Cyber Security and Networking Professional Certificate (Network+, Sec+)
Google certified
Best for: Career changers ready to enter the security field. You do not need a security background, but comfort with computers helps — members new to technology entirely should complete Digital Literacy or IT Support first.
Job outcomes: Cybersecurity Analyst · SOC Analyst · Security Operations Specialist
Ramp: Assumes basic computer comfort. Strong employer demand and higher salary ceiling than most entry tracks.
★ Pilot program — reviewed by a real team within 1–2 business days.
This program is designed for members who are serious about entering the security field and are ready to commit three to five months of focused effort. You will build hands-on skills in Linux, SQL, Python scripting, network security, and incident response — the exact toolkit that Security Operations Center (SOC) roles require. The Google Cybersecurity Certificate is widely recognized and signals job-readiness to employers. Members who succeed here typically start as Cybersecurity Analysts, SOC Analysts, or Security Operations Specialists earning $75K–$112K. If you have never used a computer for work before, we recommend starting with Digital Literacy or IT Support first to build a foundation. Ready to move forward? Apply now or use the comparison tool to see how this program stacks up against other IT tracks.
Program snapshot
What you should know before you apply
Best fit
Career changers ready to enter the security field. You do not need a security background, but comfort with computers helps — members new to technology entirely should complete Digital Literacy or IT Support first.
Typical roles
Cybersecurity Analyst · SOC Analyst · Security Operations Specialist
Course preview
- Introduction to Networking
- Networking Fundamentals
- Network Foundations and Addressing
- CCNA Foundations: Networking Basics and Cisco IOS Essentials
Plus 11 more courses in the full path.
Languages
Skills you’ll learn
Course list
1. Introduction to Networking ~2 hrs
2. Networking Fundamentals ~22 hrs
3. Network Foundations and Addressing ~7 hrs
4. CCNA Foundations: Networking Basics and Cisco IOS Essentials ~8 hrs
5. TCP/IP and Advanced Topics ~15 hrs
6. Basics of Cisco Networking ~10 hrs
7. Networking, Peripherals, and Wireless Technologies ~6 hrs
8. Networking in Google Cloud: Network Security ~9 hrs
9. Foundations of Cybersecurity ~10 hrs
10. Connect and Protect: Networks and Network Security ~12 hrs
11. Play It Safe: Manage Security Risks ~9 hrs
12. Assets, Threats, and Vulnerabilities ~19 hrs
13. Sound the Alarm: Detection and Response ~18 hrs
14. Put It to Work: Prepare for Cybersecurity Jobs ~11 hrs
15. CompTIA Network+ and Security+ Exam Practice ~6 hrs
Before you apply
What to expect from this program
Difficulty level
Intermediate. Prior comfort with computers or related study helps.
Time commitment
3-5 months, 10 hrs/week (164 contact hours total). 15 courses in the full path.
What you should know first
Assumes basic computer comfort. Strong employer demand and higher salary ceiling than most entry tracks.
Funding
Available at no cost through WIOA funding for qualifying members.
Program costs are covered by grants, scholarships, partnerships, and donations — never billed to qualifying members.
Career outcomes
Roles this program prepares you for
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC Analyst
Security Operations Specialist
Salary range: $75K–$112K. Actual wages depend on employer, location, and experience.
Ready to start your career in IT & Cybersecurity?
Applications take about 5 minutes. No cost for qualifying members. We respond within 1–2 business days.
Apply NowHave Questions?
Ready to start?
Apply in minutes. A member advisor will follow up within 1–2 business days.