IT and cloud
Introduction to Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacker
Last checked:
Two entry courses into cyber security from Cisco, with labs that run in the browser.
The link goes to the provider's own site. You enrol there, not here.
- Provider
- Cisco Networking Academy
- What you get
- a digital badge
- Weight on a CV
- strong brand
- Time cost
- ~40 h
- Validity
- No cut-off date
- Language
- in English
- Verified
- 7 August 2026
What this is
Introduction to Cybersecurity explains the basics: attack types, social engineering, layered defence, career paths. Ethical Hacker goes further with practical exercises in reconnaissance, scanning and exploitation, all inside a controlled environment.
Both end in a Credly badge. Junior SOC and security roles in Georgia ask for exactly this kind of baseline evidence before anyone discusses a paid certification with you.
Who it is for
Anyone moving into security who needs a start that is hands-on rather than purely theoretical.
How to get it
- 1Open Cisco Networking Academy and create a free account.
- 2Work through the material, ~40 h in total.
- 3Complete every module. There is no exam.
- 4Claim the badge and attach it to your LinkedIn profile.
From Georgia
Both courses are free on netacad.com and run from the browser. No virtual machine required.
Frequently asked questions
Is Introduction to Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacker really free?
The credential itself costs nothing: what you receive is a digital badge. Checked against Cisco Networking Academy's own page on 7 August 2026.
How long does Introduction to Cybersecurity and Ethical Hacker take?
Cisco Networking Academy states roughly 40 hours. It is self-paced.
Can I take it from Georgia?
Both courses are free on netacad.com and run from the browser. No virtual machine required.