Free Cybersecurity Course
Enter the cybersecurity field with our free introductory course. Learn the basics and build a strong foundation.
The job of a cybersecurity professional is as challenging as it is rewarding. Novel and increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks have become routine in today’s digital economy, and it’s up to cybersecurity professionals to stop these attacks. The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to increase as cyberattacks become more costly—one study from Business Wire predicted that the global cybersecurity market will grow to over $345 billion by 2026.
For those passionate about technology, but not necessarily inclined to spend their days coding, cybersecurity can be a great choice. It’s a field where analytical thinking, problem-solving, and a good eye for detail work wonders against digital threats.
If you’re interested in cybersecurity, but don’t want to yet commit to a timely and costly course, a free cybersecurity bootcamp can be a great risk-free way to dip in your toes. In this article, we’ll look at some of the best free cybersecurity bootcamps available and help you out on your journey.
Best Free Cybersecurity Bootcamps
Here are nine of the best free cybersecurity bootcamps to check out if you want to upgrade your skills.
| Provider | Rating | Duration | Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Springboard | 4.6/5 | Can be completed in just over 8 hours. | N/A |
| Google Career Certificates | 4.8/5 | Structured to be completed in 181 hours. | Instructor-led demonstrations and a support system via the platform’s resources. |
| Per Scholas | N/A | 15 weeks. | Mentorship and career guidance from alums, including complementary upskilling opportunities for up to two years post-graduation. |
| althaus | N/A | Takes 12 weeks to complete. | Personalized learning plans and dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals. |
| Flatiron School | 4.5/5 | Usually, they last for several weeks, and some of them are self-paced courses. | Access to experienced instructors and receive constant guidance throughout the course. The bootcamp also offers career preparation services and strong community support. |
| Evolve Academy | 4.8/5 | 20 weeks. | Helps students set up a home lab for ongoing practice, giving them access to experienced cybersecurity pros for guidance and learning. |
| Level Effect | 5/5 | Takes approximately 16-20+ hours to complete. | Access support through the Level Effect Discord server, where they can interact with instructors and fellow learners. |
| Fullstack Academy | 4.8/5 | The first 25 hours of the Fullstack Cyber Bootcamp curriculum is for free. | Offers various support levels, including mentorship, high-quality instruction, and a collaborative learning environment. |
| Cybrary | N/A | Approximately 16-20+ hours. | Discussion forums or group chats plus numerous hands-on labs, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned in real-life scenarios. |
Springboard
Springboard is one of the leading platforms offering free training in the field of cybersecurity. It’s recognized for its interactive and in-depth curriculum, which blends both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
In addition to their comprehensive bootcamp with job guarantee, they also offer a free Learning Path that includes a variety of learning materials, such as case studies, readings, and videos. Taking a foundational approach, students learn essential terminologies and concepts that are critical to understanding the broader cybersecurity landscape. This includes a basic understanding of common cybersecurity threats, how to perform a security assessment, learning about various security technologies, and exploring career options.
RATING
4.6/5 on Course Report
FEATURES
- Covers a wide range of topics, from cybersecurity fundamentals to advanced concepts
- Built by cybersecurity experts
- Focuses on practical skills like offensive security and penetration testing
- Suitable for those new to the field or considering a career shift
- Prepares students for roles in international markets
DURATION
Springboard’s Free Cybersecurity Learning Path can be completed in just over 8 hours.
SUPPORT
N/A
Google Career Certificates
If you want a cybersecurity certificate from Google, make sure to check out the Google Career Certificates on Coursera. Upon completion, students should have the essential skills to land an entry-level cybersecurity job. It explores common risks, threats, and vulnerabilities and covers the implementation of various mitigation techniques.
What’s even more interesting is the fact that the certificate prepares learners for the CompTIA Security+ exam, one of the industry’s leading cybersecurity certifications.
