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Database Basics and Security

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IntermediateCourse

Boost your database security knowledge with this intermediate course designed to strengthen your understanding of critical vulnerabilities. Learn to secure user profiles and implement robust password policies effectively. Gain practical skills in identifying and mitigating database injection vulnerabilities. Master database auditing models to ensure comprehensive protection.

4.5 (30 Reviews)

Language

  • English

Topic

  • Security

Enrollment Count

  • 13.69K

Skills You Will Learn

  • Database Security, User Profiles, Password Policies, Database Injection Vulnerabilities, Database Auditing Models

Offered By

  • IBMSkillsNetwork

Estimated Effort

  • 15 hours

Platform

  • edX

Last Update

  • June 24, 2025
About this Course
Hello, and welcome to this course!

In this course, you will develop a strong understanding of database fundamentals, including database security and data protection strategies and injection vulnerabilities.
You will begin with an introduction to data and databases and explore various types of data, their sources, and applications. Additionally, you will learn SQL basics and gain a comprehensive understanding of essential database roles and permissions, effective management techniques, and the importance of regular database backups. You will also explore database injection vulnerabilities, data types, and classifications, along with a range of methods for securing data. Finally, you will gain a clear understanding of database injection vulnerabilities, including OS command injection and SQL injection.

This course is part of the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate, which is designed to equip learners with comprehensive skills and knowledge to secure the right career in the information security (Infosec) industry.
Prerequisites and Hardware Requirements
You will require basic computer and IT literacy. The course is suitable for professionals aspiring for a career in cybersecurity. It is also suitable for those working as IT professionals or aspiring network administrators seeking to advance their careers.
You can view videos and readings in the courses using any web-enabled device, including tablets and mobile phones. You will need a desktop or laptop computer, a modern web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari, and a reliable internet connection to complete hands-on labs. You can complete labs and projects using virtual or cloud-based environments accessed using a web browser.

If you are new to cybersecurity, here are some courses that would be beneficial to take before starting this course:

Course Objectives

After completing this course, you will be able to:
  • Discuss job-ready data management skills employers need, including how to implement various data protection techniques to secure sensitive information
  • Describe how to configure and manage database user profiles, password policies, privileges, and roles
  • Analyze database injection vulnerabilities, including OS command and SQL injection
  • Practice how to design and implement comprehensive database and application auditing models
Course Outline
This information-packed short course has three modules that should take approximately eight hours to complete. We encourage you to set aside time to complete all the modules. Consistency will help you achieve your learning goals!
To derive maximum benefit from this course, ensure to watch all the videos and go through the readings. Then, reinforce your learning by completing all the hands-on activities, such as the labs, the practice and graded quizzes, and the final project.

This course consists of four modules:

Module 1: Database Fundamentals
In this module, you will explore various data types, their sources, and their uses, gaining a solid understanding of both relational and non-relational databases. The module also covers core database fundamental and relational data concepts. Practical application is emphasized through hands-on labs, where you will work with relational data. Finally, a practice and graded quiz will help reinforce your understanding of these essential concepts.

Module 2: SQL Basics and Database Management Fundamentals
In this module, you will learn SQL basics and master essential SQL operations, including retrieving data using SELECT statements and WHERE clauses, employing expressions like COUNT, DISTINCT, and LIMIT, and modifying data with INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements. Additionally, the module covers database structures, backup techniques, and managing database roles and permissions, enhancing your ability to maintain and optimize databases. The hands-on labs will emphasize practical application, where you will learn to write and execute various SQL commands and perform basic database operations. Finally, a practice and graded quiz will ensure you thoroughly understand these fundamental concepts.

Module 3: Database Security and Data Protection Strategies
In this module, you will gain the knowledge and skills to protect sensitive information, beginning with data types, classifications, and essential data protection practices to ensure integrity and confidentiality. You will also learn about database application security models and database auditing models. The module covers data security methods like encryption, hashing, masking, and access control, with hands-on labs to reinforce practical application. Finally, a practice and graded quiz will strengthen your grasp of these core concepts.

Module 4: Injection Vulnerabilities
In this final module, you will explore injection vulnerabilities, a crucial aspect of database security. You'll begin with an overview of injection flaws before diving into OS command injection, examining its techniques and security implications. The module also covers SQL injection and other injection vulnerabilities, expanding your understanding of potential threats. It concludes with resources to further enhance your knowledge and application of these concepts. You will also have access to a comprehensive glossary that defines key terms covered in this course.

Tools/Software Used
In this course, you will apply all the skills learned throughout the course in a concluding final project on Secure Online Retail Database System.
Congratulations on taking these steps to further your knowledge and career! Enjoy your journey.


What you'll learn

  • Explore the essential data management skills that make you job-ready, with a focus on data protection techniques to effectively protect sensitive information.
  • Describe how to configure and manage database user profiles, set up password policies, and assign privileges and roles.
  • Analyze potential vulnerabilities in databases, including OS command and SQL injection, and learn how to protect against such security threats.
  • Develop robust database and application auditing models to ensure transparency and security in data management processes.

Instructors

IBM Skills Network

IBM Skills Network Team

At IBM Skills Network, we know how crucial it is for businesses, professionals, and students to build hands-on, job-ready skills quickly to stay competitive. Our courses are designed by experts who work at the forefront of technological innovation. With years of experience in fields like AI, software development, cybersecurity, data science, business management, and more, our instructors bring real-world insights and practical, hands-on learning to every module. Whether you're upskilling yourself or your team, we will equip you with the practical experience and future focused technical and business knowledge you need to succeed in today’s ever-evolving world.

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