Here’s a comprehensive beginner’s roadmap to cybersecurity, complete with free and paid

resources and expert guidelines to help you navigate the field.

1. Foundational Knowledge: Learn Basic IT and Networking

Before diving into cybersecurity, it’s crucial to understand basic networking, operating systems,
and computer fundamentals. This helps you grasp how networks, systems, and data work.

Free Resources:

 Cisco's Networking Academy: Introduction to Cybersecurity (Free course)

 Cybrary: CompTIA Network+ (Free)
 YouTube Channels:
o NetworkChuck
o Eli the Computer Guy

Paid Resources:

 CompTIA Network+ Certification (Paid, but essential for network fundamentals)

o Training resources: Udemy, Coursera
o Exam cost: ~$348

2. Learn Operating Systems (Windows, Linux)

Cybersecurity professionals need to be comfortable with multiple operating systems, particularly

Linux and Windows, since most attacks target these platforms.

Free Resources:

 Linux: The Linux Foundation (Free)

 Windows Security: Microsoft Learn (Free)

Paid Resources:

 Udemy Linux Course (Paid)

o Linux Fundamentals: ~$10 to $15 (during sales)

3. Cybersecurity Basics and Concepts

Once you have a strong foundation in IT and networking, move on to fundamental cybersecurity
concepts such as encryption, firewalls, VPNs, and more.
Free Resources:

 Cybrary: Cybersecurity Foundations

 EDX: Introduction to Cybersecurity by IBM

Paid Resources:

 TryHackMe: Cyber Defense Path (Freemium, ~$10/month for advanced labs)

 CompTIA Security+ Certification:
o Training on Udemy/Coursera: ~$15 to $100
o Exam cost: ~$392

4. Hands-on Practice with Cyber Labs

Hands-on experience is key in cybersecurity. You should work on practical labs, challenges, and
virtual machines (VMs) to practice penetration testing, malware analysis, or incident response.

Free Resources:

 TryHackMe: Free Beginner Rooms

 Hack The Box: Free Tier
 OverTheWire: Wargames
 Google Gruyere: Security Learning Lab

Paid Resources:

 PentesterLab: (Paid Labs) $19/month

5. Learn About Cybersecurity Tools

Familiarize yourself with popular cybersecurity tools such as Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, and
others.

Free Resources:

 Wireshark: Free download and tutorials here

 Nmap: Network scanning tool and free guide
 Metasploit Framework: Free learning resources

Paid Resources:
  Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Penetration Testing with Kali Linux
(Advanced)

6. Specializations in Cybersecurity

There are different specializations within cybersecurity. Pick one based on your interests:

1. Penetration Testing / Ethical Hacking

2. Incident Response
3. Forensics
4. Cloud Security
5. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)
6. Threat Intelligence
7. Security Architecture
8. Malware Analysis

Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing:

 Free Resources:
o HackTheBox (Beginner and Intermediate levels)
o TryHackMe (Pentesting Path)
 Paid Resources:
o Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Highly regarded
certification ($999)

Incident Response and Forensics:

 Free Resources:
o Sans DFIR Blog and resources
o Digital Forensics Wargames (DFW): Free challenge labs
 Paid Resources:
o GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)

Cloud Security:

 Free Resources:
o AWS Free Tier for practice
o AWS Cloud Security Blog
 Paid Resources:
o Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
7. Get Certified

Cybersecurity certifications increase your credibility and employability. Choose based on your
goals and level of experience.

Beginner Certifications:

 CompTIA Security+: Entry-level, well-recognized (around $392)

 Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): (around $1,199 for non-EC Council members)

Advanced Certifications:

 OSCP (Penetration Testing): ~$999

 CISSP (Security Management): ~$749 (5 years of experience required)
 GIAC Certifications: Specialized (e.g., Incident Handling, Forensics)

8. Stay Updated and Network

Cybersecurity is a fast-moving field. Join communities, follow experts, and read blogs to stay
updated.

