free online cybersecurity courses with certificates 2025
In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is one of the most valuable and fast-growing career skills. The number of cybersecurity experts is increasing because of rapidly growing digital threats. Whether you shop online, use social media, or store data in the cloud, you’re under the radar of hackers. This is why every company recruit cybersecurity experts to make the system reliable for the people.
According to Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime costs are expected to reach $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, up from $3 trillion in 2015. That’s a huge rise, and it shows how critical it is for businesses and individuals to protect their data from hackers and digital threats.
As a result, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is booming. But the question many students or learners ask me is Where to learn cybersecurity for free?
In this blog post, we have assembled the 4 best free cybersecurity courses that are free and equally very beneficial.
Several top tech companies like Google, Cisco, IBM, and Microsoft now offer free online cybersecurity courses with certificates. These are beginner-friendly programs that teach you the basics and advanced knowledge of cybersecurity.
Whether you’re a student interested in the tech field or a professional who wants to enhance digital safety skills, these free courses are a perfect starting point.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 trusted free cybersecurity courses with certificates that will help you gain practical knowledge, earn valuable credentials, and kickstart your journey in one of the world’s most secure and rewarding career fields.
What is Cybersecurity and Why It Matters
Cybersecurity is the technology of defending computers, servers, mobile devices, networks, and data from malicious attacks.
It involves protecting information systems from threats like:
- Phishing (fake emails that steal personal info)
- Malware (viruses or harmful software)
- Ransomware (hackers locking your data for payment)
Learning cybersecurity will help you keep your personal and professional data safe and open doors to exciting tech jobs across industries.
ALSO READ: Harvard’s CS50P: Introduction to Programming with Python Course
Why Learn Cybersecurity?
Here’s why cybersecurity is worth learning in 2025:
- High demand: Companies are hiring cybersecurity professionals at record rates.
- No degree required: You don’t need any prerequisites for starting these courses. You can start from scratch with beginner-level courses.
- Protect your online life: Learn how to stay safe on the internet.
- Global opportunities: Cybersecurity jobs exist in every country and sector. So many experts also get the chance to work in the foreigns also.
This means the cybersecurity career could be the best option in 2026 if you want to build your tech career with full opportunities.
Top 5 Free online Cybersecurity Courses (with Certificates)
Below are the best free cybersecurity courses trusted by learners worldwide. Each comes with a certificate of completion and real-world practical training.
1. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate (Coursera)
- Platform: Coursera
- Level: Beginner
- Duration: Around 6 months (self-paced)
- Certificate: Yes – Google Professional Certificate
This is one of the most popular cybersecurity courses on the internet. Designed by Google, it prepares you for entry-level cybersecurity jobs without any prior experience.
What you’ll learn:
- Cybersecurity fundamentals and network protection
- Linux, SQL, and SIEM tools (used in real companies)
- Threat detection and risk management
- Hands-on labs and practical exercises
2. Introduction to Cyber Security (Cisco Skills for All)
- Platform: Skills for All by Cisco
- Level: Beginner
- Duration: 6 hours
- Certificate: Yes – Cisco Networking Academy
This short, interactive course from Cisco introduces you to cybersecurity basics and how to defend against online threats.
What you’ll learn:
- Cyber threats and attack types
- Principles of online security
- Steps to secure your data
- Career paths in cybersecurity
3. IBM Cybersecurity Fundamentals (edX)
- Platform: edX
- Level: Beginner
- Duration: 4 weeks (self-paced)
- Certificate: Free (optional verified certificate available)
Created by IBM experts, this course offers a complete foundation in cybersecurity concepts.
What you’ll learn:
- Cybersecurity principles and frameworks
- Encryption and cryptography basics
- Network and endpoint protection
- Security monitoring and incident response
4. Microsoft Security Fundamentals (SC-900 Learning Path)
- Platform: Coursera
- Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Duration: 6–10 hours
- Certificate: Yes – Microsoft Learn Badge
This Microsoft course introduces you to the key concepts of cloud security and identity management.
What you’ll learn:
- Security, compliance, and identity fundamentals
- Microsoft Defender, Azure AD, and Zero Trust concepts
- Basics of cloud security in Microsoft environments
Cybersecurity Salary Structure in 2025
| Job Role | Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity Analyst | Entry-level (0–2 years) | $55,000 – $80,000 |
| Security Engineer | Mid-level (2–5 years) | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) | Mid-level (2–5 years) | $85,000 – $120,000 |
| Cybersecurity Manager | Senior (5–10 years) | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | Executive (10+ years) | $150,000 – $250,000+ |
How to Enroll in These Free Cybersecurity Courses
Enrolling in these free courses is quick and easy. You don’t need any special setup. Follow these simple steps :
- Click the course link from the list above.
- Sign up using your email or Google account.
- Select “Start Free” or “Audit” to begin learning without payment.
- Learn at your own pace through videos, quizzes, and practice exercises.
- Complete the course and download your free certificate once you finish all modules.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity has become an essential skill in today’s technology-driven world. As digital threats continue to evolve, the demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals is skyrocketing across all industries.
The free online cybersecurity courses offered by Google, Cisco, IBM, and Microsoft provide an excellent opportunity to build a strong foundation in this field. Each program is designed to help learners understand key security concepts, gain hands-on experience, and earn certificates that enhance professional credibility.
Whether you are a student or a working professional, these resources can help you develop valuable skills aligned with global career trends. Investing your time in cybersecurity learning today can lead to promising career growth and long-term success.
