INE Resources
05/12/2026
INE
The Spiraling Cost of Downtime from Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware downtime can cost industrial organizations millions. Learn why infrastructure sectors are targeted and how training, response plans, and leadership alignment reduce risk.
05/04/2026
INE
INE Highlights Escalating Cost of Ransomware Downtime in Industrial Environments
New data underscores growing OT risk as attacks increase and operational impacts outpace traditional IT narrativesCARY, NC, April 30, 2026 — INE Security, a global provider of cybersecurity and IT training and certifications, today highlighted the rising operational and financial impact of ransomware attacks across industrial sectors, where downtime can rapidly extend beyond IT disruption to halted production, supply chain delays, and safety risks.As attacks targeting manufacturing, energy, utilities, and transportation organizations continue to accelerate, INE is urging leaders to treat ransomware preparedness as a business-wide discipline—one that requires coordinated planning, cross-functional execution, and hands-on training across both IT and operational technology (OT) environments.Ransomware in OT: A Growing Operational ThreatRecent research shows that ransomware targeting industrial organizations increased by 49% year-over-year, impacting more than 3,300 organizations globally. Manufacturing alone accounted for over two-thirds of victims, highlighting how deeply these attacks are affecting operational environments.At the same time, the financial consequences of downtime continue to escalate. Industry estimates suggest that OT cyber disruptions expose organizations to hundreds of billions of dollars in annual losses, with large-scale incidents capable of driving multi-billion-dollar business interruption costs.“In industrial environments, ransomware is not just a cybersecurity issue—it’s an operational and financial risk,” said Lindsey Rinehart, Chief Executive Officer at INE. “When production stops, every minute carries a cost. Organizations need teams that can respond quickly and make informed decisions under pressure.”Why Industrial Environments Are Uniquely ExposedIndustrial control systems (ICS) and OT environments—including SCADA platforms, PLCs, and plant-floor systems—are tightly integrated with physical processes. Unlike traditional IT systems, they cannot always be taken offline, patched, or isolated without affecting production or safety.Attackers are increasingly exploiting this reality. Research indicates that 78% of OT ransomware incidents originate in IT systems before moving laterally into OT environments, allowing adversaries to disrupt operations without directly targeting industrial protocols.In many cases, the operational impact stems from disruption to IT and virtualization systems that OT depends on—resulting in loss of visibility, loss of control, and multi-day outages, even when core industrial devices remain untouched.This convergence of IT and OT risk is forcing organizations to rethink how they prepare for and respond to ransomware incidents.Downtime: The True Cost of RansomwareThe consequences of ransomware in industrial environments extend far beyond data loss. When critical systems are disrupted, the impact can cascade across the business:Production shutdowns and lost revenueSupply chain delays and partner disruptionRegulatory and compliance exposureIncreased recovery and remediation costsSafety risks in critical infrastructure environmentsRecent incidents demonstrate the scale of the problem. In one case, a ransomware attack led to hundreds of millions of dollars in lost and delayed revenue, with downstream partners experiencing additional financial impact.These events reinforce a clear reality: in industrial environments, downtime is not just an IT issue—it is a business continuity crisis.Preparedness Determines OutcomesResearch also shows that preparedness has a measurable impact. Organizations with strong OT visibility and detection capabilities are able to contain ransomware incidents in an average of 5 days, compared to an industry average of 42 days.This gap highlights the importance of readiness—not just in tools, but in people and processes.INE emphasizes that effective ransomware defense requires three foundational capabilities:Without these elements in place, response efforts can slow significantly during active incidents, increasing both operational and financial impact.Training for Real-World Industrial ScenariosINE stresses that ransomware readiness in industrial environments requires more than awareness. Teams must be prepared to act in complex, high-pressure scenarios where decisions affect both security and operations.This includes training in:Identifying attack paths across IT and OT systemsSafely isolating affected assets without disrupting critical processesValidating backups before restorationManaging identity and access risks during incidentsCoordinating response across technical and business stakeholders“Teams don’t rise to the occasion during an incident—they fall back on how they’ve trained,” added Rinehart. “In industrial environments, that training must reflect real-world conditions where controlled response is critical to avoiding further disruption.”Building Resilience Across IT and OTINE supports organizations in strengthening ransomware readiness through hands-on training that reflects real-world industrial environments. By improving technical skills, decision-making, and cross-team coordination, organizations can reduce the spread of attacks, restore systems more effectively, and limit the broader impact of downtime.As ransomware threats continue to evolve, industrial organizations face a clear challenge: when critical systems are disrupted, every hour carries operational, financial, and safety consequences.Learn MoreOrganizations looking to strengthen ransomware readiness across IT and OT environments can learn more about INE’s training programs at ine.com. <br />About INEINE is an award-winning, premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity education, including cybersecurity training and certification. INE is trusted by Fortune 500 companies and IT professionals around the globe. Leveraging a state-of-the-art hands-on lab platform, advanced technologies, a global video distribution network, and instruction from world-class experts, INE sets the standard for high-impact, career-advancing technical education.
