Best Free Cybersecurity Courses Online

Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate (Coursera): Designed for beginners, this course covers security fundamentals, threat detection, risk management, and hands-on labs. It follows industry-aligned job roles and builds practical skills using real-world scenarios, tools, and case studies. Learners gain exposure to security frameworks, incident response, and entry-level cybersecurity workflows.

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate (Coursera): This free-to-audit course focuses on threat intelligence, network security, endpoint protection, and SIEM tools. It includes practical labs, simulated attacks, and incident analysis exercises. Ideal for learners aiming for SOC analyst roles, it emphasizes job-ready skills and enterprise-level cybersecurity practices.

Introduction to Cyber Security (FutureLearn – Open University): A beginner-friendly course explaining malware, hacking methods, data breaches, and online privacy. It explores how cyberattacks affect individuals, businesses, and governments. The course uses real-world examples, interactive discussions, and case studies, making it suitable for non-technical learners and students.

Cybersecurity Essentials (Cisco Networking Academy): This course explains core cybersecurity concepts such as encryption, firewalls, network vulnerabilities, and cybercrime. It balances theory with practical insights and is widely recognised by employers. Cisco’s learning platform also helps learners progress toward advanced networking and security certifications.

Introduction to Computer Security (edX – Harvard University): A rigorous academic course covering cryptography, authentication, access control, and software security. It focuses on theoretical foundations and real-world applications. Best suited for learners with basic computer science knowledge, the course offers deep insight into how secure systems are designed and attacked.

Cybersecurity Basics (edX – University of Washington): This course introduces core security principles, cyber threats, and defensive strategies. It explains how attackers exploit systems and how organisations protect digital assets. Clear explanations and structured modules make it ideal for beginners exploring cybersecurity careers or digital safety awareness.

Web Security Fundamentals (Udemy – Free): Focuses on common web vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and authentication flaws. The course explains how attackers exploit websites and how developers can prevent attacks. It suits aspiring ethical hackers, developers, and security testers seeking foundational web security knowledge.

Introduction to Ethical Hacking (Cybrary): This course introduces penetration testing concepts, reconnaissance, scanning, and basic exploitation techniques. It explains the ethical and legal boundaries of hacking while offering hands-on demonstrations. Ideal for beginners interested in ethical hacking, red teaming, or offensive security career paths.

Information Security Fundamentals (OpenLearn): Covers confidentiality, integrity, availability, risk assessment, and security governance. The course explains how organisations manage information security policies and threats. It suits professionals, students, and managers seeking a structured understanding of cybersecurity without deep technical complexity.

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