I took the EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND) course fairly recently, and I’d say it has some pros and cons, just like any certification. In terms of content, the course does cover a broad range of network security concepts which can be quite beneficial if you’re looking to strengthen your foundational knowledge. It includes topics like network traffic analysis, risk management, and incident handling, which are crucial in day-to-day security tasks.
Regarding how up-to-date it is, EC-Council does make an effort to update its materials to reflect new threats and technologies. However, in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity, I recommend supplementing your course learning with current industry news and resources. Following cybersecurity podcasts, subscribing to relevant feeds, and engaging with online security communities can be great ways to stay informed about the latest threats and trends.
The depth of the training is generally satisfactory for an intermediate level, though for highly specialized knowledge, you might need additional specialized training or experience. As for practicality, the exam and course materials include various labs and scenarios that are intended to mimic real-world situations, which can help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
For the exam format, it's typically a multiple-choice format, focusing on both theoretical understanding and practical application. One tip for preparing is to make extensive use of practice exams to familiarize yourself with the question style and time management. Also, hands-on lab exercises provided during the training can be invaluable for reinforcing your understanding.
Overall, if you’re looking for structured learning to build network defense skills, it could be worth the investment, but integrating other resources and keeping a continuous learning mindset will significantly enhance your expertise. If you're looking for more advanced or specialized content right away, you might want to consider complementing it with other more advanced certifications or practical experience depending on your career goals.