05/04/2026
INE
The AI Security Skills Gap Is Now the Biggest Risk in Your SOC
AI tools are advancing faster than SOC teams can operationalize them. Learn why the security skills gap is the biggest risk—and how to close it.
04/28/2026
INE
April CVEs: Critical RCEs & Chrome Zero-Day
Explore April 2026 CVEs, including critical RCEs, an actively exploited React flaw, and a Chrome zero-day impacting billions. Learn risks and mitigation steps.
04/28/2026
INE
INE Releases 2026 Training Roadmap for Building AI-Augmented Security Teams
INE releases a 2026 training roadmap to help organizations build AI-augmented security teams with role-based development and measurable skill growth.
04/20/2026
INE
INE Launches Fully Revamped Cisco CCNP Enterprise ENCOR v1.2 Learning Path for Certification Success
Revamped learning experience aligns to current exam blueprint with nearly 200 hours of content, 100+ labs, and integrated practice examsCARY, N.C. — April 16, 2026 — INE, a global provider of networking and cybersecurity training and certifications, today announced the release of its fully updated Cisco Enterprise Core (350-401 ENCOR v1.2) Learning Path, designed to align with the latest CCNP Enterprise exam blueprint and provide a more structured, exam-focused preparation experience.The updated ENCOR learning path has been comprehensively evaluated and reconfigured by INE’s expert instructors. Existing content has been refined, new modules have been introduced where needed, and the overall structure has been streamlined to improve clarity, progression, and learner outcomes.As the core exam for Cisco’s CCNP Enterprise and CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certifications, ENCOR requires a broad understanding of enterprise networking technologies. The updated learning path is designed to help learners build that foundation while preparing confidently for certification.Aligned to the Modern ENCOR ExamThe updated learning path includes:Nearly 200 hours of video and guided learning activities across 33 courses314 quizzes to reinforce knowledge and assess understanding116 hands-on labs to develop practical, real-world networking skillsIntegrated practice exams to support exam readiness and confidenceEnhancements also include refined course content aligned to exam domains, newly introduced modules covering evolving technologies, and a streamlined structure to improve progression across topics.“ENCOR is a foundational certification for enterprise networking professionals, and preparation requires both depth and practical application,” said Brian McGahan, 4 x CCIE #8593 (Routing & Switching/Service Provider/Security/Data Center), & CCDE #2013:13 and Networking Content Director, INE. “This update ensures learners are aligned with the current exam while developing the hands-on skills needed to succeed in real-world environments.”Building Skills for Modern Enterprise NetworksEnterprise networking continues to evolve with the adoption of automation, cloud integration, and software-defined architectures. The updated ENCOR learning path reflects these changes, helping learners develop skills across key areas such as:Advanced routing and switchingNetwork design and infrastructureAutomation and programmabilitySoftware-defined networking conceptsSecurity fundamentals within enterprise environmentsBy combining structured content with hands-on practice, INE helps learners prepare not only for certification, but for the operational demands of modern enterprise networks.AvailabilityThe updated Cisco Enterprise Core (350-401 ENCOR v1.2) Learning Path is now available on INE’s platform.To learn more or begin training, visit https://ine.com/enterprise.
