SOC-200: Foundational Security Operations and Defensive Analysis

SOC-200: Foundational Security Operations and Defensive Analysis

The Security Operations and Defensive Analysis (SOC-200) course delves into the foundations of defending networks and systems against cyber threats. Learners gain practical experience within a hands-on, self-paced environment designed to teach the fundamental concepts of SOC operations.

Individuals completing the online training course and passing its rigorous exam, earn the OffSec Defense Analyst (OSDA) certification. This SOC Analyst certification demonstrates your ability to detect, analyze, and assess a potential security incident through live exercises. The OSDA stands out in the cybersecurity field, reflecting a commitment to hands-on defensive skills sought after by employers.

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Think like an attacker, act like a defender

Build the skills needed for a successful career in security operations with SOC-200. Learn how to recognize common methodologies for end-to-end attack chains and detect attack vectors while dealing with network noise and decoy machines.

Topics covered in the Foundational Security Operations and Defensive Analysis course (SOC-200)

  • Attack Methodology Introduction

    Explore the fundamental mindsets, tactics, and phases of a cyberattack. Build a strong foundation for understanding attacker behavior and how to anticipate their moves during your penetration testing engagements.

  • Windows Endpoint Introduction

    Gain a solid understanding of the concepts and security concerns surrounding Windows endpoints, including desktops, laptops, and other Windows-based user devices. Discover common vulnerabilities and the attack vectors adversaries use to target them.

  • Windows Server Side Attacks

    Uncover the techniques attackers employ to compromise Windows servers – the backbone of many networks. Learn methods for exploiting critical services and vulnerabilities to gain elevated access.

  • Windows Client-Side Attacks

    Investigate how attackers manipulate the user-facing side of Windows systems. Analyze browser-based attacks, vulnerabilities in software, and social engineering tactics designed to compromise endpoints.

  • Windows Privilege Escalation

    Examine the art of elevating your privileges on Windows systems. Learn to exploit misconfigurations, software flaws, and zero-day vulnerabilities, increasing your level of network control.

  • Windows Persistence

    Learn the techniques attackers use to stay hidden on compromised Windows systems. Explore file system persistence, registry modification, scheduled tasks, and other methods to maintain a foothold.

  • Linux Endpoint Introduction

    Gain an understanding of the concepts surrounding Linux endpoints, their security mechanisms, and potential vulnerabilities. Become familiar with common attack vectors used to target them.

  • Linux Server Side Attacks

    Examine how adversaries compromise Linux servers, utilizing privilege escalation methods, service exploits, and configuration weaknesses.

  • Network Detections

    Develop a comprehensive understanding of network security incidents and detection techniques. Learn how firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and other tools identify malicious activity, allowing you to refine your evasion strategies.

  • Antivirus Alerts and Evasion

    Explore advanced methods for evading antivirus solutions. Understand payload obfuscation, exploit customization, and techniques designed to minimize your digital footprint while maximizing success.

How to enroll today

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$1,649

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Days of lab access

90

# of Exam attempts included

1

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PEN-210 & OWSP Exam

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Days of lab access

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Fundamental content

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PEN-103 & KLCP Exam

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PEN-210 & OWSP Exam

Included

# of Courses

1

1

All

Days of lab access

90

365

365

# of Exam attempts included

1

2

Fundamental content

N/A

PEN-103 & KLCP Exam

N/A

Included

Included

PEN-210 & OWSP Exam

N/A

Included

Included

N/A

Included

Included

Financing is now available through Climb Credit with as little as 0% APR and up to 36 monthly payments, excluding Learn Unlimited. State exclusions may apply. Learn more.

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What our community is saying

Malek Ezzar

Malek Ezzar

Cybersecurity Consultant

I gained expertise in using SIEM tools for monitoring and analyzing security events and have hands-on experience with network and system monitoring. My training covered threat hunting, advanced log analysis, and defensive techniques for system protection. I also developed skills in vulnerability management and security best practices. Additionally, I learned about hacker tactics, enabling me to anticipate and counter threats effectively.

Supercharge your cybersecurity career with the OSDA

Become an in-demand cybersecurity professional

  • Become a certified SOC analyst with hands-on training

    Develop the proactive skills needed to identify and neutralize threats by learning the SOC tools and techniques used by certified SOC analysts.

  • Elevate your value in the cybersecurity field

    OSDA-certified defensive professionals demonstrate sought-after threat mitigation expertise.

  • Expand your defensive arsenal

    Gain proficiency in the SOC tools and methodologies used for advanced threat detection, making you a vital asset to any cybersecurity team.

