As the importance and complexity of technology continues to expand within organizations, so does the threat landscape. Consequently, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals who protect digital systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, attacks, and damage is at an all-time high.

If you enjoy the challenge of combating digital threats and want to learn how to safeguard our interconnected digital world, keep reading to learn more about how to get into cybersecurity as a career. This profession is always changing and evolving. We’ll help you understand its importance and decide if it’s the right career for you.

Cybersecurity is a profession that contributes to society by safeguarding sensitive data, critical infrastructure, and individuals from cyber threats.

What is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from theft, damage, or unauthorized access. It covers a wide range of activities and technologies designed to ensure the protection of digital assets. Some of these elements include:

Operational Security

This is primarily focused on safeguarding the day-to-day operations of an organization, including the protection of data assets. It involves access control, data handling, risk management, incident response, and security policy development. It also ensures that employees have appropriate access to data, that data is stored and transmitted securely, and that there are protocols in place to manage and respond to security threats.

Application Security

Application security is crucial in safeguarding applications and devices against potential threats. By implementing measures that prevent applications from granting unauthorized access to sensitive data, you can prevent most security incidents. This can be achieved using various access controls, encryption methods, and authentication types. Prioritizing security during the design process is also crucial to ensuring that an application can work in a secure manner.

Information Security Management

This is an effective way to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of your data.  It involves protecting sensitive information such as personal data, financial information, and intellectual property, as well as overseeing the implementation of security protocols. Information security management involves monitoring security threats, conducting regular security audits to identify vulnerabilities, and ensuring that security protocols are up to date.

Disaster Recovery Planning

This is a structured approach that allows companies to resume operations quickly when a security incident occurs, such as a malware outbreak. It includes strategies for preventing security incidents, minimizing the negative effects of an incident, and providing for fast recovery following an incident. Implementing disaster recovery planning helps minimize downtime, reduce financial and public image damage, and comply with regulations.

Network Security

Network security uses a multi-layered approach to protect the systems on your network from unauthorized access, attacks, and malware. It includes a range of technologies, policies, and procedures designed to secure computer networks and data from potential threats. Some common network security technologies include next generation firewalls, anti-virus/malware/spam software, bot detection, intrusion prevention systems, security information and event management (SIEM) appliances, and virtual private networks (VPNs).

End-user Security

This focuses on providing security for the users of devices on the network. It is often an individual (the end-user) who unknowingly uploads malicious software to their desktop, laptop, or mobile device. End-user security leverages a wide range of technologies that make it difficult for malicious software to access user information on a device, as well as detect when malicious software has compromised device data.

Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from theft, damage, or unauthorized access.

Why is Cybersecurity Important?

With the increasing use of technology in our daily lives, the number of cyber threats is also on the rise. Malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks are just a few examples of these threats that can wreak havoc on our devices and private information. To combat these threats, it’s important to have strong cybersecurity measures in place. These measures include using strong passwords, updating devices, implementing firewalls and antivirus software, and regularly backing up data.

A data breach can also severely damage an organization’s reputation, resulting in financial and customer trust losses. Cybersecurity measures such as encryption, access control, and data backup are essential in protecting customer data and upholding an organization’s reputation. Many industries and jurisdictions already have cybersecurity-focused regulatory requirements that are designed to protect customer data. It is necessary for companies to stay informed about these requirements and implement rigorous cybersecurity measures to comply with them. Failure to comply often results in fines and other legal consequences.

Although data breaches might be what you commonly think of when you hear about cyber threats, cybersecurity is not limited to protecting sensitive information. It is equally important in securing crucial infrastructure like power grids, water supply systems, and transportation networks. Cyber attacks on these systems can cause significant disruptions, as well as damage to public safety and national security.

Cybersecurity is crucial for protecting data, privacy, financial assets, national security, and the uninterrupted operation of organizations.

Roles of a Cybersecurity Professional

The field of cybersecurity is comprised of many different roles and specializations, each with its own set of unique responsibilities and skill requirements. Based on your interests, skills, and career goals, you can choose a specialization that best suits you. Whether you are interested in penetration testing, threat intelligence, security architecture, or incident response, there is a role for you in cybersecurity.

