About Myself
Hi Guys!
I am Durga Prasad Kantharaj, a dedicated IT professional and cybersecurity specialist with a strong academic background in Cyber Security and Computer Applications. My career is driven by a passion for continuous learning and applying my expertise to address real-world challenges.
Specializing in cybersecurity, I have extensive experience in IT security consulting, conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments, and devising robust IT governance frameworks. My work has fortified organizational IT infrastructures, ensuring they are resilient against evolving threats.
Additionally, I have contributed to the development of secure web applications and have extensive experience in WordPress development. My projects often emphasize the importance of safeguarding data, enhancing website performance, and maintaining user trust.
My professional journey is underscored by a commitment to staying at the forefront of the cybersecurity field. I actively pursue new knowledge and certifications to keep abreast of the latest advancements and methodologies in cybersecurity. Collaboration and adaptability are at the core of my professional values. Whether volunteering to support colleagues during challenging times or working with diverse teams on various projects, I consistently strive to make a positive impact.
Let’s connect and explore how I can bring value to your IT and cybersecurity goals!
What I Bring to the Table
I specialize in safeguarding IT infrastructures and mitigating risks through robust cybersecurity strategies. I have in-depth experience with:
Cybersecurity Frameworks: Expertise in implementing global standards like NIST, ISO 27001, COBIT, MITRE ATT&CK, and the Essential Eight Maturity Model.
Threat Analysis and Penetration Testing: Skilled in identifying vulnerabilities using tools like Burp Suite, Nessus, and Nmap, and executing comprehensive network and web application testing.
Cloud Security: Certified in Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) and Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500), I ensure secure cloud environments by managing identity, access, and security controls.
Cybersecurity Awareness: Delivered training programs and developed IT security manuals to improve employee awareness and preparedness against cyber threats.
I believe that secure IT systems form the backbone of every modern business, and I work diligently to enhance resilience against evolving cyber threats.
Organizations thrive with strong governance and risk management strategies. My expertise includes:
IT Governance Frameworks: Implementing structured governance policies using ISO 27000 and COBIT, tailored to organizational objectives.
Risk Management: Conducting SWOT analyses, risk assessments, and mitigation strategies to protect assets and ensure business continuity.
Change Management: Creating comprehensive change management plans to streamline IT transitions and upgrades.
Whether you need a dynamic website or tailored IT solutions, I offer comprehensive development services:
Custom Website Development: Proficient in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, and WordPress to design responsive and user-friendly websites.
Plugin Integration and Optimization: Adding functionalities like SEO enhancements, e-commerce features, and performance optimization for superior user experiences.
End-to-End Development: From domain setup to content management, I provide a seamless experience to establish your digital presence.
Notable Projects: Built a website for the Alzheimer’s Society (Mysuru Chapter) to improve community outreach.
Developed a mobile application for a construction company to streamline customer navigation and staff recruitment.
I pride myself on delivering web solutions that combine functionality, aesthetics, and performance.
I bring versatility in software development through my expertise in:
Languages and Tools: Proficient in C, C++, C#, Java, PHP, and JavaScript, enabling the creation of tailored applications.
Encryption and Cryptography: Secure data using advanced techniques like Hashing and RSA algorithms.
Integrated Development Tools: Hands-on experience with platforms like Android Studio and BOLT IoT for application and IoT development.
I continually upgrade my knowledge to stay at the forefront of the IT and cybersecurity fields:
Microsoft Azure Certifications: AZ-900 and AZ-500, focused on cloud security and infrastructure management.
NIST Training: Certifications in Risk Management Frameworks, Privacy Controls, and Security Baselines.
MITRE ATT&CK Defender (MAD): Certified in leveraging the ATT&CK framework to enhance threat intelligence.
Zero Trust Networking: Expertise in designing and enforcing zero trust architectures for enhanced network security.
By integrating these certifications into my work, I provide cutting-edge solutions aligned with industry best practices.
Why hire me?
Client-Focused: I prioritize your needs, whether it’s securing your IT systems, building a website, or improving your organization's security posture.
Proven Experience: From working with academic institutions to collaborating with small businesses, I have a track record of delivering quality results.
Adaptability and Growth: My passion for learning and self-improvement ensures I bring innovative ideas and solutions to the table.
WORK EXPERIENCE
IT SECURITY CONSULTANT
BALANCED FINANCIAL PTY. LTD., BACCHUS MARSH, AUSTRALIA
• Conducted audit and security compliance checks on the Balance Financial IT infrastructure including cloud services and website. • Performed external penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and other configuration analysis to identify potential security vulnerabilities. • Developed Cyber Security policies for Balanced Financial and recommended an IT security infrastructure roadmap to improve security measures. • Conducted training sessions for staff to improve their awareness and preparedness for cyber security incidents. • Analyzed the security competence of the IT infrastructure using the Essential Eight Maturity Model to identify areas for improvement.
WORDPRESS DEVELOPER / SPECIALIST
FREELANCER
As a WordPress Developer / Specialist, I provide comprehensive website solutions to help clients establish a strong online presence. My responsibilities include: • Domain Setup and Hosting Configuration: Setting up and managing domain registration, DNS configurations, and hosting environments to ensure a reliable foundation for each website. • Template Customization and Design: Selecting, purchasing, and customizing WordPress templates to align with clients’ brand identities and preferences, ensuring a unique and professional look for every site. • Website Development on WordPress: Building responsive, user-friendly websites on the WordPress platform, incorporating essential elements such as headers, footers, menus, and multimedia. • Plugin Integration and Customization: Installing, configuring, and optimizing plugins to add functionality, including SEO enhancements, contact forms, e-commerce solutions, analytics, and more. • Content Management and Organization: Implementing and organizing content, images, and multimedia elements across web pages, adhering to the client’s vision for a cohesive and impactful online presence. • Performance Optimization: Ensuring websites are fast, secure, and optimized for SEO, mobile responsiveness, and an exceptional user experience. • Ongoing Troubleshooting and Support: Providing ongoing support to troubleshoot issues, manage updates, and maintain website stability, ensuring a seamless experience for users. • Client Collaboration: Working closely with clients to understand their requirements, deliver tailored solutions, and ensure satisfaction with the final product.
