Nana Forson
Elkridge,MD
Summary
Experienced cybersecurity professional with 4 years of experience in Information Security. Expert in analyzing, and responding to organizational risk using NIST CSF, ISO 27000, SP800, PCI DSS, CIS Controls, and NIST Special publications. I can communicate complex security concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to achieve security goals. Key competencies include Third Party Risk Management, with onboarding, monitoring, and offboarding of vendors. I am looking to leverage my skills and experience to advance my career in the cybersecurity field. Driven Systems Administrator with [Number] years of experience in software implementation and maintenance. Proven history of managing complex infrastructures and data center operations. Expert in solutions-oriented business application problem-solving and dedicated to providing best-in-class service. Skilled at troubleshooting, communication and collaboration.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Jnr. Systems Administrator
Leidos Biomedical Research Inc.
2023.03 - Current
- Provides day-to-day technical support to employees for network infrastructure and internal desktop systems software and hardware
- Assists in network modeling, analysis, planning, troubleshooting, and evaluation of existing network infrastructure
- Automated configuration management, software updates, and maintenance of system availability
- Set up hardware and applicable software for new and existing employees
- Adheres to strict Information Systems security guidelines in all cases
- Implements and maintains backup and disaster recovery plans and capabilities for all critical systems
- Maintains security audit and logging information on all classified networked and standalone computers
- Installs, configures and troubleshoots desktop systems, workstations, servers, Software applications, and network issues in a heterogeneous environment
- Maintains passwords, data integrity, and file system security for the desktop environment
- Creates and maintains user and computer accounts and modify file permissions and security access lists
- Overseas service requests, incidents, and problems
- Collaborates across teams with a diverse team to solve technical problems proactively and quickly
- Monitors network to ensure network availability to all system users
- Assists with periodic vulnerability scans to assess and maintain system integrity and compliance
- Provides information assurance vulnerability management support for all devices
- Maintains scripts, security updates, patches, and configurations for the proper functioning of servers
- Assists in preparing necessary documentation to support the Cybersecurity program
- Provides existing communication tasking order compliance support for all devices
- Patch management, testing new releases of products to ensure compatibility and minimize user impact
- Develops and documents technical processes and procedures as needed
- Communicates highly technical information to both technical and non-technical personnel
- Recommends hardware and software solutions, including new acquisitions and upgrades
- Participates in the development of information technology and infrastructure projects
- Conducts training programs designed to educate an organization's computer users about basic and specialized applications
- Internal and external, client-focused, working in conjunction with professional services and outsourcing functions including company-wide, web-enabled solutions
- Provides support in person, over the phone, or via remote access
- Records events and problems and their resolution in ticket logs
- Monitors the help desk inbox and covers help desk tickets in the Alloy help desk system
- Processes requests promptly and escalates them to system administrators when necessary
- Follows up with employees to ensure the issue has been resolved
- Ability to walk the employee through the problem-solving process and ask appropriate questions to determine the nature of the problem.
- Configured and tested Windows Server operating systems with roles features.
- Spearheaded inventory control measures to replenish and maintain IT equipment.
- Implemented backup solutions, ensuring data integrity and availability in the event of a disaster or system failure.
- Delivered Tier 2 and Tier 3 support for problem identification, diagnosis, and issue resolution.
- Supported remote workforce needs by configuring secure VPN connections enabling them to access critical resources from any location.
- Diagnosed and resolved hardware and software issues.
- Assisted in the onboarding process of new employees by setting up workstations, provisioning accounts, and providing initial IT training as necessary.
- Proactively identified areas for improvement in the IT infrastructure, recommending appropriate technology solutions to boost productivity and performance levels.
- Maintained a flexible schedule and responded to after-hours and weekend emergencies.
- Ensured optimal server uptime, monitoring system health, and performing routine maintenance.
- Detailed upcoming software upgrades and system sprints to team members.
- Monitored networks and network devices to resolve technical problems quickly.
- Resolved escalated help desk tickets promptly, providing high-quality support to end users experiencing technical issues.
- Analyzed complex project server issues and worked on large enterprise and business-critical applications.
- Analyzed network traffic and performance metrics to optimize system performance.
- Improved system performance by implementing server upgrades and hardware replacements.
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Provided professional services and support in a dynamic work environment.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
- Contributed to the development, administration, and testing of disaster recovery plans.
- Developed and documented network policies, procedures, and standards.
- Led server infrastructure development, quality assurance, staging, and production systems.
- Resolved issues and escalated problems with knowledgeable support and quality service.
Network Field Technician
National OnDemand Inc. (Comcast)
2022.02 - 2023.02
- Installs, terminates, tests, labels, and documents horizontal, backbone, and other cables
- Dresses and routes cable into the telecommunications closet, modular furniture, and other work areas
- Performs troubleshooting and maintenance activity on network devices, remote facilities, and telecommunications links to identify service impairments
- Performs and supports complex business installations for data and voice customers
- Performs troubleshooting of network equipment utilizing tools such as command line interfaces, web-based status monitoring systems, and device GUI interfaces
- Installs AV Equipment
- Installs Wireless Access Points/Meraki Switches, UPS devices, Fortinet
- Performs cable testing and assessment surveys
- Verifies internet and phone systems for correct functionality
- Troubleshoots cable wiring, splitter configuration, and cable plant levels
- Educates customers on all services and equipment installed.
