Cyber Defense

Cyber Defense Track

IronCircle’s Cyber Defense Track is a comprehensive, end-to-end pathway for aspiring cyber defenders. Built to take you from foundational cybersecurity knowledge to advanced defensive operations, this stackable certification spans nine microcredentials and three IronCircle certifications: Certified Cybersecurity Analyst, Certified SOC Analyst, and Certified CTI Analyst.

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Program Details

The IronCircle Cyber Defense Track is a stackable, all-in-one cybersecurity certification track that prepares learners to move from foundational cyber defense skills to advanced threat intelligence expertise. Spanning nine microcredentials across three IronCircle certifications, this hands-on, role-aligned track equips learners with the practical knowledge and tools needed to excel in a modern SOC.

Through a blend of concept learning, AI-powered lab simulations, and applied exams, learners develop the skills to detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats. Delivered through the browser-based IronCircle platform, the Cyber Defense Track provides job-ready training aligned to critical cyber defense job roles.

Skill Level

Beginner

Technical 

recommended Pacing

10

hrs/week

for

30

weeks

  • Cybersecurity fundamentals and SOC operations
  • Log analysis, SIEM tuning, and alert prioritization
  • Incident response workflows and threat mitigation
  • Threat actor profiling and infrastructure tracking
  • Structured analytic techniques and reporting
  • Use of real tools like Splunk, Wireshark, MISP, and ThreatConnect
  • CTI integration with threat hunting and response teams
  • SOAR tools, detection engineering, and automation
  • Basic IT or networking knowledge
  • Ideal for those ready to build or expand their technical cybersecurity skills
  • Recommended to have foundational experience or have completed IronCircle’s Certified Cybersecurity Associate
  • Learners starting their first technical cybersecurity certification
  • Career changers seeking a structured entry into cyber defense team roles
  • Academic institutions offering multi-tiered cybersecurity programs
  • IT, help desk, or compliance professionals transitioning to SOC roles
  • SOC teams looking to upskill talent with structured, applied training
  • Students seeking a certification-backed path into cybersecurity careers

From IronCircle to Industry Leaders

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Outcomes

Upon completing the program, learners will be able to:

  • Analyze system and network logs to detect threats
  • Operate within a SOC workflow using SIEM and SOAR platforms
  • Triage alerts and escalate incidents using structured playbooks
  • Conduct basic malware analysis and infrastructure tracking
  • Apply structured techniques to reduce analytic bias
  • Communicate intelligence findings to technical and executive audiences
  • Contribute to threat intelligence programs and incident response initiatives

Benefits

Microcredentials

Nine stackable microcredentials across three certifications

Lab-driven

300 hours of content, with 60% dedicated to hands-on labs

Career support

Career support throughout the program through skills lists, case studies, and built-in interview prep to help showcase new skills and expertise to future employers

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A White House-Recognized Leader in Cybersecurity Education

Recognized by the White House as one of nine partners who have made major commitments to fill cyber jobs.

Program Completion

Certified Web Penetration Tester badge collection from IronCircle, featuring Web Security Testing Fundamentals, Web Application Penetration Testing, and Web Vulnerability Exploitation certifications.

Learners have 365 days to complete all nine microcredentials.

A certification is awarded for each microcredential upon passing its applied exam. Complete all nine to receive three full, career-aligned certifications:

IronCircle Certified Cybersecurity Analyst
IronCircle Certified SOC Analyst
IronCircle Certified CTI Analyst

FAQ

Delivery

All lessons, labs, and exams are delivered through the IronCircle platform, an all-in-one, browser-based learning platform experience.

Equipment Requirements

  • A functional laptop or desktop computer with at least a 12-inch monitor
    • The program cannot be completed using a cell phone, Chromebook, iPad, or tablet.
  • Reliable broadband internet access

Cancellation Policy

Refunds are not provided for IronCircle learning experiences. 
Please see terms & conditions.

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