The digital shadows lengthen, and the whispers of compromise echo in the server logs. In this dark theatre of the network, where firewalls can be mere illusions and intrusion detection systems sing lullabies of false security, the true hunter emerges. We're not here to patch holes; we're here to dissect the unknown, to find the ghosts in the machine before they shatter the foundations. This isn't just about identifying threats; it's about *understanding* the adversary's playbook, tracing their steps through the intricate dance of network traffic. Today, we embark on a deep dive into the art and science of Cyber Threat Hunting, a critical discipline for any serious defender.

This training, led by industry veteran Chris Brenton, offers a no-nonsense, 4-hour deep dive into the methodologies and practical techniques required to become a proficient network cyber threat hunter. Forget the glossy marketing; this is about raw skill, analytical rigor, and the relentless pursuit of compromise. We’ll dissect the limitations of traditional logging, question the efficacy of threat intelligence feeds, and build a robust framework for hunting bad actors in your own environment.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Hunter's Creed
• The Path to Threat Hunting Careers
• Feature Presentation: Network Cyber Threat Hunter Training
• How We Try To Catch Bad Guys
• Limitations of Logging
• Threat Intel Feeds? A Critical Look
• What Should Threat Hunting Be?
• Starting With the Network: The Digital Footprint
• Detecting Command and Control (C2)
• Hands-On Labs: Practical Application
• Advanced Techniques and Tools
• AI Hunter and the Future of Hunting
• Engineer's Verdict: Is This Training Worth Your Time?
• Operator's Arsenal for Threat Hunting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• The Contract: Your First Hunt

Introduction: The Hunter's Creed

The cyber landscape is a battlefield, and the defenders are often reactive, waiting for alerts that may never come or are easily bypassed. Threat hunting flips the script. It's a proactive, hypothesis-driven process of searching for undetected threats within an organization's network. This training isn't about learning to use a specific tool; it's about cultivating the mindset of an attacker to anticipate their moves and uncover their presence. We're diving deep into network data, the lifeblood of any digital interaction, to find the anomalies that scream compromise.

Chris Brenton’s approach is grounded in practicality, focusing on techniques applicable across various environments – from desktops and servers to IIoT devices and BYOD systems. The emphasis is on leveraging both network and host data, a dual-pronged strategy essential for comprehensive compromise assessments. Attendees are promised updated labs and content, distinguishing this session from prior trainings.

"In the realm of cybersecurity, the defender who waits for the attack is already behind. The true victory lies in anticipating the opponent's next move."

The Path to Threat Hunting Careers

The session kicks off with a discussion on career paths in threat hunting. This isn't just a technical skill; it's a specialized career track. Understanding how to articulate your value and the methodologies involved is crucial for career advancement. The training aims to provide foundational knowledge that can lead to certifications like "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" for live attendees, a valuable credential in a growing field.

We'll explore the current state of the industry, where standards and procedures are still being formulated. This dynamic environment offers a unique opportunity for motivated individuals to shape the future of threat hunting. The goal is to foster a community, encouraging collaboration and innovation to tackle complex security challenges.

Feature Presentation: Network Cyber Threat Hunter Training

The core of this training focuses on the network. Why? Because the network is the highway for all data, and an attacker must traverse it to achieve their objectives. Understanding common Command and Control (C2) channels, lateral movement techniques, and persistence mechanisms requires a deep analysis of network traffic. This section emphasizes what to look for in packet captures and logs, moving beyond simple alerts to intelligent investigation.

Key topics include:

• Starting With the Network: Understanding network protocols, traffic patterns, and the data available for analysis.
• What to Look For: Identifying suspicious connections, unusual data flows, and behavioral anomalies.
• Keeping Score: Metrics and methodologies for tracking hunting progress and effectiveness.
• Blind Spots to C2 Targeting: Exploiting weaknesses in common C2 detection mechanisms.
• C2 Detection: Practical methods to identify both known and novel C2 channels.
• Long Connections: Analyzing sustained network communications that often indicate persistence or data exfiltration.