- Increased overall system stability by conducting thorough testing after each installation or repair job.
- Provided exceptional support to clients, addressing their concerns promptly and professionally while maintaining detailed records of all interactions.
- Optimized network performance with the implementation of effective cable management strategies.
- Set up hardware and software in optimal configurations to meet network performance requirements.
- Documented support procedures, processes and solutions in centralized systems, enabling user self-service.
Remote Tech Support
Nissan Group
2016.07 - 2018.02
- Responsible for IT infrastructure and applications, utilizing technical skills to restore services as quickly as possible
- Aided customers by troubleshooting and resolving complex requests and/or problems including Active Directory
- Utilized defined metrics and ensured that standards and processes were followed to provide effective customer satisfaction to clients
- Applied operating system updates, patches, and configuration changes
- Assisted in project delivery through testing and transitioning of new services to the operational environment
- Worked in a team setting to provide recommendations for system improvements, optimization, development, and maintenance efforts in related domains
- Installed and configured new hardware and software
- Added, removed, and updated user account information, reset passwords, etc
- Answered technical queries and dealt with often frustrated users
- Documented the configuration of the system
- Troubleshot any reported problems
- Provided support to customers and personnel via Remedy and ServiceNow ticketing systems
- Provided network/desktop support troubleshooting and account maintenance tasks
- Performed user account management and permissions in the Active Directory domain
- Worked closely with the Information Technology team and collaboratively supported the end user
- Commended for technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, effective task prioritization, and customer service orientation
- Participated in technical research and development to enable continuing innovation within the infrastructure
- Assessed network threats like computer viruses, exploits, and malicious attacks
- Participated in directly assisting other IT support teams with complex escalated issues
- Determined true threats, false positives, and network system misconfigurations and provided solutions to issues detected promptly
- Monitored for potential compromise, intrusion, deficiency, significant event, or threat to the security posture and security baseline
- Developed, updated, and maintained standard operating procedures and other technical documentation
- Participated in customer calls and meetings daily imbed with customer cyber defense teams.
- Enhanced user experience by addressing and resolving technical issues promptly.
- Mentored new Teen Tech Members, providing guidance on program goals and expectations.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with diverse teams to achieve shared objectives in a timely manner.
- Provided feedback and guidance to program participants regarding progress and development.
- Evaluated potential software applications for compatibility with current systems, recommending effective solutions when appropriate.
Desktop Support Analyst
Volvo Group
2014.12 - 2016.04
- Aided customers by troubleshooting and resolving complex requests and problems including Active Directory, PC/Laptop/Mobile, printer, software, hardware, and network connectivity issues
- Participated in directly assisting other IT support teams with complex escalated issues
- Worked on special projects as assigned and participated in testing and system upgrades
- Applied operating system updates, patches, and configuration changes
- Added, removed, and updated user account information, reset passwords, etc
- Provided network/desktop support troubleshooting and account maintenance tasks
- Worked closely with the Information Technology team and collaboratively supported the end user
- Installed and configured new hardware and software
- Troubleshot any reported problems.
- Maximized system availability through regular monitoring and maintenance of desktops, laptops, and peripherals.
- Collaborated with vendors to locate replacement components and resolve advanced problems.
- Installed new hardware and software, patched systems, and configured settings.
- Responded to customer inquiries and provided technical assistance over phone and in person.
- Installed, configured and maintained computer systems and network connections.
- Expedited problem resolution times through clear communication with users regarding their needs, expectations, and possible solutions to their challenges.
- Prevented potential data loss incidents through proactive identification of potential threats or vulnerabilities in the systems environment.
