In the current time when every company is facing threats and attacks, and risk is increasing, cybersecurity is becoming very important in order to secure their systems, network, and data. It is crucial because it includes everything that pertains to protect our sensitive data, PHI (protected health information), PII (personally identifiable information), personal information, data, intellectual property, government and industry information systems from theft and damage attempted by adversaries and criminals.
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Cybersecurity is important now more than ever because cyberattacks affect all people. Hackers are attacking a computer in the US every 39 seconds, says a recent report. Once an attack happens millions of people could be harmed, services can’t be provided to citizens. Several businesses face over 4000 hacks every single day using ransomware alone. Hackers are breaching government organizations also and they are attacking a global scale.
Fast changes in technology can also cause a boom in cyberattacks, so 5G networks thus create a great multidimensional and expanded cyberattack vulnerability. Cyberattacks can damage businesses and several professionals face loss of jobs. It is causing millions of dollars in damage to recover the data and penalties paid through fines. Not only businesses and companies but individuals are also facing many risks where hackers steal their personal information and sell it for profit. Here cybersecurity is crucial to get protected from these threats and breaches and cyber concerns may result in increased regulations and legislation.
This article introduces you to the role of a cyber security expert and how to become a successful professional in this domain.
Who is a Cybersecurity Expert?
Cybersecurity professionals are those who play a vital role in securing information systems. They monitor, detect, investigate, analyze, and respond to security events to protect systems from cybersecurity risks, vulnerabilities, and threats. So the demand for cybersecurity professionals is increasing rapidly and companies are listing more cybersecurity jobs. They are paying higher salaries as it is difficult to find skilled, qualified, and strong talent in this industry. These cybersecurity influencers and experts are the most trusted names in the business that do their best for the welfare of the complicated industry. They find risks and possible leaks in order to protect information from thefts, unauthorized access, and illegal duplication.
In this competitive digital age, cybersecurity specialists are like watchdogs who watch and guard a company’s network and systems from hackers. They might wear many hats depending on the size and shape of their company or organization. They have a different level of expertise and training that allows them to give advice and training on the latest digital best practices. They also might have detailed expertise on a particular vendor’s product such as CISCO systems which makes IT and networking products. Cyber Security Specialists rely heavily on teamwork due to the broad scope of the Computer Science field and the security measures that need to be applied to it. A Cybersecurity expert’s role is difficult because most of the time data breaches and threats come from inside the organization, either accidentally or intentionally.
Steps to Become a Cybersecurity Expert
Cybersecurity is a fascinating branch of Information Technology and suits those people who enjoy a challenge. Nowadays the cybersecurity career is in high demand as there is a gap between demand and supply. So the demand for these professionals is projected to grow around 12% between 2016 and 2026 that is a faster rate than other occupations according to the job outlook report.
Mentioned here are some important steps to become a Cybersecurity expert.
- Education- Like most other careers in the IT field, most jobs falling under the cybersecurity specialist category need some form of formal education. So it is quite possible to obtain a specialist job after completing many levels of cybersecurity education. People who complete their bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, or cybersecurity associate’s degree can apply for a cybersecurity specialist job. On the other side, cybersecurity specialist workforces found different job roles after completing a related degree like computer science, mathematics, or engineering by having sufficient work experience.
- Certifications and Clearances- Taking a certification course and clearing it is a crucial step in any career path. So like any other path obtaining the proper industry certification or clearances is an important step to become a successful cybersecurity expert. It makes sense to start thinking about what kind of certifications are asked by an employer, or what kinds of certifications can make job candidates competitive within the field. Some popular certifications in the cybersecurity field are security+, network+, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), and many more. These certifications can help you kick start your career in cybersecurity and offer you professional development opportunities to find your niche.
- Experience- Another most crucial aspect of obtaining a job as a cybersecurity specialist is gaining relevant experience. It can be in the form of other related work experience or other formal hands-on learning, or it can be in the form of a structured internship. Achieving experience can make you more eligible for your desired job. So it is also a must-have step in the journey of becoming a cybersecurity expert.
- Networking- If someone is looking for opportunities to grow then a professional network can be a good idea in the security domain. There are plenty of network-oriented professional cybersecurity groups and organizations that are specifically designed to alert members about job openings and development opportunities. These networking groups and professional organizations from digital guardian are a good place to start a career as a cybersecurity expert.
Bottom Line
Cybersecurity specialists are playing an interesting role in the companies and organizations they are employed in. They are hired for their soft skills and their technical skills/knowledge. They must have the ability to thrive in emergency situations which is very important. They also need to be able to communicate well and be comfortable in their team roles and goals.
It is predicted that cybersecurity job opportunities are about to grow 36% by the year 2024 and it reflects the growing need for cybersecurity experts across all IT fields and career levels. So opt for any cybersecurity certification, get technically skilled with programming languages, and get started with your dream career path.