How We Try To Catch Bad Guys

This segment delves into the adversarial mindset. Understanding how attackers operate is paramount to detecting them. The training contrasts the methods of malicious actors ("Bad Guys") with those of Red Teams, highlighting the nuances in their objectives and tactics. It’s about thinking like the enemy to build better defenses.

The challenges are significant. Attackers are constantly evolving their techniques, making traditional signature-based detection insufficient. Threat hunting fills this gap by actively searching for the subtle indicators of compromise that automated tools might miss. The focus here is on behavioral analysis and anomaly detection within network traffic.

Limitations of Logging

A stark reality in cybersecurity is the inadequacy of logging. Many organizations log too little, too much, or log data that is unanalyzed. Chris Brenton highlights the critical limitations of relying solely on logs. Without proper configuration, retention, and analysis, logs become a liability rather than an asset. Understanding what data is essential and how to capture it effectively is a fundamental skill for any threat hunter. This often means looking beyond standard Windows Event Logs and exploring more granular data sources like Sysmon.

Threat Intel Feeds? A Critical Look

Are Threat Intelligence (TI) feeds the silver bullet they're often portrayed to be? This section critically examines their utility. While TI can provide valuable indicators like known malicious IPs or domains, it often struggles to keep pace with novel threats. Relying solely on TI can lead to a false sense of security. The real value lies in integrating TI with behavioral analysis and custom hunting hypotheses. We explore how to effectively leverage TI without becoming dependent on it.

What Should Threat Hunting Be?

This is where the philosophy of threat hunting is cemented. It's not just about running tools; it's a structured process. A good hunt starts with a hypothesis – an educated guess about adversary behavior. This hypothesis is then validated or refuted through rigorous analysis of available data. The training emphasizes a systematic approach, ensuring that hunts are efficient, repeatable, and yield actionable intelligence.

Key principles discussed include:

• Proactive Stance: Don't wait for an alert; initiate the search.
• Hypothesis-Driven: Formulate educated guesses about potential threats.
• Data-Centric: Base findings on concrete evidence from network and host data.
• Iterative Process: Hunts can refine hypotheses or lead to new ones.
• Understanding the Adversary: Model attacker behavior to predict their actions.

Starting With the Network: The Digital Footprint

The network is the primary attack vector and the greatest source of visibility. This section dives into the specifics of analyzing network traffic. We'll discuss how to use tools like Wireshark, Zeek (formerly Bro), and firewall logs to identify suspicious patterns. The focus is on understanding protocols, connection metadata, and the subtle signs of malicious activity.

Topics covered:

• Network Traffic Analysis: Deep dives into protocols and packet structures.
• Zeek (Bro) vs. Firewalls: Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different network monitoring tools. The challenge of Zeek's timeout problems is also addressed.
• Firewall Logs: Extracting critical information from firewall data, including destination IP addresses and connection states.
• Beacons: Identifying periodic, low-volume network communications often used for C2 or beaconing.

Detecting Command and Control (C2)

Command and Control (C2) infrastructure is the lifeline for an attacker operating within a compromised network. This section is dedicated to identifying these channels. We explore various C2 detection techniques, including analyzing long connections, beaconing patterns, and unusual traffic flows. It’s about spotting the adversary's communication hub, no matter how stealthy it tries to be.

Specific areas include:

• Long Connections Analysis: Detecting sustained communication channels.
• Beacon Detection: Identifying periodic, often small, outbound connections.
• C2 Detection Tools: Reviewing specialized tools designed to identify C2 traffic.
• C2 Labs: Practical exercises to hone detection skills.

