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cyber security

This course introduces the core principles of IT Security.

The global IT Security skills shortage, and resulting high demand for security professionals, makes this an attractive sector to work in. This course is a great starting point for those wishing to enter IT Security as it provides a comprehensive introduction and the course does not include technical labs. 

Discover the language, processes and tools used in IT environments in this vendor-neutral course. Learn about the components (systems, software and networks) which make up IT infrastructure, how those components function, the vulnerabilities each component can have and how those vulnerabilities can be mitigated. This course also explains how cryptography can assist in securing IT infrastructure and the other tools you can use to protect your organisation. 

During this course you will benefit from the insights of practicing cybersecurity specialists, with core topics illustrated through practical examples. By the end of the course, participants will understand the essential principles of IT Security. The course typically takes two days.

SECO IT-Security Foundation Logo

IT-Security Foundation

Develop an understanding of common hardware, software, network, database and cloud vulnerabilities...

Cyber Security
Learning Outcomes
  • An understanding of common systems, software and network attacks, vulnerabilities and security measures
  • Knowledge of key defence concepts, such as Cryptography (PKI, SSL, TLS, IPsec, PGP) and Access Control
  • Know your enemy – insight gained into how hackers work and what tools they use 
  • Understanding of how to secure your organisation through IT Security administration processes and tools.
Who is it for?
  • Beginners, those wanting to work in the IT Security sector
  • Network and system administrators seeking career advancement
  • Managers who need to have a basic understanding of security to minimise risk or who regularly work with IT Security specialists. 
Exam format:
  • Number of Questions: 40
  • Exam Timing: 60 mins
  • Closed book
  • Pass mark: 24 out of 40 (60%).

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SFIA Framework

Visit SFIA
The SFIA Framework is the global common reference for skills and competency for the digital world
SFIA is a globally recognised framework that “identifies skills needed for the Information age”. This APMG certification has been mapped against the SFIA Framework to help you see which certifications are most relevant to your professional development.
IT-Security Foundation
Knowledge
This certification confirms (endorsement)
Generic attribute Knowledge up to level 2
...
This certification would be useful for (development)
Same as above plus Security Operations up to level 2, Vulnerability Assessment level 2
...

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FAQs

Who is SECO-Institute?

Founded in 2008, Security and Continuity Institute (SECO) is one of Europe’s leading providers of Security and Continuity certifications. In 2019, SECO-Institute appointed APMG as an examination body, responsible for accrediting training organisations and their trainers to deliver their IT-Security Foundation course and certification exam. 

What is IT Security?

IT Security comprises the components of an IT infrastructure (computers, networks and data) and what the vulnerabilities are of each component. Good IT security is the application of processes, procedures and controls to prevent unauthorized access to any component and, consequently, damage or loss of data. 

Who is the IT-Security certification aimed at?

This entry-level course was developed for aspiring IT security administrators and other professionals whose work involves regular communication with IT security administrators.

What will I learn?

The IT-Security Foundation course introduces candidates to what IT security is. You will learn:

  • What components make up an IT infrastructure
  • What vulnerabilities each component may have
  • How attackers exploit common vulnerabilities
  • What tools can be used to prevent exploitation.

Do I have to receive training to sit the exam?

No, however attending an accredited training course is recommended. Individuals also have the option of self-study to prepare for the examinations by purchasing the core text from APMG Business Books. APMG-International administer online exam sessions, allowing those who self study the opportunity to sit an online exam from the comfort of their own home or office. Our online proctoring system allows you to take your exam anytime as sessions are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, please click here.

How can I train for the IT-Security examination?

Training for IT-Security is available from the network of Accredited Training Organizations (ATOs) who are assessed and certified by APMG International. The full list of IT-Security ATOs can be found by clicking on find a training provider. Only these organizations and registered partners/affiliates are authorized to deliver SECO-Institute IT-Security training.
 

How do I sit the exams?

Accredited Training Organizations (ATOs) usually include the examination as part of their training course – please check with your ATO before booking.

For those who self-study, the exam can be taken anywhere in the world, from the comfort of your home or workplace, with online proctoring.  A proctor will access your exam as you take it to monitor the exam environment through your computer's desktop, webcam and microphone. Once you have booked an exam, you will be given a registration email to schedule an appointment with your live proctor via our Candidate Portal. Our online proctoring system allows you to take your exam anytime as sessions are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, please click here.

