The CompTIA EMEACon is coming up this month in London October 21-22! I hope to see a lot of CINners at the event! It is going to be a great time!

I am very excited to present with fellow CINner @Kwabena Fred on Monday, October 21st. Fred and I will present "Certification Roadmap: Career Progression and Intersections." We will discuss the various career pathways and how certifications will cross pathways. This is going to be a fun talk!

If you would like to hear more about the new CompTIA Expert series of certifications and their implications for instructors, I will also present a session on them on Monday afternoon. Be sure to check out the session "Product Roadmap: Expert Certifications."

Are you attending? Let's Sync up!

In session #5 of the DataX TTT series, 'Neural Networks" were discussed.

Neural Networks are computational models that mimic the complex functions of the human brain.

Greetings. Over the past year, I redeveloped a few of our IT courses using TestOut (ITF+, A+, Network+, and Security+). We plan on moving these over to the new CertMaster Perform when they become available, such as with Network+ and Tech+.

The major concern I've had, and still have, is that the simulations in the courseware are the exact same as the custom quiz labs. I am finding that students go through the simulations in the courseware, score the labs, copy the steps provided, then take the custom quiz lab (we call them lab assignments) and use the steps provided. I don't understand why CompTIA doesn't make the custom quiz labs different from the simulations.

I am at a loss. I even had a student tell me they were the same and it was a waste of their time to practice, copy the steps, and then complete it again for a grade.

sorry because I never learn math very serious during my school time. anyone could help me ?

When the ssh command is executed, with either 1, 2, or 3 -v switches, it outputs various debug messages. Does anyone know a resource that will provide an explanation for the debug messages that appear in the output?

Hi Guys, I/we are in a bit of a bind as I am due to start delivering this course from the 23rd of this month.

With the courseware date being pushed back to yesterday (04/07 UK) from its intended August release date the time for prep was going to be ok, but after its no show yesterday I am a little concerned, especially as I do not have access to the pre-release materials to prepare myself with.

The reason time is so tight is that I fly out on our honeymoon tomorrow afternoon and do not return until the day before I am due to deliver it, all would have been fine, but now......


Can we please have an update as to when it is actually going live, or can someone who has the pre-release PDF so I can read it on the flight please share it

Thank you

Certified CompTIA Network+ N10-009 instructor wanted to create and deliver a pre recorded instructional video designed to prepare the student for the exam. Also accepting material already built. If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your resume/CV along with copies of relevant certifications to [email protected] or [email protected]

As part of Objective 2.4 (analyzing indicators of malicious activity), collision attacks on broken cryptographic algorithms, like SHA-1, are critical examples of tampering threats.

Key Takeaways:​

• Collision Attack: When two distinct inputs generate the same hash, indicating possible tampering or forgery.
• Broken SHA-1: SHA-1 is deprecated due to collision vulnerability, making it possible for attackers to create identical hashes for malicious files.

Practical Demo:​

1. Demonstration: Use the
   SHAttered
   website, which showcases a real-world collision attack on SHA-1. It provides two PDF files that generate the same SHA-1 hash, but contain different content.
2. Verification: Have students download the example files from
   SHAttered
   and use Python on https://github.com/OffensiveSoldier/Collision-attack/tree/main to hash them, demonstrating the collision.
3. Discussion: Analyze how collision attacks can be used in malicious activities, such as bypassing digital signatures or integrity checks.

I'm a UX Designer at CompTIA. I'm hoping to hear from instructors. What is your AI wish list for the CertMaster platform and courses?

1. How would you hope to be able to use it? In other words, what job would you hire AI to do for you in CertMaster? And why?
2. What job would your students hire AI to do for them in CertMaster? And why?
3. How have you already used AI to help you teach?
4. How are your students using AI currently to help them learn?
5. What, if any, negative effects of AI are you currently seeing, either for instructors or students?

