The cybersecurity industry is currently booming, with more companies and government agencies falling prey to cyber threats and hacking. The U.S Bureau of Labor Reports that the field is projected to grow by 13% due to the growing demand for trained cybersecurity experts. Even then, the Cybersecurity sector is highly varied, with a plethora of specialties to choose from. You can also work anywhere globally, in various sectors, and provides the opportunity to make real differences.
However, most people don’t know where to begin a career in Cybersecurity field. If you are interested in cybersecurity, as a beginner or just for career development, follow the steps below.
3 Easy Steps – How to Start Career in Cybersecurity (For Beginners)
Get Some Education
Cybersecurity is quite similar to healthcare and engineering courses in many ways. Therefore, getting a degree in Cybersecurity is a crucial starter step towards a career in this demanding field.
If you already have a degree and looking for career development, you can explore other advancing options.
Most people prefer starting with an undergraduate degree in information systems, information technology, or computer science.
As mentioned, Cybersecurity has various specialties. You can opt to specialize in security awareness, endpoint security, penetration testing, or mobile device forensics.
Before settling on one of these specialties, research deeply what each specialty entails by checking out the framework listing for Cybersecurity jobs and opportunities.
However, you shouldn’t be in a hurry picking an option. Your interests will guide you over time to a suitable option. Some areas of cybersecurity you can develop an interest in include;
- Coding – exploring the basics of coding can help you understand how to create web pages, applications, and more. If you choose this route, begin by learning basic coding languages such as HTML, Python, JavaScript, and Java.
- Systems – you can also learn the fundamentals of system administration. Common systems are Windows and Linux. If you have sufficient resources, you can start with Linux. Learning how to administer Linux systems using the command line interface is a vital skill that can help regardless of the path you chose.
- Applications – another career path is configuring, running, and maintaining common applications or computer programs, such as database, DNS servers, and webservers.
- Networking – networking involves learning how computers and devices communicate. You can advance this invaluable skill to lucrative positions.
Regardless of the path you choose, education is of utmost importance. Unfilled cybersecurity positions are increasing as cybercriminals also become sophisticated with their attacks.
Getting proper education and experience is important to handle such attacks.
Get Certified
To get a job in cybersecurity, you should consider finding a certification in your specialty. Since you already have some IT background from your degree, you can consider the CompTIA Security certification.
The certification can fill knowledge gaps and integrate your experience with the modern cybersecurity landscape.
If you intend to perfect in offensive cybersecurity, you can specialize with the Certified Ethical Hacker certification. With this training, you can perfectly handle penetration testing and white hat hacking.
Defensive cybersecurity professionals should check out the Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator certification while management enthusiasts can consider the Certified Information Systems Security Professional training.
To get certified, you should begin by evaluating your cybersecurity skills. Assessing your level of skills helps in determining if the certification option suits your level.
You should then enroll in a course and take an exam. After selecting your certification, enroll, and study for the exam.
Passing the exam is the key to being certified. Other in-demand cybersecurity certifications include the Global Information Assurance Certification and Certified Information Systems Auditor.
Network
Networking is an essential step not only for cybersecurity professionals but also for other industries. Fortunately, you can leverage several networking avenues for opportunities. Among them include;
- Join a local cybersecurity organization. Most states have cybersecurity associations, which are an excellent place to learn and network with industry experts.
- Volunteer with an established cybersecurity company. Volunteering with an experienced cybersecurity organization is great for networking and expanding your resume.
- Continue schooling. Apart from earning a cybersecurity degree, enrolling in school presents an opportunity to network and connect with professors, employers, and other industry peers. Besides, most cybersecurity schools have career centers with close ties with potential employers.
- Attend cybersecurity conferences graced by industry leaders.
Networking opportunities are the best way to learn from others in the industry. Your network can link you with a good cybersecurity job opportunity.
Similarly, you should continuously apply for available opportunities through job boards such as Indeed.
Final Thoughts
Cybersecurity is, without doubt, a fast-growing and lucrative field. As such, there is no better time to begin a career in this industry.
If a job in cybersecurity excites you, check out Cybersec Bootcamps and courses. Don’t forget to search for financial aid and discounts before you pay. Scholarships are available for everyone, from college students to veterans.