FirstLine
No-cost education + training for Florida's public servants
FirstLine is a state-funded initiative to level up the cybersecurity know-how of all public-sector employees to achieve greater collective security across the state
19,527
25,584
course completions to date
467
industry certifications earned
Our public-sector education and training program, FirstLine, recognizes that people are the first line of defense against cyberattacks. This taxpayer-funded training initiative stems from Florida Legislation HB5001, Section 2944B, which directs Cyber Florida “to conduct cybersecurity training for state and local government executive, managerial, technical, and general staff.” Every employee has a role in preventing cybercrime, and this effort aims to make Florida’s public sector workforce the most cyber-ready in the nation!
Scroll down for the current list of available courses. Courses are offered in self-paced online, scheduled online, and in-person formats, at locations throughout the state to minimize travel for participants. Select the course that aligns with your organizational role and schedule, and you will be taken to our partner’s website to formally register for the course. When you complete the course, you will receive a digital badge for your records.
109
law enforcement agencies
304
municipalities
40
school districts
Tabletop Exercises
Cyber incidents don’t wait for a convenient time to test your team. That’s why Cyber Florida’s FirstLine program offers no-cost, in-person tabletop exercises designed specifically for Florida counties, municipalities, and public-sector organizations.
These exercises are:
- Customized to your agency’s goals and desired scope<
- Scalable and relatable for teams of all sizes
- Available at no charge to two or more departments
- Include lunch and refreshments for participants
Need a venue? We can help source one and cover the cost.
From communication breakdowns to ransomware response, tabletop exercises help teams strengthen coordination, identify gaps, and build confidence before a real-world incident occurs.
To get started, complete the form at the bottom of this page.
Cybersecurity Awareness Certificate for State and Local Government Employees (USF)
Self-paced. This course covers all topics in the “Cybersecurity Awareness Training” curriculum described in The Local Government Cybersecurity Resource Packet.
Cybersecurity Technical Foundations: Security Principles & Incident Response (USF)
Self-paced. Part of a modular cybersecurity training series designed to support learners preparing for the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification. Introduces the fundamental principles that guide cybersecurity best practices and help organizations protect their systems, data, and digital services from cyber threats.
Cybersecurity Technical Foundations: Operations + Access Controls (USF)
Self-paced. Part of a modular cybersecurity training series designed to support learners preparing for the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification. Introduces foundational concepts, including physical and logical access control methods, data-handling procedures, logging and monitoring activities, encryption basics, configuration management, and the purpose of organizational security policies.
Cybersecurity Technical Foundations: Network Security (USF)
Self-paced. Part of a modular cybersecurity training series designed to support learners preparing for the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification. Introduces core technical concepts central to protecting organizational systems and networked environments. Explore common network‑based threats and attacks; examine tools for detecting and preventing malicious activity; and learn key data center and cloud computing terminology.
Cybersecurity Executive-level Training for Senior Leadership in Florida State + Local Government Agencies (USF)
Synchronous, online.
8:30 AM – 12:30 PM ET
10/22, 12/3
Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 (CSF 2.0) Live, online Executive Implementation Guide (USF)
Synchronous, online.
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM ET
11/19
Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 (CSF 2.0) On Demand Practitioner Training (USF)
Online, self-paced.
Cybersecurity Management Training for Mid-level Managers in Florida State and Local Government Agencies (USF)
Online, self-paced.
Cybersecurity Leadership and Strategy for Elected Officials, Executive and Managerial Public Sector Employees (FIU)
Online, self-paced.
Cybersecurity Technical Foundations: Security Principles & Incident Response (USF)
Online, self-paced.
Cybersecurity Technical Foundations: Operations & Access Controls (USF)
Online, self-paced.
Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 (CSF 2.0) On Demand Practitioner Training (USF)
Online, self-paced.
GIAC Security Leadership (GSLC) Preparation Certificate (USF)
Online, self-paced.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who can participate?
These courses are free for any Florida-based public-sector employee, including state, county, and municipal employees, elected officials, law enforcement personnel, public school teachers, and public college and university employees.
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Is it really free? What's the catch?
Yes, it’s really free! Florida is serious about cybersecurity, and the Florida Legislature provided funding for this initiative to help improve the cybersecurity posture of all Florida public entities. Most cyberattacks involve a human component—usually an employee who is tricked into clicking a malicious link or unwittingly sharing information that helps cybercriminals access an organization’s network. Training people is a crucial step in preventing cyberattacks.
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How do I know which class to take?
Multiple courses will be offered in three categories: general staff, managerial and executive, and technical. Consider your work role within your organization to determine the appropriate category, then select the most convenient course for your location and schedule. Consult your supervisor for guidance if needed.
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Do I have to take a course?
Participation is voluntary unless otherwise directed by your organizational leadership. We strongly encourage all public sector employees to take advantage of this unique opportunity, as it is beneficial to their resumes, their organizations, and the State of Florida.
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Can I take more than one course?
Yes! Participants may take more than one course. Technical employees are encouraged to take multiple courses to maximize their skill set.
Have a question not answered here?
Please use this form if you want more information or need assistance. This is NOT a registration form. Please use the links in the course listings to register for courses. Please note, this program is only available to state and local government employees.