A degree in computer science provides a foundation in information technology, including an understanding of the TCP/IP protocols that are at the core of all networks. Additional educational certifications can help professionals find a job in cybersecurity. The CCNA Cyber Ops certification program offers a hands-on, relevant, and ready-to-use curriculum that closely aligns with the specific tasks expected of cybersecurity professionals. However, the skills required for a cybersecurity job can vary from employer to employer. In recent years, many high-profile data breach cases have made headlines.
As with many other roles in the broad and growing field of cybersecurity, the duties of a cybersecurity specialist can vary widely depending on the company or organization and their specific needs. With the increasing policies and procedures shift of businesses to the Internet and the cloud, the demand for cybersecurity is currently at its highest. With this milestone comes a high demand for cybersecurity experts who can protect digital data.
The best cybersecurity specialists are those who can think like a hacker and use that knowledge to identify potential vulnerabilities; if this sounds appealing to you, you might like this major. In our increasingly technology-dependent society, cyber threats are a major concern. Hackers continue to find new ways to penetrate databases and secure computer systems, and advanced cybersecurity measures must be taken to protect sensitive data.
Those who work in cybersecurity rarely receive attention for their hard work, even when that work is of national importance. Cybersecurity professionals can protect top-secret government information to prevent online attacks that could cripple the nation’s electronic systems and generally compromise our national security. These attacks are becoming more frequent and far-reaching as the Internet of Things continues to grow. An information security analyst’s job is to identify security risks before hackers do. They then develop and implement new preventative security controls to defend against cyberattacks. As hackers’ skills become more sophisticated, more cybersecurity specialists are needed to develop and implement advanced security solutions.
The cybersecurity specialist is responsible for supporting security systems embedded in software, hardware, and components. They must develop unique strategies for software systems, networks, data centers, and hardware. Professionals must understand software and hardware quality control for vulnerabilities and security risks.
Because of this shortage, many government cybersecurity jobs are filled by contract workers. While contract workers are a good solution to a major problem, many agencies would prefer to use their resources to fill these positions with full-time candidates. With full-time employees, more targeted training, employee development opportunities, and enhanced cybersecurity capabilities are possible. But unfortunately, there are not enough qualified candidates with the right computer skills to fill these administrative vacancies.
VPNs create a secure network where all data sent over a Wi-Fi connection is encrypted. As cyberattacks become more extensive and persistent, and tactics continue to change, the government and private sector are sounding the alarm. In response, demand for cybersecurity professionals has soared in almost every sector. Cybersecurity specialist is an exciting and diverse position in a dynamic and rapidly growing field.
A whopping 59% of all cybersecurity jobs require at least one certification, while the IT industry average is only 20% for posted IT jobs. This opens the door for entry-level professionals to develop solid skills and gain verifiable credentials at a faster pace. Credentials such as the entry-level Security+ or the more advanced CISSP can provide the necessary evidence to verify skills. Cybersecurity is a technical degree program with several degree options depending on your long-term goals and willingness to spend time in school.