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CMP9721 Mastering PCI DSS for Network Implementation Engineers

$199.00
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A tailored course, built for your situation

Mastering PCI DSS for Network Implementation Engineers

A complete implementation playbook for secure payment environments at scale

$199 one-time
24-hour access provisioning 30-day money-back guarantee Hand-built implementation playbook
12 modules. 12 chapters per module. 144 chapters total.
12 modules, each with 12 chapters (144 chapters total), text-based, plus downloadable templates and a hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.
Avoid last-minute scope surprises and fragmented control ownership during PCI audits

The situation this course is for

Engineers often inherit incomplete compliance requirements or are brought in too late to influence architecture. This leads to rework, emergency patching, and unclear ownership when audit findings emerge. The course eliminates guesswork by aligning network design with PCI 4.0 control expectations from day one.

Who this is for

Senior network implementation engineers in large tech firms handling payment data or supporting payment-adjacent services

Who this is not for

Entry-level network technicians, auditors without implementation experience, or professionals outside infrastructure and security domains

What you walk away with

  • Map network topology changes directly to PCI DSS control requirements
  • Proactively scope cardholder data environments with confidence
  • Design segmentation and encryption patterns that pass internal validation on first review
  • Lead peer discussions with audit-ready rationale and documented design choices
  • Become the go-to internal resource for PCI-compliant network architecture

The 12 modules (with all 144 chapters)

