Surface, Deep, and Dark Web Operations
Surface, Deep, and Dark Web Operations introduces CDIC members to safe, structured, and ethical cyber investigations across the open internet, deep web, and dark web. Learners will set up a virtual investigative environment, explore privacy and access tools such as VPNs and Tor among others.
About This Course
Surface, Deep, and Dark Web Operations is a self-paced on-boarding course designed for CDIC members who need a practical introduction to conducting cyber investigations across different layers of the internet. The course provides foundational knowledge of the surface web, deep web, and dark web, while emphasizing safety, operational security, documentation, and responsible investigative practices.
Learners begin by setting up a controlled virtual machine environment using VMware and an investigative operating system distribution. This environment allows members to conduct research and training activities in a safer, isolated workspace. The course then introduces the investigative operating system, key tools, basic configuration practices, and the importance of separating personal activity from investigative activity.
The second portion of the course focuses on deep and dark web operations. Learners are introduced to the structure and purpose of the dark web, common terminology, access methods, and the role of privacy technologies such as VPNs and Tor. The course also explains how investigators may encounter relevant information on the deep web, including non-indexed databases, forums, portals, and other online sources not easily found through standard search engines.
Throughout the course, learners will build familiarity with safe browsing habits, investigative workflows, source evaluation, evidence awareness, and basic operational security principles. This course is intended as a foundational starting point for members who are new to online cyber investigations and need a clear, structured introduction before moving into more advanced investigative techniques.
What You'll Learn
- Explain the differences between the surface web, deep web, and dark web.
- Describe the role of virtual machines in creating a safer investigative workspace.
- Install and configure VMware for basic investigative training use.
- Identify the purpose and major features of an investigative operating system distribution.
- Demonstrate safe startup and shutdown procedures for an investigative virtual machine.
- Explain basic operational security considerations for online investigations.
- Describe how VPNs and Tor are used in investigative environments.
- Identify risks associated with accessing deep web and dark web resources.
- Navigate introductory deep web resources using structured investigative methods.
- Navigate introductory dark web resources in a controlled and safety-conscious manner.
- Recognize the importance of documentation, source evaluation, and evidence handling during cyber investigations.
- Apply ethical and organizational guidelines when conducting internet-based investigative activity.
Course Curriculum
Assessments
Security Overview
5 questions • 100% to pass
Prerequisites
CDIC-INIT-001 & CDIC-INIT-002
Instructors
Justin Williams
Super_Admin
Jonathan Williams
Super_Admin