04/10/2026
INE
INE Defines the Future of Cybersecurity: The Rise of the Full-Stack Defender
Cary, NC — April 9, 2026 — INE, a global leader in IT and cybersecurity training, today announced a new industry perspective redefining what it means to be a modern cybersecurity professional: the rise of the Full-Stack Defender.As cyber threats grow more complex and interconnected, organizations can no longer rely on siloed teams or narrowly trained specialists. Today’s attack paths span networks, cloud infrastructure, applications, and automation systems which require a new kind of practitioner equipped to understand and defend across all domains.“The idea that cybersecurity exists in isolation is no longer realistic,” said Lindsey Rinehart, Chief Executive Officer at INE. “Modern defenders must understand how systems connect, where vulnerabilities emerge across environments, and how attacks move between them. The future belongs to full-stack defenders.”A Fundamental Shift in Cybersecurity RolesThe Full-Stack Defender represents a shift away from traditional role boundaries toward cross-functional capability. Instead of specializing in a single domain, these professionals are trained to operate across:Networking infrastructureCloud and hybrid environmentsSecurity operations and threat detectionAutomation and modern development systemsThis evolution reflects a broader industry reality: attackers do not operate in silos—and defenders can’t afford to either.Why This Matters NowOrganizations are under increasing pressure to defend expanding attack surfaces with limited resources. At the same time:Technology environments are becoming more integrated and complexSkill gaps are widening across IT and security teamsBreaches increasingly exploit gaps between systems—not within themAs a result, the ability to connect knowledge across domains is becoming more valuable than deep specialization alone.From Siloed Skills to Organizational ReadinessINE’s approach to training supports this shift by enabling organizations to build full-stack defenders through a structured, measurable model:Assess → Train → Practice → CertifyWith capabilities such as skills diagnostics, hands-on labs, and certification pathways, INE helps teams:Identify critical skill gaps before training beginsBuild practical, real-world capabilities across disciplinesStrengthen collaboration between networking, cloud, and security teamsImprove overall organizational readiness and resilienceA New Standard for Workforce DevelopmentThe concept of the Full-Stack Defender emerges as part of INE’s broader Year of the Defender initiative, which recognizes the expanding role of modern technologists in protecting systems, data, and organizations.Rather than treating training as a one-time event, INE positions workforce development as a continuous, strategic capability—one that evolves alongside emerging threats and technologies.“Defenders aren’t defined by job titles anymore,” added Rinehart. “They’re defined by their ability to adapt, connect systems, and respond to real-world threats. That’s what we’re building at INE.”Learn how INE Enterprise Training for Teams helps organizations close skills gaps and build cross-functional defenders at scale.About INEINE is an award-winning, premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity education, including cybersecurity training and certification. INE is trusted by Fortune 500 companies and IT professionals around the globe. Leveraging a state-of-the-art hands-on lab platform, advanced technologies, a global video distribution network, and instruction from world-class experts, INE sets the standard for high-impact, career-advancing technical education.
04/07/2026
INE
Prep Your Small Business for a Cyber Breach
Learn how to prepare your small business for a cyber breach with practical steps on incident response, AI-driven threats, and risk reduction. Protect your SMB before an attack happens.
04/07/2026
INE
The Hidden Skills Gap No One Is Measuring in Cybersecurity Teams
Most cybersecurity teams are missing a critical skills gap between domains. Learn how organizations are uncovering hidden gaps and improving team readiness.
