. 68 5. Security and Access Control................................................................................................ 69 6. User Interface....................................................................................................................... 69 7. Networking........................................................................................................................... 69 8. Utilities and System Services............................................................................................... 70 Introduction to Linux Programming................................................................. 71 Introduction to Linux............................................................................................... 71 Key Features of Linux............................................................................................................... 71 Setting Up Your Linux Environment........................................................................ 71 Choosing a Distribution............................................................................................................. 71 Installation................................................................................................................................ 71 Setting Up Development Tools.................................................................................................. 71 Basic Linux Commands.......................................................................................... 72 File and Directory Management................................................................................................ 72 File Viewing and Editing............................................................................................................ 73 System Information................................................................................................................... 73 Introduction to Shell Scripting................................................................................ 74 Writing Your First Shell Script.................................................................................................... 74 Basic Shell Scripting Concepts................................................................................................. 74 Introduction to Python Programming on Linux....................................................... 75 Setting Up Python..................................................................................................................... 75 Writing Your First Python Program............................................................................................ 75 Basic Python Concepts............................................................................................................. 76 Introduction to C Programming on Linux................................................................ 76 Setting Up a C Development Environment................................................................................ 76 Writing Your First C Program.................................................................................................... 77 Basic C Concepts..................................................................................................................... 77 Version Control with Git.......................................................................................... 78 Setting Up Git........................................................................................................................... 78 Basic Git Commands................................................................................................................ 78 Using GitHub............................................................................................................................ 79 Linux Programming Tools and IDEs........................................................................ 79 Text Editors............................................................................................................................... 79 Integrated Development Environments (IDEs).......................................................................... 80 Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Debugging Tools....................................................................................................................... 80 Build Tools................................................................................................................................ 80 Building and Running Applications on Linux.......................................................... 81 Compiling and Linking.............................................................................................................. 81 Running Applications................................................................................................................ 81 Managing Dependencies.......................................................................................................... 81 Creating Makefiles.................................................................................................................... 82 Further Resources.................................................................................................. 82 Books....................................................................................................................................... 82 Online Resources..................................................................................................................... 82 Online Courses......................................................................................................................... 82 Cybersecurity Fundamentals........................................................................... 84 Introduction to Cybersecurity................................................................................. 84 Definition.................................................................................................................................. 84 Importance............................................................................................................................... 84 Key Concepts in Cybersecurity............................................................................... 84 CIA Triad.................................................................................................................................. 84 Authentication........................................................................................................................... 84 Authorization............................................................................................................................ 85 Non-repudiation........................................................................................................................ 85 Risk Management..................................................................................................................... 85 Vulnerability.............................................................................................................................. 85 Threat....................................................................................................................................... 85 Attack Vector............................................................................................................................ 86 Types of Cyber Threats........................................................................................... 86 Malware.................................................................................................................................... 86 Phishing................................................................................................................................... 86 Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)............................................ 87 Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) Attacks.............................................................................................. 87 SQL Injection............................................................................................................................ 87 Zero-Day Exploits..................................................................................................................... 88 Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)......................................................................................... 88 Insider Threats.......................................................................................................................... 88 Cyber Defense Mechanisms.................................................................................... 89 Firewalls................................................................................................................................... 89 Antivirus Software..................................................................................................................... 89 Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS).............................. 89 Encryption................................................................................................................................ 90 Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)............................................................................................. 90 Security Information and Event Management (SIEM)................................................................ 90 Best Practices for Cybersecurity............................................................................ 91 Regular Updates and Patching................................................................................................. 91 Secure Password Practices...................................................................................................... 91 Data Backup............................................................................................................................. 91 Network Security...................................................................................................................... 91 User Education and Training..................................................................................................... 92 Regulatory and Compliance Standards................................................................... 92 GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)............................................................................ 