APMG also administers a limited number of public exam sessions at some of our regional offices. Click here for further information and to book an exam.

How much does it cost to sit the IT-Security examination?

If you are sitting the examination through an accredited training organization, the cost of the exam is generally included in the course fee, but please check with your training provider at the time of booking. APMG International use a global pricing structure, so if you are self-studying for the exam, the cost is dependent on where the exam is being sat. To find out the costs in your region, select the exam you want to sit from the list here. Alternatively, please contact the APMG International Service Desk on +44 (0)1494 452450 or at: servicedesk@apmg-international.com 

Are there any pre-requisites for the IT-Security examination?

There are no pre-requisites for the IT-Security Foundation exam.

What are the main publications for IT-Security and where can I purchase them?

The course and exam is based on the book Understanding IT Security Administration, published by SECO-Institute. A copy of the book should be included in the cost of the training course, please check with your training provider at the time of booking.
If you are self-studying for the exam, you can purchase your own copy from SECO-Institute here: https://www.seco-institute.org/product/understanding-it-security-administration/.

Which languages is the IT-Security examination available in?

The SECO-Institute IT-Security Foundation exam is available in English only.

How long is the IT-Security course?

The SECO-Institute IT-Security Foundation course is 2 days. However, please check timings with your course provider as they may deliver the course over a different duration.

What is the structure of the IT-Security examination?

The structure of the IT-Security Foundation examination is below:

  • 40 multiple choice questions
  • 1 hour duration
  • Closed book 
  • Pass mark: 60% (24 marks or more out of 40).
     

Is there a sample paper that I can practice on?

Yes, all candidates can access a sample exam paper to practice on here.

How long is the IT-Security certification valid for?

The IT-Security Foundation exam does not expire and there are no on-going maintenance requirements.

When can I expect the results of my IT-Security examination?

The IT-Security Foundation examination can be marked at the end of your exam with provisional results provided by your trainer. APMG will issue formal notification of your exam result once your exam paper has been received back into our office. All results will be made available in your Candidate Portal.

If you did not take your exam through an ATO, your results will be sent directly to you via the relevant APMG-International office approximately 7-10 days after the date of your exam.

When will I receive my certificate?

Candidates will be able to claim their digital badge and electronic certificate from their APMG Candidate Portal within two business days of their exam result being issued.

What is the pass mark for the IT-Security examination?

The pass mark for the IT-Security Foundation examination is 60%. Candidates are required to score 24 marks or more to pass the exam.

How do I become an IT-Security trainer?

To be eligible to apply to become an IT-Security trainer, individuals must hold the certificate for the course that you wish to teach. All trainers must be ‘sponsored’ by an APMG accredited training organization. To find out more about becoming a trainer, please contact your local APMG representative.

Can I use the SECO-Institute logo?

Individuals are not permitted to use the SECO-Institute logo. However, all individuals who pass the IT-Security Foundation exam are awarded with a digital badge which can be shared on social media and embedded into your CV/resume.

Can I use the IT-Security logo?

All individuals who pass the IT-Security Foundation exam are awarded with a digital badge which can be shared on social media and embedded into your CV/resume.

How do I access my digital badge and/or certificate?

You can always access all your electronic certificates and badges via the APMG Candidate Portal. Once you have logged on to the Candidate Portal, click on the ‘Badges and Certificates’ option from the menu bar at the top of screen. From here you should click on the ‘Create Badge/Certificate’ button. This will take you to the Credly platform to create and account and download your badge and certificate.

Step-by-step guidance is available to download from the ‘Badges and Certificates’ area in your Candidate Portal.

Electronic certificates are environmentally friendly, but you can print the certificate yourself at home or work, if required.

If you have any problems with accessing your digital certificate, please contact our Customer Interaction Team - servicedesk@apmg-international.com

Can I earn PMI® PDUs for attending an accredited training course?

It is possible to earn PMI Education PDUs for attending third-party provider training (training courses not offered by a PMI Authorized Training Partner), as long as the training meets the requirements around the skill areas of the PMI Talent Triangle. Please check the PMI website (https://www.pmi.org/certifications/certification-resources/maintain/earn-pdus/education) for further details on how to record your PDUs and what supporting evidence is required.

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