Hands-On Labs: Practical Application

Theory is essential, but practice solidifies knowledge. The training features extensive lab sessions designed to mimic real-world scenarios. Attendees will work with packet captures to:

• Find Long Connections: Identify and analyze prolonged network sessions.
• Investigate Long-Talkers: Deep dive into hosts exhibiting extended network activity.
• Beacons by Session Size: Detect beaconing patterns based on communication volume.
• C2 Over DNS: Uncover C2 channels hidden within DNS queries.
• Labs with RITA: Utilizing RITA (Rival Intrusion and Threat Analytics) for C2 detection.

These labs provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing participants to apply the learned techniques directly. The use of open-source tools ensures that these skills are transferable to most security environments.

Advanced Techniques and Tools

Beyond basic network traffic, the training touches on host-based indicators and more sophisticated detection methods. Understanding Event ID Type 3 logs, Passer, and other specific indicators can provide crucial context during an investigation. The discussion also covers the limitations of `destination IP address` analysis and the importance of understanding `internal systems` in the context of a hunt.

The training also introduces `AI Hunter`, a tool that leverages artificial intelligence for threat detection. While traditional methods remain foundational, exploring AI-powered solutions highlights the evolving nature of threat hunting and the potential for enhanced efficiency and accuracy. This offers a glimpse into the future of the discipline.

AI Hunter and the Future of Hunting

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality. This training briefly touches upon `AI Hunter`, showcasing its potential to augment human analysts. AI can process vast amounts of data, identify subtle patterns, and flag anomalies that might escape human observation. While not a replacement for skilled threat hunters, AI tools offer significant advantages in speed and scale, enabling analysts to focus on higher-level investigation and strategic defense.

Engineer's Verdict: Is This Training Worth Your Time?

Chris Brenton's Cyber Threat Hunting training is a robust offering for anyone serious about proactive defense. It provides a comprehensive overview of network-centric threat hunting, from fundamental concepts to advanced practical labs.

Pros:

• Practical, Hands-On Labs: The core strength of the training lies in its practical exercises using real packet captures.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential topics from logging limitations to C2 detection and AI tools.
• Expert Instruction: Chris Brenton's experience brings credibility and real-world insight.
• Community Focus: Encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Free Access & Certification: High value proposition, especially for live attendees receiving a Level-1 certificate.

Cons:

• Time Commitment: A 4-hour intensive session requires dedicated focus.
• Network-Centric: While comprehensive, the primary focus is network data. Host forensics is touched upon but not deeply explored.
• Pace: Given the volume of material, the pace might be rapid for absolute beginners.

Overall: This training is highly recommended for security analysts, SOC team members, incident responders, and anyone tasked with defending an organization's network. It provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to start hunting threats effectively. If you're looking to move beyond reactive security, this is an essential step.

Operator's Arsenal for Threat Hunting

To equip yourself for the hunt, a well-rounded arsenal is crucial. This isn't just about software; it's about a mindset and the right tools to execute it.

• Network Analysis Tools:
  • Wireshark: Indispensable for deep packet inspection.
  • Zeek (Bro): Powerful network security monitor for logging and analysis.
  • tcpdump: Command-line packet capture utility.
• Log Analysis Platforms:
  • ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana): For centralized logging and visualization.
  • Splunk: A robust commercial SIEM and log management solution.
• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) / Host Data:
  • Sysmon: Essential for detailed host activity logging (as mentioned with BeaKer).
  • Osquery: For querying endpoint data at scale.
• Threat Intelligence Platforms:
  • MISP (Malware Information Sharing Platform): For collecting and sharing threat intelligence.
  • Commercial TI Feeds (e.g., CrowdStrike, Recorded Future): For curated threat data.
• Data Analysis & Scripting:
  • Python with libraries like Pandas, Scapy: For custom analysis and automation.
  • Jupyter Notebooks: For interactive data exploration and reporting.
• Key Books:
  • "The Practice of Network Security Monitoring" by Richard Bejtlich
  • "Network Security Tools" by Javier Borge
  • "Applied Network Security Monitoring: Collection, Detection, and Analysis" by Chris Sanders and Jason Smith
• Certifications:
  • EC-Council Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA)
  • GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) - Covers some threat hunting principles.
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) - While offensive, it builds adversarial thinking crucial for hunting.
  • The "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" certificate from this training.

