This learning plan is tailored to help you master all exam topics, using structured tasks and effective study techniques. The Pomodoro Technique will ensure focused learning, while the Forgetting Curve principle will guide timely reviews. The plan spans six weeks, providing enough time for concept mastery, practical application, and revision.

Goals：

1. Gain a strong conceptual understanding of SOC operations, including incident handling, threat detection, and threat hunting.
2. Develop hands-on experience with Fortinet tools: FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiSIEM, and FortiSandbox.
3. Master SOC automation workflows, including Fabric Connectors and playbooks.
4. Understand advanced detection techniques like behavioral analysis, machine learning, and threat intelligence integration.
5. Pass the FCSS_SOC_AN-7.4 exam with a score of 85% or higher.

FCSS_SOC_AN-7.4 Weekly Study Plan

Week 1: Foundation - SOC Concepts and Adversary Behavior

Objective: Build a foundational understanding of SOC’s role, adversary behavior, and frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK.

Day 1: Introduction to SOC

• Goal: Understand the definition and purpose of a Security Operations Center (SOC).
• Tasks:
  1. Learn the SOC’s key roles: monitoring, detection, response, and reporting.
  2. Research why SOCs are critical in modern cybersecurity.
  3. Summarize the difference between reactive and proactive SOC operations.
• Method:
  • Use video tutorials or Fortinet study materials to get an overview.
  • End the session by explaining SOC’s purpose to a peer or yourself.

Day 2: SOC Functions

• Goal: Master the functions of SOC and their real-world application.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the SOC’s functions: real-time monitoring, incident response, and threat intelligence integration.
  2. Read a case study on a SOC’s role during a cyberattack.
  3. Create a flowchart connecting SOC functions to tools like SIEM.
• Method:
  • Apply the Pomodoro technique (4 cycles) with specific focus blocks for reading, flowcharting, and reviewing.

Day 3: Adversary Behavior

• Goal: Understand how attackers operate and the lifecycle of an attack.
• Tasks:
  1. Learn the 7 phases of the attacker lifecycle:
     • Reconnaissance
     • Weaponization
     • Delivery
     • Exploitation
     • Persistence
     • Exfiltration
     • Covering tracks
  2. Study tools attackers use, like Nmap and Shodan.
  3. Research a real-world cyberattack and identify which stages were used.
• Method:
  • Use diagrams to visualize the lifecycle and connect tools to each stage.

Day 4: MITRE ATT&CK Framework

• Goal: Familiarize yourself with the MITRE ATT&CK framework.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the structure of the framework: tactics, techniques, and procedures.
  2. Learn three techniques under each of these tactics:
     • Initial Access
     • Privilege Escalation
     • Data Exfiltration
  3. Map a sample incident to the framework (e.g., phishing email → credential theft → lateral movement).
• Method:
  • Use the MITRE website for examples and simulate mapping using your notes.

Day 5: Active Review

• Goal: Reinforce knowledge of SOC basics, adversary behavior, and MITRE ATT&CK.
• Tasks:
  1. Review all notes from Days 1–4.
  2. Create a flashcard deck of key terms (e.g., SOC functions, attacker lifecycle stages).
  3. Attempt 15–20 quiz questions on SOC concepts and adversary behavior.
• Method:
  • Use spaced repetition for flashcard review.

Day 6: Practical Application

• Goal: Apply what you’ve learned to realistic scenarios.
• Tasks:
  1. Review sample logs or security alerts and identify which stage of the attacker lifecycle they correspond to.
  2. Write a brief incident report simulating SOC’s response to an attack.
• Method:
  • Use Fortinet demo resources or sample data online for practice.

Day 7: Reflection and Catch-Up

• Goal: Reflect on the week’s learning and address weak points.
• Tasks:
  1. Identify areas where you struggled (e.g., mapping incidents to MITRE).
  2. Watch additional tutorials or revisit challenging material.
  3. Prepare for next week by organizing Week 1 notes into a summary sheet.

Week 2: Fortinet Security Architecture and Detection Capabilities

Objective: Understand the architecture of Fortinet tools and their detection capabilities, focusing on log management and analysis.

Day 1: Fortinet Security Fabric

• Goal: Learn how Fortinet tools integrate within the Security Fabric.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the roles of FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiSIEM, and FortiSandbox.
  2. Diagram the connections between these tools and their purposes.
  3. Focus on FortiGate’s features like application control and deep packet inspection.
• Method:
  • Use official documentation or training videos, and redraw the architecture for retention.