92 HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)...................................................... 92 PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard)....................................................... 93 ISO/IEC 27001......................................................................................................................... 93 Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Future Trends in Cybersecurity............................................................................... 93 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.............................................................................. 93 Quantum Computing................................................................................................................. 94 IoT Security.............................................................................................................................. 94 Zero Trust Architecture............................................................................................................. 94 Blockchain Technology............................................................................................................. 95 Further Resources.................................................................................................. 95 Books....................................................................................................................................... 95 Online Courses......................................................................................................................... 95 Online Resources..................................................................................................................... 96 Certifications............................................................................................................................. 96 Digital Forensics.............................................................................................. 97 Introduction to Digital Forensics............................................................................. 97 Definition.................................................................................................................................. 97 Importance............................................................................................................................... 97 History and Evolution of Digital Forensics.............................................................. 97 Early Days................................................................................................................................ 97 Development of Formal Methodologies..................................................................................... 97 Modern Era............................................................................................................................... 97 Key Concepts in Digital Forensics.......................................................................... 98 Digital Evidence........................................................................................................................ 98 Forensic Readiness.................................................................................................................. 98 Chain of Custody...................................................................................................................... 98 Data Integrity............................................................................................................................ 98 Hashing.................................................................................................................................... 98 Digital Forensics Process....................................................................................... 98 Identification............................................................................................................................. 98 Preservation............................................................................................................................. 99 Collection.................................................................................................................................. 99 Examination.............................................................................................................................. 99 Analysis.................................................................................................................................... 99 Presentation........................................................................................................................... 100 Decision................................................................................................................................. 100 Types of Digital Forensics...................................................................................... 100 Computer Forensics............................................................................................................... 100 Network Forensics.................................................................................................................. 100 Mobile Device Forensics......................................................................................................... 101 Database Forensics................................................................................................................ 101 Cloud Forensics...................................................................................................................... 101 Digital Forensics Tools and Techniques................................................................. 102 Hardware Tools....................................................................................................................... 102 Software Tools........................................................................................................................ 102 Forensic Techniques............................................................................................................... 102 Legal and Ethical Considerations.......................................................................... 103 Legal Framework.................................................................................................................... 103 Ethical Issues......................................................................................................................... 103 Chain of Custody.................................................................................................................... 104 Challenges in Digital Forensics.............................................................................. 104 Technical Challenges.............................................................................................................. 104 Legal Challenges.................................................................................................................... 104 Organizational Challenges...................................................................................................... 105 Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Case Studies and Applications.............................................................................. 105 Case Study 1: Corporate Data Breach.................................................................................... 105 Case Study 2: Criminal Investigation...................................................................................... 105 Case Study 3: Insider Threat.................................................................................................. 106 Future Trends in Digital Forensics......................................................................... 106 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning............................................................................ 106 Cloud Forensics...................................................................................................................... 106 Internet of Things (IoT) Forensics........................................................................................... 107 Quantum Computing............................................................................................................... 107 Blockchain Technology........................................................................................................... 107 Further Resources................................................................................................. 108 Books..................................................................................................................................... 108 Online Courses....................................................................................................................... 108 Online Resources................................................................................................................... 108 Certifications........................................................................................................................... 109 Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC).................................................... 110 Introduction to GRC................................................................................................................ 110 Components of GRC.............................................................................................................. 110 Benefits of GRC...................................................................................................................... 111 Implementing a GRC Framework............................................................................................ 111 Best Practices in GRC............................................................................................................ 111 Conclusion.............................................................................................................................. 112 Security and Scientific Technical Research Association (SASTRA), Rashtriya Raksha University (An Institution of National Importance), Lavad-Dehgam, Gandhinagar-382305 https://rru.ac.in/sastra/  Basics of Information Technology Definition of Information Technology Information Technology (IT) is a broad term that describes the use of technology to manage and process information. IT involves a variety of components and processes that work together to handle data, which includes storing, retrieving, transmitting, and manipulating data. IT is essential in almost every sector, facilitating the e