Foundational security training delivered through awareness programs, compliance modules, or self-paced courses plays a critical role in setting the stage for secure software development. It introduces core concepts, terminology, and best practices that help build a common baseline of knowledge across teams.
Once that foundation is in place, how can you give your teams an opportunity to apply what they’ve learned safely? Hands-on labs and realistic, simulated cyber range environments deliver an immersive experience that brings concepts to life, enabling learners to practice and experiment in real applications. These exercises are a fun and engaging way to help developers build confidence as they hone their secure coding skills.
Think of secure development training as a journey. Foundational learning introduces what matters. Simulation-based learning shows why it matters and how to respond. Cyber ranges add depth by placing learners in high-stakes, real-world scenarios where they must problem-solve, adapt, and apply knowledge in context.
According to the Ponemon Institute Study on Cybersecurity Training Benchmarks, organizations increasingly recognize the value of this layered approach. The use of simulations has grown from 36% to 60% in recent years.
| Learning Concept | Benefit |
| Builds on prior knowledge | Cyber ranges reinforce and expand on foundational concepts through real-world application. |
| Safe environment for trial and error | Learners can make mistakes and test strategies without real-world consequences. |
| Engages multiple learning styles | Hands-on interaction complements reading, listening, or watching. |
| Promotes learner autonomy | Self-directed exploration builds confidence and deeper understanding. |
| Models real progression | Learners advance from simple to complex tasks, aligning with how skills are built on the job. |
While many cyber ranges focus on infrastructure and security operations, our unique approach addresses application security from a developer’s perspective. CMD+CTRL ranges are purpose-built to simulate the challenges teams face in actual software environments, including misconfigurations, logic flaws, and insecure code.
Whether it’s a banking app, cloud storage system, or e-commerce platform, players work through realistic scenarios with real vulnerabilities—across more than 500 challenges spanning OWASP Top 10, SANS CWE 25+, cloud misconfigurations, and API threats. By simulating actual application behavior and encouraging players to think like attackers, CMD+CTRL cyber ranges help build muscle memory for identifying and addressing security issues at every phase of the SDLC.
Unrivaled in authenticity, CMD+CTRL Cyber Ranges engage players and give teams insight into how connected software functions and fails concerning security. There is no other choice regarding upskilling application and API developers, and organizations will find CMD+CTRL an exceptional tool to upskill application developers. – Datos Insights
One leading financial institution used CMD+CTRL’s Base Camp platform to guide teams through a structured learning journey, from foundational training and labs to cyber range simulations.
Their goals: improve secure development practices, reduce vulnerabilities, and maintain delivery velocity.
With this phased approach, developers moved beyond passive learning to apply secure coding principles in environments that reflected their daily work.
CMD+CTRL’s cyber ranges are cloud-based and ready to use, requiring only a browser and internet connection. They're commonly used as:
With role-specific pathways, real-time metrics, and gamified features like leaderboards and hints, the experience is as engaging as it is educational.
Security isn’t just a concept you learn, it’s something you do. While foundational training helps your team grasp the basics, this knowledge is translated into practical skills through hands-on practice.
Our cyber ranges give your team the chance to apply what they’ve learned in realistic, high-stakes environments and build the confidence and capability to meet today’s security challenges. Ready to see it in action? Book a demo and discover how simulated training can take your secure development program to the next level.