Each lesson lists what you need first, how long it takes, and one thing to do before moving on. Optional reading is kept separate — skip it if you're short on time.
Stage 1 · New to cyber security
Start from zero Goal: Understand the field and pick a direction. Students or anyone who has never worked in security.
1 2 How everyday attacks work 30 min · Needs: Lesson 1.
Do: Find one phishing email in your own inbox or spam and list the warning signs.
3 Ethical hacking vs defence 20 min · Needs: Lessons 1–2.
Do: Decide whether attacking (red) or defending (blue) work appeals to you more, and why.
4 5 Your beginner roadmap 40 min + 1 hr planning · Needs: A first-choice path from lesson 4.
Do: Block weekly study time in your calendar for the first month of the roadmap.
Then: Find my starting point Optional deeper reading (2) Stage 2 · Building skills
Fresher to first job Goal: Get your first entry-level job. You know the basics and want an entry-level role, usually SOC.
1 Your 90-day plan 35 min + weekly 8–10 hrs · Needs: Stage 1, or basic networking knowledge.
Do: Copy the 90-day plan and set a start date for week 1.
2 Choose one certification 30 min · Needs: Lesson 1.
Do: Pick a single certification that fits your path and budget; ignore the rest for now.
3 4 Write your resume 30 min + 2 hrs writing · Needs: At least one lab or project from lesson 3.
Do: Draft a one-page resume using the sample structure and your lab work.
Then: Continue to Interview ready Optional deeper reading (4) Stage 2 · Switching from IT
IT to security switch Goal: Move from IT support or networking into security. You already work in IT support, helpdesk or network admin.
1 Map your IT skills to security 35 min · Needs: Current or past IT work experience.
Do: List five things from your current job that already count as security work.
2 Choose your target path 30 min · Needs: Lesson 1.
Do: Choose the path closest to your current job to shorten the switch.
3 Pick one certification 30 min · Needs: A target path from lesson 2.
Do: Choose one certification and book a target exam month.
4 Then: Talk it through with a mentor Optional deeper reading (1) Stage 3 · Applying for jobs
Interview ready Goal: Get ready for interviews. You are applying, or have an interview coming up.
1 Your 30-day interview plan 30 min + daily 1 hr · Needs: A target role and a resume.
Do: Put the 30-day timeline into your calendar, counting back from your interview date.
2 3 4 Then: Try a free practice round Optional deeper reading (1)