FM101 — Foundations

Your first step into cyber security — no experience required.

FortMind FM101 builds the bedrock every security professional stands on. Across hands-on, practical labs you'll go from "how does a computer even work?" to confidently navigating networks, the web, Linux and Windows, the command line, and the core principles that underpin all of security.

This isn't a watch-and-forget video course. Every concept is paired with a lab you actually do — in an isolated environment that gives you hands-on experience.

What you'll learn

• How computers, operating systems, and software really work
• Networking fundamentals: IP, ports, protocols, DNS, and how data moves
• How the web works: HTTP, requests and responses, and the anatomy of a website
• Linux and Windows essentials, including the command line and scripting basics
• Core security principles: the CIA triad, defense in depth, and least privilege
• Cryptography and hashing concepts explained in plain language
• The threat landscape: malware types, social engineering, and common attacks
• Personal cyber hygiene, and how to think like both an attacker and a defender
• Where to go next, and the cyber security career paths open to you

Who it's for

Complete beginners, career switchers, students, and IT staff moving into security — anyone who wants a solid, practical foundation before specializing in an offensive (red team) or defensive (blue team) track.

Prerequisites

None. If you can use a computer, you're ready.

Format

Concept-first explanations · hands-on rooms · practical labs · capture-the-flag style checks.

Outcome

By the end you'll understand how systems and networks work, speak the language of security with confidence, and be ready for FortMind FM201 — The Five Stages of Hacking (offensive) or FM301 — Defensive Blue Team.