Foundations and Reconnaissance Techniques

Overview

Updated in May 2025. This course now features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Embark on a comprehensive journey into penetration testing with this course. You’ll develop critical skills in identifying vulnerabilities and assessing network resiliency against attacks. Gain an in-depth understanding of reconnaissance techniques and learn how to gather vital information to secure networks effectively. The course begins with foundational concepts of penetration testing, covering essential legal, regulatory, and compliance considerations like GDPR and PCI-DSS. You’ll explore standards and methodologies such as NIST and MITRE ATT&CK, ensuring a strong grounding in industry best practices. Learn the importance of professionalism and integrity while preparing for engagements by defining clear scopes and adhering to ethical guidelines. In the second phase, dive deep into reconnaissance and scanning techniques. Master tools like DNS recon, host discovery, and vulnerability scanning to identify weak spots in both traditional and cloud environments. You’ll also explore advanced concepts like defense detection and evasion, learning how to bypass security measures effectively. The course culminates with a detailed look at using Nmap, the trusted tool for probing and analyzing network vulnerabilities. This course is ideal for aspiring cybersecurity professionals, IT auditors, or anyone aiming to strengthen their understanding of penetration testing. It’s designed for learners with basic networking knowledge and offers a structured progression from foundational to advanced topics.

Syllabus

Foundations of Penetration Testing

In this module, we will explore the foundational aspects of penetration testing, including its purpose, legal considerations, and professional standards. Learners will gain insight into compliance mandates, industry-recognized methodologies, and the critical importance of defining a clear scope of work. Emphasis will also be placed on the professionalism and integrity required in this field to handle sensitive information responsibly.

Reconnaissance and Scanning Techniques

In this module, we will delve into the art and science of reconnaissance and scanning techniques, essential for uncovering potential security gaps. Learners will practice tools like Nmap and vulnerability scanners to identify live hosts and weaknesses while mastering advanced methods for cloud and web discovery. The module also highlights defensive evasion strategies, ensuring a realistic and effective penetration testing approach.