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Aspiring IT & Cybersecurity Professional
Cybersecurity student at The Open University. Building practical skills in networking, systems, and defensive security — and looking to start my career in IT.
I’m Niall Winter, an aspiring IT and cybersecurity professional studying Cybersecurity at The Open University. I’m actively looking to start my career in IT.
I’m building practical skills in networking, Linux systems, and defensive security. Alongside my degree I’m working through the Cisco Networking Essentials course and using a home lab to practise what I learn in a hands-on way.
I’m early in my path, but I take the learning seriously — notes, labs, and steady progress. I’m keen to gain real experience through an entry-level role, internship, or junior position where I can contribute and keep growing.
Cybersecurity fundamentals, networking & Linux systems
Open University Cybersecurity degree pathway
Hands-on labs, projects & continuous skill building
Core areas I’m actively developing through study and practical work.
The Open University
Studying core cybersecurity principles, networking foundations, systems security, and practical defensive techniques. Coursework includes industry-aligned training such as the Cisco Networking Essentials course.
Cisco · via The Open University
Currently completing as part of Open University studies. Covers networking fundamentals, IP addressing, switching and routing basics, network protocols, and hands-on configuration concepts used in real IT environments.
Practical work and learning projects. Updated as new labs and builds are completed.
Building a virtualised home lab for hands-on practice with Linux VMs, basic networking, and security tooling in a safe environment.
Structured practice covering subnetting, TCP/IP, packet analysis with Wireshark, and core concepts aligned with Cisco Networking Essentials.
Exploring Linux administration, user and permission management, basic hardening practices, and everyday command-line tooling.
Documenting solutions and techniques from Capture The Flag challenges and online labs to reinforce methodology and note-taking habits.
Looking to start my IT career — open to entry-level roles, internships, and junior positions.
If you’re hiring or know of an opportunity, the best way to reach me is by email or LinkedIn.