Cyber security is the practice of measures to protect data and devices from cyber attacks. When businesses lose essential information, they tend to see losses in terms of their profits, businesses, or reputation.
Cyber attacks are at an all-time high now, which is why cyber security is one of the most crucial aspects of all businesses, whether small or large.
This industry is therefore looking out for skilled professionals now more than ever. With the growing demand for data analysts and security specialists, the compensation in this industry is also lucrative over the years.
If you are interested in a career in cyber security, you can take up a cybersecurity program to learn the fundamentals and earn all the skills desirable in this profession.
What are the skills for a career in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity professionals must be —
1. Quick at problem-solving
Professionals in this field need to work with problems all the time. One has to be of the disposition to use their critical thinking skills for solving problems that may arise on the way.
2. Quick to learn
Professionals must be updated with all the new technologies to keep pace with cyber attackers as they are constantly innovating and making new types of malware and other threats. One has to be curious enough to keep learning.
3. Creative
Experts in this field are highly creative individuals who understand the tech work for its practical and theoretical aspects. Hackers are very creative and innovative; they are always looking for vulnerabilities and newer, more efficient ways to penetrate systems. To keep up with them, cybersecurity experts need to be highly creative and analytical to prevent them.
Career Prospects in Cybersecurity
1. Security analyst
Security analysts are professionals who plan and execute several security measures in an organization. They analyze security systems and find out vulnerabilities. A security analyst is an entry-level position in the cybersecurity industry.
2. Security Engineer
An engineer who is skilled to rebuild security systems for an organization. They are the ones who make arrangements for safeguarding systems. This too is an entry-level job profile in the industry.
3. Cryptographer
Cryptographers are security system experts who write codes to prevent hackers from accessing databases or security systems. It is a mid-senior level work profile and is best for those who are proficient in coding.
4. Chief information security officer
This is a top-level position in the cyber industry. This involves overseeing all the security practices of your company. These professionals are updated with the latest technologies in cybersecurity practices, like the best knowledge of new software or how cybercriminals behave. Depending on the size of an organization, a CISO may work closely with the Chief Information Officer, who is responsible for the regular IT functions of an organization.
5. Penetration tester
Penetration testers are popularly known as ethical hackers. These professionals are experts who find and track vulnerabilities and loopholes in systems that hackers may use to penetrate. They use a range of tools for testing networks, products, or web apps.
6. Security Architect
A security architect is a professional who is responsible for planning and implementing security systems, and also in testing them. They are the ones primarily protecting data from malware, hacking, or DDoS attacks. This is a senior-level work profile and needs considerable training and certification.