Cisco Threat Grid (now called Cisco Secure Malware Analytics) is a powerful platform for dynamic and static malware analysis, but it can be a bit overwhelming for beginners. Fortunately, there are some solid resources to get you started — both official and community-driven.
Best Beginner-Friendly Resources for Cisco Threat Grid
1. Cisco Secure Malware Analytics Overview & Documentation
Official Docs (good for hands-on learners):
Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (Threat Grid) Documentation
Covers how Threat Grid works, API guides, file submission methods, reports, integrations, etc.
Start with the “Deployment Guide” and “User Guide”
2. Cisco Secure Malware Analytics Learning Path (Cisco U)
Cisco U. Training Portal – Official learning platform from Cisco.
Cisco U (https://u.cisco.com/)
Search for: Secure Malware Analytics, Threat Grid, or Secure Endpoint
Many training paths combine Threat Grid + Secure Endpoint (AMP), which is a typical integration
Look for labs, sandbox demos, and use-case videos
3. Cisco Live On-Demand Sessions (Free)
Tons of sessions from Cisco Live events, often with demos and slides
Cisco Live On-Demand Library
Search: Threat Grid or Secure Malware Analytics
Example sessions:
“Deep Dive into Cisco Secure Malware Analytics”
“Automating Threat Analysis with Threat Grid API”
4. YouTube - Cisco Secure Official Channel
Free, short-form demos and overviews for beginners
Cisco Secure YouTube Channel
Look for playlists like:
Cisco Secure Malware Analytics
Threat Grid Integrations (e.g., with SecureX, Secure Endpoint, etc.)
Most videos are 5–15 min and very digestible
5. Cisco DevNet – Threat Grid API Tutorials
If you’re interested in automation or using the API:
Cisco DevNet Threat Grid API Guide
Includes hands-on examples:
File submissions via API
Automating sandbox workflows
Extracting analysis reports programmatically
6. Hands-On Practice: Cisco Threat Grid Sandbox (via SecureX or Partner)
Cisco doesn't offer a public sandbox for Threat Grid alone, but you can:
Get a demo account through a Cisco partner or your Cisco rep
Use Cisco SecureX (if you have access) – integrates Threat Grid natively and includes malware analysis features
Or sign up for a trial of Cisco Secure Endpoint, which includes Threat Grid analysis
Suggested Learning Order for a Beginner
Intro: Watch 1–2 videos from YouTube or Cisco Live to understand the “why” behind Threat Grid.
Hands-On: Walk through sample file submission and report interpretation (Cisco Docs).
API Basics: Use DevNet tutorials to try API calls in Postman.
Use Cases: Learn how Threat Grid integrates with Secure Endpoint, SecureX, and SIEMs.
Advanced: Dig into Indicators of Compromise, behavior graphs, and rule tuning.
