Windows System Administration
Difficulty
Windows System Administration Foundations teaches the essential skills to secure servers, applications, and databases. Practice hardening web servers (Apache, Nginx, IIS), writing secure code, protecting databases (MSSQL), and using security protocols like TLS/PKI. These skills help reduce risks, spot vulnerabilities early, and make it harder for attackers to succeed.
6
modules
62
hours of content
10
real-world skills
Learning Objectives
- Understand Active Directory Certificate Services and core cryptographic principles
- Configure and manage Windows certificates and templates securely
- Secure MSSQL environments with encryption, account management, and data protection
- Implement and manage patching programs
- Use PowerShell cmdlets and scripting (variables, loops, conditionals) for system management
- Manage Windows Update services, classifications, components, and audit logs
- Develop phased deployment plans for updates across enterprise systems
Who is it for?
- Windows system administrators seeking to enhance their security expertise
- Security analysts specializing in the protection of Windows environments
- IT professionals responsible for securing Windows-based infrastructure
Showcase your skills with an OffSec Learning Badge
Proficiency
Proven knowledge of concepts and practical methodologies in securing Windows systems
Industry recognition
A valuable OffSec credential demonstrating your commitment to cybersecurity
Hands-on skill
Demonstrated ability to implement Windows security measures and harden system attacks
Flexible pricing for teams of any size
Scalable options to fit your team's training needs
Windows System Administration FAQ
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Are there any prerequisites for Windows System Administration?
There are no formal prerequisites, but learners should have a basic understanding of the Windows server, some Powershell scripting knowledge, and a basic knowledge of the Linux command line.
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Is Windows System Administration good for beginners?
Yes, this learning path is designed to be accessible for entry-level learners, as long as they have experience in the prerequisites above, while providing valuable insights and hands-on practice for those with some prior experience.
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Windows System Administration: NIST Work Roles
- Communications Security (COMSEC) Management
- Systems Administration
- Systems Security Analysis
- Defensive Cybersecurity
- Incident Response
- Infrastructure Support
- Vulnerability Analysis
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Windows System Administration: NIST TKS’s
- Perform cost/benefit analyses of cybersecurity programs, policies, processes, systems, and elements
- Knowledge of Communications Security (COMSEC) policies and procedures
- Knowledge of the Communications Security (COMSEC) Material Control System (CMCS)
- Knowledge of incident response principles and practices
- Knowledge of Risk Adaptive (Adaptable) Access Controls (RAdAC)
- Knowledge of program management principles and practices
- Knowledge of project management principles and practices
- Knowledge of technology procurement principles and practices
- Knowledge of network security principles and practices
- Skill in evaluating security designs
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Skills learned in Windows System Administration
- Vulnerability management
- Active Directory exploitation
- Network security (firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs)
- DB security
- Security policy implementation
- System security
- Incident response planning
- Configuration hardening
- PowerShell scripting
- Patch management