Hello everyone! I don't know if this is the right channel to report this, but here goes anyway: through its blog, CompTIA published an interesting article about data-focused certifications: Data+, DataSys+ and DataX. The problem is that the section dedicated to publicizing the certification paths does not include the other certifications besides CompTIA Data+. It would be better to take a look... &;-D

Blog post link: https://www.comptia.org/blog/enhanc...s-with-the-comptia-data-pathway-certification
Link to the path disclosure: https://www.comptia.org/certifications/which-certification

I'm excited to share the RTFM (Red Team Field Manual) PDF! This resource is a fantastic quick reference for red team tactics, techniques, and procedures. It's invaluable for both beginners and seasoned pros in our field. If you're looking to enhance your toolkit, definitely check it out!

Three Mile Island: From Meltdown to Microsoft’s AI Power Play​

Remember Three Mile Island? That nuclear plant south of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania that gave us all a scare back in 1979? Well, it’s making a comeback, and this time it’s got Microsoft muscle (and money) in its corner.

A Brief History Lesson​

Three Mile Island was home to two nuclear reactors. In March 1979, Unit 2 suffered a partial meltdown, causing the worst commercial nuclear accident in U.S. history. While Unit 1 kept chugging along, it eventually closed in 2019 due to economic pressures. Producing electricity there was more expensive than other providers using cheaper natural gas.

New Owner, New Expectations​

Constellation Energy now owns three Mile Island. That’s not the only nuclear power plant Constellation owns. Here’s a partial list:

• South Texas Project Electric Generating Station (Texas)
• Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station (unit 1, Pennsylvania)
• Braidwood Nuclear Generating Station (Illinois)
• Byron Nuclear Generating Station (Illinois)
• Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant (Maryland)
• Clinton Nuclear Generating Station (Illinois)
• Dresden Generating Station (Illinois)
• Ginna Nuclear Generating Station (New York)
• James A. FitzPatrick Nuclear Power Plant (New York)
• LaSalle County Nuclear Generating Station (Illinois)
• Limerick Nuclear Power Plant (Pennsylvania)
• Nine Mile Point Nuclear Generating Station (New York)
• Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station (Pennsylvania)
• Quad Cities Nuclear Generating Station (Illinois)
• Salem Nuclear Power Plant (New Jersey) (minority owner)

Enter Microsoft / Enter Microsoft Muscle / Enter Microsoft Money (whichever heading you prefer)​

Microsoft, in its quest to power the AI revolution, needs electricity. They need electricity to a) power the servers running and supporting CoPilot, and b) provide cooling in the server rooms housing those servers. The servers create heat. The rooms have to stay cool. They need industrial strength air conditioning.

How Much Power Can Three Mile Island Generate?​

Microsoft’s deal with Constellation is for a whopping 835 megawatts of electricity. That’s enough to power about 800,000 homes. All this electricity will come from Three Mile Island and go towards powering Microsoft’s AI ambitions. They’re diving headfirst into the AI pool, and they need a lot of energy to keep those servers cool and running.

Summary​

AI servers are creating more electricity demand than what our current infrastructure can supply. Expect more stories like this to come, to keep AI alive.

More​

AI ain’t so tough. See https://cybersafetynet.net/category/ai/ to help understand and use Artificial intelligence.

Message me for more information. We are gearing up for when these courses are approved through FLDOE. Fall time frame. Thanks!

Hello everyone.

I have been in a Zoom call with one of my students for almost two hours (insane!!!!). She is in my Canadian cohort in Calgary. I am in the USA. This woman clearly has a language barrier. English is not her first language; however, she studies hard, and she understands English and can talk in conversations. She has a heavy accent, and it takes her some time to get through the reading, but she just takes more time to read. We are trying to book her for the Core 1 CompTIA A+. We went to the special accommodations website as they directed, but when we get there, the only options available to request special accommodations for are if you have a cognitive or learning disability. I know they have allowed for it in the past. I had some students request and receive it for their AWS certifications and received it. I would think it would be the same scenario as well. It says so on the website for Pearson Vue.

