This course provides learners with a baseline understanding of common cyber security threats, vulnerabilities, and risks. An overview of how basic cyber attacks are constructed and applied to real systems is also included. Examples include simple Unix kernel hacks, Internet worms, and Trojan horses in software utilities. Network attacks such as distributed denial of service (DDOS) and botnet- attacks are also described and illustrated using real examples from the past couple of decades.
Introduction to Cyber Attacks
Introduction to Cyber Attacks
This course is part of Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization
Instructor: Dr. Edward G. Amoroso
102,600 already enrolled
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.7
(2,882 reviews)
Beginner level
No prior experience required
Flexible schedule
Approx. 18 hours
Learn at your own pace
93%
Most learners liked this course
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
8 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
There are 4 modules in this course
This module provides exposure to basic cyber security concepts including some simple, foundational attack methods.
What's included
10 videos6 readings1 assignment
This module introduces some fundamental frameworks, models, and approaches to cyber security including the CIA model.
What's included
17 videos6 readings3 assignments
This module covers some of the more intense attacks over the past decade including worms and DDOS attacks.
What's included
10 videos6 readings2 assignments
This module introduces basic engineering and analysis methods for managing cyber security risk to valued assets.
What's included
8 videos8 readings2 assignments
Instructor
Instructor ratings
4.8 (715 ratings)Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Computer Security and Networks
New York University
Edureka
Illinois Tech
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Learner reviews
4.7
2,882 reviews
- 5 stars
74.94%
- 4 stars
19.48%
- 3 stars
3.56%
- 2 stars
1.10%
- 1 star
0.89%
Showing 3 of 2882
AG
5
Reviewed on Feb 12, 2025
the course is very well explained, very good information, as a comment we can improve the subtitles position, when are activated these ones blocks the text or the image in the presentation.
IJ
5
Reviewed on Sep 20, 2019
The course is exceptionally well structured and taught. Ed sir is such a good teacher who made learning fun. I am looking forward to the next course in this Specialisation. Thank you !
AA
5
Reviewed on Feb 25, 2018
Great introduction to cybersecurity concepts with relevant supplemental material in the form of journal papers, magazine articles and supporting TED talks and videos. Highly recommended!
New to Computer Security and Networks? Start here.
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 10,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.