Starting a new career in cybersecurity has never been easier than it is today.
According to CyberSeek, there were nearly 600,000 job openings in the cybersecurity field in the past year alone, creating clear opportunities for job seekers. The demand for skilled professionals far exceeds the available talent pool. Fortunately, future cybersecurity professionals have more resources than ever to help them find their calling.
what Is CEber security?
Essentially, cybersecurity is the practice of protecting information and other resources on electronic devices, networks, and computers. Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for predicting, preventing, and responding to attacks that target these resources.
Cybersecurity continues to grow in importance. The increasing amount of data passing through networks and the expertise of hackers to intercept that data.
what aabout Dcentrifugal Ccyber security ROres?
Although this is not an exhaustive list, we will introduce some of the main job types.
Cybersecurity/Information Security Analyst
This role focuses on understanding, predicting, and preventing cyberattacks. Analysts perform research, review security data, develop defense strategies, and explain security measures to various stakeholders in the company.
network security analyst
These professionals analyze network traffic, identify anomalies, and implement security measures to protect your data and network. It is also tasked with preventing service interruptions and testing networks. Disaster recovery plan.
Security/Cyber Security Engineer
Engineers are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining security measures to protect data, networks, and systems from threats. We also perform tests to discover vulnerabilities and respond to security breaches.
Cyber security researcher
These experts identify security issues and develop methods and algorithms to detect and prevent attacks. You may write code to analyze proprietary protocols and network traffic to create technical solutions for intrusion analysis, network security, and data visualization.
Application security engineer
This role focuses on identifying and addressing issues. Application security Weakness. Experts require an understanding of code development, software testing, and production environments. Coding skills are a plus.
Forensic Cyber Security Analyst/Digital Forensic Analyst
These experts use a specific cyber incident as a starting point to trace the source of the attack, gather evidence, and work to prevent future incidents.
Ethical hacker/penetration tester
These experts intentionally hack your company’s system Identify potential security issues and weaknesses.
how to start in cyber security
There are many paths to landing your first cybersecurity job. However, before diving into the field, understanding your strengths and what you like is the most important step.
A helpful starting point is to take a cybersecurity career readiness assessment. Although typically sponsored by hiring companies with vested interests, these assessments provide valuable insight into: your skills and preferences.
Plus, get a glimpse into the cybersecurity field by exploring available training options and gaining hands-on experience through starter labs. Resources such as Infosec Institute’s skills platform, community college courses, and online platforms such as SANS and Coursera provide foundational knowledge. Many universities also offer cybersecurity boot camps, some of which teach students the fundamentals of cybersecurity in as little as 24 weeks. Furthermore, as an option, free or low-cost training; Google’s entry-level cybersecurity certificate and more (ISC)² Skill builder course.
When evaluating cybersecurity career paths, it’s important to note that technical expertise is not necessarily a prerequisite. “We’ve seen people who would have been social workers decide to go into cybersecurity,” said Brett Fund, general manager of the InfoSec Institute. “If you like solving puzzles, you can start as an analyst.”
Once you’ve identified your interests and qualifications, there are multiple paths into the field.
1. Direct route
By taking several courses, you can pursue entry-level cybersecurity roles such as cybersecurity analyst, security specialist, or security auditor. These roles allow employees to learn the ropes and progress gradually at their own pace.
2. Work as a security guard–Adjacent role
Starting with roles like SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Customer Service, Sales, and Helpdesk will give you insight into what a security platform can do and how you can use it. Employees can eventually move into a cybersecurity analyst role or similar position.
3. Take training
Apprenticeships are a great option to enter this field. Cengage, the parent company of InfoSec Institute, actively works with employers to launch apprenticeship programs. According to the fund, many of Cengage’s new employees have gone through apprenticeship courses.
4. Earn a degree
Although not required, a degree in cybersecurity (even an associate’s degree) can help jump-start your career. “Companies are actually just looking for a signal that they understand what you’re trying to do and can learn from them,” the fund said. “It’s all about effectiveness. Employers want you to feel like you can actually do it.”
Currently a cybersecurity operations manager at the Information Technology Information Sharing and Analysis Center (IT-ISAC) and Conrad Inc., Jonathan Braley is taking a combined career approach. He started his career working in search engine optimization while in college. On the other hand, he earned a bachelor’s degree, where he gradually learned coding through his courses online and gained practical experience in implementing his email at Google Business.
Braley’s career progression from staff assistant to cyber threat analyst and principal threat analyst to cybersecurity operations manager illustrates the unique path one can take in the cybersecurity field.
Advances in cybersecurity
Progressing in the cybersecurity field requires continuous training, upskilling, and obtaining relevant certifications. Positivity, curiosity and a commitment to continuous learning are key.
Here are some important certifications to consider.
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): The CISSP certification offered by (ISC)² certifies that its holder can successfully plan, implement, and oversee an effective cybersecurity program. This qualification is suitable for experienced professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise.
- CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor): This ISACA-based certification focuses on auditing and monitoring business and IT systems. This certification is beneficial for entry-level and mid-career professionals as it improves their IT knowledge and can lead to increased salary.
- CISM (Certified Information Security Manager): Designed for professionals seeking management positions, the CISM certification requires continuing professional education for renewal. This certification demonstrates advanced knowledge of risk assessment, incident management, and security governance.
Another valuable strategy for advancing your cybersecurity career is engaging with a mentor. According to Brennan Babek, ISACA Board Vice Chair, Senior Vice President, and CISO of Customer Success Services at Oracle, it’s important to: Find a good mentor. “People on my staff/leadership team spend a lot of time internally coaching and mentoring people and trying to bring them into this space,” Beibeck said.
It is also recommended to take calculated risks when applying for jobs. “Many of the requirements that employers list are very optimistic. There’s nothing wrong with applying for a particular position even if it doesn’t necessarily meet your expectations,” Braley said. “We find that many of these roles remain unfilled for a long time, and companies may be more willing to take on and train employees who may lack the skills they are looking for.”
FAQ
Q: What is the importance of cybersecurity?
answer: The increasing flow of information through networks and the evolving tactics of hackers to intercept and compromise that information have increased the importance of cybersecurity.
Q: What qualifications do I need to become a cybersecurity analyst?
answer: A positive attitude, basic knowledge, and a desire to learn are required qualifications.
Q: What is the best way to approach cybersecurity?
answer: Once you have the basic knowledge, consider starting with entry-level jobs such as cybersecurity analyst, security specialist, or security auditor. Alternatively, you can build a solid foundation by working in a security-related role such as SOC analyst, sales, or help desk.
Q: How can I gain experience in cybersecurity?
answer: Be curious, ask questions, take advantage of company-sponsored training, seek mentorship, and gain valuable experience.
Q: What certifications are important for cybersecurity analysts?
answer: Certifications such as CISSP, CISA, and CISM are important, but the focus will depend on your chosen area within cybersecurity.
Q: What skills do I need to be successful in a cybersecurity role?
answer: To be successful in a cybersecurity role, you need to understand your strengths and preferences and be willing to learn. Basic coding skills may be helpful.
Q: What is the salary for a cybersecurity specialist?
answer: Salaries vary based on expertise, with roles ranging from approximately $65,000 to over $165,000.
Q: What types of cybersecurity roles are there?
answer: Roles include security analyst, network security analyst, security engineer, cybersecurity researcher, digital forensic analyst, and ethical hacker/penetration tester.
Q: What resources are available to help me learn cybersecurity?
answer: There are many resources available for learning cybersecurity skills. These include cybersecurity boot camps, online courses, and certifications.
About the author
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