Lack of security will increase the need for security professionals to collaborate more with their organizations in 2021. Consequently, those with the right skill sets have an opportunity to find employment. Is cybersecurity a career you want to pursue?
Cyber security – what does it mean?
Cybercriminals and hackers are a concern of many companies, financial institutions, and government organizations. Professionals such as engineers, pen testers, security testers, and others must handle these attacks to prevent them. Protecting systems and networks from digital attacks is what cyber security is all about.
The importance of cyber security cuts across a variety of sectors, including government agencies, startups, midsize and large enterprises, and even private individuals. The most effective way to protect your employees from simple scams like phishing and ransomware attacks is to educate them about them.
What are the steps to starting a career in cyber security?
It is helpful to understand the Cyber Security prerequisites before getting started:
- An undergraduate degree in Computer Science or a related field is required.
- Understanding of firewalls and endpoint security.
- Current knowledge of hacker tactics and cyber security trends.
- Understanding of languages/tools such as C++, Java, Node, Python, Ruby, Go, or Power Shell.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to pay attention to detail.
- Adaptability to fast-paced environments and pressure.
Cyber security job skills
- Taking initiative and making confident decisions
- Ability to solve problems
- Ability to learn technical skills
- Experience with a variety of platforms when it comes to security
- Hacking knowledge
- Meeting tight deadlines and working effectively under pressure
- A keen eye for detail
- Basic cyber forensics skills
- Having a thirst for knowledge
- Communicate effectively and adapt communication styles accordingly
- Knowing the laws relating to confidentiality and what they mean
- A keen interest in IT and an inquisitive nature
- Ability to manage their own time and be organized
- Creativity and innovative thinking
Jobs in cyber security
There are many different paths one can take in cyber security due to the wide scope of the field. In general, these are some of the most common cyber security job titles:
- Application security specialist
- Cyber security engineers
- Security trainer
- Identity and Access Management engineer
- Network security engineers
- Cloud security engineers
- Security architects
- Malware/forensics analysts
- Incident response analysts
- Cryptographers
It doesn’t end there! At least one cyber security certification is required for nearly all of these positions
Which industries employ cyber security professionals?
- Financial Sector – Banking operators always operate in highly regulated environments, and they are usually threatened by cybercriminals.
- Governing bodies – About $28 billion is spent annually by the United States government on cyber security. DoD 8570/8140 cyber security certification courses are required for all security personnel in the USA.
- Laws relating to cyber security – Liability arising from breaches of information can be handled by lawyers with a specialization in information security.
- Utility companies – In the case of water, electricity, or power utilities, such as a water plant or gas refinery, a cyber security professional is essential.
Take the first step toward a career in cyber security
Today’s digital era requires security professionals in almost every organization! Cyber security is the right career choice at this time. Various cyber security job opportunities exist across all industries and sectors if you possess security skills and relevant experience.
