week 1

Individual Report Task: Understanding the Tools Used for Cyber Security

Task Overview

In this task, you will research and write a short report on the key tools used in cyber security. These tools help organisations identify, analyse, and prevent cyber threats. You will explore different categories of security tools, how they work, and their importance in protecting IT systems.

Your report should be 200–300 words and cover at least four types of cyber security tools.

Title Page

Include your name, date, and a title (e.g., Understanding the Tools Used for Cyber Security).

1. Outline the Cyber Security Tool Category

Describe the type of tool and its purpose in cyber security.

Example categories to cover:

 • Vulnerability Scanners

 • Forensic Tools

 • Penetration Testing Tools

 • Network and Traffic Analysis Tools

2. Explain How This Tool Helps in Cyber Security

For each tool category, explain how it is used to detect, investigate, or prevent cyber threats.

For example:

 • Vulnerability Scanners (e.g., Nessus, OpenVAS)

 • Used to scan networks and systems for security weaknesses.

 • Helps identify outdated software, weak passwords, and misconfigurations.

 • Forensic Tools (e.g., Autopsy, FTK Imager)

 • Used in digital investigations to recover deleted files and trace cyberattacks.

 • Helps law enforcement and security teams gather evidence after a breach.

 • Penetration Testing Tools (e.g., Metasploit, Kali Linux)

 • Simulates cyberattacks to test system security.

 • Helps organisations find vulnerabilities before hackers exploit them.

 • Network and Traffic Analysis Tools (e.g., Wireshark, SolarWinds)

 • Monitors network traffic to detect suspicious activity.

 • Helps prevent Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks and unauthorised access.

3. Recommended Use and Effectiveness

Discuss the importance of these tools and how they contribute to a secure IT environment.

 • Why should organisations use them?

 • How do they prevent cyber threats?

 • What are their limitations?

Example:

“Although penetration testing tools like Metasploit are powerful for security testing, they require skilled professionals to use them correctly. If misused, they could cause system disruptions.”

4. Additional Resources and Further Reading

Provide useful links for learning more about these tools.

Example:

 • Nessus Vulnerability Scanner Overview – https://www.tenable.com/products/nessus

 • Wireshark Network Analysis Guide – https://www.wireshark.org/docs/

Submission and Marking Criteria

Your report should be 200–300 words and must be clearly structured, well-researched, and easy to understand.

✔️ Accuracy of Research – Are the tools described correctly?

✔️ Technical Understanding – Are their uses and benefits clearly explained?

✔️ Presentation and Clarity – Is the report well-organised and readable?

Final Note

This task will help you understand the essential cyber security tools used by professionals to protect IT systems. Take your time to research and provide clear explanations.

Last Updated
2025-05-12 10:27:32