RATING
4.8/5 on Coursera
FEATURES
- Prepares students for the CompTIA Security+ exam
- Is accessible to beginners
- Offers both flexible and remote learning
- Includes a 10-hour introductory course
DURATION
The Google Cybersecurity Certificate is structured to be completed in 181 hours.
SUPPORT
Students can take this course independently, with resources available through the Coursera platform. While direct mentorship is unavailable, the course includes instructor-led demonstrations and a support system via the platform’s resources.
Per Scholas
Per Scholas, among other free cybersecurity bootcamps, has campuses in various locations within the US and provides hands-on training, preparing students to get a job in cybersecurity.
A key feature of Per Scholas is the fact that it helps students earn the Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+), a credential that helps them become employable and ready for an entry-level technology role.
RATING
N/A
FEATURES
- Helps you earn the Cybersecurity Analyst Certification
- Classes are conducted remotely from Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM
- Includes live instructor-led training with hands-on activities using real-world servers, tools, and technologies
- Teaches essential skills like Python programming and modules on the AWS Educate Platform
DURATION
15 weeks.
SUPPORT
This bootcamp offers mentorship and career guidance from alums, including complementary upskilling opportunities for up to two years post-graduation.
althaus
althaus is one of the distinguished providers of specialized training in cybersecurity in the UK. It’s government-funded and primarily addressed to learners based in the Midlands region who are self-employed and seeking skill upgrades or the unemployed who seek to acquire more in-demand skills.
The curriculum is led by cybersecurity industry experts and teaches students skills such as mitigating online threats and identifying them before they cause problems.
RATING
N/A
FEATURES
- Combines remote, live, and on-demand teaching opportunities
- Includes topics like malware, cryptography, disaster recovery, and more
- Students receive a Cisco Cyber Security Essentials qualification upon completion
- For those looking for a job, the program offers a guaranteed interview with partner employers
DURATION
althaus takes 12 weeks to complete.
SUPPORT
In terms of support, the bootcamp includes personalized learning plans and dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals. For those who want to land a job as soon as they finish the program, a guaranteed interview is available with one of althaus’ partner employers.
Flatiron School
Flatiron School is known for its immersive bootcamps in various tech disciplines, including cybersecurity. It’s a great way for individuals to explore their interests, and you can also use it to prepare for the more intensive, paid bootcamps that Flatiron offers.
RATING
4.5/5 on Course Report
FEATURES
- Includes foundational concepts in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or Git for software engineering
- One of the most sought-after cybersecurity courses that make it easier for prospective students to explore tech and cybersecurity career paths
- Features a module called “Career Prep Lite” for building a personal brand and getting ready for cybersecurity interview questions
- Has access to a community of fellow students, alums, and industry professionals
DURATION
The Flatiron School free bootcamps vary depending on the specific course and the learning format chosen (full-time or part-time). Usually, they last for several weeks, and some of them are self-paced courses.
SUPPORT
Students have access to experienced instructors and receive constant guidance throughout the course. The bootcamp also offers career preparation services and strong community support.
Evolve Academy
The Evolve Academy bootcamp is a program focusing on improving hands-on technical skills that are essential for a career in cybersecurity. It focuses on the theoretical aspects of cybersecurity, the foundational knowledge, and the necessary practical experience. Students learn how to secure personal data and understand the nuances and demands of working in the industry.
RATING
4.8/5 on Course Report
FEATURES
- It’s a prerequisite for the Evolve Security Academy’s 20-week Bootcamp
- Covers various aspects, including Intro to Cybersecurity, Linux, Networking, Ethical Hacking 101, and Home Lab Setup
- Includes learning hacking tools like netcat, nmap, and wireshark
- Provides access to Evolve’s proprietary CyberLAB™ simulation platform for real-world cybersecurity training
- Enables students to set up their own home lab environment to continue learning outside class hours.
DURATION
The duration of the bootcamp is 20 weeks.
SUPPORT
Evolve Academy helps students set up a home lab for ongoing practice, giving them access to experienced cybersecurity pros for guidance and learning.