Remember, the most critical tool is your analytical mind. These tools amplify your capabilities, but they don't replace the need for critical thinking and a deep understanding of adversary tactics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the primary focus of this Cyber Threat Hunting training?

A1: The training primarily focuses on network-centric cyber threat hunting techniques, leveraging network and host data to identify undetected threats. It emphasizes practical application through hands-on labs.

Q2: Is this training suitable for beginners in cybersecurity?

A2: While it provides foundational knowledge, the 4-hour intensive format and the slightly technical nature of the labs are best suited for individuals with some existing cybersecurity background or a strong desire to learn advanced concepts.

Q3: What are the prerequisites for attending the live training?

A3: While no strict prerequisites are listed, a basic understanding of networking concepts, protocols (TCP/IP), and general cybersecurity principles will significantly enhance the learning experience.

Q4: Can I access the course content and labs after the live session?

A4: The description mentions the course will be available later for download, but live attendees receive specific benefits, including a certificate. It's always best to check the official source for the most up-to-date information on content availability.

Q5: What kind of certificate is awarded to live attendees?

A5: Live attendees receive a "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" certificate, signifying foundational competency in threat hunting principles and practices.

The Contract: Your First Hunt

Your contract is now clear: you've been handed a set of raw packet captures from a simulated network environment. Your task is to identify at least three distinct indicators of potential adversary activity. These could be:

• Unusual long connections that warrant further investigation.
• Suspicious beaconing patterns that suggest C2 communication.
• Any data flows that deviate significantly from baseline network behavior.