Module 1. PCI DSS 4.0 Evolution and Its Impact on Network Engineering
Understand how updated requirements shift responsibility toward implementation teams. This module traces changes from v3.2.1 to v4.0, focusing on explicit expectations for network segmentation, encryption, and continuous monitoring. Learn where engineers now own compliance outcomes, not just technical execution.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Overview of PCI DSS framework and its compliance lifecycle
  2. Key differences between v3.2.1 and v4.0 relevant to network teams
  3. How network design decisions now trigger formal control ownership
  4. Understanding scope definition for cardholder data environments
  5. Common misconceptions engineers have about compliance ownership
  6. How penetration testing updates affect network firewall rules
  7. Role of network logs in meeting audit evidence requirements
  8. Encryption in transit requirements under updated standards
  9. How segmentation strategies align with control 1.1.3
  10. Best practices for documenting network architecture for auditors
  11. Integrating change management with compliance review cycles
  12. How network diagrams are now audit artifacts, not just engineering docs
Module 2. Network Scope Definition for Cardholder Data Environments
Accurately define the boundaries of PCI-regulated systems. This module teaches how to identify data flows, exclude out-of-scope systems safely, and document segmentation logic so auditors accept the boundary without challenge.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Identifying entry points for cardholder data into the network
  2. Mapping data flows from payment gateways to internal systems
  3. Using packet captures to validate scope assumptions
  4. Documenting segmentation between PCI and non-PCI zones
  5. Common pitfalls that expand scope unintentionally
  6. How virtualization and containerization affect scoping
  7. Validating scope with application and security teams
  8. Creating network topology diagrams for compliance review
  9. Using firewall rules to support scope assertions
  10. Handling shared services in PCI-regulated environments
  11. When SD-WAN complicates scope definition
  12. Checklist for validating network scope before audit
Module 3. Secure Network Architecture and Segmentation Design
Build network designs that inherently satisfy PCI DSS requirements. This module covers zoning, firewall rules, and micro-segmentation patterns that reduce risk and simplify compliance verification.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Designing network zones based on data sensitivity levels
  2. Implementing flat vs layered segmentation strategies
  3. Firewall rule hierarchies that align with control 1.2
  4. Using VLANs and ACLs to enforce access policies
  5. Micro-segmentation in cloud-native environments
  6. How east-west traffic impacts segmentation design
  7. Designing for least privilege at the network layer
  8. Validating segmentation with test traffic patterns
  9. Handling legacy systems in segmented environments
  10. Network logging requirements for segmentation zones
  11. When NAT usage affects PCI compliance
  12. Documenting exception handling in segmentation design
Module 4. Firewall Configuration and Management Best Practices
Ensure firewall rules meet PCI DSS requirements for configuration, review, and documentation. This module details secure baseline setup, change control, and audit readiness for firewall policies.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Establishing secure firewall configuration baselines
  2. Default deny principles in PCI-compliant firewalls
  3. Documentation requirements for firewall rule justification
  4. Change management process for firewall rule updates
  5. Quarterly review of firewall rules for compliance
  6. Automating rule validation with configuration tools
  7. How cloud-native firewalls meet PCI standards
  8. Handling rule exceptions with proper approvals
  9. Integrating firewall logs with SIEM for control 10
  10. Common misconfigurations that trigger findings
  11. Using network flow data to validate firewall effectiveness
  12. Preparing firewall documentation for auditor requests
Module 5. Encryption of Cardholder Data in Transit
Implement strong encryption for data moving across networks. This module covers TLS configurations, certificate management, and secure protocols to meet PCI DSS encryption requirements.
12 chapters in this module
  1. TLS version requirements under PCI DSS 4.0
  2. Certificate lifecycle management for encrypted channels
  3. Validating cipher suite compatibility with standards
  4. How load balancers affect end-to-end encryption
  5. Handling certificate revocation checks in high-traffic systems
  6. Mutual TLS and its role in service-to-service authentication
  7. Best practices for storing private keys in network devices
  8. Monitoring for expired or weak certificates
  9. Using HSMs for key protection in transit scenarios
  10. How packet inspection tools comply with encryption rules
  11. Documenting encryption implementations for audit
  12. Common pitfalls in maintaining encrypted paths
Module 6. Network Access Control and Authentication
Secure administrative access to network devices. This module covers MFA, role-based access, and session management for routers, switches, and firewalls.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Multi-factor authentication requirements for admin access
  2. Role-based access controls for network teams
  3. Implementing secure console and SSH access
  4. Session timeouts and lockout mechanisms for network devices
  5. Centralized authentication using RADIUS or TACACS+
  6. Logging administrative access attempts and changes
  7. Securing out-of-band management interfaces
  8. How jump hosts support secure access workflows
  9. Managing service accounts on network infrastructure
  10. Password policies for network device credentials
  11. Auditing access changes on switches and routers
  12. Documenting access control decisions for compliance
Module 7. Wireless Network Security in PCI Environments
Secure wireless networks that interact with PCI-regulated systems. This module covers encryption, segmentation, and monitoring for Wi-Fi used in development, testing, or support roles.
12 chapters in this module
  1. PCI DSS rules for wireless network usage
  2. Segregating guest Wi-Fi from internal networks
  3. WPA2-Enterprise vs WPA3 for internal access
  4. Certificate-based authentication for wireless users
  5. Monitoring for rogue access points
  6. Logging wireless authentication events
  7. How BYOD policies affect PCI scope
  8. Wireless intrusion detection and prevention systems
  9. Documenting wireless network architecture
  10. Common wireless-related findings in PCI audits
  11. Handling testing environments with wireless access
  12. Validating wireless segmentation with network scans
Module 8. Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection
Implement monitoring that satisfies PCI DSS requirements. This module covers IDS/IPS deployment, log retention, and real-time alerting strategies tailored to network engineers.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Intrusion detection system placement in segmented networks
  2. Log retention requirements for network devices
  3. Integrating firewall, router, and switch logs into SIEM
  4. Setting thresholds for network-based alerts
  5. Handling false positives in IDS signatures
  6. Monitoring for unauthorized network changes
  7. Using NetFlow and IPFIX for traffic analysis
  8. Detecting lateral movement in PCI zones
  9. Alerting on suspicious outbound traffic patterns
  10. Documenting monitoring configurations for audit
  11. Maintaining IDS signatures with vendor updates
  12. Testing detection rules with controlled traffic
Module 9. Vulnerability Management for Network Infrastructure
Identify and remediate network device vulnerabilities. This module focuses on scanning strategies, patching workflows, and documentation to meet requirement 6 and 11.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Vulnerability scanning scope for network devices
  2. Frequency of scans under PCI DSS 4.0
  3. Prioritizing vulnerabilities based on exploit risk
  4. Patching firewalls, switches, and routers without downtime
  5. Integrating scanner results into ticketing systems
  6. Validating remediation with follow-up scans
  7. Handling end-of-life network equipment
  8. Exception processes for critical unpatched systems
  9. Secure firmware updates for network devices
  10. Documenting risk acceptance for temporary exceptions
  11. How configuration drift triggers vulnerability findings
  12. Automation opportunities in vulnerability workflows
Module 10. Penetration Testing and Network Validation
Prepare for and participate in penetration tests. This module teaches engineers how to support testers, interpret findings, and implement fixes that satisfy compliance.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Internal vs external penetration testing scope
  2. Coordinating with penetration testing teams
  3. Validating segmentation during network tests
  4. Handling findings related to open ports and services
  5. Remediating vulnerabilities identified in test reports
  6. Re-testing to confirm fix effectiveness
  7. Documenting technical responses to findings
  8. How red team exercises differ from compliance tests
  9. Best practices for test environment isolation
  10. Using test results to improve network design
  11. Common network-related findings in PCI tests
  12. Building a remediation backlog from test outcomes
Module 11. Documentation and Audit Readiness for Network Teams
Create audit-ready documentation. This module covers network diagrams, configuration standards, and evidence collection to streamline compliance reviews.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Required network documentation for PCI audits
  2. Updating network diagrams with version control
  3. Creating standard configuration templates
  4. Maintaining firewall rule justification records
  5. Documenting network change management processes
  6. Organizing logs for easy auditor access
  7. Producing network segmentation validation reports
  8. Using automation to generate compliance artifacts
  9. How to structure network evidence packets
  10. Common auditor questions about network design
  11. Preparing for walkthroughs with technical evidence
  12. Building a repeatable documentation process
Module 12. Continuous Improvement and Future-Proofing
Stay ahead of evolving threats and standards. This module teaches how to integrate feedback, plan for future versions of PCI DSS, and lead ongoing compliance efforts.
12 chapters in this module
  1. Tracking upcoming changes in PCI DSS standards
  2. Incorporating lessons from prior audits
  3. Using metrics to measure network compliance health
  4. Integrating compliance into CI/CD pipelines
  5. Training new engineers on PCI expectations
  6. Building internal knowledge sharing practices
  7. Engaging with PCI SSC documentation updates
  8. Planning for migration to future control versions
  9. Leveraging automation for ongoing compliance
  10. Scaling network practices across global environments
  11. Establishing feedback loops with security teams
  12. Positioning yourself as a long-term compliance leader

