Cyber Security is evolving faster than ever. By 2026, professionals need a combination of foundational skills, practical hands-on experience, and awareness of emerging technologies like AI, Cloud, and Zero Trust. This guide provides a complete roadmap—from beginner to job-ready—covering key topics, practical examples, and actionable tips to navigate your cyber security journey effectively.
Info!
This roadmap is designed for beginners, self-learners, and aspiring cyber security professionals aiming to build a strong career in 2026.
Phase 1: Foundations
The first step in cyber security is to build a solid foundation. You need to understand how computers, networks, and the internet work before jumping into attacks and defenses.
1. What is Cyber Security?
Cyber Security is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. Key domains include:
- Network Security
- Application Security
- Cloud Security
- Endpoint Security
- Identity & Access Management
- Incident Response
Understanding roles and career paths early helps you focus your learning strategically.
2. How the Internet Works
Learn the basics of:
- HTTP & HTTPS protocols
- DNS and domain resolution
- IP addressing and routing
- Client-server model
3. Operating Systems Basics
Both Windows and Linux are critical for cyber security. Learn to navigate file systems, manage permissions, and understand process management.
4. Linux for Security
Linux is widely used in security tools and labs. Learn:
- Terminal commands
- File and directory permissions
- Package management
- Basic shell scripting
# Example: Listing all hidden files
ls -la
5. Virtual Labs Setup
Practice safely using virtual environments:
- Install VirtualBox or VMware
- Use Kali Linux as your penetration testing environment
- Practice attacks in isolated lab networks
Phase 2: Networking & Protocols
Networking is the backbone of cyber security. Understanding how data flows across networks helps you identify and defend against attacks.
6. TCP/IP vs OSI Model
TCP/IP and OSI models explain how network communication works. Key layers to focus on:
- Application Layer (HTTP, FTP)
- Transport Layer (TCP, UDP)
- Network Layer (IP addressing, routing)
- Data Link & Physical Layer (Ethernet, Wi-Fi)
7. Common Network Protocols
Protocols you should know:
- FTP, SSH, SMTP, DNS, ARP
- How they can be exploited (e.g., ARP spoofing)
8. Firewalls and Network Devices
Firewalls, routers, and switches are your first line of defense. Learn configuration basics and rulesets for traffic control.
9. VPNs and Proxies
VPNs encrypt traffic; proxies route traffic through intermediaries. Understand their security benefits and limitations.
10. Packet Analysis with Wireshark
Wireshark allows you to capture and analyze network traffic. Example:
# Capture packets on interface eth0
sudo wireshark -i eth0
11. Network Attack Basics
Common network attacks to study:
- MITM (Man-in-the-Middle)
- ARP Spoofing
- DDoS attack overview
Tip!
Focus on understanding network traffic patterns first. This knowledge is critical before attempting any penetration testing.
Phase 3: Programming for Security
Programming is essential for understanding how vulnerabilities work, automating tasks, and even writing your own security tools. You don't need to become a full-time developer, but knowing the basics is critical.
12. Bash Scripting Basics
Bash helps automate repetitive tasks in Linux. Example: scanning multiple IP addresses:
# Simple Bash script to ping multiple IPs
for ip in 192.168.1.{1..10}; do
ping -c 1 $ip
done
Tip: Automate routine lab tasks to save time and reduce errors.
13. Python for Cyber Security
Python is widely used for writing scripts, exploits, and automation tools.
# Python example: simple port scanner
import socket
target = '192.168.1.10'
for port in range(20, 25):
s = socket.socket(socket.AF_INET, socket.SOCK_STREAM)
s.settimeout(1)
result = s.connect_ex((target, port))
if result == 0:
print(f"Port {port} is open")
s.close()
14. Regex & Log Parsing
Regular expressions are powerful for extracting patterns from logs, useful in SIEM analysis or malware investigation.
