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Navigating a Career in Cybersecurity in 2023
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity refers to the practice of shielding internet-connected systems, hardware, software, and electronic data from digital attacks. It encompasses protecting networks and infrastructure from hacking, malware, phishing, denial-of-service attacks, and other cybercrime. Cybersecurity experts implement tools like firewalls, threat detection systems, data encryption, and access controls to safeguard people, companies, and government agencies from malicious actors online.
As more business operations, financial transactions, communication channels, and personal tasks take place online, cyberattacks become more frequent and sophisticated. This drives the need for highly trained cybersecurity professionals in both the public and private sectors. The work cybersecurity specialists do behind the scenes is critical for keeping sensitive information and critical infrastructure functioning securely.
Cybersecurity Roles and Responsibilities
There is a wide variety of career paths within the cybersecurity field, offering different responsibilities based on your specific skills and interests. Some top cybersecurity roles include:
Security Architect - Designs and builds secure IT infrastructure, networks, and system architectures for robust protection.
Security Engineer - Implements and monitors security tools, policies, threat detection protocols, and access controls.
Security Analyst - Identifies cybersecurity risks, evaluates systems for vulnerabilities, and looks for potential attack indicators.
Incident Responder - Investigates, contains, and analyzes cyberattacks or data breaches that have occurred.
Security Manager - Develops cybersecurity standards, policies, budgets, education, and training for an organization.
Security Auditor - Tests defenses and processes to ensure compliance with security regulations and best practices.
Penetration Tester - Ethically hacks into systems and networks to expose weaknesses before malicious actors can exploit them.
Security Software Developer - Designs, prototypes, and programs security tools, applications, protocols, and software defenses.
These are just some of the many exciting and critical cybersecurity positions available. While specific duties differ, the overarching role of cybersecurity professionals involves planning, implementing, upgrading, monitoring, and responding to security needs for computer networks, systems, and data.
What Qualifications Are Required for Cybersecurity Jobs?
The education and certifications you need to land cybersecurity roles can vary based on the specific career path. Here are some of the key qualifications sought by employers:
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. Some positions require a Master's degree.
Industry-recognized certifications like the CompTia Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and others.
Solid knowledge of OS platforms, networking, data protections, security tools, and programming languages.
Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving skills for assessing systems and threats.
Communication and teamwork skills to collaborate across IT, management, and other teams.
Gaining the right combination of education, certifications, specialized skills, and soft skills is essential for launching and advancing your cybersecurity career. Consider pursuing internships, apprenticeships, or hands-on training to complement your academics.
What is the Job Outlook and Salary Potential in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity currently stands as one of the fastest-growing career fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 33% growth for information security jobs between 2020-2030, over 3 times the average for all occupations. The need for trained cybersecurity talent continues rising as threats intensify.
In addition to strong job prospects, cybersecurity roles also offer lucrative salary potential. Here are the median national salaries for some top cybersecurity jobs according to Payscale:
Security Engineer: $90,000
Security Analyst: $75,000
Security Manager: $105,000
Penetration Tester: $90,000
Security Software Developer: $105,000
Salaries can vary based on your location, experience level, employer, and specific position. But overall, cybersecurity provides ample room for high earning potential, especially for those who achieve advanced certifications and roles.
How Can You Get Started in Cybersecurity?
If the critical nature of cybersecurity work paired with the growth outlook appeals to you, here are some tips for launching your career:
Earn a bachelor’s degree or bootcamp certificate in a relevant area like IT or computer science.
Obtain an entry-level role like IT support technician or network admin to gain foundational skills.
Study for and pass Security+ or other preeminent cyber certifications.
Consider a Master's degree in cybersecurity or related field to access more advanced roles.
Apply for cybersecurity openings requiring 1-3 years experience at larger companies that offer training programs.
Attend cyber conferences and check cyberseek.org for free cyber training resources.
Build hands-on skills through virtual labs, hackathons, or volunteer projects.
Join professional associations like ISSA, ISACA, InfraGard, or OWASP to network and learn.
The cybersecurity field rewards those who continuously build their practical expertise. Start prepping for an exciting and meaningful cybersecurity career path today.