Certified Network Defender (C|ND)

Overview

The EC-Council Certified Network Defender (C|ND) certification is aimed at network administrators and IT professionals who are responsible for ensuring the security, resiliency, and integrity of computer networks within an organization.

Target Audience

• Network Administrators
• Network Security Analysts
• Cybersecurity Analysts
• IT Security Managers
• Information Security Officers
• System Administrators
• IT Auditors
• Security Consultants
• Penetration Testers
• IT Professionals Transitioning to Security Roles

Objectives

The primary purpose of the C|ND certification is to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect, detect, respond to, and recover from network security threats and attacks.

The C|ND certification covers several key domains related to network defense and security, including:

• Domain 1: Network Security Essentials
• Domain 2: Network Security Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Attacks
• Domain 3: Network Security Controls, Protocols, and Devices
• Domain 4: Network Security Policy Design and Implementation
• Domain 5: Physical Security
• Domain 6: Host Security
• Domain 7: Secure Firewall Configuration and Management
• Domain 8: Secure IDS Configuration and Management
• Domain 9: Secure VPN Configuration and Management
• Domain 10: Wireless Network Defense
• Domain 11: Network Traffic Monitoring and Analysis
• Domain 12: Network Risk and Vulnerability Assessment

Benefits

The C|ND certification emphasizes practical, hands-on skills, including the ability to configure and manage network security controls, analyze network traffic for signs of malicious activity, and respond to security incidents effectively.

Earning the C|ND certification can enhance a professional’s career prospects by demonstrating their expertise in network security and their commitment to staying current with industry best practices.  It can also qualify individuals for roles with increased responsibilities and higher salaries within organizations that prioritize cybersecurity.

Prerequisites

• Candidates should have a fundamental understanding of computer networking concepts, protocols, and technologies.  This includes knowledge of TCP/IP, subnetting, DNS, DHCP, and OSI model.
• While there might not be strict work experience requirements, having some experience in roles related to network administration, security analysis, or cybersecurity is beneficial.  sEC-Council often recommends that candidates have at least two years of experience in a relevant field before pursuing the C|ND certification.