Document your findings, explain your hypothesis for each indicator, and detail the specific packet data or log entries that support your conclusion. Treat this as your initial compromise assessment report. Remember, the goal is to find what the automated defenses missed.

```

Mastering Cyber Threat Hunting: A Comprehensive Training Walkthrough

The digital shadows lengthen, and the whispers of compromise echo in the server logs. In this dark theatre of the network, where firewalls can be mere illusions and intrusion detection systems sing lullabies of false security, the true hunter emerges. We're not here to patch holes; we're here to dissect the unknown, to find the ghosts in the machine before they shatter the foundations. This isn't just about identifying threats; it's about *understanding* the adversary's playbook, tracing their steps through the intricate dance of network traffic. Today, we embark on a deep dive into the art and science of Cyber Threat Hunting, a critical discipline for any serious defender.

This training, led by industry veteran Chris Brenton, offers a no-nonsense, 4-hour deep dive into the methodologies and practical techniques required to become a proficient network cyber threat hunter. Forget the glossy marketing; this is about raw skill, analytical rigor, and the relentless pursuit of compromise. We’ll dissect the limitations of traditional logging, question the efficacy of threat intelligence feeds, and build a robust framework for hunting bad actors in your own environment.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: The Hunter's Creed
• The Path to Threat Hunting Careers
• Feature Presentation: Network Cyber Threat Hunter Training
• How We Try To Catch Bad Guys
• Limitations of Logging
• Threat Intel Feeds? A Critical Look
• What Should Threat Hunting Be?
• Starting With the Network: The Digital Footprint
• Detecting Command and Control (C2)
• Hands-On Labs: Practical Application
• Advanced Techniques and Tools
• AI Hunter and the Future of Hunting
• Engineer's Verdict: Is This Training Worth Your Time?
• Operator's Arsenal for Threat Hunting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• The Contract: Your First Hunt

Introduction: The Hunter's Creed

The cyber landscape is a battlefield, and the defenders are often reactive, waiting for alerts that may never come or are easily bypassed. Threat hunting flips the script. It's a proactive, hypothesis-driven process of searching for undetected threats within an organization's network. This training isn't about learning to use a specific tool; it's about cultivating the mindset of an attacker to anticipate their moves and uncover their presence. We're diving deep into network data, the lifeblood of any digital interaction, to find the anomalies that scream compromise.

Chris Brenton’s approach is grounded in practicality, focusing on techniques applicable across various environments – from desktops and servers to IIoT devices and BYOD systems. The emphasis is on leveraging both network and host data, a dual-pronged strategy essential for comprehensive compromise assessments. Attendees are promised updated labs and content, distinguishing this session from prior trainings.

"In the realm of cybersecurity, the defender who waits for the attack is already behind. The true victory lies in anticipating the opponent's next move."

The Path to Threat Hunting Careers

The session kicks off with a discussion on career paths in threat hunting. This isn't just a technical skill; it's a specialized career track. Understanding how to articulate your value and the methodologies involved is crucial for career advancement. The training aims to provide foundational knowledge that can lead to certifications like "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" for live attendees, a valuable credential in a growing field.

We'll explore the current state of the industry, where standards and procedures are still being formulated. This dynamic environment offers a unique opportunity for motivated individuals to shape the future of threat hunting. The goal is to foster a community, encouraging collaboration and innovation to tackle complex security challenges.

Feature Presentation: Network Cyber Threat Hunter Training

The core of this training focuses on the network. Why? Because the network is the highway for all data, and an attacker must traverse it to achieve their objectives. Understanding common Command and Control (C2) channels, lateral movement techniques, and persistence mechanisms requires a deep analysis of network traffic. This section emphasizes what to look for in packet captures and logs, moving beyond simple alerts to intelligent investigation.

Key topics include:

• Starting With the Network: Understanding network protocols, traffic patterns, and the data available for analysis.
• What to Look For: Identifying suspicious connections, unusual data flows, and behavioral anomalies.
• Keeping Score: Metrics and methodologies for tracking hunting progress and effectiveness.
• Blind Spots to C2 Targeting: Exploiting weaknesses in common C2 detection mechanisms.
• C2 Detection: Practical methods to identify both known and novel C2 channels.
• Long Connections: Analyzing sustained network communications that often indicate persistence or data exfiltration.

How We Try To Catch Bad Guys

This segment delves into the adversarial mindset. Understanding how attackers operate is paramount to detecting them. The training contrasts the methods of malicious actors ("Bad Guys") with those of Red Teams, highlighting the nuances in their objectives and tactics. It’s about thinking like the enemy to build better defenses.