Communities:

 Reddit: r/cybersecurity, r/netsec

 Discord: Join cybersecurity and hacker communities like TryHackMe, Hack The Box
 Twitter: Follow cybersecurity experts

Websites & Blogs:

 Krebs on Security
 The Hacker News
 ThreatPost

9. Explore Bug Bounties (Optional)

Bug bounties allow you to earn money while learning. Sites like HackerOne and Bugcrowd
offer platforms for ethical hackers to find and report vulnerabilities.

Free Resources:

 Bugcrowd University: Free Bug Bounty Training

10. Cybersecurity Experts' Guidelines

Experts advise on continuous learning, hands-on practice, and understanding the "why" behind
each concept:

 Start with basics: Don’t rush. Get comfortable with networking, operating systems, and
basic security concepts.
 Master a niche: After the basics, focus on one area such as ethical hacking, incident
response, or cloud security.
 Keep learning: Technology and threats evolve fast. Stay updated with the latest
developments.
 Practice real-world scenarios: Use labs and simulations regularly (HackTheBox,
TryHackMe, etc.).
 Build a portfolio: Showcase your work on GitHub, LinkedIn, or blogs.

Final Tips

 Consistency is key: Spend time daily on learning or hands-on practice.

 Learn from failures: It's common to struggle; use failures as learning experiences.
 Focus on problem-solving: The best cybersecurity experts can creatively solve security
challenges.

Do you want more information on specific certifications or specializations?

4o

You said:

you are a cybersecurity specialist, so tell me a complete detailed roadmap to cybersecurity for
intermediate for all cybersecurity niches (fields) with all free resources available and paid
resources and complete guidelines of cybersecurity field experts. If you have any questions so
tell me
ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT
Memory updated

Here’s a detailed roadmap for intermediate-level cybersecurity professionals across various

niches. This guide will cover free and paid resources, along with expert advice for deeper
specialization.
1. Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking

Intermediate pentesters build on basic skills, focusing on advanced techniques like web app
pentesting, network pentesting, wireless security, and social engineering.

Skills to Master:

 Web application vulnerabilities (OWASP Top 10)

 Exploitation frameworks (Metasploit, Burp Suite)
 Privilege escalation, bypassing firewalls
 Red teaming and adversary simulation

Free Resources:

 PortSwigger’s Web Security Academy: Free web security courses

 TryHackMe: Intermediate rooms on pentesting topics
 OWASP Cheat Sheets: Web security guides
 OverTheWire: Advanced wargames (Narnia, Leviathan)

Paid Resources:

 eLearnSecurity eCPPT (Professional Penetration Tester): More affordable alternative

to OSCP (~$400)
 Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): Gold standard for pentesters
(~$999)
 HackTheBox VIP Labs: Paid access to more advanced labs (~$14/month)

Expert Guidelines:

 Practice Privilege Escalation: Constantly work on post-exploitation techniques. Tools

like GTFOBins are essential.
 Learn Exploit Development: Begin writing your own exploits. This separates junior
pentesters from advanced.
 Engage in Red Teaming: Practice with real-world simulations to understand adversarial
tactics.

2. Incident Response and Digital Forensics

Intermediate incident responders focus on faster detection, response, and malware analysis.
Digital forensics specialists learn to extract evidence and reconstruct attack timelines.

Skills to Master:

 Advanced malware analysis (static/dynamic)

  Incident handling procedures
 Network forensics and memory analysis
 Chain of custody and legal aspects

Free Resources:

 DFIR Training: Sans DFIR resources

 REMnux: Free malware analysis toolkit
 Magnet Forensics: Free tools for digital forensics
 Volatility Framework: For memory forensics

Paid Resources:

 GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): Advanced IR certification ($2,500+)

 SANS FOR508: Advanced Incident Response and Threat Hunting (Pricey but highly
regarded, ~$7,000)

Expert Guidelines:

 Specialize in Malware: Focus on reverse engineering and malware analysis using tools
like IDA Pro or Ghidra.
 Develop Incident Playbooks: Streamline responses with predefined playbooks.
 Master Memory Forensics: Tools like Volatility should be second nature to you.

3. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Cybersecurity GRC focuses on policy-making, risk management, and ensuring that organizations
comply with regulations like GDPR, ISO 27001, and HIPAA.

