11 Things to Look for in an InfoSec Training Platform

Introduction:

When it comes to choosing the right infosec training platform, the options can be overwhelming. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 11 things to look for when selecting the perfect infosec training platform. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, these points will help you make an informed decision and find a platform that meets your specific needs.

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1. Defensive, not just offensive - A truly purple team approach:

Look for a platform that offers a purple team approach, allowing you to learn both defensive and offensive tactics. Being a well-rounded security professional means understanding both sides of the equation and being able to effectively defend against attacks while also understanding how they work.

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2. Skill levels:

Choose a platform that caters to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. This ensures that you can continuously challenge yourself and grow your expertise in information security. The platform should provide a clear learning path that guides you through the various skill levels.

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3. Playgrounds and hands-on labs for real-world skills:

Practical experience is crucial in the world of infosec. Select a platform that offers immersive hands-on labs, sandboxes, and playgrounds where you can apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. This practical training will enhance your skills and give you the confidence to tackle real-world security challenges.

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4. Transparent pricing structure and no surprise cloud bills:

Be cautious of platforms that have hidden costs or surprise cloud bills. Look for a platform that provides a clear pricing structure, ensuring that you know what to expect. Ideally, the platform should offer its own cloud instances, eliminating the need for you to bring your own cloud account and avoiding any unexpected expenses.

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5. Browser-based accessibility:

Flexibility is key in today's fast-paced world. Choose a platform that allows you to access the training directly from your browser, without the need for additional downloads or installations. This browser-based approach lets you keep your learning separate from your work applications and enables easy access from any device.

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6. Trainers' background and expertise:

Pay attention to the trainers' expertise and pedagogy. Look for platforms backed by experienced professionals who have a strong understanding of effective teaching methods. Trainers who have presented at industry-level conferences like BlackHat, RSA, or DefCon often have a higher level of expertise and can offer valuable insights.

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7. Interactive challenges for engaging learning:

Learning should be engaging and fun! Seek a platform that offers interactive challenges to test and reinforce your skills. Challenges provide hands-on opportunities to fix issues rather than simply breaking them, mirroring real-world scenarios. Regularly updated challenges keep you engaged and help you enhance your skills.

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8. Recognized certifications:

The right platform will provide recognized certifications that validate your skills. These certifications not only add credibility to your professional profile but also enhance your career prospects. Look for platforms that offer verifiable certificates from reputable organizations.

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9. Scalability for team training:

If you're training a team, scalability becomes a crucial factor. Choose a platform that allows you to add more users, assign specific users to groups and teams, and easily roll out tailored training to each team member. Additionally, consider how the platform supports geographically dispersed teams and enables progress monitoring.

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10. Updated and cutting-edge content:

Information security is a rapidly evolving field. Ensure that the platform you choose regularly updates its content to keep you up to date with the latest trends, techniques, and best practices. Look for platforms that add new courses, challenges, and labs frequently, providing you with access to cutting-edge knowledge.

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11. Price point:

While quality training is invaluable, it's important to find a platform that aligns with your budget. Seek platforms that offer competitive pricing without compromising on the content and support you need. Remember, a significantly low price might indicate a compromise on quality, so it's essential to strike the right balance. 

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Conclusion:

Selecting the right infosec training platform is crucial for your professional growth in the field of information security. Consider these 11 key factors when making your decision, and weigh the pros and cons of each platform accordingly. If you need further assistance, refer to our comprehensive comparison of the best training platforms to help you make an informed choice. 

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Never Stop Learning!