Topic pathway
Network security
Threats, prevention, authentication, malware, and security practice.
Exam-board information
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Specification section
Threats to computer systems and networks
Cyber threats, malware, social engineering, brute force attacks, vulnerabilities, and attack impacts.
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Lesson 01
Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities
Define cybersecurity threats.
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Lesson 02
Malware, Viruses, Worms and Trojans
Describe malware as malicious software.
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Lesson 03
Social Engineering, Phishing and Human Risk
Explain social engineering and phishing.
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Lesson 04
Brute Force, SQL Injection and Data Interception
Explain the purpose and method of a brute-force attack.
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Lesson 05
Denial of Service and Interception
Explain denial-of-service attacks and data interception.
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Lesson 06
Malware, Phishing and Social Engineering
Explain how phishing uses a deceptive message.
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Lesson 07
Threat Scenario Triage
Identify an attack from evidence in a scenario.
Specification section
Identifying and preventing vulnerabilities
Reducing risk through anti-malware, firewalls, encryption, access controls, authentication, updates, testing, physical security, and training.
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Lesson 01
Preventing Cyber Attacks
Explain how anti-malware or a firewall reduces risk.
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Lesson 02
Penetration Testing and Finding Weaknesses
Describe what penetration testing is.
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Lesson 03
Network Security Scenarios and Exam Practice
Identify the relevant cyber-security risk.
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Lesson 04
Finding Vulnerabilities
Describe the purpose of penetration testing.
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Lesson 05
Passwords, Access Levels and Authentication
Explain how a strong password reduces guessing risk.
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Lesson 06
Firewalls, Anti-Malware and Encryption
Explain how firewalls and anti-malware software help protect systems.
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Lesson 07
Network Security Exam Practice
Select a specified prevention method.