Skills to Master:

 Compliance frameworks (NIST, ISO)

 Risk assessment methodologies
 Policy writing, security governance
 Vendor and supply chain risk management

Free Resources:

 NIST Cybersecurity Framework: Free download and guidelines

 SANS Policy Templates: Free, customizable security policy templates
 ISACA Resources: Free guides on governance and compliance

Paid Resources:
  Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Best for audit and risk (~$760 for
exam)
 Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Advanced GRC certification (~$760
for exam)
 Coursera Specializations: Cybersecurity Policy (Paid)

Expert Guidelines:

 Learn ISO Standards: Get hands-on with ISO 27001 and SOC 2.
 Focus on Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding industry-specific regulations is key
(e.g., healthcare, finance).
 Master Risk Frameworks: Risk frameworks like NIST 800-53 and ISO 31000 are
critical.

4. Cloud Security

As organizations move to the cloud, cloud security focuses on protecting cloud infrastructure
(AWS, Azure, GCP), detecting misconfigurations, and ensuring data security.

Skills to Master:

 Cloud security controls (IAM, key management)

 Infrastructure as Code (IaC) security (Terraform, AWS CloudFormation)
 Cloud-native security tools (AWS GuardDuty, Azure Security Center)
 Secure DevOps (DevSecOps)

Free Resources:

 AWS Well-Architected Framework: Best practices for secure cloud architecture

 Google Cloud Security Fundamentals: Free course on Coursera
 OWASP Cloud Security Guide: Cloud security risks and best practices

Paid Resources:

 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Advanced cloud security certification

(~$599 for exam)
 AWS Certified Security Specialty: Focused on AWS (~$300 for exam)
 Cloud Security Alliance (CSA): Paid resources and certifications

Expert Guidelines:

 Master Cloud Misconfigurations: Misconfigurations are the top threat in cloud security,
so tools like CloudSploit and ScoutSuite should be part of your toolkit.
 Implement DevSecOps: Integrate security into your CI/CD pipelines.
  Understand Cloud IAM: Identity and Access Management is the foundation of cloud
security.

5. Threat Intelligence and Cyber Threat Hunting

Intermediate-level threat hunters focus on proactively detecting threats before they impact an
organization. Threat intelligence analysts gather and analyze data on emerging threats.

Skills to Master:

 Cyber threat frameworks (MITRE ATT&CK)

 Advanced persistent threats (APT) detection
 Threat hunting methodologies
 Log and network data analysis (Splunk, Elastic Stack)

Free Resources:

 MITRE ATT&CK Navigator: Free resource for mapping adversarial tactics

 The Threat Hunter Playbook: Free, open-source playbook for threat hunting
 AlienVault OTX: Free threat intelligence platform

Paid Resources:

 Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA): Intermediate cert for threat intel (~$500)
 SANS SEC511: Continuous Monitoring and Threat Detection (Pricey, ~$7,000)

Expert Guidelines:

 Use the MITRE ATT&CK Framework: Map real-world attacks to known TTPs
(Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures).
 Hunt in Network and Endpoint Logs: Be proactive by building detection mechanisms
with tools like Splunk or Elastic.
 Focus on Threat Attribution: Learn to tie observed behaviors to known threat actors.

6. Security Architecture and Engineering

Security architects design secure systems and ensure that both software and hardware
infrastructures are resistant to attacks.

Skills to Master:

 Secure system design (zero-trust architecture, segmentation)

  Secure coding and code reviews
 Cryptography (PKI, TLS, encryption)
 Hardware security (TPM, HSM)

Free Resources:

 OWASP Secure Coding Practices: Free guide to secure software design

 Microsoft’s Secure Infrastructure Design Guidelines
 Cyber Defense Matrix: Free tool to structure security architecture

Paid Resources:

 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Architecture-heavy

certification (~$749)
 GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): General security certification (~$2,500)
 Coursera: Secure Coding and Cryptography specializations

Expert Guidelines:

 Implement Zero-Trust: Shift your mindset to designing systems that assume no one can
be trusted by default.
 Learn Cryptography: Deepen your understanding of encryption methods, key
management, and digital signatures.
 Stay Updated on Hardware Security: Learn about hardware-level vulnerabilities like
Spectre and Meltdown.

7. Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering

Malware analysts reverse engineer malware to understand its behavior, discover vulnerabilities,
and create countermeasures.

Skills to Master:

 Reverse engineering tools (IDA Pro, Ghidra, Radare2)

 Static and dynamic malware analysis
 Debugging (OllyDbg, x64dbg)
 Writing and analyzing shellcode

Free Resources:

 Ghidra: Free reverse engineering tool by the NSA

 Malware Traffic Analysis: Free site to practice analyzing traffic of infected systems
 Flare-On: Free CTF focused on malware analysis
Paid Resources:

 SANS FOR610: Reverse Engineering Malware (Expensive but comprehensive, ~$7,000)

 eLearnSecurity Malware Analysis Professional: Affordable alternative (~$400)

Expert Guidelines:

 Use Ghidra for Analysis: Start by analyzing simple malware samples and work your
way up.
 Master Dynamic Analysis: Tools like Cuckoo Sandbox are essential for monitoring
real-time behavior.
 Develop in Assembly: Understanding assembly language will make you a better reverse
engineer.

8. Cryptography and Data Security

Intermediate cryptographers focus on advanced encryption techniques, digital certificates, and

the application of cryptographic principles to secure data in transit and at rest.

Skills to Master:

 Advanced encryption algorithms (AES, RSA)

 Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)
 Digital signatures and certificates
 Blockchain and decentralized cryptography

Free Resources:

 Coursera: Cryptography by Stanford University

 NIST Special Publications: Cryptography standards and guidelines
 OpenSSL: Free resources for encryption tools

Paid Resources:

 Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES): EC-Council certification (~$199)

 GIAC Cryptography (GLEG): Advanced cryptography certification (~$2,499)

Expert Guidelines:

 Understand Key Management: Focus on how encryption keys are generated, stored,
and distributed securely.
 Study Real-World Attacks: Learn how cryptographic systems have been compromised
in the past (e.g., Heartbleed).
 Get Hands-on with Tools: Use tools like OpenSSL for generating certificates and
encrypting data.
Expert Guidelines Across All Fields:

1. Build Your Lab: Create a home lab using virtual machines or cloud services to practice
various tools and techniques.
2. Networking and Community: Join cybersecurity conferences, Reddit threads, or
Discord communities to stay updated and collaborate.
3. Work on Real-World Scenarios: Apply your knowledge in realistic environments by
contributing to open-source security projects, participating in CTFs (Capture the Flag), or
working on bug bounty programs.
4. Keep Learning: Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field. Regularly follow blogs,
research papers, and industry updates to stay ahead of new threats.

This intermediate roadmap provides a broad path across cybersecurity fields, allowing you to
specialize in the niche that aligns with your interests and goals.

4o

You said:

you are a cybersecurity specialist, so tell me a complete detailed roadmap to cybersecurity for
advanced level for all cybersecurity niches (fields) with all free resources available and paid
resources and complete guidelines of cybersecurity field experts. If you have any questions, so
tell me
ChatGPT said:

ChatGPT
Memory updated

Here is a comprehensive roadmap for cybersecurity professionals at the advanced level,

covering various niches (fields) in the industry. This guide will include both free and paid
resources and expert-level strategies for specialization.

1. Advanced Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking

At an advanced level, penetration testers focus on sophisticated attacks such as buffer overflows,
zero-day exploitation, kernel-level vulnerabilities, and conducting full-scale red teaming
assessments.

