Overview

This course provides hands-on training in network traffic analysis using Wireshark for cybersecurity professionals. You’ll learn to capture, analyze, and interpret network traffic to detect security threats and investigate incidents. Through practical exercises, you’ll gain experience with packet sniffing, protocol analysis, and traffic flow monitoring while working with real-world network data. The curriculum covers essential techniques including Deep Packet Inspection (DPI), traffic filtering, and anomaly detection. You’ll practice identifying malicious patterns like DDoS attacks, port scanning, and data exfiltration attempts. Case studies simulate actual security incidents, teaching you to correlate evidence and trace attack vectors through network traffic. A key focus is developing actionable reporting skills for incident response teams. You’ll learn to document findings, create visualizations of network activity, and present technical details to both security teams and non-technical stakeholders. The course culminates in a capstone project where you analyze a complex traffic capture and produce a professional security assessment report. Designed for aspiring cybersecurity analysts, network administrators, and IT professionals, this training bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical traffic analysis skills. You’ll finish with hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and techniques that are immediately applicable in security operations centers and forensic investigations.

Syllabus

Network Forensics and Network Traffic Analysis

This module introduces you to the world of network forensics and traffic analysis. You'll explore the principles, tools, and ethical considerations involved in capturing and analyzing network traffic. Through real-world case studies and readings, you'll learn to differentiate between traffic analysis and forensic investigation. By the end of this module, you'll understand the foundations of network-based investigations, privacy concerns, and the role of traffic visualization in detecting threats.

Packet Capture and Filtering with Wireshark

In this module, you will learn how to use Wireshark to capture and filter packets. You'll explore how to install, configure, and navigate Wireshark's interface, and practice using basic and advanced filters. Hands-on labs will guide you through real-world capture scenarios, while readings and videos explain the relevance of packet capture in ethical hacking and network monitoring. By the end of this module, you'll be able to capture traffic, apply filters, and analyze packet structures.

DPI and Network Protocol Analysis

This module focuses on Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) and network protocol analysis. You'll learn how to inspect packet payloads, analyze protocol behavior, and identify vulnerabilities. Hands-on labs and readings guide you through DPI and protocol analysis using Wireshark. By the end of this module, you will be able to recognize malware activity, misconfigurations, and common protocol weaknesses.

Advanced Traffic Analysis and Reporting

This module advances your skills by teaching flow data analysis, anomaly detection, and professional reporting. You'll learn how to use NetFlow-style data and Wireshark to identify security threats and then document your findings clearly for stakeholders. Ethical and legal considerations are emphasized throughout, and you'll complete a real-world traffic investigation activity.

Final Project and Course Wrap-Up

This practical module teaches learners to capture, filter, and analyze live network traffic using Wireshark. Participants will identify anomalies, identify unauthorized access attempts, and document findings. By the end, learners will apply traffic analysis techniques to enhance network security monitoring.