Below is a list of frequently asked questions to help interns navigate their time at DefendEdge.
General Program
What is expected of me as an intern?
Interns are expected to actively participate in hands-on cybersecurity tasks, follow company policies, complete assessments, ask questions, and seek mentorship when needed.
What skills should I focus on developing during my internship?
Focus on SIEM operations, incident response, endpoint security, network traffic analysis, and documentation. Developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills will also be beneficial.
Who should I contact if I have a question about my tasks?
Your Team Lead or Co-Lead should be your first point of contact. If they are unavailable, reach out to other experienced analysts in your Hive.
What tools and platforms will I be using?
Interns typically work with SIEMs, endpoint security tools, vulnerability management solutions, FortiGates, FortiAnalyzer, and Jira for ticketing. You will receive training on these tools as you progress.
How is my performance evaluated?
Performance is evaluated based on participation, technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, adherence to procedures, and completion of assigned assessments and projects.
As an Intern, is it a requirement to attend the Friday Weekly Meetings?
All interns are expected to attend Friday Weekly Meetings unless excused in advance, as these sessions reflect the accountability and professionalism required for success during and after the internship.
Onboarding and Training
How long does the onboarding process take?
Onboarding typically lasts one to two weeks and includes setting up system access, providing overviews of tools, and introducing standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Are there certification opportunities during the internship?
While DefendEdge does not directly provide certifications, interns are encouraged to pursue relevant certifications such as Security+, CEH, or NSE 4. Some teams may offer guidance on certification pathways.
What should I do if I feel lost or overwhelmed?
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first. Reach out to your Team Lead, review the available documentation in SharePoint, and ask any questions you may have. We encourage interns to be proactive in seeking help.
Will I receive structured training?
Yes, the program includes structured training modules, assessments, and mentorship from full-time analysts and team leads.
Day-to-Day Operations
What are my daily responsibilities?
You will be involved in monitoring alerts, investigating security incidents, working on projects, reviewing logs, and participating in team meetings and discussions.
How do I log my work and progress?
You will track your work in our DefendEdge ticketing system and maintain proper documentation of investigations and resolutions.
How do I handle security alerts and incidents?
Follow the SOC procedures:
• Analyze the alert and determine its priority.
• Gather additional context from logs and security tools.
• Escalate to the appropriate team if necessary.
• Document findings in the ticketing system.
What should I do if I encounter an issue with a security tool or platform?
Check the knowledge base in SharePoint, ask your teammates, or escalate the issue to your Team Lead if needed.
Mentorship & Growth
How can I maximize the benefits of my mentorship?
Be proactive—schedule time with mentors, ask thoughtful questions, seek feedback, and take on challenging tasks to maximize your learning.
Can I shadow other teams or explore different areas of cybersecurity?
Yes! If you’re interested in a particular area, such as threat intelligence or penetration testing, discuss opportunities to explore those fields with your lead.
Will I get feedback on my work?
Yes, you’ll receive feedback from your Team Leads and Co-Leads through assessments, performance reviews, and daily operations.
Advancement & Career Development
What are my career opportunities after this internship?
Successful interns may be considered for full-time positions, based on their performance and the business’s needs. The experience also prepares you for entry-level SOC roles in cybersecurity.
What steps should I take to increase my chances of being hired?
• Demonstrate strong analytical skills and initiative.
• Consistently complete assessments and assigned tasks.
• Show a willingness to learn and work well with the team.
• Obtain relevant certifications to enhance your technical expertise.
Will I receive a letter of recommendation after the internship?
Interns who perform well and complete the program successfully can request a letter of recommendation from their Team Lead or SOC leadership.
Policies & Procedures
Can I work remotely, or is this an in-person internship?
DefendEdge offers a remote internship, but availability for meetings and assigned work is expected during your designated shift. If you are located near the office, you are expected to work in person.
Are interns required to follow SOC policies?
Yes, interns are expected to follow all SOC security policies, procedures, and guidelines, including proper documentation and escalation practices.
What is the attendance policy?
Interns are expected to maintain a professional schedule and notify their Team Lead in advance if they need time off. Unexplained absences may affect performance evaluations.
As an Intern in the SkillBridge Program, are my comfort and convenience considered when determining which Hive I’m placed in?
Intern placement is based on operational needs and skill goals, but preferences and concerns are also considered when possible—please communicate them early with your Program Lead.
What should I do if I need to leave the program early?
If you need to leave the program before completing it, please inform your Team Lead and HR as soon as possible to discuss the process.
Final Thoughts
Who can I contact if I have any issues or concerns?
For day-to-day concerns, reach out to your Team Lead or Co-Lead. If you have any program-related issues, you can also contact SOC leadership.
What’s the best way to succeed in this internship?
• Be proactive in learning and engaging with your team.
• Ask questions and seek mentorship when needed.
• Take initiative in solving problems and handling incidents.
• Stay organized and document your work properly.
• Take advantage of training resources and hands-on opportunities.
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