Skills to Master:

 Exploit writing and advanced fuzzing techniques

 Advanced bypass methods (EDR/AV evasion)
  Red teaming operations (including physical security breaches)
 Kernel exploitation and rootkits

Free Resources:

 Metasploit Unleashed: Advanced Metasploit guide

 Exploit-DB: Repository of publicly available exploits and advisories
 Fuzzing101: Free guide on advanced fuzzing techniques
 Hacker101 CTF: Focus on advanced techniques through Capture the Flag challenges

Paid Resources:

 Offensive Security Experienced Penetration Tester (OSEP): Focused on advanced

evasion techniques and Active Directory (AD) exploitation (~$1,499)
 Certified Red Team Professional (CRTP): Advanced red team certification focusing on
AD exploitation (~$299)
 Zero Point Security Red Team Ops: Practical red teaming course (~$525)

Expert Guidelines:

 Develop Custom Exploits: Writing your own exploits is key to standing out at the
advanced level. Use pwntools and Ropper for exploit development.
 Engage in Red Teaming: Lead or participate in red team engagements to simulate
adversarial tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
 Deep Dive into Offensive Security Tool Development: Learn to create and modify tools
that evade modern defenses.

2. Incident Response and Digital Forensics (DFIR)

Advanced DFIR professionals handle high-stakes incidents involving sophisticated threat actors,
conducting in-depth malware analysis and digital forensics across cloud environments, IoT, and
OT systems.

Skills to Master:

 In-depth reverse engineering of complex malware

 Advanced memory forensics (Volatility, Rekall)
 Network forensics at scale (SIEM and packet capture analysis)
 Cloud incident response and forensics

Free Resources:

 The Honeynet Project: Hands-on exercises in advanced incident response

 Volatility Plugins: Advanced memory analysis tools
  Redline by FireEye: Free memory and endpoint analysis tool
 SANS Investigative Forensic Toolkit (SIFT): Free open-source forensics and IR toolkit

Paid Resources:

 GIAC Advanced Incident Response and Threat Hunting (GCFA): High-level IR and
forensics certification (~$7,000)
 SANS FOR610 (Reverse Engineering Malware): Deep dive into advanced malware
analysis (Expensive but high value, ~$7,000)
 Blue Team Labs Online: Advanced-level incident response and threat hunting labs
(~$30/month)

Expert Guidelines:

 Reverse Engineering: Master reverse engineering using tools like Ghidra and IDA Pro,
focusing on advanced malware such as ransomware and nation-state malware.
 Master Advanced Memory Forensics: Memory forensics is critical for detecting
advanced persistent threats (APTs). Tools like Volatility and Rekall should be used
regularly.
 Forensic Investigations in the Cloud: Learn to investigate cloud-native threats and
integrate cloud forensics into your skillset.

3. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Advanced GRC professionals are responsible for creating and managing enterprise-wide
compliance programs, performing high-level risk assessments, and navigating the complexities
of global regulatory environments.

Skills to Master:

 ISO 27001 Lead Implementer and Auditor

 SOX, HIPAA, and GDPR implementation
 Building and leading security compliance teams
 Risk management strategies for global enterprises

Free Resources:

 NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF): Complete guide to risk management

standards
 ISACA Knowledge Center: Free GRC-related content, whitepapers, and policy
templates
 ENISA Reports: Free resources on European cybersecurity policies and frameworks

Paid Resources:
  Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): Advanced GRC certification ($760)
 Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): For leadership in governance and
risk management (~$760)
 ISO 27001 Lead Implementer/Lead Auditor Courses: Paid training for in-depth
knowledge (~$1,000)

Expert Guidelines:

 Establish a Risk-Based Approach: Create detailed risk management frameworks

aligned with organizational goals.
 Master Global Regulations: Stay current with international standards (GDPR, HIPAA,
SOX, PCI-DSS).
 Develop Vendor Risk Management Programs: Oversee third-party and supply chain
risk management, which is crucial in large enterprises.

4. Cloud Security

Advanced cloud security experts focus on multi-cloud environments, secure cloud architecture,
and protecting cloud-native applications using advanced automation, orchestration, and security
controls.

