What are Core and Optional Modules?
The CCD curriculum is organized into two types of content to help you prioritize your studies effectively:
Core Modules are essential knowledge areas that directly align with the CCD exam. These modules cover the fundamental practical skills and concepts you must master to pass the certification:
Network Forensics
Forensic Evidence Collection
Disk Forensics
Memory Forensics
Threat Hunting
Optional Modules contain valuable supplementary content that enhances your expertise but are not included in the exam:
Security Operations Fundamentals
Incident Response
Perimeter Defense - Email Security
Malware Analysis
Focus Strategy: Concentrate your efforts on Core modules to pass your exam, then return to Optional modules whenever you have time to deepen your knowledge and expand your skill set.
Major Exam Change: Perimeter Defense Removed
Effective July 8th as well, Perimeter Defense questions are being removed from the CCD exam. This domain was too theoretical, focused on engineering rather than investigation, and had limited practical relevance to core forensics work. This change makes the exam more focused on practical forensic skills that matter in real investigations.
How This Affects Your Learning
Your dashboard progress tracking is based exclusively on Core modules, giving you a clear view of your certification readiness. This approach allows you to prioritize exam preparation while maintaining access to additional learning resources. Optional content remains valuable for professional development—it's just not required for certification.
Your Existing Progress
All progress you've made in individual lessons and labs remains intact, regardless of whether content is classified as Core or Optional. You can continue from where you left off in any module without losing your work.
Study Recommendations
Focus on mastering Core modules first to ensure exam success. Once you're confident with Core content, explore Optional modules based on your experience level, available study time, and career goals. This structured approach maximizes your certification chances while preserving opportunities for broader learning.