How to get into cyber security is quite a common search term for students looking for ways to start their careers as cyber security experts.
Entering the growing industry of cybersecurity means there are more available positions than qualified candidates. Between 2020 and 2030, according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a 33% increase in cybersecurity jobs. The COVID-19 outbreak has only led to an increase in this demand.
Cyber security or network security for business has become a center point of every company that is relying on their network for their business activities. A data breach in a hospital or any other organization can affect thousands or even millions of people at a single time because of the ransomware attack.
This is the reason why companies are coming together and working on their network security systems to find effective ways to fight these cyber attacks. Companies are spending huge to hire qualified cybersecurity experts.
Even paying higher to entry-level cyber security jobs with basic knowledge. The average annual cyber security engineer salary in the US may reach upto $75,000-120,000.
Before we talk about how to get into the cyber security field take a quick look at the basic steps to start your career in cybersecurity.
Crucial Steps To Start A Career In Cybersecurity:
firewalls Having knowledge about various forms of endpoint security along with firewalls.
Having the idea and knowledge of tools and languages such as Python, Node, C++, Java, Ruby, Power Shell or Go is the plus point.
Computer science bachelor’s degree, or in a related field.
A mindset of working under pressure efficiently in a stressful and hectic environment
Equipped with the latest knowledge of the current Cyber Security trends and hacker methodologies.
An eye for attention to detail and exceptional problem-solving skills.
The cyber security engineer salary may vary from organization to organization but in general, it can be upto $73,454 annually.
What Is Cyber Security?
Cybersecurity is the practice of securing computer networks and systems from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. It includes protecting the computer networks and systems themselves as well as the information and data stored on them.
Cybersecurity includes the prevention of attacks, the detection and response to attacks, and the restoration of service.
What Does Cyber Security Do?
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting electronic information and systems from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure. Cybersecurity includes protecting computer networks and systems from attack, managing cyber risks, and responding to cyber incidents.
Cybersecurity threats can come from a variety of sources,
including malicious individuals, cybercriminals, nation-states, and malicious software. Cybersecurity threats can also emanate from unintentional events, such as data breaches or software vulnerabilities.
Cybersecurity threats can originate from anywhere on a network, from endpoints (computers and devices that are connected to the network) to the network infrastructure itself. Threats can also come from the internet, email, social media, and other sources.
How To Get Into Cyber Security Field?
If you ever wonder how to get into the cyber security field then don’t worry, continue reading the following to learn effectively about becoming a cybersecurity engineer. Understanding the requirements for cybersecurity is necessary if you want to get into cybersecurity.
In general, Cyber Security requirements are:
- Having computer science or a related topic as a bachelor’s degree, understanding firewalls and the different types of endpoint security.
- Multiple language knowledge including C++, Java, Node, Python, Ruby, Go, or Power Shell will put you a step ahead and will greatly be in your favor for entry-level cyber security jobs.
- Having a focused mind even when the situation is stressful and you have to act quickly (which is regular in the cyber security field).
- Having a keen eye for attention to detail and top-notch problem-solving skills.
- Have a good knowledge of the latest cyber security trends and the possible latest hacking methods.
Keep in mind that different organizations may have different prerequisites. Sometimes, students ask if is cyber security a hard-to-understand topic.
Well, if you are a person who is blank about any sort of networking security knowledge and even basics then yes, it can be a hard topic to understand but it is also commonly hard for new learners as well. But don’t worry, if this interests you, you will surely have a grip o it after a while.
How To Get Into Cyber Security With No Experience?
A number of people with problem-solving attitudes and learning new things quickly nature want to pursue a well-earned and meaningful career. The field of cyber security however they believe is a field where a plethora of degrees and certs will require to pursue.
The fact is, this is partially true. This field has relatively fewer experts and even a low number of people for entry-level cyber security jobs. Don’t underestimate yourself if you don’t have a conventional degree program to get into the cyber security field.
Following are the for you if you want to know how to get into cyber security without a degree.
Do a Thorough Research
To become a successful cyber security engineer, you will need a love for learning and curiosity. So what you need is to perform thorough research. Dig deeper and read as many articles as you can for better learning regarding:
- cybersecurity positions you want to get hired for
- The targeted companies where you may work one day
IT Training Courses And Certifications For People With No Experience
When evaluating applicants, consider a certification-based training course. Any student embarking on a new job will benefit greatly from taking this cybersecurity training program. The CompTIA CySA+ Training Course and the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Training Course are two other popular certifications.
For the entry level cyber security jobs, you can also include the previous IT-level job that has helped you to land into this field. Having more than 3 years of experience will surely be helpful in landing the job.
The following foundational certifications would be great additions to your resume:
- Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) Training Course in Security
- CompTIA Linux+ Training Course
- Python Fundamentals Training Course
Social Engagement
Assuming that you are looking for how to get into cyber security without a degree this means that you are already familiar with the job outlook in this field. Though it may seem hard at the start to kand a job without a degree with the above-mentioned certification and training programs and having good social skills, you can land an entry level cyber security job.
Staying in touch with existing cyber security experts like spin will help you to have a better idea regarding the latest cyber security trend and organizational requirements. One good contact can help you to earn your first cyber security engineer job.
Bottom Line
As cyber security is becoming a major concern among organizations and leaders around, there is a boom in this field. Some knowledge, training certs, and having a passion for learning new will surely help you in long run to land a job as a cyber security expert.
