Basic Introduction to Malware Analysis

Malware analysis is a critical skill in the field of cybersecurity. It involves examining malicious software to understand how it works, what it does, and how to defend against it. This introductory course provides an overview of the types of malware, the stages of malware analysis, and the tools and techniques used in the process.

Understanding the different types of malware, such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware, is essential for effective analysis. Each type has unique characteristics and behaviors that must be identified and analyzed to develop appropriate countermeasures.

The stages of malware analysis typically include static analysis, dynamic analysis, and behavioral analysis. Static analysis involves examining the code and structure of the malware without executing it. Dynamic analysis involves running the malware in a controlled environment to observe its behavior. Behavioral analysis focuses on understanding the actions the malware takes on an infected system.

Various tools and techniques are used in malware analysis, including disassemblers, debuggers, sandboxing, and network monitoring. These tools help analysts extract important information from malware samples, such as file attributes, network traffic, and system interactions.

By gaining a basic understanding of malware analysis, individuals can better protect systems and networks from malicious threats. This course serves as a foundation for further study in cybersecurity and provides valuable insights into the world of malware and cyber threats.