Level Effect
For cybersecurity beginners who want to improve their skills, Level Effect offers a practical journey through its Cybersecurity Foundations bootcamp, which provides foundational knowledge in IT, cybersecurity, and compliance.
With the help of students and graduates, the bootcamp has recently rebranded and improved to create a more immersive learning experience. It’s an excellent starting point for anyone looking to explore the field and get an in-depth understanding of essential topics like operating systems, networking, cryptography, incident response, or compliance.
RATING
5/5 on SwitchUp
FEATURES
- Includes quizzes and challenges throughout the course
- Provides assignments in a cyber range to apply your knowledge in a practical setting
- You’ll earn a digital badge upon completing each course and a final badge after completing all three
DURATION
The entire cybersecurity training pathway takes approximately 16-20+ hours to complete.
SUPPORT
Students can access support through the Level Effect Discord server, where they can interact with instructors and fellow learners.
Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy is an online courses platform that offers a free course called “Cyber OnRamp,” designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and the skills needed to enroll in the full bootcamp.
The course focuses on the Linux Command Line and is perfect for beginners, as it teaches command line proficiency, which is one of the most critical skills for cybersecurity.
RATING
4.8/5 on Course Report
FEATURES
- The first 25 hours of the Fullstack Cyber Bootcamp curriculum are available for free
- Learn from cybersecurity experts through video lessons
- Uses Fullstack’s Cyberlab platform for hands-on skill development
- Offers a list of resources for deeper understanding of key cybersecurity topics
- Suitable for both part-time and full-time learners
DURATION
The duration of the Fullstack Academy Cyber OnRamp Bootcamp varies, depending on the learning path chosen by the student. The introductory course offers the first 25 hours of the Fullstack Cyber Bootcamp curriculum for free.
SUPPORT
The Fullstack Academy offers various support levels, including mentorship, high-quality instruction, and a collaborative learning environment.
Cybrary
With Cybrary, cybersecurity aficionados have access to a resource-rich platform to start their journey. Cybrary’s IT and Cybersecurity Foundations course stands out for its accessibility to newcomers, addressing the challenge of finding reliable information to break into the field. The bootcamp offers bite-sized content from expert instructors, covering core concepts found across all cybersecurity roles.
RATING
N/A
FEATURES
- Includes three courses: IT Fundamentals, Fundamentals of Cybersecurity, and Compliance Fundamentals
- Features hands-on labs in Wireshark, Nmap, Cryptography, Firewalls, IDS, and Vulnerability Scanners
- Bite-sized, user-friendly content designed for beginners
- Digital badges awarded upon completion of each course
DURATION
The duration of the Cybrary IT and Cybersecurity Foundations Bootcamp is approximately 16-20+ hours.
SUPPORT
Students can connect and interact with others through various platforms, including discussion forums or group chats. The bootcamp also offers numerous hands-on labs, allowing students to apply what they’ve learned in real-life scenarios.
What Makes a Good Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
Our team of cybersecurity experts at Springboard has identified five factors that make a bootcamp stand out: content, instructors, skills, reviews, and practical projects.
Course Content
Evaluate the depth and breadth of the bootcamp’s content. It should detail a range of cybersecurity techniques, including both offensive and defensive strategies, such as threat prevention, early intervention strategies, and how to use different programming languages.
Don’t forget that the content should always be up-to-date. You can make sure of that by researching the newest cybersecurity technologies and double checking if the bootcamp teaches those.
Instructor Expertise
Ideal instructors should have substantial experience and deep knowledge in the field, with a background that includes working on significant cybersecurity projects.
Skills Taught
A good free cybersecurity bootcamp should balance technical skills and soft skills that align with the current industry trends and your career aspirations or specialization goals. Network security architecture and intrusion detection skills should be part of any free cybersecurity bootcamp.