Skills to Master:

 Cloud-native security solutions (AWS Lambda, Azure Sentinel)

 Multi-cloud security and hybrid environments
 Kubernetes and container security
 DevSecOps in large-scale deployments

Free Resources:

 AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional: Study material for advanced cloud
architecture
 OWASP Cloud Security: Comprehensive guide on cloud security vulnerabilities
 CNCF Security: Open-source resources on Kubernetes security

Paid Resources:

 AWS Certified Security – Specialty: Advanced cloud security (~$300)

 Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Highly recognized cloud security cert
(~$599)
 Google Cloud Certified – Professional Cloud Security Engineer: For GCP security
(~$200)

Expert Guidelines:
  Focus on Kubernetes Security: Master container orchestration platforms like
Kubernetes and secure container environments.
 Cloud-Native Application Security: Use security automation tools like Terraform and
Ansible for Infrastructure as Code (IaC) deployments.
 Master Zero Trust: Implement zero-trust architecture in cloud environments and across
multi-cloud strategies.

5. Threat Intelligence and Cyber Threat Hunting

At an advanced level, threat hunters and intelligence analysts focus on uncovering sophisticated,
covert adversaries. They must navigate complex data sets, threat actor TTPs, and develop
predictive models to anticipate future threats.

Skills to Master:

 Advanced threat modeling and TTP mapping (MITRE ATT&CK for ICS)
 Machine learning for threat intelligence
 Predictive threat hunting techniques
 Advanced APT tracking and nation-state actors

Free Resources:

 MITRE ATT&CK Framework (ICS): Industrial Control Systems attack matrix

 AlienVault Threat Intelligence Feeds: Free threat intelligence and analysis
 ThreatConnect Free Edition: Threat intelligence platform for tracking actors

Paid Resources:

 Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA): Advanced cert for cyber threat
intelligence (~$500)
 SANS SEC550 (Cyber Threat Intelligence): Advanced course (~$7,000)
 SpecterOps Threat Hunter Training: Focus on advanced threat detection techniques
(~$2,500)

Expert Guidelines:

 Focus on APT Tracking: Learn to attribute and track APT campaigns. Use frameworks
like

MITRE ATT&CK and STIX/TAXII for mapping and sharing threat intelligence.

 Leverage Machine Learning: Integrate machine learning into threat detection

workflows to uncover hidden patterns in large datasets.
  Collaborate with Intelligence Communities: Engage with platforms like MISP and
participate in government and industry-level intelligence sharing programs.

6. Security Architecture

Advanced security architects design and implement complex security frameworks for
enterprises, ensuring that security is embedded in every layer of the infrastructure.

Skills to Master:

 Enterprise security architecture (SABSA, TOGAF)

 Designing secure microservices and service-oriented architectures
 Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)
 Network segmentation and secure cloud architecture

Free Resources:

 NIST Zero Trust Architecture: Free guidance on implementing ZTA

 OWASP Security Architecture Resources: Guidelines for secure application
architecture
 ISACA Cybersecurity Nexus (CSX): Free articles on security architecture

Paid Resources:

 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Advanced security

architecture certification (~$749)
 SABSA Chartered Architect: Architecture-centric security framework (~$5,000)
 TOGAF Certification: For mastering enterprise architecture frameworks (~$3,000)

Expert Guidelines:

 Architect Zero Trust Models: Design zero-trust environments across large-scale,

hybrid, and cloud infrastructures.
 Embed Security in DevOps Pipelines: Collaborate with DevOps to ensure security by
design in every development cycle.
 Microservices Security: Focus on securing microservices architecture using service
mesh solutions like Istio.

7. Cryptography and Data Security

Advanced cryptographers create and implement cryptographic algorithms for securing sensitive
data and protecting against emerging threats like quantum computing.
Skills to Master:

 Quantum-resistant cryptography
 Homomorphic encryption and secure multi-party computation (SMPC)
 Advanced blockchain security
 Cryptanalysis techniques for breaking encryption

Free Resources:

 IACR ePrint Archive: Latest research papers on cryptography

 PQCrypto: Resources on post-quantum cryptography
 Cryptography StackExchange: Community-driven answers for advanced cryptography
questions

Paid Resources:

 Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES): Advanced encryption certification (~$199)

 Post-Quantum Cryptography Course by Coursera: Quantum-resistant cryptography
(~$49/month)
 GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA): Focus on cryptography in digital forensics
(~$7,000)

Expert Guidelines:

 Prepare for Quantum Threats: Stay updated on quantum cryptography and quantum-
resistant encryption methods.
 Work on Real-World Cryptographic Applications: Contribute to open-source
cryptography libraries and blockchain protocols.

