Beginner Cybersecurity Labs

Learn by Doing, Not Watching

Hands-on labs are the fastest way to master cybersecurity. At AstralGuard Cyber Academy, we provide safe, guided environments where you can practice real techniques without risking real systems. Build skills, not just knowledge.

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Safe Sandboxed Environment

Practice in isolated labs designed for learning without real-world risks.

Progressive Difficulty

Start with fundamentals and gradually tackle more complex challenges.

Step-by-Step Guidance

Clear instructions and hints help you learn without getting stuck.

Beginner Labs

Hands-on exercises designed for cybersecurity newcomers

Linux Basics — Terminal Navigation

Navigate the filesystem, inspect files, use permissions, and practice safe command usage in a read-only environment.

Tools: Terminal Time: 30m Difficulty: 1/5
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Intro to Recon — Nmap & Enumeration

Scan a sandbox target, interpret open ports and services, and collect the first clues for deeper testing.

Tools: Nmap Time: 40m Difficulty: 2/5
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Reflected XSS Playground

Understand how untrusted input is reflected and craft safe proof-of-concept payloads using browser devtools.

Tools: Browser Time: 25m Difficulty: 2/5
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Login Without Password — Broken Auth

Explore an intentionally vulnerable auth flow, learn how to document findings and suggest fixes.

Time: 30m Difficulty: 2/5
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Simple File Inclusion (Local)

Understand file inclusion risks and how to safely detect and mitigate them on web servers.

Tools: Browser, DevTools Time: 35m Difficulty: 2/5
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Auditd — Basic System Monitoring

Learn how to read logs, interpret audit events, and monitor suspicious activity using auditd examples.

Tools: auditd Time: 30m Difficulty: 1/5
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Essential Tools

Master the fundamental tools used in cybersecurity practice

Kali Linux

Nmap

Bash Terminal

Browser DevTools

Wireshark

Text Editors

How These Labs Work

Each lab runs in an isolated sandbox environment. Hints are progressive — try to solve them without the final hint. After completion you can view a detailed writeup and remediation checklist to reinforce your learning.

Safety & Ethical Guidelines

Do not attempt techniques used in labs on third-party systems. These exercises are for learning only. Follow our ethical guidelines and responsible disclosure process. All labs are conducted in controlled, authorized environments.

Ready to Get Hands-On?

Join AstralGuard Cyber Academy and access our complete library of beginner labs. Build practical cybersecurity skills through guided, hands-on exercises in safe environments.