Reviews and Ratings
While public reviews provide a general impression, reaching out to alumni for their honest feedback can offer deeper insights. Don’t be afraid to reach out to them and ask questions on career progression and skill development—these opinions sometimes differ greatly from the general perception created by online ratings.
Practical Projects
Double check if the bootcamp includes practical projects. Whether the bootcamp encourages personal projects or includes structured assignments within its curriculum, the opportunity to work on tangible, practical tasks is a good indicator of a quality BootCamp.
Get To Know Other Cybersecurity Students
Karen Peterson
Compliance Advisory Associate at Coalfire
Jose Mendoza
Cyber Security Career Track Student at Springboard
Vianey Luna
IT Security Specialist at Cooper Machinery Services
Making the Most of Your Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp
To truly benefit from your free cybersecurity bootcamp, you need to understand its structure and how to successfully complete it to get the most benefit. Here’s what you need to know.
How Do Free Cybersecurity Bootcamps Work?
Free cybersecurity bootcamps are structured in an online format 90% of the time, broken down into manageable modules. While some may offer live classes, the majority are asynchronous, and learners can progress at their own pace. This flexible structure is ideal for those balancing other commitments.
Many of these bootcamps offer you credentials or certificates, which are a valuable addition to your cybersecurity resume.
What Can You Expect To Learn in a Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
You should expect to learn a range of technical and foundational topics, including but not limited to:
- Network security and understanding how to protect its infrastructure
- Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and how to identify unauthorized access to systems (access management)
- The basics of encrypting and decrypting data
- Techniques for assessing and mitigating cybersecurity risks (risk management)
- The ins and outs of penetration testing to be able to identify vulnerabilities
Are There Any Prerequisites for a Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
Most free cybersecurity bootcamps do not require prerequisites, making them accessible to a wide audience.
How Can You Implement What You’re Learning?
Theoretical knowledge alone isn’t enough. You’ll need to engage in personal projects, collaborate with a team, or contribute to open-source projects to really launch your career in cybersecurity.
Are Free Cybersecurity Bootcamps Worth It?
Absolutely! They’re especially worth it if you’re just starting out or if you’re looking to enhance your existing cybersecurity skills without a financial commitment. You’ll get massive knowledge and hands-on experience, and they can be a stepping stone for your career in cybersecurity.
FAQs About Free Cybersecurity Bootcamps
We answer your most frequently asked questions.
How Can You Start Learning Cybersecurity Without Experience?
To start learning cybersecurity with no experience, start by exploring free online resources and bootcamps available, especially the free ones outlined in this article. Make sure to also follow cybersecurity blogs, participate in online forums, and engage with the community to get access to opportunities.
What Should You Do After Completing a Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
After completing a free cybersecurity bootcamp, the next step is to consolidate and apply your new knowledge. You can start by working on personal projects or contributing to open-source cybersecurity initiatives to gain practical experience. When you feel like you’re getting to a more advanced level, try to pursue advanced courses or certification exams, such as CompTIA Security+.
Can You Land a Job After Completing a Free Cybersecurity Bootcamp?
Yes, it is possible to get a job after completing a free cybersecurity bootcamp, although the bootcamp may serve more as a stepping stone rather than a direct pathway to employment.
After completing a bootcamp, you’ll have some foundational knowledge and skills that are perfect for an entry-level position. But to break into the cybersecurity field and be successful, you’ll need continuous learning and possibly additional professional certifications or formal training.
What’s the Easiest Field in Cybersecurity?
The “easiest” field in cybersecurity is subjective and depends on your own interests and aptitude. However, it’s usually easier to break into areas such as Cybersecurity Analysis or IT Security Administration.
Since you’re here…
There are hundreds of thousands of vacant cybersecurity jobs, and one of them has your name on it. You can enter the industry in 6 months flat with our Cybersecurity Course. We’ve helped over 10,000 students make huge career changes with our fully flexible mentor-led bootcamps. Explore our free cybersecurity course curriculum today to start your career switch story.