04/01/2026
INE
INE Security Launches Updated eJPT Certification with Expanded Web App Testing, Recon Training, and Offensive AI
Enhanced training and updated exam deliver stronger alignment between learning and real-world skillsCary, NC — March 26, 2026 — INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, today announced the launch of the newly updated Junior Penetration Tester (eJPT) certification, featuring expanded training content, additional hands-on labs, a new course on generative AI for pentesters, and an updated certification exam designed to better reflect these enhancements.As organizations face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, entry-level security professionals need more than foundational theory—they need practical, job-relevant experience in core offensive security tasks. The updated eJPT strengthens that path with deeper coverage in reconnaissance and web application penetration testing, while also introducing training in one of the fastest-growing areas in cybersecurity workflows: the responsible use of generative AI.Designed as a hands-on, entry-level certification, eJPT validates foundational capabilities across assessment methodologies, host and network penetration testing, system auditing, and web application security. With this update, INE Security has expanded the learning experience and revised the certification exam to better align assessment with the skills learners are expected to demonstrate.“Entry-level training needs to reflect the real work security professionals are doing today—not where the industry was a few years ago,” said Lindsey Rinehart, Chief Executive Officer of INE. “This update ensures learners aren’t just gaining knowledge—they’re building the practical skills and decision-making ability required in real-world engagements. By aligning the exam more closely with the training, we’re giving candidates a clearer, more meaningful path from learning to proving they can actually do the work.”What’s New in the Updated eJPTThe updated eJPT introduces enhancements across both the learning path and the certification exam, with a focus on practical skill development and real-world applicability.Expanded Assessment Methodologies (Information Gathering)<br /> INE Security has added new instructional content to strengthen foundational reconnaissance skills, including:Target ScopingPassive vs Active ReconnaissanceThese additions reinforce early-stage engagement workflows and are supported by 12 new assessment questions.Enhanced Web Application Penetration Testing<br /> This update significantly expands hands-on web application testing coverage with:5 new videos3 new labs21 new assessment questionsNew topics include:Web server scanning with NiktoWeb application scanning with NiktoFile and directory brute-forcingDirectory enumeration with GobusterCMS security testing fundamentalsWordPress security testing and exploitationThese additions provide learners with practical exposure to common web application testing workflows, including vulnerability scanning, enumeration, CMS security analysis, and exploitation techniques.<br />Introducing Offensive AI for PentestersAs part of this update, INE Security has introduced a new course: Offensive AI: Generative AI for Pentesters.This course provides a practical, no-hype introduction to generative AI, covering machine learning fundamentals, large language models (LLMs), prompt engineering, and responsible AI usage. It is designed to help penetration testers and security practitioners integrate AI into real-world workflows to enhance analysis and productivity while maintaining accuracy, scope control, and professional integrity.The addition reflects the growing role of AI in cybersecurity and equips learners with skills that are increasingly relevant in modern offensive security engagements.Updated Certification ExamThe eJPT certification exam has been revised to align with the expanded training content and improved learning experience.The updated exam:Expands from 35 to 45 questionsMaintains the 48-hour hands-on practical formatImproves alignment between training and assessmentThis enhanced structure provides learners with a clearer path from preparation to certification while ensuring employers can trust that certified individuals possess practical, current skills.Preparing Learners for the Real WorldWith demand for cybersecurity talent continuing to grow, organizations need accessible, hands-on pathways to prepare new professionals for real-world security roles.eJPT remains a foundational certification for aspiring penetration testers, career changers, and early-career practitioners seeking to validate their skills through practical assessment. The addition of expanded reconnaissance training, deeper web application testing coverage, and emerging AI-focused content ensures the certification reflects both current industry practices and the evolving future of cybersecurity.Get StartedCandidates can begin their eJPT journey through INE Security’s training subscriptions or bundled certification packages, which include access to hands-on labs and guided learning paths designed to prepare them for exam success.To learn more about the updated eJPT certification, visit: https://ine.com/security/certifications/ejpt-certification
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