Day 2: Log Collection and Management

• Goal: Master the types of logs and how they are managed in Fortinet systems.
• Tasks:
  1. Study traffic logs, event logs, and system logs.
  2. Learn the log lifecycle:
     • Collection (e.g., using Syslog)
     • Parsing (organizing raw data into readable formats)
     • Storage (ensuring secure archival)
     • Analysis (querying data for anomalies)
  3. Practice analyzing logs using sample data.
• Method:
  • Use hands-on labs or demo environments to examine logs.

Day 3: Detection Techniques

• Goal: Understand the strengths and limitations of detection methods.
• Tasks:
  1. Study signature-based detection:
     • Strengths: Fast detection of known threats.
     • Limitations: Cannot detect zero-day threats.
  2. Learn behavioral analysis and machine learning for detecting anomalies.
  3. Study examples of integrating external threat intelligence with FortiAnalyzer.
• Method:
  • Compare detection techniques with real-world scenarios for better understanding.

Day 4: Active Review

• Goal: Reinforce knowledge of Fortinet architecture and detection techniques.
• Tasks:
  1. Create flashcards for log types, Fortinet tools, and detection methods.
  2. Solve 20–25 practice questions on architecture and detection.
• Method:
  • Use spaced repetition for reviewing flashcards and refining notes.

Day 5: Practice Test and Refinement

• Goal: Assess progress and refine weak areas.
• Tasks:
  1. Take a mock test focused on Fortinet architecture and detection capabilities.
  2. Review incorrect answers and revisit those topics.
  3. Update notes with new insights from the test.
• Method:
  • Allocate time for detailed analysis of mistakes.

Day 6: Application

• Goal: Apply knowledge through case studies and hands-on practice.
• Tasks:
  1. Review a case study where FortiAnalyzer was used to detect a threat.
  2. Practice creating reports from logs using FortiAnalyzer.
• Method:
  • Use online resources or a demo lab to simulate scenarios.

Day 7: Consolidation

• Goal: Summarize Week 2 learning and prepare for Week 3.
• Tasks:
  1. Create a one-page summary of key concepts from the week.
  2. Organize notes and practice recalling connections between Fortinet tools.

Week 3: SOC Operations - Incident Handling and Threat Hunting

Objective: Develop skills in handling security incidents and proactively hunting for hidden threats.

Day 1: Incident Handling Process Overview

• Goal: Understand the structured steps of incident handling.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the six steps of the incident handling process:
     • Detection
     • Classification
     • Analysis
     • Response
     • Recovery
     • Post-Mortem Analysis
  2. Learn how SIEM tools (like FortiAnalyzer) assist in incident detection and classification.
  3. Create a checklist summarizing actions for each step.
• Method:
  • Use official Fortinet resources or case studies to see real-world implementations.
  • Summarize each step with examples for better retention.

Day 2: Detection and Classification

• Goal: Master the methods for identifying and categorizing incidents.
• Tasks:
  1. Learn how to detect anomalies using tools like FortiAnalyzer.
  2. Understand classification criteria: severity, type of attack, affected systems.
  3. Practice analyzing sample logs and classifying incidents by severity.
• Method:
  • Use online labs or datasets to simulate real-world scenarios.
  • Write short notes on different detection methods.

Day 3: Incident Response and Recovery

• Goal: Develop practical response and recovery skills.
• Tasks:
  1. Study response strategies: isolating infected devices, blocking malicious IPs, and notifying stakeholders.
  2. Learn recovery steps: patching vulnerabilities, restoring systems, and verifying the environment.
  3. Simulate a response to a mock ransomware attack.
• Method:
  • Use visual diagrams to connect response actions with corresponding recovery steps.
  • Practice creating incident response plans for common scenarios.

Day 4: Threat Hunting Basics

• Goal: Understand the proactive nature of threat hunting.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the three steps of threat hunting:
     • Formulate a hypothesis (e.g., "Suspicious DNS traffic may indicate data exfiltration").
     • Analyze logs for patterns supporting the hypothesis.
     • Validate findings and confirm threats.
  2. Practice querying sample logs to detect anomalies like unusual login attempts or large data transfers.
• Method:
  • Use FortiAnalyzer’s query capabilities (if accessible) or practice with sample log data.

Day 5: Review and Quiz

• Goal: Reinforce incident handling and threat hunting concepts.
• Tasks:
  1. Review notes and diagrams from Days 1–4.
  2. Solve 20–30 practice questions on SOC operations.
  3. Attempt a short case study where you analyze logs to classify and respond to an incident.
• Method:
  • Allocate Pomodoro cycles for reviewing notes and taking the quiz.

Day 6: Mock Incident Handling

• Goal: Apply knowledge to simulate real-world incident handling.
• Tasks:
  1. Analyze a detailed incident scenario (e.g., malware detected in the network).
  2. Perform the incident handling steps:
     • Detect and classify the incident.
     • Respond by isolating affected systems.
     • Create a recovery plan.
     • Write a post-mortem analysis summarizing lessons learned.
• Method:
  • Use online incident simulation tools or case studies for practice.