# Extract IP addresses from log lines
import re
log = "Failed login from 192.168.1.12"
ip = re.findall(r'\b\d{1,3}(?:\.\d{1,3}){3}\b', log)
print(ip)
15. APIs & JSON Basics
Many modern security tools expose APIs. Knowing how to send requests and parse JSON helps in automation and threat intelligence.
16. Intro to C/C++ Vulnerabilities
Understanding memory management, buffer overflows, and pointers is crucial for deeper exploitation techniques. Focus on:
- Stack vs Heap memory
- Buffer overflow basics
- Common pitfalls in C/C++ code
17. Writing Simple Security Tools
Combine your knowledge of Bash, Python, and networking to write tools like port scanners, simple sniffers, or password checkers. Practice is key.
Tip!
Start small, build scripts that solve lab problems. This strengthens your problem-solving mindset.
Phase 4: Web Security & Ethical Hacking
Web applications are the most common targets for attacks. Ethical hacking skills allow you to identify vulnerabilities safely and responsibly.
18. How Websites Work
Learn how front-end (HTML/CSS/JS) interacts with back-end (databases, servers) via HTTP requests. This understanding is critical for testing vulnerabilities.
19. HTTP Methods & Headers
Common methods like GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, and headers like Authorization or User-Agent can impact security. Misconfigured headers can lead to leaks.
20. OWASP Top 10 (2026 Focus)
The OWASP Top 10 lists the most critical web security risks. Key items to focus on:
- Injection (SQL, NoSQL)
- Broken Authentication
- Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
- Security Misconfiguration
- Sensitive Data Exposure
21. SQL Injection
SQL injection allows attackers to manipulate databases. Example:
-- Vulnerable query
query = "SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = '" + user_input + "';"
Tip: Always use parameterized queries to prevent injection.
22. Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
XSS occurs when user input is improperly sanitized. Types include:
- Reflected XSS
- Stored XSS
- DOM-based XSS
23. CSRF & Authentication Flaws
Cross-Site Request Forgery tricks authenticated users into performing unwanted actions. Learn token-based prevention mechanisms.
24. File Upload & Remote Code Execution (RCE)
File upload features can be exploited if not validated. RCE vulnerabilities allow attackers to execute commands on the server.
25. Bug Bounty Mindset
Start practicing on platforms like HackerOne or Bugcrowd. Focus on responsible disclosure and learning patterns of vulnerabilities.
Tip!
Document everything you practice. Notes, screenshots, and mini reports will help you in real job interviews.
Phase 5: System & Network Security
Understanding system and network security is critical for defending against attacks and analyzing incidents. This phase focuses on securing endpoints, networks, and services.
26. Malware Types
Common malware includes:
- Virus – Self-replicating, requires user action
- Trojan – Disguised as legitimate software
- Ransomware – Encrypts files and demands payment
- Worms – Spread automatically over networks
Tip: Study malware behavior in isolated lab environments to stay safe.
27. Antivirus & EDR Concepts
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools provide advanced threat detection beyond traditional antivirus. Learn how logs, alerts, and quarantines work.
28. Privilege Escalation
Attackers often try to escalate privileges. Learn Linux and Windows techniques safely in lab environments:
# Linux example: checking sudo privileges
sudo -l
29. Active Directory Basics
AD is central to enterprise security. Focus on:
- User and group management
- Group Policy Objects (GPOs)
- Kerberos authentication
30. Password Attacks & Hashing
Understanding hashes and cracking techniques helps secure systems:
# Example: hashing a password using Python
import hashlib
password = "Maxon2026!"
hashed = hashlib.sha256(password.encode()).hexdigest()
print(hashed)
31. System Hardening
Reduce attack surface by:
- Disabling unnecessary services
- Applying patches regularly
- Using strong password policies
- Implementing firewalls and endpoint security
Tip!
Build a checklist for system hardening—it’s practical and shows readiness for enterprise environments.
Phase 6: Advanced Security
Advanced topics prepare you for emerging trends in 2026, including Cloud security, AI-based threat detection, and modern architectures.
