The importance of teaching free software for ethical hacking and cybersecurity training from an ethical and pragmatic perspective - FBCEM Model

Fernando Espinoza León J. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2026) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2026.1.1.940

Resumen

This study examines the role of Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) in cybersecurity education from both ethical and pragmatic perspectives. While traditional approaches to ethical hacking training have focused primarily on proprietary tools and certification-oriented methodologies, this paper proposes a structured pedagogical framework known as the FOSS-Based Cybersecurity Educational Model (FBCEM). The model integrates four progressive stages: technological foundations, system architecture, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity operations, culminating in the implementation of Security Operations Centers (SOC) using FOSS tools. A qualitative descriptive methodology based on multicohort teaching experience is employed. Results indicate improvements in critical thinking, ethical awareness, technological autonomy, and system-level understanding among students. Furthermore, the implementation of SOC environments enabled effective detection and mitigation of cybersecurity threats. The findings support the integration of FOSS not only as a technical resource but as a foundational element for sustainable, ethical, and autonomous cybersecurity education.