This week focused on getting started in secure network engineering and connecting core networking concepts to cybersecurity practice.

Completed this week

  • Completed introductory work around network protocol security.
  • Reviewed OSI security concepts and how different layers affect defensive planning.
  • Explored the role of AI in cybersecurity at a high level.
  • Started wargame-based practice using Bandit or Natas.
  • Built out course vocabulary through a module glossary activity.

Projects

Network Protocol Security Lab

Focus: Protocol Security / Secure Networking

Summary: Practiced thinking about older network protocols and why insecure defaults create risk.

What I learned: Secure engineering starts with understanding what information a protocol exposes and how attackers can take advantage of weak design.

Wargame Setup and First Practice

Focus: Hands-On Security Practice

Summary: Chose a wargame track and began practicing careful command-line problem solving.

What I learned: Small details matter, especially when working through unfamiliar systems step by step.

OSI Security and AI Discussion

Focus: Security Concepts / Emerging Technology

Summary: Connected layered networking concepts with modern cybersecurity questions, including AI.

What I learned: Security analysis is stronger when technical layers and larger trends are considered together.

Currently learning

  • OSI model security concepts
  • Network protocol risks
  • Basic wargame methodology
  • AI-related cybersecurity considerations
  • Technical vocabulary for secure network engineering

Biggest takeaway

The biggest takeaway this week was that network security depends on understanding both the technical protocol behavior and the larger context around how systems are used.

Next focus

  • Continue wargame practice.
  • Move deeper into physical and data link layer security.
  • Keep building a stronger networking vocabulary.