Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for securing computer networks and information systems. Their main duty is to develop and implement strategies to help protect against security threats such as malware, phishing attacks, password attacks, SQL injection attacks, cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, etc.
More companies are moving their operations online and shifting to cloud storage. And they often need security experts to help protect their business data. The demand for cybersecurity talent keeps increasing but there’s a huge skills shortage in the field. In this article, we’ll discuss how you can pursue a career in cybersecurity, and how a cybersecurity degree online or on campus compares to various cybersecurity certifications that are available.
The types of cybersecurity fields
Cybersecurity is concerned with the protection of networks, devices and data from malicious attacks by hackers and cybercriminals. Here are 7 common types of cybersecurity fields.
1. Networking and System Administration
Network and systems administration involves the planning, installation and maintenance of an organization’s computer systems. The job duties include maintaining IT operations and network security protocols, troubleshooting issues with network segments and identifying vulnerabilities in computer network systems.
2. Cloud Security
Cloud security is the practice of securing data across cloud-based platforms, applications and infrastructure. The responsibilities often include the support and maintenance of cloud security tools and resources as well as collaboration with the information or network security team. These experts need to have some experience with one or more cloud service providers.
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Machine learning and deep learning techniques can help to build smart cybersecurity systems. The application of AI in cybersecurity helps to enhance network and cloud security, detect advanced malware, and generally increase an organization’s data privacy. AI cybersecurity systems can recognize a myriad of security threats and determine how significant they are.
4. Blockchain Security
More companies are leveraging blockchain technology to ensure secure transactions. Blockchain security is a comprehensive risk management system for a blockchain network or solution. Experts often employ cybersecurity frameworks, secure coding practices and security testing methodologies to prevent online fraud and all forms of cyber attacks.
5. Digital Forensics
Computer forensics is solely concerned with the analysis and investigation of computing devices in an attempt to retrieve, analyze and preserve evidence for use in a law court. Digital forensics plays a huge role in identifying and mitigating the risk of network vulnerabilities as well as running counterintelligence against hackers and cybercriminals
6. Internet of Things (IoT) security
According to Statista, more than 29 billion IoT devices will be connected in 2030. And since most IoT devices were not built with security in mind, there’s a huge potential for vulnerabilities in these systems. Internet of Things (IoT) security ensures that devices and networks connected over the internet are protected from threats, breaches and unauthorized access.
7. Network Security
Network security is the process of securing computer networks and sensitive data from breaches, intrusions and other threats. It helps to protect client data and information as well as provide secure access to shared data. Network security protections include firewalls, network segmentation, remote access VPN, intrusion prevention systems, data loss prevention, etc.
The type of educational qualifications available in cybersecurity
Cybersecurity specialists can have associate’s, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in majors like computer science, cybersecurity or information technology. With a good technical background, a cybersecurity certificate can help you break into the information technology field. After getting vital training and education in cybersecurity, you should sit for a certification exam to verify your knowledge and expertise.
Is a degree in cybersecurity required?
Anyone can become a cybersecurity specialist without having a degree in cybersecurity. Some employers will accept graduates with related and non-related degrees. Some companies also employ college dropouts and those who haven’t attended any college or university.
The main thing is to acquire relevant skills and knowledge in cybersecurity, gain practical or hands-on experience and earn one or two IT security certifications. However, you need a master’s degree and some advanced training to move into leadership positions in the field.
The benefits of a cybersecurity certificate compared to a degree.
A cybersecurity certificate is a good alternative for anyone who didn’t choose cybersecurity as their college major. It can help you learn and understand important areas in cybersecurity such as ethical hacking, network and security, virtualization, incident response and more.
A cybersecurity certificate can be a standalone qualification or be completed alongside or after a degree to enhance skills. An online certificate in cybersecurity is cheaper than a degree, can be completed in as few as six courses (18 hours) and is also recognized by employers.
The types of cybersecurity jobs one can get with a cybersecurity degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for cybersecurity professionals such as information security analysts is projected to grow by 35 percent from 2021 to 2031. This means there are lots of job opportunities for anyone who pursues a career in cybersecurity.
Organizations often hire a team of IT security professionals to maintain and protect their data and systems. Some job titles in the field include cybersecurity engineer, cybersecurity analyst, systems engineer, network engineer/architect, penetration tester, digital forensic expert, etc.
What other knowledge, skills and experience can help you gain entry to a cybersecurity career?
Most cybersecurity roles require applicants to have a working knowledge of some programming languages (C, C++, PHP, Python, SQL, etc), the MITRE ATT&CK framework and understand security across various platforms (computer systems, operating systems, mobile devices, cloud networks, etc).
Some soft skills required for cybersecurity jobs include problem-solving skills, communication skills, attention to detail, and the willingness to improve your skills and knowledge. Internships are a great option to help you learn from senior security experts and gain practical experience.
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