32. Cloud Security (AWS, Azure Basics)
Learn:
- IAM roles and permissions
- VPCs, subnets, and firewalls
- Data encryption at rest and in transit
Tip: Practice setting up a secure cloud lab in AWS free tier or Azure sandbox.
33. Container & Docker Security
Containers isolate applications. Key practices include:
- Least-privilege containers
- Scanning images for vulnerabilities
- Network segmentation between containers
34. Zero Trust Architecture
Zero Trust assumes no user or device is trusted by default. Core principles:
- Continuous authentication and verification
- Least privilege access
- Micro-segmentation of networks
35. IoT Security Basics
IoT devices are often insecure. Learn:
- Common IoT protocols (MQTT, CoAP)
- Default credential risks
- Firmware update mechanisms
36. Mobile Security (Android Intro)
Mobile devices are often targeted via malicious apps or network attacks. Focus on:
- Android app permissions
- Reverse engineering basics
- Using emulators safely
37. AI & Cyber Security
AI is transforming threat detection and automation:
- AI-based anomaly detection
- Machine learning for malware classification
- Threat intelligence automation
Tip!
Even if you don’t code ML models yourself, understanding AI security applications will make you highly competitive in 2026.
Phase 7: Blue Team & Red Team Skills
At this stage, you learn how to defend and attack systems like a professional. Understanding both sides builds a complete security mindset.
38. SOC & Incident Response
Security Operations Centers (SOC) monitor and respond to security events. Key tasks:
- Monitoring logs and alerts
- Incident triage and escalation
- Using SIEM tools for correlation
39. SIEM Tools (Splunk Basics)
Security Information and Event Management tools collect, analyze, and visualize logs from multiple sources. Example: using Splunk to detect anomalies:
# Example search for failed logins in Splunk
index=security_logs sourcetype=linux_secure "failed password"
40. Threat Intelligence
Learn to gather, analyze, and apply threat intelligence for proactive defense:
- Open-source feeds (OSINT)
- Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)
- Sharing intelligence within a team
41. Red Team vs Blue Team
Red Team simulates attacks, Blue Team defends. Knowing both sides helps you identify gaps in defenses and think like an attacker.
42. Purple Team Workflow
Purple Teams bridge Red and Blue Teams, ensuring feedback loops improve detection and mitigation strategies. Focus on collaboration and reporting skills.
Tip!
Even if you choose Blue Team or Red Team as a career, having basic knowledge of the opposite side will greatly enhance your effectiveness.
Phase 8: Career, Certifications, and Practice
This phase is about transitioning from learning to working professionally. Focus on skill validation, real-world practice, and career preparation.
43. Cyber Security Roles
Understand different roles to target your learning:
- SOC Analyst / Threat Analyst
- Penetration Tester / Ethical Hacker
- Security Engineer / Architect
- Cloud Security Specialist
- Incident Response / Forensics Expert
44. Certifications Roadmap
Certifications validate your skills and improve employability. Key certifications for 2026:
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)
- Cloud Security Certifications (CCSP, AWS Security)
- CISSP (advanced, for experienced professionals)
45. Real-World Labs
Hands-on experience is irreplaceable. Recommended platforms:
- TryHackMe – Beginner-friendly labs
- Hack The Box – Advanced penetration testing
- Cyber Range environments
46. Building a Portfolio & GitHub
Document your labs, scripts, reports, and projects in a portfolio or GitHub. It demonstrates skills to employers and clients.
47. Resume & Interview Preparation
Focus on:
- Highlighting projects and labs
- Listing certifications
- Demonstrating problem-solving mindset
- Practicing common cyber security interview scenarios
48. Freelancing & Bug Bounty Roadmap
For additional experience and income:
- Join bug bounty platforms (HackerOne, Bugcrowd)
- Start small, focus on one type of vulnerability at a time
- Document and report professionally
Final Tip!
Cyber security is a constantly evolving field. Treat learning as a journey rather than a checklist, and always prioritize hands-on experience alongside theory.