Is it possible that someone who knows the rules can assist? How do we request accommodations for her? I fear without the accommodation, she will not pass. She is now a citizen of Canada, but she is from Pakistan. She received her Canadian citizenship two years ago. Can someone help me figure this out? The accommodations office is now closed. I have another possible student who has the same language barrier issues as well.

By the way, they said it could take 10 days. When my students did it, they got almost immediate approval once they proved English was not their first language. Is it really going to take them 10 days to figure out these women don't speak English well?

Thanks,

D Ross

How do I register for the Cloud+ Train-the-Trainer? I usually get the invites, but I didn't get them.

Thanks!

Adrienne Crosby

As industries increasingly rely on data to inform decision-making, CompTIA’s DataX certification seems poised to become a crucial part of the cybersecurity landscape. I'm particularly interested in how this certification might bridge the gap between data analytics and security. Are any of you planning to introduce DataX in your teaching, especially for students aiming to specialize in data security and analysis? Would love to hear how others see this fitting into current learning pathways!

With the rise of AI-driven cybersecurity threats, I’m thinking about incorporating some discussion around this topic in my Security+ course. Are any of you doing the same? If so, how do you present it in a way that aligns with the exam but stays relevant to current trends?

Teaching cryptography can be a challenge due to the complex math involved. I recently designed a lab where students use OpenSSL to encrypt and decrypt files with different algorithms. It really helped them grasp the concepts. Does anyone have similar exercises or labs they'd recommend?

Let follow-ups strengthen your AI embrace​

Anybody looking at AI (Artificial Intelligence) and asking: “How can it make my life easier?” Yes, my fellow instructors here on CIN, I am talking to you. Here’s something built into AI that can help: Follow-ups. You can ask your favorite AI engine a question then write a follow-up to give you a more concise answer. Here’s how.

Follow-ups help you understand and use AI​

I am using Perplexity Pro, available at https://perplexity.ai. Here’s my first prompting example: “How much water should a 50-year-old man drink each day?” Perplexity answers with:

For a 50-year-old man, the general recommendation for daily water intake is about 15.5 cups, which is equivalent to approximately 3.7 liters or 125 ounces of fluids per day. This guideline includes all fluids consumed, not just plain water. About 20% of this fluid intake typically comes from food, with the remaining 80% from beverages. However, individual water needs can vary based on several factors:

• Activity Level: Increased physical activity, especially in hot or humid conditions, can increase water needs due to higher sweat losses.
• Climate and Environment: Living in hot, dry, or high-altitude areas can increase fluid requirements.
• Health Conditions: Certain health issues or medications may affect hydration needs. For example, conditions like diabetes or medications such as diuretics can increase fluid loss.
• Age: As people age, their sense of thirst can diminish, making it important to consciously ensure adequate fluid intake.

It’s important to note that while these are general guidelines, the best approach is to listen to your body. Drinking enough water to maintain clear, pale urine and adjusting intake based on thirst and activity level are practical strategies to ensure proper hydration.

Click to expand...

It is HOT outside​

Let’s follow-up this answer. I can add more info to create a more valuable answer. In the same thread, the prompt box presents, “Ask follow-up.” OK. Let’s do that. I type: “and the man works outside and the high temperatures this week will surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit.” Perplexity answers with:

When working outside in high temperatures, such as those exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it is crucial to increase water intake to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. For a 50-year-old man working in such conditions, the following hydration guidelines are recommended:

• Drink Regularly: Consume approximately 1 cup (8 ounces) of water every 15 to 20 minutes. This equates to about 0.75 to 1 quart (24 to 32 ounces) per hour.
• Avoid Overhydration: Do not exceed 48 ounces (1.5 quarts) of water per hour to avoid hyponatremia, a condition caused by low sodium levels in the blood due to excessive water intake.
• Electrolyte Replacement: Consider drinking beverages with electrolytes, such as sports drinks, especially during prolonged periods of sweating, to replenish lost minerals like sodium and potassium.

