Overview

Passwords remain one of the most widely used forms of authentication in today’s digital landscape, but they’re also among the most targeted by attackers. The "Hands-on Password Attacks and Security" course is designed to provide learners with a practical understanding of how password attacks are carried out and how to defend against them. As cyber threats evolve, understanding the techniques hackers use to compromise systems is crucial for building stronger, more secure systems and training better-informed professionals.

This course begins with an introduction to password structure, cryptographic concepts, and legal considerations before diving into real-world attack methods. Learners will explore brute force, dictionary, and rainbow table attacks, performing hands-on exercises for each. It further explores advanced threats like credential stuffing, password spraying, and keylogger attacks, and concludes with vital countermeasures. Learners also evaluate alternatives to traditional passwords and review real-world case studies that show how breaches occur and their consequences.

By the end, learners gain practical skills to identify, execute, and defend against password attacks, and understand how to better secure systems using mitigation techniques and password management best practices.