Introducing ACI Learning’s hands-on IT and cybersecurity Skill Labs, our first live labs in OpenSesame Plus
Too many IT professionals can pass an exam, but freeze when something goes wrong in the real world. It’s time to close the gap between knowing and doing.
That’s why I’m excited to announce that ACI Learning’s Skill Labs are now available in the OpenSesame catalog, marking the debut of live labs in OpenSesame Plus.
These virtual labs give learners a safe, guided way to build real IT and cybersecurity skills – no setup, no stress, and no risk – just practical, job-ready experience in environments that mirror what professionals face every day.
Get the rundown 👇
What are ACI Learning Skill Labs?
ACI Learning Skill Labs are browser-based, virtual environments where learners can practice IT and cybersecurity skills they’d use in the real world without risking their actual systems. Unlike traditional online courses (where you might watch videos or take quizzes), these labs are all about doing.
Learners spin up servers, configure networks, repair hardware, and respond to security incidents, all within secure, cloud-based sandboxes. Each lab centers on authentic, scenario-based challenges designed to build confidence, competence, and career readiness.
Because they’re browser-based, learners can launch labs instantly from OpenSesame — no hardware, downloads, or extra setup required.
These Skill Labs mark OpenSesame’s first entry into live labs—a new, interactive format designed for hands-on learning.
Why hands-on training matters
Too many learners pass IT certification exams but freeze when something goes wrong in real life. In today’s fast-changing IT landscape, theory alone isn’t enough; employees retain more, perform better, and get certified faster when they learn by doing.
Research backs this up. A Harvard study found that learners retain more when engaging in active learning, like hands-on projects, and MIT research shows that experiential learning boosts problem-solving and confidence.
When learners have space to experiment, make mistakes, and try again, they move from knowing to doing without putting your infrastructure at risk.
What makes ACI Learning Skill Labs different?
In these labs, learners can:
- Configure systems and networks
- Simulate hardware repairs and RAID setups
- Launch and analyze malware safely
- Run penetration tests and security scans
- Prepare for real-world certification exams
Each lab offers immediate feedback and builds the muscle memory learners need to tackle challenges on the job, not just on a test.
Experience a lab demo and walk-through from ACI to see how hands-on practice transforms learning.
Which credentials are supported by ACI Skill Labs
Whether your team is brushing up or preparing for certification, ACI Learning Labs align with major credentials, including:
- CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, PenTest+, Cloud+
- Cisco and cybersecurity fundamentals
- Cloud and DevOps (AWS, Azure, CI/CD)
- Emerging tech like AI and machine learning
These labs align with globally recognized IT credentials from CompTIA, Cisco, and leading cloud providers, helping teams validate skills that matter in every market.
The future of skills-based learning at OpenSesame
ACI Learning’s Skill Labs mark the beginning of OpenSesame’s evolution toward live labs — immersive, skills-based learning experiences that bring real tools to learners. As work and technology evolve, so should training, and our mission is to make real learning lead to real change.
Explore ACI Learning Skill Labs on OpenSesame
Ready to bring hands-on IT training to your team?
Start with these curated lists for popular IT certifications:
- CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202)
- CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)
- CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)
- CompTIA Cloud+ (CV0-004)
Or explore ACI Learning Lab’s full catalog!
FAQs
What are ACI Learning Skill Labs?
ACI Learning Skill Labs are browser-based virtual labs where learners practice IT and cybersecurity skills in realistic, guided environments—without risking actual systems.
How are Live labs different from traditional online IT courses?
Traditional courses often rely on videos and quizzes. Live labs focus on doing—letting learners configure networks, run security scans, and troubleshoot issues in real time.
Do I need special hardware to use Skill Labs?
No. Skill Labs run entirely in a web browser, with no downloads or setup required. They’re accessible instantly via the OpenSesame Plus catalog.
Which certifications does ACI Skill Labs support?
These labs support major credentials like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, PenTest+, and Cloud+, as well as Cisco, AWS, and other cloud and DevOps certifications.
Why is hands-on training important in IT and cybersecurity?
Research shows active, experiential learning improves retention and confidence. Skill Labs help bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
Do Skill Labs need to be taken in a certain order or paired with a video course?
No, labs are all standalone experiences that do not rely on having a paired video course, and each lesson can be taken in any order for a given certification prep program. Learners can reinforce the skills they learned from video courses.
Do labs provide previews?
No, they must be launched with an active license to view them.
About the author
Kyle is a cybersecurity & technology learning content curator with over 15 years of experience in the technical space, including 10 years as a technical recruiter for top tech companies. He has years of experience supporting enterprise clients in the cybersecurity and technical arenas, including Honda, Toshiba, Intact, and PwC, and is eager to share his knowledge and experience with others. Kyle is passionate about helping people learn about cybersecurity and how to protect themselves from online threats.