How to Become a Security Specialist I CyberDegrees org

To become a cybersecurity specialist, you should complete a formal education—like a degree or a cybersecurity bootcamp—in information security or a related subject. The following how to become a security specialist section explores the requirements for becoming a cybersecurity analyst. Security specialists handle sensitive information, so most employers require experience and expertise.

• Once you’re a college graduate and working in your chosen field, you’ll be more than ready to earn certifications if you haven’t done so already.
• To become a cybersecurity specialist, you should complete a formal education—like a degree or a cybersecurity bootcamp—in information security or a related subject.
• And, as you begin to write cover letters and complete your resume, have a solid plan on advancing your education.
• In addition to connecting with your coworkers, consider joining a professional organization.
• Security specialists use the skills developed in their degree programs when they implement and modify software, and conduct deep computer system analysis.
• In addition to creating structures to protect interconnected devices, professionals in this sector safeguard sensitive assets for applications and data.

The quoted salary figure represents the average salary from all job postings by this employer. Prior to graduation, you’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and proficiencies in capstone courses, enabling you to become a subject matter expert in your specific focus area. Read on to learn more about how to become an IT specialist, the career outlook for the information technology sector and the core competencies needed to excel in this profession. With training and experience, candidates can also pursue other security specialties, such as computer forensics, penetration testing, and governance, risk, and compliance. The BLS is committed to providing data promptly and according to established schedules. Automated retrieval programs (commonly called “robots” or “bots”) can cause delays and interfere with other customers’ timely access to information.

Consider Certifications

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected the computer and information technology field to increase by 15% between 2021 and 2031. The BLS also reported the IT sector should result in an additional 682,800 new employment opportunities by 2031. Information security shares some overlap with cybersecurity—in fact, cybersecurity is a subset of information security. However, cybersecurity focuses exclusively on protecting digital assets, while information security covers digital and physical information across all mediums.

• Since most businesses store financial, statistical, and customer data online, cybersecurity specialists — also called security specialists — can work in many industries.
• Security specialists will also use a range of tools to assess the level of security in an organization’s computer and network systems.
• CSIA offers an environment for an exchange of ideas between national security thought leaders.
• Many cybersecurity experts start out as network engineers, help desk technicians, or systems administrators.
• Digitally, infrastructure security refers to creating and maintaining protected systems from breaches.

The security specialist role best suits people who enjoy new challenges and want to protect data. If you are part of an existing IT team, make sure you’re aware of the internal recruitment process and any openings for security specialist roles. Security specialists will also use a range of tools to assess the level of security in an organization’s computer and network systems. As mentioned in the list of daily responsibilities, you might be expected to carry out penetration testing. Software that can assist you in this task includes Kali Linux, nmap, Metasploit, Wireshark, and John the Ripper.

Explore Technology Topics

Good communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills are also important for a cybersecurity specialist. Cybersecurity specialists need to be comfortable in a world that is constantly moving and shifting. According to Payscale, major companies paying security specialists well above the national average include the Boeing Company, the Walt Disney Company, and American Express Co. Aspiring cybersecurity specialists may also find ample opportunities in companies like CACI International Inc, American Electric Power, and IBM. The more a security specialist can guard against attacks, the more a business is able to function at full technological throttle. They play a crucial role in protecting organizations’ valuable data and ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of information.

Finally, holding the position of security specialist might require helping co-workers adopt new technologies and security software as it develops. But most people are reluctant to change, especially if it requires learning a new operating procedure or work-flow. So the ability to articulate the reason for the change and the ability to relate to co-workers’ needs and objections is also important. These are just a few examples of the dozens of cybersecurity certifications available. When looking at job opportunities in the cybersecurity industry, it’s a good idea to keep notes about what kinds of certifications employers are looking for.