Reflecting on 12 Months of Real Cyber Nation and Dr. Ikhalia’s Bootcamp
Dr. Joseph Ikhalia, a cybersecurity expert with over a decade of experience, founded The Real Cyber Nation (RCN), a thriving community. Dr. Ikhalia is passionate about guiding technically competent individuals into the cybersecurity sector. Dr. Ikhalia frequently emphasizes that "success in cybersecurity doesn't rely on degrees or certifications," motivated by his commitment to skill-based success. What really matters is having the necessary abilities and a burning desire to excel.
Through its flagship program, the Dr. Ikhalia Cyber Bootcamp, RCN's main goal is to assist motivated individuals in unlocking their potential in cybersecurity. This month-long, intensive training focuses on honing skills and knowledge in cybersecurity and emerging technologies.
The boot camp's curriculum is designed to provide participants with expertise in cutting-edge fields, with an emphasis on Blockchain Technology and Artificial Intelligence. RCN aims to help the next generation of cybersecurity professionals adapt to the changing digital landscape by bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Highlights of the Dr. Ikhalia Cyber Bootcamp
September 2023: The first edition gave an in-depth analysis of the cyber threat landscape. Topics covered examining links for phishing threats, DKIM signature verification for email sources, and analyzing real-world cybersecurity examples. The participants were encouraged to ask questions and participate in discussions.
This session covered key concepts like password management, the CIA Triad, the significance of cybersecurity, and the Layers of Cybersecurity Defense.
Using pentest-tools.com to conduct a real risk assessment of a website, Learners explored Risks and Incident Response. Additionally, the session covered various risk types, providing examples from the real world for use.
February 2024: A comprehensive analysis of AI's impact on cybersecurity was discussed as the new year rolled around how AI can increase efficiency and maintain relevance as automation becomes more prevalent in the field.
In April 2024, a thorough analysis of blockchain security was conducted that covered key technology characteristics like immutability, decentralization, transparency, security, irreversibility, efficiency, and blockchain architecture. In addition, this investigation focused on three essential tools: OpenZeppelin, an open-source tool enabling developers to write Solidity contracts directly in a web browser, and copyright, a popular copyright wallet that integrates with web browsers for interaction with Ethereum-based decentralized applications (copyright). This in-depth analysis sought to provide a thorough understanding of smart contract development techniques and blockchain security principles.
May 2024: Dr. Ikhalia covered Vulnerability Management in depth, introducing key concepts like the CVSS and CVE, as well as the Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS). Participants got hands-on instruction on creating a strong CV, building a portfolio, and networking through Qualys and Jira, as well as hands-on training.
With a thorough examination of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Framework, learners delved into the world of risk management. Hands-on exercises included using Auvik Collector and Jira Service Management to identify critical infrastructures, CyberBootcamp and using RCN Headquarters as a case study to identify nine devices and define the definition of assets for various departments.
The NIST Framework's Protect sub-section, where learners were taught how to create Organizational Units (OUs) in Active Directory, manage user permissions, and organize resources, became the focus of the study in August 2024. Dr. Ikhalia used Microsoft Windows Server 2019 to demonstrate these ideas in a practical session that Dr. Ikhalia led.
RCN members gain thorough knowledge of real-world events and are well-prepared for the cybersecurity industry thanks to Dr. Ikhalia's unique teaching style and passion for sharing his expertise. More industry-relevant courses and exciting opportunities are scheduled for the upcoming months.
Follow us at https://www.josephikhalia.com/realcybernation to stay informed about boot camp.