The challenges are significant. Attackers are constantly evolving their techniques, making traditional signature-based detection insufficient. Threat hunting fills this gap by actively searching for the subtle indicators of compromise that automated tools might miss. The focus here is on behavioral analysis and anomaly detection within network traffic.

Limitations of Logging

A stark reality in cybersecurity is the inadequacy of logging. Many organizations log too little, too much, or log data that is unanalyzed. Chris Brenton highlights the critical limitations of relying solely on logs. Without proper configuration, retention, and analysis, logs become a liability rather than an asset. Understanding what data is essential and how to capture it effectively is a fundamental skill for any threat hunter. This often means looking beyond standard Windows Event Logs and exploring more granular data sources like Sysmon.

Threat Intel Feeds? A Critical Look

Are Threat Intelligence (TI) feeds the silver bullet they're often portrayed to be? This section critically examines their utility. While TI can provide valuable indicators like known malicious IPs or domains, it often struggles to keep pace with novel threats. Relying solely on TI can lead to a false sense of security. The real value lies in integrating TI with behavioral analysis and custom hunting hypotheses. We explore how to effectively leverage TI without becoming dependent on it.

What Should Threat Hunting Be?

This is where the philosophy of threat hunting is cemented. It's not just about running tools; it's a structured process. A good hunt starts with a hypothesis – an educated guess about adversary behavior. This hypothesis is then validated or refuted through rigorous analysis of available data. The training emphasizes a systematic approach, ensuring that hunts are efficient, repeatable, and yield actionable intelligence.

Key principles discussed include:

• Proactive Stance: Don't wait for an alert; initiate the search.
• Hypothesis-Driven: Formulate educated guesses about potential threats.
• Data-Centric: Base findings on concrete evidence from network and host data.
• Iterative Process: Hunts can refine hypotheses or lead to new ones.
• Understanding the Adversary: Model attacker behavior to predict their actions.

Starting With the Network: The Digital Footprint

The network is the primary attack vector and the greatest source of visibility. This section dives into the specifics of analyzing network traffic. We'll discuss how to use tools like Wireshark, Zeek (formerly Bro), and firewall logs to identify suspicious patterns. The focus is on understanding protocols, connection metadata, and the subtle signs of malicious activity.

Topics covered:

• Network Traffic Analysis: Deep dives into protocols and packet structures.
• Zeek (Bro) vs. Firewalls: Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different network monitoring tools. The challenge of Zeek's timeout problems is also addressed.
• Firewall Logs: Extracting critical information from firewall data, including destination IP addresses and connection states.
• Beacons: Identifying periodic, low-volume network communications often used for C2 or beaconing.

Detecting Command and Control (C2)

Command and Control (C2) infrastructure is the lifeline for an attacker operating within a compromised network. This section is dedicated to identifying these channels. We explore various C2 detection techniques, including analyzing long connections, beaconing patterns, and unusual traffic flows. It’s about spotting the adversary's communication hub, no matter how stealthy it tries to be.

Specific areas include:

• Long Connections Analysis: Detecting sustained communication channels.
• Beacon Detection: Identifying periodic, often small, outbound connections.
• C2 Detection Tools: Reviewing specialized tools designed to identify C2 traffic.
• C2 Labs: Practical exercises to hone detection skills.

Hands-On Labs: Practical Application

Theory is essential, but practice solidifies knowledge. The training features extensive lab sessions designed to mimic real-world scenarios. Attendees will work with packet captures to:

• Find Long Connections: Identify and analyze prolonged network sessions.
• Investigate Long-Talkers: Deep dive into hosts exhibiting extended network activity.
• Beacons by Session Size: Detect beaconing patterns based on communication volume.
• C2 Over DNS: Uncover C2 channels hidden within DNS queries.
• Labs with RITA: Utilizing RITA (Rival Intrusion and Threat Analytics) for C2 detection.

These labs provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing participants to apply the learned techniques directly. The use of open-source tools ensures that these skills are transferable to most security environments.

Advanced Techniques and Tools

Beyond basic network traffic, the training touches on host-based indicators and more sophisticated detection methods. Understanding Event ID Type 3 logs, Passer, and other specific indicators can provide crucial context during an investigation. The discussion also covers the limitations of `destination IP address` analysis and the importance of understanding `internal systems` in the context of a hunt.

The training also introduces `AI Hunter`, a tool that leverages artificial intelligence for threat detection. While traditional methods remain foundational, exploring AI-powered solutions highlights the evolving nature of threat hunting and the potential for enhanced efficiency and accuracy. This offers a glimpse into the future of the discipline.

AI Hunter and the Future of Hunting

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into cybersecurity is no longer a futuristic concept but a present reality. This training briefly touches upon `AI Hunter`, showcasing its potential to augment human analysts. AI can process vast amounts of data, identify subtle patterns, and flag anomalies that might escape human observation. While not a replacement for skilled threat hunters, AI tools offer significant advantages in speed and scale, enabling analysts to focus on higher-level investigation and strategic defense.