  • Advance your defensive career

    Open doors to exciting information security roles like SOC analyst, cybersecurity analyst, threat hunter, incident responder, or network security specialist by understanding attack methodology, mindsets and techniques.

  • Demonstrate your defensive commitment

    The OSDA is a recognized SOC analyst certification that signifies your dedication to proactive defense in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

Open doors to exciting cybersecurity roles

  • SOC Analyst (Tier 1/2)

    Monitor security systems, identify potential threats, triage events, and escalate incidents as needed.

  • Threat Hunter

    Proactively search for signs of intrusion or compromise within networks and systems using advanced detection techniques.

  • Incident Responder

    Investigate security incidents, determine the scope of a breach, contain threats, and lead remediation efforts.

  • Security Engineer (Defense focus)

    Implement, configure, and maintain defensive security solutions like SIEMs, log analysis tools, and threat intelligence platforms.

  • Forensic Analyst (Network focus)

    Perform in-depth analysis of network data and logs to reconstruct cyberattacks and gather evidence for investigations.

FAQ

  • What is the OSDA exam?

    The OffSec Defense Analyst (OSDA) exam is a rigorous, 24-hour practical assessment of your defensive security skills. You’ll demonstrate your ability to identify, analyze, and respond to potential threats within a live lab environment. Following the exam, you have an additional 24 hours to submit a well-structured incident response report.

  • What test format is the OSDA exam in?

    The OSDA exam is entirely hands-on. You will be given access to a lab environment and tasked with defending against simulated attacks, showcasing your practical defensive capabilities.

  • Who is the SOC-200 course for?

    The SOC-200 certification course is ideal for security professionals seeking to enhance their defensive analysis and response skills and earn the OSDA. It’s designed for individuals who have a solid foundation in networking and basic familiarity with Linux and Windows systems.

  • What are the prerequisites for SOC-200?

    While there are no formal prerequisites, it’s strongly recommended that you have:

    • A solid foundation in TCP/IP networking
    • Familiarity with Linux and Windows operating systems
    • Basic understanding of cybersecurity concepts
    • All of the above can be found in our Security Operations Essentials Learning Path, available in Learn Enterprise, Learn Unlimited, Learn One, Learn Fundamentals or a Course & Certification Bundle.
  • What competencies will I gain?

    Upon completing SOC-200 and successfully passing the OSDA exam, you’ll have mastered core defensive methodologies, including:

    • Security monitoring and log analysis
    • Incident detection and threat identification
    • Triaging and escalating events
    • Incident response process and procedures
    • Network and host-based forensics (basics)
  • How does OffSec support my online journey?

    Throughout the online training course, you’ll have access to:

    • A virtual lab environment for hands-on practice
    • Extensive course information and materials, including videos and exercises
    • A vibrant online community of students and OffSec professionals
  • What is the exam retake policy?

    For details on exam retakes, please refer to OffSec’s official policies.

  • Can I extend my lab time?

    For information on lab extensions, please refer to OffSec’s official policies.

Advance your cybersecurity career with OffSec

  • Start your journey

    Establish a strong foundation in defensive cybersecurity and SOC processes with the Security Operations Essentials Learning Path.

  • Become a cybersecurity analyst

    Dive into the heart of defensive strategies with the Foundational Security Operations and Defensive Analysis (SOC-200) course. Learn to detect, analyze, and respond to a wide range of cyber threats with rigorous SOC analyst training.

  • Enhance your cybersecurity expertise

    OffSec’s Learning Paths and courses help you develop your defensive skill set. Explore threat intelligence, incident response, and security monitoring to become a well-rounded cybersecurity professional.

  • Become a blue team specialist

    Specialize in Security Operations Center (SOC) workflows by exploring additional courses and Learning Paths that focus on security analysis tools, threat-hunting techniques, and incident response.

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Course & Cert <br /> Exam Bundle Course & Cert <br /> Exam Bundle

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$1,649/once

The bundle includes 90 days of access to a single course, the associated labs and a single exam attempt.

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One year of lab access alongside a single course plus two exam attempts.

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Unlimited OffSec Learning Library access plus unlimited exam attempts for one year.

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Learn One is an annual subscription for individuals and organizations who want to enroll in a single course and ultimately earn an OffSec certification. Learn One includes one course of your choice, two cert exam attempts, hands-on lab access, and all Learn Fundamentals content.

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1 year of access to the course of your choice

2 exam attempts during your subscription

365 days of lab access

1 year of unlimited access to all fundamental content and OffSec curated Learning Paths

PEN-103 + 1 KLCP exam attempt

PEN-210 + 1 OSWP exam attempt

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Financing for Learn Fundamentals and Learn One now available through Climb Credit with as little as 0% APR and up to 36 monthly payments.

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