Most IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a related field; these programs typically take four years to complete as a full-time student. Cybersecurity specialists handle a broad set of technical responsibilities related to safeguarding sensitive digital information and data. Depending on the size of their employer, these cybersecurity experts may work in niche, specialized areas of the field or oversee more general security tasks. They provide ongoing oversight for organizations’ cybersecurity efforts through several methods.
- With a range of certifications covering everything from cyber security and cloud computing to networking, CompTIA has something for everyone!
- If your career goals include a job in this in-demand industry, there are some steps you can take now to start gaining the experience you need.
- Software that can assist you in this task includes Kali Linux, nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, and John the Ripper.
- To get hired as a security specialist, you always want to develop your skills and knowledge as much as possible, and certificates help you to do exactly that.
Many specialists begin as network administrators, computer systems analysts, or network engineers. An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity or general computer science may qualify applicants for some positions. However, internships and IT work experience can help recent graduates stand out in the job market. IT security specialists defend an organization’s data and information systems. Additionally, cybersecurity specialists are often called on in times of crisis or emergency — or when there are issues with networks or data systems.
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As you work on gaining some of the skills, you’ll most likely become familiar with some cybersecurity tools, software, and hardware systems along the way. It’s a good idea to become familiar with how to use at least one cloud program like Azure, which should translate to understanding the basics of how AWS and Google Cloud work. Companies will likely want expertise in whichever tools and software they use, so it’s better to be prepared for any scenario.
First, the increasing reliance on technology in all aspects of our lives has created more opportunities for cybercriminals to attack. This can take the form of other, related work experience, or it can take the form of a structured internship or other formal hands-on learning. Matt Whittle is a freelance writer and editor who holds a BA in English from Penn State University. Before shifting to education-related content, he worked in the wine industry, editing tasting notes and reviews.
of the Best Software Programs to Learn for an IT Career
CertHE’s are available in areas such as Computing & IT, Computing & IT and Business, and Computing & IT and Psychology. The Cyber Security technician is a Level 3 apprenticeship and typically takes 18 months to complete. It will enable you to provide first line cyber security support and can lead to roles such as Cyber Security Administrator, Incident Response Technician and Junior Security Analyst. Our career program is centered on the prestigious CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist (CSIS) stackable certification. Upon successful completion of this program, participants will earn an accredited specialist-level CompTIA qualification.
In addition to connecting with your co-workers, consider joining a professional organization. A security specialist’s exact duties may vary by company, but they can how to become a security specialist expect to complete the following tasks in the course of their work. Threats to online security closely shadow the history and development of the internet itself.
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Cybersecurity specialists create and implement security audits across computer hardware and software systems. They make sure that the systems perform the way they are supposed to, and that they are safe from attack. This list of the top 50 cybersecurity networking groups and professional organizations from Digital Guardian is a good place to start. Indeed.com employment search, companies like Prudential, Stearns Bank, The Walt Disney Company, Grant Thornton, and Farmers Insurance Group are all in need of IT security specialists. What’s more, multiple government agencies like the National Security Agency, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and the U.S.
