Projects

Home Security Operations Center (HSOC)

Fellows gain work experience protecting all devices on their networks (e.g., hardening hardware and software, securing routers, configuring firewalls, encrypting wireless connections, and managing IoT devices). These projects develop troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, preparing them for security in homes, small businesses, and enterprises. Fellows also complete research and development projects for HSOC Cyber, sharing their work on social media and building confidence.
Security Operations Center (SOC)

Fellows will monitor security events, analyze threats, and develop incident response plans. They will gain work experience with threat hunting, log analysis, and mitigating cyberattacks through simulated events. These projects will involve detecting anomalies, tracking down indicators of compromise (IOCs), and practicing response and recovery strategies.
Network Operations Center (NOC)

Fellows focus on maintaining the health and security of network infrastructure. Projects include analyzing network traffic, troubleshooting connectivity issues, and responding to network-based security incidents. Fellows will gain experience in network monitoring, optimizing performance, and configuring network security controls to prevent attacks.
Cloud Security

As cloud services become critical, Fellows will learn cloud fundamentals, and how to secure cloud environments like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Projects will involve building instances, configuring access controls, securing virtual environments, and monitoring cloud services for threats. Fellows will practice implementing encryption, managing identity access, and responding to cloud-based incidents.
Pentesting

Fellows will conduct ethical hacking to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems, applications, and networks. Projects will include vulnerability assessments, performing penetration tests, and writing detailed reports with recommended security improvements. These tasks will teach Fellows offensive security techniques for real-world scenarios.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Fellows will help businesses and organizations comply with cybersecurity regulations by conducting risk assessments, preparing compliance reports, and developing security policies for standards like SOC 2, GDPR, and HIPAA. They will assist in managing and mitigating cybersecurity risks while ensuring alignment with regulatory frameworks.
Capture the Flag (CTF)

CTF projects will offer Fellows the opportunity to solve complex security challenges in a competitive environment. Fellows will participate in CTF exercises, identifying vulnerabilities, solving puzzles, and exploiting systems to capture "flags" representing security weaknesses. These projects enhance critical thinking, research, problem-solving skills, and prepare Fellows for fast-paced cybersecurity roles.
Secure Project Management

Fellows will manage cybersecurity projects from planning to execution, focusing on ensuring security throughout the project lifecycle. They will learn how to incorporate security best practices into project management frameworks, ensuring that security risks are identified, mitigated, and tracked. This includes coordinating between teams and managing cybersecurity initiatives within timelines and budgets.
Cybersecurity Consulting

Fellows will prepare to advise businesses, non-profits, and educational institutions on improving their security posture. These projects will involve conducting risk assessments, developing security strategies, and implementing controls to align with regulatory requirements like SOC 2 or GDPR. Fellows will practice delivering actionable insights and recommendations to clients in need of cybersecurity solutions.
Cybersecurity Escape Room

Experience cybersecurity like never before with HSOC Cyber’s interactive Escape Room! Designed for all ages, this fun and engaging training tool challenges participants to solve puzzles and tackle cybersecurity scenarios. Perfect for schools, non-profits, and businesses, the Escape Room fosters teamwork, critical thinking, and boosts security awareness in a memorable way.

NOC Project: Splunk Enterprise Rocky Linux

SOC Project: Splunk SOAR Rocky Linux Installation

Cybersecurity Consulting: Future Kings Middle School Cyber Training

Pentesting Project PyPhisher Presentation and Discussion

Secure Project Management Project: Research and Present Dmitry

HSOC Project: Virtualbox Installation and Organizatioin

HSOC Project: Course Evaluation and Improvement

Project Expectations and Outcomes

- Proficiency-Based Projects vs. Performance-Based Projects
  In performance-based projects, the instructor guides learners step-by-step to ensure the task is completed as outlined. This method emphasizes strict adherence to instructions, limiting independent decision-making and fostering a controlled environment.
  In contrast, proficiency-based projects position the instructor as a coach, offering support only when needed. Learners are encouraged to problem-solve, explore options, and self-correct, promoting creativity, independent decision-making, and critical thinking. This approach focuses on the process and skill development rather than rigid task completion.
- Immediate Immersion in Real-World Cybersecurity Challenges
  Fellows are expected to dive into client projects immediately, and apply learned concepts to protect networks and systems.
- Work Experience
  Fellows will work on their personal systems and client networks, tackling tasks related to SOC, NOC, pentesting, securing home networks, cloud security, and more.
- Collaboration and Peer Mentoring
  Fellows are expected to collaborate with peers, engage in feedback sessions, and mentor others, building a community of shared knowledge and growth.
- Documentation and Reporting
  Fellows must document each task thoroughly, creating a portfolio of cybersecurity work that includes technical reports, issue remediation, and lessons learned.
- Adaptability and Problem-Solving Under Work Conditions
  Fellows will be expected to troubleshoot, adapt, and apply critical thinking skills to solve cybersecurity challenges in real time.
- Client Interaction and Professionalism
  Fellows will engage with clients, understanding their needs and providing professional recommendations on cybersecurity matters.
- Project Completion and Milestones
  Fellows must meet project deadlines, complete milestones, and ensure thorough security assessments or tasks are performed, whether in SOC/NOC environments, during pentests, or secure project management.
- Proficiency in Work Cybersecurity Scenarios
  Fellows will gain work experience with a variety of tools and environments, from network monitoring to penetration testing, ensuring they are ready for professional roles. While performance-based learning has its place in a cybersecurity curriculum or individual learning plan. However, it’s skills-first learning—through projects designed to enhance proficiency—that aligns best with skills-based hiring, where employers prioritize skills over credentials, years of experience, or other factors that don’t objectively demonstrate a candidate’s ability to do the job.
- Portfolio of Documented Work
  Fellows will have a detailed, documented portfolio of completed cybersecurity projects, including reports, tools used, and problem-solving approaches, enhancing their resumes and online profiles.
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Skillset Across Various Domains
  Fellows will develop expertise in areas such as:
  - SOC & NOC Operations: Real-time monitoring, threat detection, and incident response.
  - Pentesting: Identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities in systems to improve security.
  - Cloud Security: Securing cloud environments and understanding modern threats.
  - Home Network Security: Configuring and securing personal networks with advanced security tools.
  - Secure Project Management: Managing cybersecurity projects and ensuring deliverables meet client needs.
  - Capture the Flag (CTF): Engaging in competitive cybersecurity challenges that simulate hacking scenarios.
  - Cybersecurity Consulting: Providing strategic advice to clients on maintaining secure systems and achieving compliance.
- Market-Ready Cyber Professionals
  By completing HSOC Cyber projects, Fellows will be equipped with the technical and soft skills necessary to secure employment in cybersecurity roles. They will understand not just how to operate in cyber roles but also how to communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders.
- Client-Focused Problem Solving
  Fellows will complete client-based projects that provide immediate value, gaining experience in cybersecurity consulting and client communication, positioning them as attractive candidates for cybersecurity firms and consulting roles.
- Growth in Autonomy and Leadership
  Fellows will develop the ability to work independently and take initiative in solving cybersecurity challenges, while also mentoring peers and contributing to group projects.

Become a fellow

Home Security Operations Center (HSOC)

Security Operations Center (SOC)

Network Operations Center (NOC)

Cloud Security

Pentesting

Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC)

Capture the Flag (CTF)

Secure Project Management

Cybersecurity Consulting

Cybersecurity Escape Room

Project Expectations and Outcomes