How this maps to your situation

  • Designing secure network architecture for payment systems
  • Preparing for PCI DSS 4.0 compliance audits
  • Leading network changes with compliance built-in
  • Becoming the trusted technical reference within engineering

Before vs. after

Before
Engineers often react to audit findings, recreate documentation from scratch, and lack ownership in compliance decisions.
After
Engineers proactively design compliant architectures, maintain ready documentation, and lead cross-functional reviews with confidence.

What's included with your purchase

  • 12 modules with 12 chapters each (144 chapters)
  • Downloadable templates and worked examples for every module
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Delivery and format

  • Course and learning environment access provisioned within 24 hours of purchase
  • Hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access

Format: Text-based modules and chapters in the Art of Service learning environment, plus downloadable templates and worked examples for every chapter, plus the hand-built implementation playbook delivered alongside course access.

Time investment: 90 minutes per week for four weeks, or complete at your own pace within 90 days.

If nothing changes
Without structured knowledge, engineers risk repeated audit findings, last-minute fire drills, and missed opportunities to lead compliance strategy, limiting recognition and career impact.

How this compares to the alternatives

Unlike generic compliance overviews, this course is written by engineers for engineers, focused exclusively on implementation decisions that satisfy PCI DSS without sacrificing agility or innovation.

Frequently asked

Who is this course designed for?
Network implementation engineers in firms that process or support payment systems and must meet PCI DSS requirements.
How is the course structured?
12 modules, each containing 12 chapters (144 chapters total).
Does this cover PCI DSS 4.0 updates?
Yes, all content is aligned with PCI DSS v4.0 requirements, especially those impacting network design and control ownership.
$199 one-time. 90 minutes per week for four weeks, or complete at your own pace within 90 days..

Within 24 hours your account in the learning environment is provisioned and the tailored implementation playbook is delivered alongside it.

30-day money-back guarantee· 144 chapters· Hand-built playbook included· Account access within 24 hours
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