As a discipline within network engineering, this field covers protection against breaches for interconnected electronics rather than individual databases or devices. Network security professionals use firewalls, physical hardware and education efforts to safeguard against intrusions and retain lost data. Since cybersecurity professionals frequently work with teams to resolve and prevent issues, you’ll also want to develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability.

With training and experience, candidates can also pursue other security specialties, such as computer forensics, penetration testing, and governance, risk, and compliance. Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level. If you have the experience and you perform well, then you’re in prime position to get a top paying role. Some job descriptions might be more specific and ask for experience with key tools such as IBM QRadar SIEM tool, Splunk, XSOAR and ArcSight too. Take an assessment to learn more about your skills and the careers that might suit you. Cyber intelligence officers gather information about where threats to information technology (IT) systems come from and how they work.

Developing Skills

The UK cyber security industry is worth £6 billion, employs over 40,000 people and is expected to grow significantly in coming years. Another key credential for any cybersecurity specialist who wants to find a job in this field is the CISSP. The Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification is the best certification that how to become a security specialist a cyber security specialist can get. It’s recognized by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). Cybersecurity professionals help protect computer systems from cyber attacks. They may have industry certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification.

It takes two years to complete full time or three to four years if you study part time. HNDs are practical-based courses ideal for those wanting to enter the workforce. HND’s are available in Cyber Security and will cover areas such as programming, networking, and database design and development. If you have completed A Levels or equivalent, then you may be interested in a Higher Level Apprenticeship. An apprenticeship is a great option for training in Cyber Security, it allows you to get hands on paid work experience within the sector while also undertaking training and qualifications. Higher Level apprenticeships are available in Cyber Security and other related disciplines.

Soft Skills

The outlook for cybersecurity specialists is very positive due to the increasing reliance on technology and the growing threat of cyber attacks. As organizations continue to invest in cybersecurity to protect their data and systems, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is expected to continue to increase in the years to come. Requirements to enter the field vary by job and employer, but cybersecurity professionals usually need extensive knowledge and certifications. Others attend technology bootcamps, and many pursue a college degree in cybersecurity. Second, the growing sophistication of cyberattacks means that organizations need more skilled cybersecurity professionals to protect themselves.

• According to labor statistics, the number of available jobs in this field is expected to grow significantly in the next few years.
• Cybersecurity is the process of protecting an organization’s computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access or damage.
• To advance in any cyber security field, you’ll need some technical expertise – but you don’t necessarily need a comprehensive understanding of programming or hacking.
• This page provides detailed information about how to become a cybersecurity specialist.
• Others attend technology bootcamps, and many pursue a college degree in cybersecurity.

The assessment of the IB contains a theory of knowledge across your chosen subjects. One useful guide is the Cybersecurity Workforce Framework developed by the National Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (NICE), a part of the National Institute of Standards and Technology. This framework categorizes various specialty areas and can be for learning more about various specialty areas within cybersecurity.