Introduction to IT and Cyber Security

Everything you need to know to jump into the IT and Cyber Security world

Course Summary

Build a solid foundation in IT and Cyber Security with this all-in-one course covering core concepts like networking, servers, operating systems, databases, and internet infrastructure, alongside key areas such as IT operations, software development, and enterprise systems. You’ll also learn industry frameworks (ISO, NIST, PCI DSS, SOC2) and essential security practices including data protection, application security, business continuity, and GDPR - equipping you with the practical knowledge to understand, manage, and secure modern IT environments.

Course Curriculum

Introduction to IT and Cyber Security
16 Lessons
- Introduction to IT
  Start
- Networking Essentials
  Start
- Servers Essentials
  Start
- Operating Systems Essentials
  Start
- Databases Essentials
  Start
- Areas of IT Operations
  Start
- Internet Infrastructure
  Start
- Mobile and Web Applications Development
  Start
- Software Licensing
  Start
- IT Frameworks (ISO, NIST, PCI DSS, SOC2)
  Start
- ERP Systems
  Start
- BCP Plans
  Start
- Cyber Security Essentials
  Start
- Information Protection Techniques
  Start
- Application Security Controls
  Start
- Privacy and GDPR
  Start

Vince Hackett

Vince Hackett is the founder of SIE-MEK Consulting LLC, a Pittsburgh-based cybersecurity firm helping small businesses protect what they've built. A U.S. Air Force veteran with more than two decades of experience spanning federal law enforcement and cybersecurity governance, Vince brings a rare combination of operational discipline and real-world threat insight to every engagement.

He holds the Security+ certification, the ASIS Associate Protection Professional (APP) credential, and is a Certified Cyber Security Architect. Over his career, he has seen firsthand how cyber threats actually unfold — not in theory, but in investigations, incident response, and the day-to-day realities of organizations that thought "it won't happen to us."

That experience shapes SIE-MEK's mission: making enterprise-grade security thinking accessible to the small businesses, families, and everyday people who need it most. Through security assessments, employee training, and hands-on workshops, Vince translates complex compliance and risk concepts into clear, actionable steps that owners can implement without a dedicated IT department.

Vince is also the author of the Digital Defense Library, an educational series helping non-technical readers defend against modern threats — from AI-powered scams to small-business liability risks. He serves clients throughout the Pittsburgh region and the broader PA/OH/WV tri-state market.

When he's not working with clients, Vince creates cybersecurity and AI safety content for small businesses, families, and adults over 50 through his YouTube channel and newsletter, The Security Brief.