Additionally, it is important to take regular breaks in shaded or cooler areas and to monitor for signs of dehydration and heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness, fatigue, or muscle cramps. Adjusting work schedules to cooler parts of the day and wearing appropriate clothing can also help mitigate heat stress.

Click to expand...

Reading level​

You can write (or let your AI engine write) content and check the Flesh-Kincaid grade reading level. Wikipedia has a fantastic article at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flesch–Kincaid_readability_tests#Flesch–Kincaid_grade_level. Getting back to business… I type: “and respond at a 6th grade reading level.” Perplexity answers with:

When it’s really hot outside, like over 100 degrees, and you’re working outside, it’s super important to drink more water to stay safe and healthy. Here are some simple tips:

• Drink Often: Try to drink about a cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes. That’s about 3 to 4 cups every hour.
• Don’t Drink Too Much: It’s important not to drink more than 6 cups of water in an hour so you don’t get sick from too much water.
• Electrolytes: Sometimes, it’s good to drink sports drinks. They help replace important things like salt that you lose when you sweat a lot.

Also, make sure to take breaks in the shade and watch out for signs that you might need more water, like feeling dizzy or tired. If you can, try to work during the cooler parts of the day and wear light, breathable clothes.

Click to expand...

Just easier and more friendly, right? That’s because this verbiage is for those reading at a 6th grade reading level. Although this means kids in Junior High, it is also the reading level of several prominent newspapers. Sad. Sad. Sad. I know. Getting back to business… I type one more prompt: “and make this a Facebook post.” Perplexity answers with:

? **Stay Hydrated in the Heat!** ?
Hey everyone! With temperatures soaring over 100 degrees this week, it’s super important to stay hydrated, especially if you’re working outside. Here are some easy tips to keep in mind:

– ? Drink Often: Aim for about a cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes. That’s around 3 to 4 cups an hour!

– ? Don’t Overdo It: Be careful not to drink more than 6 cups in an hour to avoid feeling sick.

– ? Electrolytes are Key: Consider sipping on sports drinks to replace important stuff like salt that you lose when you sweat.

Remember to take breaks in the shade and watch out for signs of dehydration, like feeling dizzy or tired. If possible, try to work during cooler parts of the day and wear light, comfy clothes. Stay safe and cool out there! ??
#StayHydrated #BeatTheHeat #SummerSafety.”

Click to expand...

Even more fun than the previous answer​

This is the easiest read. It also has cute emoticons, which Perplexity feels work well at Facebook. You polish your shoes to reach a better shine. You polish your AI prompts to reach better answers. Although I could have put all the prompts in one long run-on sentence, I was showing your follow-ups help you reach an answer that works. In case your wondering about all the “ands” in my prompts, see https://cybersafetynet.net/and-and-and-perplexity-ai-and-and-and/ to understand why I do that. Enjoy.

More​

AI ain’t so tough. See https://cybersafetynet.net/category/ai/ to help understand and use Artificial intelligence.

Thank you @Stephen Schneiter. Coordinating all these activities is no joke. ?

Had a student of mine ask about AI Essentials and if it would be offered in the future. I was not aware of any such things until he showed me this article:


And now I am curious, what is the latest with these expansions? Is this going to be a new pathway or what is going on with them. The article mentions a July 24 release, but I am not finding anything about them on CIN or other places. just curious.

I had the distinct pleasure of meeting @Stephen Schneiter and @Rick Butler , the dynamic duo behind CIN!!.
It was an exhilarating experience to connect with them in person. There's truly something special about face-to-face interactions that rocks and can not be replicated virtually.

Intellectual property is still relevant​

Last week, I argued intellectual property was no longer relevant. This week, I argue the opposite. Despite the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, intellectual property (IP) rights continue to play a crucial role in fostering innovation and protecting creative works. In case you've already read, https://cybersafetynet.net/does-int...rtificial-intelligence-generating-content-no/, fasten your seat belt. I am making the opposite argument here.