Engineer's Verdict: Is This Training Worth Your Time?

Chris Brenton's Cyber Threat Hunting training is a robust offering for anyone serious about proactive defense. It provides a comprehensive overview of network-centric threat hunting, from fundamental concepts to advanced practical labs.

Pros:

• Practical, Hands-On Labs: The core strength of the training lies in its practical exercises using real packet captures.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential topics from logging limitations to C2 detection and AI tools.
• Expert Instruction: Chris Brenton's experience brings credibility and real-world insight.
• Community Focus: Encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Free Access & Certification: High value proposition, especially for live attendees receiving a Level-1 certificate.

Cons:

• Time Commitment: A 4-hour intensive session requires dedicated focus.
• Network-Centric: While comprehensive, the primary focus is network data. Host forensics is touched upon but not deeply explored.
• Pace: Given the volume of material, the pace might be rapid for absolute beginners.

Overall: This training is highly recommended for security analysts, SOC team members, incident responders, and anyone tasked with defending an organization's network. It provides the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to start hunting threats effectively. If you're looking to move beyond reactive security, this is an essential step.

Operator's Arsenal for Threat Hunting

To equip yourself for the hunt, a well-rounded arsenal is crucial. This isn't just about software; it's about a mindset and the right tools to execute it.

• Network Analysis Tools:
  • Wireshark: Indispensable for deep packet inspection.
  • Zeek (Bro): Powerful network security monitor for logging and analysis.
  • tcpdump: Command-line packet capture utility.
• Log Analysis Platforms:
  • ELK Stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana): For centralized logging and visualization.
  • Splunk: A robust commercial SIEM and log management solution.
• Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) / Host Data:
  • Sysmon: Essential for detailed host activity logging (as mentioned with BeaKer).
  • Osquery: For querying endpoint data at scale.
• Threat Intelligence Platforms:
  • MISP (Malware Information Sharing Platform): For collecting and sharing threat intelligence.
  • Commercial TI Feeds (e.g., CrowdStrike, Recorded Future): For curated threat data.
• Data Analysis & Scripting:
  • Python with libraries like Pandas, Scapy: For custom analysis and automation.
  • Jupyter Notebooks: For interactive data exploration and reporting.
• Key Books:
  • "The Practice of Network Security Monitoring" by Richard Bejtlich
  • "Network Security Tools" by Javier Borge
  • "Applied Network Security Monitoring: Collection, Detection, and Analysis" by Chris Sanders and Jason Smith
• Certifications:
  • EC-Council Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA)
  • GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) - Covers some threat hunting principles.
  • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) - While offensive, it builds adversarial thinking crucial for hunting.
  • The "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" certificate from this training.

Remember, the most critical tool is your analytical mind. These tools amplify your capabilities, but they don't replace the need for critical thinking and a deep understanding of adversary tactics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the primary focus of this Cyber Threat Hunting training?

A1: The training primarily focuses on network-centric cyber threat hunting techniques, leveraging network and host data to identify undetected threats. It emphasizes practical application through hands-on labs.

Q2: Is this training suitable for beginners in cybersecurity?

A2: While it provides foundational knowledge, the 4-hour intensive format and the slightly technical nature of the labs are best suited for individuals with some existing cybersecurity background or a strong desire to learn advanced concepts.

Q3: What are the prerequisites for attending the live training?

A3: While no strict prerequisites are listed, a basic understanding of networking concepts, protocols (TCP/IP), and general cybersecurity principles will significantly enhance the learning experience.

Q4: Can I access the course content and labs after the live session?

A4: The description mentions the course will be available later for download, but live attendees receive specific benefits, including a certificate. It's always best to check the official source for the most up-to-date information on content availability.

Q5: What kind of certificate is awarded to live attendees?

A5: Live attendees receive a "Cyber Security Threat Hunter Level-1" certificate, signifying foundational competency in threat hunting principles and practices.

The Contract: Your First Hunt

Your contract is now clear: you've been handed a set of raw packet captures from a simulated network environment. Your task is to identify at least three distinct indicators of potential adversary activity. These could be:

• Unusual long connections that warrant further investigation.
• Suspicious beaconing patterns that suggest C2 communication.
• Any data flows that deviate significantly from baseline network behavior.

Document your findings, explain your hypothesis for each indicator, and detail the specific packet data or log entries that support your conclusion. Treat this as your initial compromise assessment report. Remember, the goal is to find what the automated defenses missed.