STUDENT INTERN
VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY REGIONAL OFFICE, MYSURU, INDIA
• Made modifications to the user interface design of the university library website. • Manually uploaded lecture videos and notes by linking the video path from the video storage server to the university website.
WEB DEVELOPER - INTERN
INTRELLA TECHNOLOGIES AND SERVICES PVT.LTD, MYSURU, INDIA
• Developed a website using HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, and JavaScript, and linked the front-end of the website to the back-end database using PHP script language. • conducted quality test reports on project activities and milestones, shared relevant documentation and reports with project teams, and provided maintenance for the website.
EDUCATION
APPRECIATIONS AND ACHIVEMENTS
WORKSHOP ORGANIZATION
PAPER PRESENTATION
VOLUNTEER WORK
In 2019, I was personally approached by the faculty at VTU PG Centre after they identified that over 60 students were struggling with their 5th-semester mobile application development project. Recognizing my proficiency in Java and mobile app development, I was entrusted to lead a two-day, hands-on workshop designed to simplify complex coding concepts and streamline the development process.
Together with my team, we tailored the workshop to break down the core principles of Java programming and mobile app creation, addressing the common challenges students faced. This collaborative effort not only improved the students' technical capabilities but also enabled them to confidently execute their projects.
The workshop was highly successful, and I was awarded an official letter of appreciation by the Head of the Computer Science Department for the significant impact it made on student performance. This experience allowed me to hone my leadership, mentorship, and technical teaching skills—key attributes I continue to bring into my Information Technology career.
I had the distinct honor of presenting my technical paper titled "L.I.F.E - Light Facility Using IoT for Ethical Tribal Communities" at the NCIIC-2019, a prestigious national conference on Intelligent Computing. Out of 82 submissions from researchers across India, my paper was one of only 35 to be selected following a rigorous peer-review process by two expert evaluators.
The conference convened top academicians, industry professionals, and research scholars to explore solutions to emerging technological challenges. My paper contributed to the growing body of work on Internet of Things (IoT) by showcasing how IoT-based innovations can be harnessed to provide essential services—such as lighting—for underserved tribal communities.
This experience sharpened my ability to identify real-world problems and develop practical, technology-driven solutions with social impact. The paper was published in the official conference proceedings on page 63, and it remains a proud milestone in my academic and technical career.
During my time as a student at RMIT from 2020 to 2021, I was honored with a Certificate of Appreciation for my year-long contribution to the RMIT Chaplaincy Student Relief Program. Amidst Melbourne’s extended lockdowns due to COVID-19, I worked alongside a dedicated team to provide meals to students in need, ensuring that they had access to not only food but also a safe space to connect and receive practical assistance.
This volunteer work allowed me to forge meaningful connections with students from various universities, expanding my network and fostering a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many during this difficult period. My time volunteering reinforced my ability to collaborate in teams, solve problems in real time, and communicate empathetically—key qualities that align with my career in Information Technology.
This experience not only strengthened my commitment to teamwork and community impact but also enhanced my interpersonal and leadership skills—attributes essential for success in IT roles, particularly in environments where user support, collaboration, and adaptability are crucial.
CERTIFICATE & BADGES
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Azure Security Engineer Associate
Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Describe cloud concepts
1) Describe cloud computing
2) Describe the benefits of using cloud services
3) Describe cloud service types
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Describe Azure architecture and services
1) Describe the core architectural components of Azure
2) Describe Azure compute and networking services
3) Describe Azure storage services
4) Describe Azure identity, access, and security
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: Describe Azure management and governance
1) Describe cost management in Azure
2) Describe features and tools in Azure for governance and compliance
3) Describe features and tools for managing and deploying Azure resources
4) Describe monitoring tools in Azure
AZ-500: Manage identity and access
1) Manage identities in Microsoft Entra ID
2) Manage authentication by using Microsoft Entra ID
3) Manage authorization by using Microsoft Entra ID
4) Manage application access in Microsoft Entra ID
AZ-500: Secure networking
1) Plan and implement security for virtual networks
2) Plan and implement security for private access to Azure resources
3) Plan and implement security for public access to Azure resources
AZ-500: Secure compute, storage, and databases
1) Plan and implement advanced security for compute
2) Plan and implement security for storage
3) Plan and implement security for Azure SQL Database and Azure SQL Managed Instance
AZ-500: Manage security operations
1) Plan, implement, and manage governance for security
2) Manage security posture by using Microsoft Defender for Cloud
3) Configure and manage threat protection by using Microsoft Defender for Cloud
4) Configure and manage security monitoring and automation solutions
1) Microsoft Copilot: The Art of Prompt Writing
2) Copilot in Teams: AI-Powered Collaboration
3) Copilot in Outlook: Maximize Your Workday Efficiency
4) Copilot in Word: Create and Refine Documents with AI
5) Excel with Copilot: AI-Driven Data Analysis
6) Copilot in PowerPoint: From Prompt to Presentation
Microsoft AZ 900
Zero Trust Networking
MITRE ATT&CK Defender
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)
SKILLS