Day 7: Reflection and Summary

• Goal: Consolidate Week 3 learning and prepare for automation topics.
• Tasks:
  1. Reflect on which steps of incident handling were most challenging.
  2. Revisit notes or resources on threat hunting and incident response.
  3. Organize notes into a one-page summary for easy future reference.

Week 4: SOC Automation

Objective: Master the concepts and applications of SOC automation, including workflows and playbooks.

Day 1: Introduction to Automation

• Goal: Understand the importance of automation in SOC operations.
• Tasks:
  1. Learn how automation reduces human error and speeds up responses.
  2. Study real-world examples of automated incident responses, such as blocking IPs or isolating devices.
  3. List the pros and cons of automation in SOC operations.
• Method:
  • Use examples from Fortinet's automation features like Fabric Connectors.

Day 2: Fabric Connectors

• Goal: Understand how Fabric Connectors integrate tools and enable automation.
• Tasks:
  1. Learn the role of Fabric Connectors in sharing threat intelligence.
  2. Explore examples like automatically synchronizing detected malicious IPs with FortiGate.
  3. Practice configuring a Fabric Connector using Fortinet documentation or a virtual lab.
• Method:
  • Use hands-on practice or watch videos of Fabric Connector setups.

Day 3: Playbooks

• Goal: Learn to design and use playbooks for common SOC tasks.
• Tasks:
  1. Study the structure of a playbook: trigger conditions, actions, and monitoring.
  2. Create a sample playbook for a ransomware detection scenario:
     • Trigger condition: File encryption detected.
     • Actions: Isolate affected device, notify SOC team, block external traffic.
  3. Practice modifying an existing playbook to handle phishing emails.
• Method:
  • Use Fortinet’s demo environments or flowchart tools to simulate playbook creation.

Day 4: Automated Workflows

• Goal: Learn how workflows are designed to automate responses.
• Tasks:
  1. Study how workflows connect detection tools (e.g., FortiAnalyzer) with response mechanisms (e.g., FortiGate).
  2. Practice designing workflows for:
     • Blocking malicious domains.
     • Automatically generating alerts for suspicious activities.
  3. Analyze the benefits of monitoring workflows for false positives.
• Method:
  • Use examples from case studies or Fortinet training.

Day 5: Review and Quiz

• Goal: Reinforce automation concepts and test understanding.
• Tasks:
  1. Review key automation features, including Fabric Connectors and playbooks.
  2. Solve 20–30 quiz questions on SOC automation.
  3. Attempt a mock test focused on designing workflows and automation strategies.
• Method:
  • Review notes and refine incorrect answers from the mock test.

Day 6: Practical Application

• Goal: Apply automation knowledge to realistic scenarios.
• Tasks:
  1. Configure a sample Fabric Connector or create a playbook in a demo environment.
  2. Write a step-by-step guide for implementing an automated workflow.
• Method:
  • Use Fortinet’s documentation or videos to guide hands-on practice.

Day 7: Consolidation

• Goal: Summarize Week 4 learning and prepare for review in Weeks 5–6.
• Tasks:
  1. Create a one-page summary of automation tools and workflows.
  2. Reflect on how automation improves SOC operations and identify any remaining knowledge gaps.

Week 5: Consolidation and Practice

Objective: Integrate knowledge from previous weeks, focus on weak areas, and practice through mock tests and scenarios.

Day 1: Comprehensive Review of SOC Concepts and Adversary Behavior

• Goal: Revisit Week 1 topics with a focus on solidifying foundational knowledge.
• Tasks:
  1. Review SOC functions (real-time monitoring, threat detection, incident response, etc.).
  2. Revisit the attacker lifecycle and map examples to each phase.
  3. Solve case studies where SOC processes are applied to mitigate an adversary’s tactics.
• Method:
  • Use flashcards for quick recall of key terms and attacker phases.
  • Practice explaining concepts to a peer or aloud to reinforce understanding.

Day 2: Fortinet Security Architecture

• Goal: Revisit Week 2 topics with emphasis on Fortinet’s tools and their integrations.
• Tasks:
  1. Summarize the roles of FortiGate, FortiAnalyzer, FortiSIEM, and FortiSandbox.
  2. Review how logs (traffic, event, system) are collected, stored, and analyzed.
  3. Practice interpreting sample logs and connecting findings to Fortinet tools.
• Method:
  • Diagram the relationships between the tools and how they support the SOC.
  • Use Fortinet lab environments or log datasets for practical application.

