Course Overview

This course introduces essential Linux operations and configurations that form a foundation for cybersecurity studies. I’ve been able to directly apply these skills in managing a home Minecraft server on Linux, which has deepened my understanding of system management and security concepts. The course covers:

• Installation and configuration of Linux environments
• File system management for secure data handling
• Shell scripting for task automation
• User authentication and permissions setup

Learning these skills has been invaluable, not only for managing my server but also for developing a stronger technical base for advanced cybersecurity courses.

Skills Gained

Through both coursework and hands-on experience with my Minecraft server, I’ve gained skills that are critical for system administration and security:

• Linux System Configuration: Setting up and maintaining a Linux environment for my server has solidified my knowledge in secure system configurations.
• File and Permissions Management: Managing user roles and file permissions on the server has given me insight into secure access control.
• Shell Scripting and Task Automation: In Assignment 9, I created a shell script to automate system backups, taking inputs for the filename and compressing backup files for efficient storage. This reinforced my understanding of `tar`, compression methods, and scheduling tasks using `crontab`.
• Network Security Basics: Setting up network configurations, such as managing OpenVPN and monitoring traffic, has provided a real-world application of security principles.

Personal Experience

Running my own Minecraft server has allowed me to apply course concepts in real-time. Key experiences include:

• Configuring server settings and troubleshooting issues on a Linux system
• Using tools like the spark plugin to monitor server performance and optimize resources
• Practicing network security concepts by managing access and monitoring activity on my server
• Using scripting and automation techniques to ensure regular system maintenance, including automated backups and resource management as practiced in CYSE 270

This hands-on application has made the coursework in CYSE 270 even more relevant, providing me with practical experience that directly supports my cybersecurity studies.