General Expert Guidelines for Advanced Cybersecurity:

1. Build Advanced Automation Skills: Learn scripting and automation in Python, Bash,
and PowerShell to streamline security tasks across different environments.
2. Specialize Deeply: Pick a cybersecurity field and aim to become a subject matter expert
(SME) with a deep focus on specific threat models, regulatory frameworks, or technical
implementations.
3. Contribute to Open Source Projects: Engage in open-source security tools
development (like Kali Linux, Wireshark, or Metasploit) to enhance your expertise and
contribute to the community.
4. Stay Updated: Read the latest whitepapers, blogs (like Krebs on Security, Schneier on
Security), and follow cybersecurity research groups.
5. Lead Security Teams: Develop leadership skills to manage security operations, red
teams, and GRC teams effectively.
This roadmap offers an extensive path for advancing in the cybersecurity domain, allowing you
to specialize in your desired field while enhancing your technical and strategic skills.
Here’s a detailed overview of job titles in cybersecurity, categorized by skill level (beginner,
intermediate, advanced) across different niches or fields of cybersecurity.

1. Penetration Testing / Ethical Hacking

Beginner:

 Junior Penetration Tester

o Assists in vulnerability assessments and conducts basic penetration tests under
supervision.
 Security Analyst (Pen Testing)
o Focuses on vulnerability scanning and analyzing security issues in networks and
applications.

Intermediate:

 Penetration Tester
o Performs internal and external penetration tests on systems, networks, and
applications.
 Red Team Specialist
o Works in a red team, focusing on offensive security and adversary simulations.

Advanced:

 Lead Penetration Tester / Senior Penetration Tester

o Manages complex testing environments and develops custom exploits and
strategies.
 Red Team Leader
o Leads a red team in large-scale adversary simulations and advanced attack
strategies.
 Exploit Developer
o Specializes in writing custom exploits for zero-day vulnerabilities.

2. Incident Response and Digital Forensics (DFIR)

Beginner:

 Incident Response Analyst (Level 1)

o Monitors alerts, analyzes basic security incidents, and provides initial response.
 Digital Forensics Technician
o Assists in data acquisition and basic forensic investigations.
Intermediate:

 Incident Response Specialist

o Conducts in-depth analysis of incidents and malware. Coordinates with legal and
compliance teams.
 Forensic Analyst
o Performs in-depth forensic analysis of compromised systems and networks.

Advanced:

 Incident Response Team Lead

o Manages incident response teams and oversees handling of large-scale breaches.
 Forensics Expert / Lead DFIR Specialist
o Specializes in advanced forensic analysis (memory forensics, reverse engineering)
and manages high-profile investigations.

3. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Beginner:

 Compliance Analyst
o Assists with security audits and helps ensure the organization meets regulatory
compliance standards.
 Risk Analyst (Entry-Level)
o Conducts risk assessments and helps identify vulnerabilities in organizational
processes.

Intermediate:

 Risk and Compliance Manager

o Manages GRC programs, develops policies, and ensures alignment with industry
standards like ISO 27001.
 Internal Security Auditor
o Performs audits to ensure the organization complies with regulations (e.g., GDPR,
PCI-DSS).

Advanced:

 Chief Risk Officer (CRO)

o Oversees risk management programs across the organization.
 Director of Compliance
o Leads compliance teams and ensures the enterprise meets all legal and regulatory
requirements.
 Security Program Manager
 o Oversees and coordinates security programs with a strong emphasis on
governance and compliance.

4. Cloud Security

Beginner:

 Cloud Security Analyst

o Manages basic cloud security configurations and assists in monitoring cloud
environments.
 Cloud Operations Technician
o Provides support for security operations within cloud platforms like AWS, Azure,
and GCP.

Intermediate:

 Cloud Security Engineer

o Designs and implements secure cloud infrastructure, focusing on identity
management, encryption, and secure configurations.
 DevSecOps Engineer
o Embeds security into DevOps processes, focusing on continuous integration and
delivery (CI/CD) pipeline security.

