Aren’t we all dependent on technology? With sprouting technological innovations, security is becoming a significant concern in today’s world. Every day there is news of cyberattack, leaking confidential information of companies. Although individuals and businesses invest in anti-virus programs, hackers of the 21st century are smarter and can break into systems readily.
As a result, the need for cybersecurity experts is also rising. These people know how to protect information from unauthorized access, duplication, and theft. They can analyze the potential risks beforehand and immediately devise strategies to shut doors for data breaches. If you are a technical-minded person with a background in information technology – this could be the perfect field for you.
The cybersecurity career path is in high demand from employers, bringing some lucrative opportunities for you. If you are clueless from where to begin – we have everything ready for you. Here are is a complete guide on how you can become a cybersecurity expert.
Learn About the Profession
Before jumping into conclusions, it is essential to conduct thorough and independent research about it. As a cybersecurity expert, you would be working with organizations from different sectors to protect their data. You would be identifying threats, finding glitches in the systems, and proposing ways to combat security problems. Here are some standard work responsibilities of cyber professionals.
Key Responsibility
- Implement built-in security measures during the development of new software.
- Finding ways to secure the overall IT infrastructure.
- Consistent monitoring for attacks and intrusions.
- Building firewalls into infrastructure.
Career Prospects
Cybersecurity is diverse, meaning there are plenty of roles and positions in this sector. Here are the three popular cybersecurity career options to explore.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Here, you would be working as the front-line defense warrior. You will hold the bag to analyze potential security threats and install firewalls to audit systems for any abnormal activities.
- Ethical Hackers: Do you want to work as a hacker? You won’t be stealing data; instead, you would discover ways to steal it. You will receive a license from the company, allowing you to penetrate the security of their systems. The purpose is to use the same techniques as modern hackers for testing security protocols.
- Computer Forensic Analysts: The booming cybercrimes are increasing the need for these professionals. You will be working with law enforcement agencies, helping companies recover deleted files, analyze mobile records, and interpret crime data.
Qualifications & Skills
It is impossible to step into the field of cybersecurity without any knowledge or expertise. Either you have to be an IT graduate or enroll yourself in cybersecurity programs. Alongside theoretical knowledge, these programs supply you with advanced technical skills, allowing you to think two steps ahead of hackers. Similarly, it equips you with proficient skills, letting you become the master of this field. Do you want to know which skills? Look below.
- Computer & IT Skills: You will learn about the network of safety protocols and gain knowledge of computer network skills. You would also be able to run, configure, and monitor security programs.
- Analytical Skills: Understand all necessary procedures for problem-solving and identifying problems in the security systems.
- Decision-Making: React when breaches occur by developing the best solutions and test results. In short, adopt a logical approach to problem-solving and make proactive decisions.
- Attention to Detail: Ability to understand trends in data and to focus on updating the system as soon as the new version hits the market. The older versions are vulnerable to attacks since hackers need time to get into more unique methods.
- Effective Communication Skills: Cybersecurity experts have to interact with a range of people to spread their message across. You might have to teach employees system ethics, ensuring there are no mistakes from their end.
Finding Job Prospects
Here comes the big deal – job prospects. Everyone is eager to know what this industry holds for them as far as salary, working conditions, and designation are concerned. You have to select to work in the organizational world or with government agencies. Likewise, you can render your services in the banking sector, intelligence agencies, universities, and even airlines. After all, in this digital world, everyone is looking for the services of cybersecurity experts.
Working Hours and Conditions
The majority of cybersecurity roles are office-based, meaning you will have a 9-5 job, but a different one. You would be working 30-40 hours a week in the most challenging environment, monitoring systems, and detecting risks. In the case of cyberattacks, you might have to work overtime to minimize its impact and avoid potential damage.
Compensation Packages
The average salary of cybersecurity experts begins from $75,000 annually if you have completed a bachelor’s. The figure would increase as you excel in your career with higher education – master’s degree and more expertise. Hence, in senior management and consultant roles, you can earn up to $108,000 annually.
Wrapping Up
Indeed, choosing a career option today has become more challenging than ever. Perhaps, due to the increasing competition and limited opportunities. Therefore, exploring fields like cybersecurity that are in high demand can be a promising career choice. Alongside offering job security, it allows you to bring out the tech-savvy person in you.