Overview

This course is designed to build your expertise in auditing IT operations and ensuring system resiliency, which are critical components of the CISA certification. Starting with an overview of necessary IT components, you will learn about the hardware architecture and platforms essential for maintaining effective information systems operations. You will explore the benefits and challenges of using USB and RFID technologies and gain a deep understanding of IT Asset Management (ITAM) practices, including Hardware Asset Management (HAM) and Software Asset Management (SAM). The course also addresses system interfaces and end-user computing (EUC), emphasizing the importance of implementing appropriate controls to safeguard system interactions and user activities. The course then shifts focus to data governance and software licensing, where you will learn how data governance frameworks ensure data protection, compliance, and optimal utilization. Detailed discussions on operating systems and source code management will enhance your ability to audit various software environments effectively. You will also explore incident and problem management practices, understanding how to evaluate and improve organizational response to IT disruptions. These modules are crucial for professionals aiming to excel in managing and auditing complex IT infrastructures. In the final sections, the course delves into service management, database management, and business continuity planning. You will learn about release and patch management, service level agreements (SLAs), and the critical role of Database Management Software (DBMS) in supporting IS operations. The course covers business impact analysis (BIA), system resiliency through redundancies, and the essentials of business continuity and disaster recovery planning. You will gain practical insights into developing and testing Business Continuity Plans (BCP) and Disaster Recovery Plans (DRP), ensuring you are well-prepared to conduct thorough audits and contribute to organizational resiliency. By the end of the course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of IT operations auditing and be ready to excel in the CISA exam. This course is aimed at IT auditors, risk management professionals, and IT operations specialists preparing for the CISA certification. It is suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of IT infrastructure and governance, but no prior CISA exam experience is necessary.

Syllabus

IT Components and Asset Management

In this module, we will explore the foundational elements of maintaining Information Systems (IS) operations, focusing on critical technology components, asset management strategies, and secure system interfaces. You will gain insights into the effective use of ITAM, the pros and cons of USB and RFID technologies, and the importance of implementing robust controls for end-user computing and system interfaces.

Data Governance, Licensing, and Incident Management

In this module, we will delve into advanced topics including data governance, software licensing, and incident management. We will focus on building a secure and compliant data environment, managing operating systems and software licensing, and understanding how effective incident and problem management contribute to overall IS stability.

Service Management, Database Management, and System Resiliency

In this module, we will explore the strategic aspects of service management, database administration, and system resiliency. Learn how to maintain system integrity through effective patch management, create valuable SLAs, and utilize DBMS to enhance data management and organizational resilience.

Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

In this module, we will focus on building robust business continuity and disaster recovery strategies. You will learn how to create and test effective BCP and DRP frameworks to ensure your organization can withstand and recover from disruptions, protecting critical business operations and data integrity.