Shahaj Baral

Rockville,MD

Summary

Cybersecurity Technology graduate with practical experience in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, digital forensics, and cloud security. Adept at identifying and mitigating system vulnerabilities, analyzing network traffic, and delivering comprehensive security reports with actionable remediation strategies. Skilled in Linux administration, AWS cloud environments, and virtual lab configuration. Completed coursework aligned with NSTISSI 4011/4013 standards and fully mapped to CNSS National Standard 4011. Seeking an entry-level Cybersecurity Analyst or SOC Analyst role to apply strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills to strengthen organizational security posture.

Work History

Penetration Testing & Vulnerability

Conducted controlled penetration tests in virtual lab environments using Kali Linux and Metasploit.
Performed vulnerability scanning, exploitation, and post-assessment analysis.
Documented findings and provided remediation-focused security reports.

Cloud Security (AWS)

Deployed and configured AWS EC2 instances in a secure lab environment.
Implemented basic IAM controls and access management practices.
Applied foundational cloud security principles to secure cloud-based infrastructure.

Large-Scale College Network Design & Configuration

Designed and configured a multi-department college network using VLANs, subnetting, and inter-VLAN routing.
Implemented multilayer switching to enable efficient traffic flow and network segmentation.
Performed testing and troubleshooting to ensure full connectivity and optimal performance.

Digital Forensics

Performed forensic analysis on disk images in academic lab settings.
Conducted timeline reconstruction and evidence examination.
Documented findings following proper evidence handling procedures.

Network Traffic Analysis

Captured and analyzed live and simulated traffic using Wireshark.
Identified suspicious behavior, protocol anomalies, and potential indicators of compromise.
Produced structured analysis reports summarizing findings.

Virtual Security Lab Setup

Built and managed isolated cybersecurity lab environments using VirtualBox.
Configured Kali Linux and Fedora systems for offensive and defensive testing scenarios.
Maintained system snapshots and secure testing configurations.

Hardware & System Troubleshooting

Performed OS installation, configuration, and peripheral troubleshooting.
Supported microcomputer hardware setup and system diagnostics.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Cybersecurity Technology

University of Maryland Global Campus

12-2025

Associate of Applied Science - Cybersecurity

Montgomery College

12-2023

Skills

Security & Assessment: Penetration Testing, Vulnerability Scanning & Exploitation, Security Auditing, Threat & Risk Assessment, Technical Security Reporting, Ethical Hacking & Offensive Security Fundamentals
Tools & Platforms: Kali Linux, Metasploit, Wireshark, VirtualBox, Fedora Linux, AWS (EC2, IAM – foundational)
Systems & Networking: Linux Administration, Windows OS Troubleshooting, TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, Switching & Router Fundamentals, Wireless Security Basics, Systems Engineering Fundamentals, Cloud Computing & Secure Deployment Practices

Forensics & Analysis: Disk/Image Analysis, Evidence Handling & Documentation, Timeline Reconstruction
Core Strengths: Analytical Thinking, Problem Solving, Team Collaboration, Technical Documentation

Availability

Available for full-time entry-level cybersecurity roles; open to remote, hybrid, or on-site opportunities.