Advanced:

 Cloud Security Architect

o Designs and oversees complex cloud security architectures for multi-cloud or
hybrid environments.
 Chief Cloud Security Officer
o Leads the cloud security strategy and ensures the secure integration of cloud
services at the enterprise level.

5. Threat Intelligence and Cyber Threat Hunting

Beginner:

 Threat Intelligence Analyst (Junior)

o Collects and analyzes open-source intelligence (OSINT) and helps identify
emerging threats.
 Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst (Level 1)
o Monitors network and endpoint activity for potential threats and escalates
incidents for further analysis.
Intermediate:

 Cyber Threat Hunter

o Proactively searches for hidden or persistent threats within networks and systems.
 Threat Intelligence Specialist
o Analyzes and reports on threat actor tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)
and integrates findings into organizational defenses.

Advanced:

 Threat Intelligence Team Lead

o Manages a threat intelligence team, develops threat intelligence strategies, and
integrates with incident response.
 Advanced Threat Hunter
o Specializes in detecting advanced persistent threats (APTs) and custom
adversarial techniques.

6. Security Architecture

Beginner:

 Security Operations Analyst

o Supports security architecture teams by monitoring and managing basic security
controls.
 Junior Network Security Engineer
o Assists in the design and implementation of secure network architectures.

Intermediate:

 Security Architect
o Designs security systems and networks to defend against threats, including both
on-premises and cloud environments.
 Enterprise Security Engineer
o Implements advanced security controls and ensures the architecture is aligned
with business objectives.

Advanced:

 Chief Security Architect

o Oversees all aspects of security architecture, including networks, applications, and
data security.
 Enterprise Security Architect
o Designs and manages the security of large-scale infrastructures across global
enterprises.
7. Cryptography and Data Security

Beginner:

 Cryptography Analyst (Junior)

o Supports the implementation of encryption protocols and key management
systems.
 Security Operations Engineer (Cryptography)
o Manages basic encryption solutions for data at rest and in transit.

Intermediate:

 Cryptographer
o Develops and analyzes cryptographic algorithms and implements encryption
techniques in various applications.
 Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Specialist
o Manages digital certificates, encryption keys, and PKI infrastructure for secure
communication.

Advanced:

 Senior Cryptographer
o Designs advanced cryptographic algorithms and solutions, including post-
quantum cryptography.
 Cryptography Architect
o Develops and oversees the implementation of encryption and data security
frameworks for global organizations.

8. Application Security

Beginner:

 Application Security Analyst

o Conducts security assessments for web and mobile applications, focusing on
OWASP vulnerabilities.
 Secure Code Reviewer
o Assists in reviewing code to identify and mitigate potential security
vulnerabilities.

Intermediate:

 Application Security Engineer

 oImplements secure coding practices and develops security controls for
applications during the software development lifecycle (SDLC).
 DevSecOps Engineer
o Integrates security into development workflows, focusing on automation and
secure coding practices.

Advanced:

 Application Security Architect

o Designs and oversees the secure architecture of applications, focusing on
minimizing vulnerabilities and implementing industry best practices.
 Director of Application Security
o Leads application security teams and defines application security strategies at the
organizational level.

9. Security Awareness and Training

Beginner:

 Security Awareness Coordinator

o Assists in developing and delivering basic security awareness training to
employees.
 Junior Security Trainer
o Delivers training on cybersecurity best practices and phishing simulations.

Intermediate:

 Security Awareness Program Manager

o Develops, implements, and oversees comprehensive security awareness programs
across the organization.
 Cybersecurity Trainer
o Provides in-depth training on specific cybersecurity topics, such as secure coding
or incident response.

Advanced:

 Director of Security Awareness

o Leads enterprise-wide security awareness initiatives, develops policy, and
oversees training teams.
 Chief Training Officer (Cybersecurity)
o Manages cybersecurity training programs, focusing on reducing human risk and
improving the organization's overall security posture.
This detailed list of job titles spans the entire spectrum of cybersecurity, from beginner to
advanced levels, providing clear career progression across different cybersecurity fields.