Day 3: Incident Handling and Threat Hunting

• Goal: Revisit Week 3 topics to strengthen operational skills.
• Tasks:
  1. Walk through the incident handling steps with specific examples.
  2. Practice threat hunting:
     • Formulate a hypothesis based on logs or patterns.
     • Query logs to validate the hypothesis.
     • Document findings in a report.
  3. Solve mock incidents and classify them based on severity and type.
• Method:
  • Use case studies to simulate real-world incident handling and threat hunting.
  • Practice writing brief post-mortem analyses for incidents.

Day 4: SOC Automation

• Goal: Revisit Week 4 topics, focusing on Fabric Connectors, playbooks, and workflows.
• Tasks:
  1. Review examples of playbooks and workflows for different scenarios (e.g., ransomware detection, phishing mitigation).
  2. Practice creating a new automated workflow:
     • Define a trigger condition.
     • Specify automated actions.
     • Set up monitoring for false positives.
  3. Write a brief summary of automation’s advantages and challenges.
• Method:
  • Use diagramming tools to visualize workflows and playbook sequences.
  • Practice hands-on configuration of connectors or workflows in a lab.

Day 5: Mock Test

• Goal: Evaluate overall readiness with a full-length mock test.
• Tasks:
  1. Complete a 60–90 minute practice exam simulating FCSS_SOC_AN-7.4.
  2. Review incorrect answers and analyze weak areas.
  3. Update notes to address gaps in understanding.
• Method:
  • Time yourself to build test-taking stamina.
  • Focus on understanding the reasoning behind each answer.

Day 6: Review Weak Areas

• Goal: Strengthen knowledge and skills in identified weak areas.
• Tasks:
  1. Revisit notes and flashcards on missed topics from the mock test.
  2. Watch tutorials or review resources related to challenging concepts.
  3. Practice with additional quizzes or case studies on those topics.
• Method:
  • Dedicate focused Pomodoro cycles to each weak area.
  • Use hands-on labs if applicable.

Day 7: Catch-Up and Summary

• Goal: Consolidate all Week 5 learning and prepare for final review in Week 6.
• Tasks:
  1. Organize notes into a comprehensive study guide.
  2. Summarize key concepts from SOC concepts, Fortinet tools, operations, and automation.
  3. Rest and prepare for an intensive final week.

Week 6: Final Preparation

Objective: Review all materials, practice extensively, and build confidence for the exam.

Day 1: Review of All Topics

• Goal: Conduct a high-level review of Weeks 1–4 topics.
• Tasks:
  1. Summarize SOC concepts, Fortinet tools, incident handling, and automation in a single page each.
  2. Solve short quizzes on each major topic.
  3. Highlight any remaining gaps for focused review later.
• Method:
  • Use active recall techniques to test your memory on key concepts.

Day 2: Practice Test 1

• Goal: Simulate the exam environment and identify weak points.
• Tasks:
  1. Take a full-length mock test under timed conditions.
  2. Analyze incorrect answers and revisit weak areas.
  3. Update notes and refine understanding of complex topics.
• Method:
  • Focus on pacing yourself to answer questions efficiently.

Day 3: Practical Application

• Goal: Apply knowledge to realistic scenarios.
• Tasks:
  1. Analyze a detailed incident report and walk through the incident handling steps.
  2. Practice configuring a Fabric Connector or playbook in a lab environment.
  3. Write a brief report summarizing findings and recommended actions.
• Method:
  • Use case studies or Fortinet demo tools to gain practical experience.

Day 4: Practice Test 2

• Goal: Reinforce confidence and refine test-taking strategy.
• Tasks:
  1. Take another full-length practice test with a goal of improving your score.
  2. Review incorrect answers and refine your notes.
  3. Practice additional questions on any persisting weak areas.
• Method:
  • Track your progress compared to the first mock test.

Day 5: Focused Review

• Goal: Conduct a final review of key topics.
• Tasks:
  1. Use flashcards to review key terms, frameworks (e.g., MITRE ATT&CK), and tools.
  2. Solve 10–15 quick practice questions for each major topic.
  3. Restudy challenging concepts identified earlier in the week.
• Method:
  • Use short, focused sessions to avoid burnout.

Day 6: Relaxed Revision

• Goal: Build confidence without overloading your mind.
• Tasks:
  1. Lightly review notes and summaries.
  2. Reflect on your progress and reinforce positive thinking.
  3. Prepare exam materials (e.g., ID, schedule, etc.).
• Method:
  • Avoid learning new material; focus on reinforcing what you know.

Day 7: Exam Day

• Goal: Perform confidently in the exam.
• Tasks:
  1. Review key summaries in the morning (15–30 minutes).
  2. Stay calm, focused, and manage time effectively during the exam.
  3. Celebrate your hard work afterward!