Human creativity remains central​

While AI can generate content, human creativity and ingenuity are still at the core of innovation. Humans design, develop, and refine AI systems, making critical decisions about their architecture, training data, and application. The creative process often involves human-AI collaboration, where AI serves as a tool to augment human capabilities rather than replace them entirely. Therefore, traditional intellectual property protections remain relevant for human contributions to AI-assisted works.

Legal frameworks are adapting​

IP laws are not static. They are dynamic. They evolve to address technological advancements. Courts and policymakers worldwide are actively working to modernize intellectual property laws to account for AI's impact. For instance, some jurisdictions are considering new categories of IP rights specifically for AI-generated works, ensuring that valuable innovations receive appropriate protection while maintaining the integrity of existing IP frameworks.

Economic incentives are still necessary​

The fundamental purpose of IP rights - to incentivize innovation and creativity - remains relevant in the AI era. Companies and individuals investing significant resources in developing AI technologies and AI-generated works need assurance that their investments will be protected. Without IP protections, cutting-edge AI research and development will decline.

Attribution and ownership challenges still exist​

While AI complicates issues of authorship and inventorship, solutions are emerging. For example, some propose attributing AI-generated works to the individuals or companies responsible for creating and deploying the AI system. This approach maintains the concept of human authorship while acknowledging AI's role.

IP rights help manage AI ethics and accountability​

As AI systems become more sophisticated, IP rights can serve as a mechanism for ensuring accountability and ethical use. By attributing ownership and responsibility for AI-generated works, intellectual property frameworks can help address concerns about the potential misuse of AI technologies.

Protection against infringement remains critical​

Even in an AI-driven world, the need to protect against unauthorized use or reproduction of creative works and inventions persists. IP rights provide a legal framework for creators and innovators to defend their work against infringement, whether by humans or other AI systems[2].

International cooperation is strengthening IP protections​

Global efforts to harmonize IP laws and address AI-related challenges are underway. International organizations and treaties are working to establish consistent approaches to AI and IP, ensuring that intellectual property rights remain enforceable across borders[2].

Summary​

In case your brain is melting, let me summarize here. AI presents unique challenges to traditional IP concepts. It does not negate the need for intellectual property protection. Instead, it underscores the importance of adapting and strengthening IP frameworks to address the complexities of AI-generated works. By evolving alongside technological advancements, IP laws can continue to foster innovation, protect creative endeavors, and provide essential economic incentives in the age of artificial intelligence.

We are seeking an experienced and knowledgeable instructor to teach a variety of CompTIA certification courses starting this Fall. This is a 10-month contract teaching position with synchronous online and face to face course delivery. This position will be part time, teaching two classes per session. There is a possibility of full time hours moving forward, but is not guaranteed at this time.

Courses to be taught include:

• CompTIA A+ (Core 1 and Core 2)
• CompTIA Network+ (N+)
• CompTIA Security+ (S+)
• CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
• CompTIA PenTest+

Responsibilities:

• Teach classes covering the objectives for the respective CompTIA certification exams
• Develop engaging course materials, lectures, labs, and assignments aligned with certification objectives
• Provide interactive instruction, answer student questions, and facilitate discussions
• Grade assignments, exams, and provide constructive feedback to students
• Hold regular online office hours for student support
• Maintain accurate student records and submit grades on time

Position Qualifications​

• Current CompTIA certifications in the areas you will be teaching (A+, N+, S+, CySA+, PenTest+)
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in IT roles related to the certification subject areas
• Proven experience teaching CompTIA certification courses, preferably in an online environment
• Excellent communication, presentation, and instructional skills
• Ability to create an engaging, interactive virtual classroom experience
• Strong organizational and time management abilities
• Basic proficiency with online teaching platforms and tools (training provided)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field
• Industry certifications beyond CompTIA (Cisco, Microsoft, cloud, etc.)
• Prior curriculum development experience for certification courses
• Experience with virtual lab environments for hands-on exercises

Competitive compensation based on courses taught and experience.


Please submit your resume/CV along with copies of relevant certifications if interested in this opportunity.