Welcome to our latest video where we dive into the world of Palo Alto Networks and their Next Generation Firewalls! Whether you're a beginner or looking to refresh your knowledge, this session covers everything from basic configurations to advanced security features. Join us as we explore the essentials of Pan OS, the differences between PCNSA and PCNSE certifications, and practical lab setups using EVE-NG and ESXi.

• Initial Configuration and Interface Setup:
  • Configuring users, NTP, DNS, and IP addresses on interfaces.
  • Understanding the seven to nine steps necessary to assign IP addresses on Palo Alto devices, including creating virtual routers and security zones.

• Security Policies and Features:
  • Covering security platform architecture, initial configuration, app ID, content ID, URL filtering, decryption, wildfire, user ID, global protect, site-to-site VPN, and monitoring and reporting.
  • Emphasizing the importance of foundational networking knowledge such as IP, subnetting, OSI model, TCP/IP, UDP, ICMP, HTTP, HTTPS, Telnet, SSH, FTP, IPsec, and SSL.

• Lab Setup and Access:
  • Lab practices using EVE-NG and ESXi, providing two hours of daily lab access, potentially extending to three hours or more on weekends.
  • Sharing lab trainers' contact information for further assistance.

The session includes a discussion on exam codes for PCNSA (210) and PCNSE (220), and details the syllabus for both certifications. The instructor will provide access to recorded sessions, documents, study guides, and lab manuals via a shared drive.

The session aims to start from basics, given the varied experience levels of participants, and emphasizes the practical setup of labs and thorough theoretical coverage to prepare for both PCNSA and PCNSE exams.