Azure security course curriculum 

If you are interested in how to learn about Azure’s security features, an introductory course can begin by covering fundamental security terminology and cloud security principles. You may then be introduced to concepts like virtualization and redundancy in Azure security. As you familiarize yourself with the features, you can pursue intermediate and advanced courses that focus on topics such as:

• Azure identity and access management: Manage user identities, configure role-based access control (RBAC), and implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) to secure Azure resources effectively.

• Azure network security: Use features such as virtual network peering, Azure network security groups (NSGs), Azure application security groups, Azure Firewall, and Azure DDoS Protection.

• Data protection and encryption in Azure: Understand encryption techniques, data classification, Azure Key Vault, Azure Disk Encryption, and Azure Information Protection to safeguard sensitive data in Azure.

• Azure security monitoring and threat detection: Utilize Azure Monitor, Azure Security Center, Azure Sentinel, and other tools to detect and respond to security threats effectively.

• Azure security guidelines and compliance: Explore industry guidelines for securing Azure resources and how to properly configure your system to meet compliance frameworks such as GDPR and HIPAA.  

Learning about Azure security features can supplement your knowledge of cybersecurity and computer science. edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in studying these topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible, hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Explore Azure security jobs

Azure security skills can be beneficial for a wide range of careers including, but not limited to:

• Cybersecurity analyst: Identifies threats and prevents security breaches. They work on monitoring and analyzing systems, implementing security measures, conducting risk assessments, and responding to security incidents. Their role may include ensuring the security of Azure resources and infrastructure.^{Footnote 1}

• Cloud support engineer: Provides technical support and assistance to clients using cloud services such as Azure. They often troubleshoot and resolve issues related to Azure security configurations, network connectivity, access management, and other aspects of cloud infrastructure. They work closely with customers to address their concerns and ensure a secure and reliable cloud environment.^{Footnote 2}

• Technical content writer: Combines technical and linguistic knowhow for effective communication. They can produce documents like software manuals, guides, whitepapers, Azure security tutorials, and other resources that help users understand and implement security practices. They play a vital role in disseminating technical knowledge to a broader audience.^{Footnote 3}

• DevOps engineer: Uses development and operations expertise to streamline software delivery and infrastructure management. In the context of cloud security, they might focus on implementing secure coding practices, integrating security controls into deployment pipelines, and ensuring secure infrastructure configurations. Their role is to bridge the gap between development and security teams to create secure and efficient systems.^{Footnote 4}

• Azure security engineer: Implements and manages security controls within the Azure environment. They configure security services, monitor for threats, and respond to security incidents. They also collaborate with other teams to design and implement security best practices.^{Footnote 5}

The roles and responsibilities related to Azure security can vary across organizations and industries. Additionally, it can be helpful to stay up to date with the latest developments and trends related to Azure.

Requirements for careers listed can differ based on the position and employer. Some roles can require an advanced degree, while others might only seek expertise that can be acquired in a cybersecurity boot camp or in a coding boot camp. edX offers a range of flexible programs that can fit your needs.

How to use Azure security in your career 

Professionals can use Azure security features to protect cloud resources and ensure a secure computing environment. For example, a cybersecurity analyst can use Azure security tools to monitor system logs and events for any suspicious activities or security breaches. They can analyze Azure Security Center alerts to identify potential threats and investigate any unauthorized access attempts. Based on their findings, they can change system settings to increase security to reduce risk. In cases where security has been compromised, they can initiate incident response procedures to mitigate the threat and prevent further damage. 

By comparison, a cloud support engineer can also rely on Azure security features, but in more of a customer-facing context. This role commonly involves troubleshooting that can include assisting customers with access management and system settings. If a customer is having difficulties configuring RBAC in Azure, the support engineer could apply knowledge of Azure security features to guide the customer through the process. They may provide instructions on assigning appropriate permissions to users and help resolve any other access-related problems.

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