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Introduction

Welcome to the CloudSec Network (CSN) Documentation Hub! This guide will help you get started with using CSN Labs and following our security scenario walkthroughs.

What is CSN Labs?​

CSN Labs is a hands-on learning platform where you can practice cybersecurity skills in a safe, controlled environment. Each lab contains multiple scenarios that teach you how to identify, exploit, and defend against common security vulnerabilities.

Quick Start​

  1. Browse Labs: Explore our Lab Catalog to see available labs
  2. Launch a Lab: Click the "Launch Lab" link on any lab overview page to open it in CSN Labs
  3. Follow a Scenario: Each lab has multiple scenario walkthroughs. Start with beginner scenarios
  4. Learn and Practice: Follow step-by-step instructions, observe results, and read defender notes

Essential Tools​

Web Browser​

Required: Modern browser with developer tools (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge recommended)

Key Features to Use:

  • Developer Tools (F12): Network tab, Console, Elements inspector
  • Network Tab: View HTTP requests and responses
  • Console: Execute JavaScript, view errors

What It Is: Professional web application security testing tool

Why You Need It:

  • Intercept and modify HTTP/HTTPS requests
  • Test for vulnerabilities systematically
  • Advanced attack techniques

Quick Setup:

  1. Download Burp Suite Community Edition (free)
  2. Configure browser proxy to 127.0.0.1:8080
  3. Install Burp's CA certificate for HTTPS interception
  4. Enable interception in Proxy tab

Launching Labs​

Access CSN Labs​

First Time Setup​

  1. Create an account on CSN Labs
  2. Verify your email
  3. Select a lab from the catalog
  4. Click "Launch" and wait for environment initialization (1-2 minutes)

Lab Configuration​

  • Default credentials are provided in lab overview pages
  • Security levels may need adjustment (e.g., DVWA set to "Low" for learning)
  • Check scenario instructions for specific setup requirements

Following Scenarios​

Scenario Structure​

Each scenario includes:

  • Learning Objectives: What you'll learn
  • Setup: Prerequisites and configuration
  • Step-by-Step Walkthrough: Detailed instructions with expected outputs
  • Why This Works: Technical explanation
  • Defender Notes: How to detect and prevent
  • Variations: Easy, medium, hard challenges

Best Practices​

  1. Read the Lab Overview before starting scenarios
  2. Follow Steps Sequentially - each step builds on the previous
  3. Observe Carefully - compare your results with expected outputs
  4. Take Notes - document findings and capture screenshots
  5. Read Defender Notes - understanding defense is as important as offense
  6. Try Variations - challenge yourself with harder variations

Site Structure​

  • Labs: Lab catalog with overview pages and scenario walkthroughs
  • AI Security: AI security documentation and resources
  • Playbooks: How-to guides for security testing methodologies
  • Reference: Glossary, cheat sheets, and quick references

Finding Content​

  • Use the sidebar to navigate between sections
  • Use the search bar (top right) to find specific topics
  • Each lab has an overview page listing all scenarios
  • Scenarios are organized by difficulty (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced)

Need Help?​

For any assistance, please email us at hello@cloudsecnetwork.com or visit CSN Labs for platform-specific help.