Project URL: https://academy.hackthebox.com/preview/certifications/htb-certified-defensive-security-analyst

Update!:

Welcome to yet another update in my journey. I have embarked on a new journey to gain the HTB Certified Defensive Security Analyst (HTB CDSA) certification to advance my knowledge within the field of cybersecurity. I am currently in the process of studying for the exam and plan to take it soon.

Overview:

The HTB Certified Defensive Security Analyst (HTB CDSA) certification is designed to assess candidates' skills in security analysis, SOC operations, and incident handling. This certification demonstrates technical competency in these areas at an intermediate level, focusing on the ability to detect security incidents, think creatively, correlate data effectively, and produce actionable security incident reports.

Target Audience:

The certification is ideal for entry-level Security Analysts, SOC Analysts, Incident Handlers, Forensics Analysts, Penetration Testers, IT Administrators, and IT Security Personnel seeking to enhance their skills and advance in their careers.

Key Differentiators:

Continuous Evaluation:
Candidates must complete all modules of the "SOC Analyst" job-role path with hands-on skills assessments to be eligible for the examination, ensuring ongoing learning and assessment throughout the journey.

Hands-on & Real-world Exam Environment:
Candidates perform security analysis, SOC operations, and incident handling activities on real-world networks, not through multiple-choice questions, fostering practical skills.

Outside-the-box Thinking & Data Correlation:
Candidates are challenged to think creatively and correlate disparate data to achieve exam objectives, mirroring real-world scenarios.

Commercial-grade Report Requirement:
Candidates must produce a market-ready security incident report, showcasing their ability to assess risks and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

Seamless Experience Powered By Pwnbox:
The entire exam process, including activities and tools, can be accessed through the browser, eliminating infrastructure requirements and enhancing accessibility.

Knowledge Domains:

The certification evaluates candidates' knowledge in SOC Processes & Methodologies, SIEM Operations (ELK/Splunk), Tactical Analytics, Log Analysis, Threat Hunting, Active Directory Attack Analysis, Network Traffic Analysis (including IDS/IPS), Malware Analysis, and DFIR Operations.

The Exam:

Candidates perform security analysis, SOC operations, and incident handling activities on real-world networks accessible via VPN. They receive a letter of engagement detailing engagement details, requirements, objectives, and scope. All activities can be performed with a stable internet connection and VPN software.

Conclusion:

HTB CDSA is a comprehensive certification that equips candidates with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in security analysis, SOC operations, and incident handling roles. It offers a unique and practical examination experience that prepares candidates for real-world challenges in cybersecurity.