Education
Certificate/Diploma - Network And System Administration
Howard Community College
Columbia, MD08.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
University of Cape Coast
Ghana09.2012
Cybersecurity Certification Training -
Immersion Tech Trainers
Remote05.2017
Certification / Training - Information Technology
Pryor+ (Mile2) Cybersecurity Certification Training
Online02.2024
Skills
- Virtual Machine Operation
- MCSE Certification
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Configuration Management
- Operating System Deployment
- Asset Management
- Software Installation
- Network protocols
- Performance Analysis
- Servers expertise
- Port security knowledge
- Software Management
- Application support
- Patch management
- Data Security
- Windows administration
- MPLS VPN implementation
- EIGRP routing
- Mobile Device Management
- Network performance monitoring
- Hardware Installation
- Team Collaboration
- Organizational Leadership
- Security Protocols
- System monitoring
- Server Hardware
- Network Administration
- OSPF routing
- Technical Analysis
- Wireless Networking
- IP Addressing and Subnetting
- PC diagnostics
- Quick Learner
- Threat Assessment
- Data Backup
- Network Security
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
- Server Management
- Automation Management
- System Testing
- User Support
- System Upgrades
- Incident Management
- Self Motivation
- VMware and Oracle VM
- VPN configurations
- System Troubleshooting
- Help Desk Software
- System updates
- Load Balancing
- Remote Conferencing Support
- Remote Access Technologies
- LAN and WAN control
- Access Control
- Technical Troubleshooting
- Disaster Recovery
- Hardware knowledge
- Bandwidth Evaluations
- Firewall Management
- IPv6 technologies
- Technical Support
- Group Policy management
- Attention to Detail
- Hardware troubleshooting
- Permissions and Access Control
- VoIP Systems
- Testing and Quality Assurance
- Parts Inventory Management
- Cloud Management
- Email Administration
- IT best practice framework expertise
- Network Firewall Management
Certification
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA CySA+
- Network Security Admin
- Firewalls and Internet Security
- Network Protocols
- Ret Hat package Management
- Cisco Network
- Linux system hardening
- CCNA: Routing, Switching & Wireless
- Database Security
- Python
- IDS/IPS
- ITIL Foundation
- Cryptography
- Application Security
- Network Segmentation
- Secure Cloud and Virtualization
- Dynamic Network Configuration
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
Technical Skills
Routing Policies, Firewall Filters, ACLs, VLANs, Load Balancers (F5 Platforms), DDoS, Intrusion Detection, Vulnerability-Scanning, System Analysis, Data Loss Prevention, System Backup/Recovery, Mobile Device Management, Malware Analysis, SQL Injection Countermeasure, OWASP/Nessus, Core network designs, Digital transformations, Migrations, Troubleshooting, Upgrades, DHCP, BGP/eBGP, EIGRP, FHRP, GRE, Infrastructure Components, IPv4 And IPv6 Addressing, Switching, Network Management, Network Programmability, Network Security, Network Topologies, OSPF, PPPoE, QoS, RIPv2, Static and Dynamic Routing, Troubleshooting, WAN Topologies, Cloud Security Alliance (ASA), International Organization for Standardization (ISO9001, 140001, 27001, 20000, 31000), National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) SP-800-84, Identity and Access Management (IAM), Data Loss Prevention (DLP), Windows/MAC OS, Linux/Unix, Microsoft Office365, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, BigFix, Visio, Google Office Apps (Docs, Sheets, Slides), VMWare, Terminal Emulators: PuTTY, SSH, BASH, Telnet, Snort, Wireshark, Splunk, ServiceNow, Alloy, PCI DSS, Windows Server 2012/2019, Cisco NCS6008, ASR9000 Series Core and Edge Nodes, Cisco 760x, Cisco Nexus 7K/5K/2K Switching Platforms, Cisco ACE & F5 BIG-IP LTM, GTM 42xx Load Balancing Platforms, Cloud Resources
Projects
Recommended and implemented firewall devices to protect the database of a healthcare organization. Wireshark capturing, filtering, and inspection of packets. DHCP and DNS Deployment. Conducted threat, vulnerability, and risk assessments in Physical and Personnel Security programs. Created and planned a system that allows a company to detect, delay, and respond to threats. Deploy Domain Controllers, Install Domain Services, PowerShell Remoting Implement Group Policy and digital certificates. Knowledge of Snort Rules - able to write snort rules using Wireshark analysis. Incident response handling using the NIST SP-800-61r2 framework. Wrote an incident response report on a scenario-based questionnaire. Knowledge of MITRE ATT&CK Framework for detection assessment Conduct threat and Vulnerability risk assessment in the Physical and Personal Security Course Knowledge of Kali tools (Usage of Nmap and Scapy) Knowledge of computer intrusion analysis and incident response Knowledge and understanding of network devices, multiple operating systems, and secure architectures. Cybersecurity Security Control Assessment and Vulnerability Management Knowledge of application security, risk assessment, validation of security, and vulnerability resolution Knowledge of secure coding practices and the ability to conduct security assessments and analysis of applications. Ability to break down highly complex technical topics into language and diagrams understandable to a wide audience. Conduct security control assessments on critical systems using NIST SP 800 - 53A.
Timeline
Jnr. Systems Administrator
Leidos Biomedical Research Inc.
2023.03 - Current
Network Field Technician
National OnDemand Inc. (Comcast)
2022.02 - 2023.02
Remote Tech Support
Nissan Group
2016.07 - 2018.02
Desktop Support Analyst
Volvo Group
2014.12 - 2016.04
Certificate/Diploma - Network And System Administration
Howard Community College
Bachelor of Arts - Economics
University of Cape Coast
Cybersecurity Certification Training -
Immersion Tech Trainers
Certification / Training - Information Technology
Pryor+ (Mile2) Cybersecurity Certification Training
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA CySA+
- Network Security Admin
- Firewalls and Internet Security
- Network Protocols
- Ret Hat package Management
- Cisco Network
- Linux system hardening
- CCNA: Routing, Switching & Wireless
- Database Security
- Python
- IDS/IPS
- ITIL Foundation
- Cryptography
- Application Security
- Network Segmentation
- Secure Cloud and Virtualization
- Dynamic Network Configuration
- Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis
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