Here are some examples of potential careers in cybersecurity:

• Information Security Analyst – monitors and protects an organization’s computer systems, investigates threats, and implements security measures to safeguard data
• Security Consultant – offers expert advice and solutions to improve an organization’s cybersecurity strategy and compliance with regulations
• Security Engineer – designs and implements security solutions, such as firewalls and encryption, across an organization’s IT infrastructure
• Network Security Administrator – implements technologies that keep an organization’s computer network secure, monitors networks for malicious activity, and responds to potential security threats
• Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker) – simulates cyberattacks to discover vulnerabilities and recommends improvements to improve security
• Security Architect – designs an organization’s security strategy, oversees the implementation of security measures, and conducts security audits
• Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst – monitors systems and network traffic in real-time, identifies and responds to cyber threats, and collaborates with other IT professionals on security improvements and audits
• CISO (Chief Information Security Officer) – develops and implements security policies and procedures, manages security personnel, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
• Incident Responder – manages security incidents, including data breaches and cyberattacks as they occur to mitigate damage and protect systems and data
• Forensic Analyst – investigates and analyzes security incidents to determine root cause and the data accessed, collects digital evidence for legal purposes in collaboration with law enforcement

Is Cybersecurity a Good Career?

A career in cybersecurity not only offers job security and a competitive salary, but also provides opportunities for growth. As the cybersecurity skills gap continues to widen, training and development opportunities will also be abundant for those willing to invest in their education. The rise of artificial intelligence, ransomware, and supply chain attacks presents many new challenges as well as opportunities. Cybersecurity professionals will need to stay on top of new technologies, as well as adapt quickly to evolving threats. Jason Eckert, Dean of Technology at triOS College, sums it up by stating, “As the technology threat landscape continues to grow, the need for security knowledge and specialized cybersecurity job roles will only become more paramount within organizations.”

Cybersecurity is a versatile and rewarding career choice with high job security, competitive salaries, and worldwide relevance. The dynamic nature of the field offers diverse roles, continuous innovation, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. It’s a gratifying career path with a large job market that provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact, and the chance to work on the frontlines of the digital age.

“Every IT professional today, regardless of job role, must understand how to secure the technologies they work with. And as the technology threat landscape continues to grow, the need for security knowledge and specialized cybersecurity job roles will only become more paramount within organizations.” – Jason W. Eckert, Dean of Technology at triOS College

The field of cybersecurity is dynamic and requires ongoing learning and adaptability.

How to Get into Cybersecurity

Obtain foundational information technology (IT) skills

Before you embark on a cybersecurity career, you must first develop a strong understanding of computer systems, networks, and operating systems.

Become certified

Obtaining relevant certifications is highly regarded in the cybersecurity field. Some widely recognized certifications include CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), CompTIA Pentest+, CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

Get hands-on experience

Practical experience is invaluable in cybersecurity. Gain hands-on experience through internships, entry-level IT positions, or volunteering for cybersecurity projects.

Specialize

Identify the specific area of cybersecurity that interests you the most, such as network security, penetration testing, or security analysis. Specialization will help you focus your learning.

Learn continuously

Stay updated with the latest cybersecurity threats, technologies, and best practices. Join online forums, attend webinars, and stay updated with cybersecurity-focused blogs and podcasts.

Pursue education

There are many options for those who want to become cybersecurity professional. You can earn a degree or diploma in information technology or cybersecurity to obtain the prerequisites needed to enter the industry, as well as take specialized courses for individual cybersecurity topics that pique your interest. For a more hands-on approach to learning information technology and cybersecurity, consider enrolling in diploma programs at career training organizations such as triOS College.

Getting into cybersecurity is an exciting and rewarding career choice. Understanding what cybersecurity is, recognizing its importance, and knowing the potential benefits of a career in this field can help you make an informed decision. With the right training and dedication, you can embark on a path that will allow you to play a crucial role in protecting the digital landscape. If you enjoy the challenge of combating digital threats and want to learn how to safeguard our interconnected digital world, learn more about this field through triOS College’s Information Technology Professional (Infrastructure, Cloud & Cybersecurity) and Information Technology Administrator (Cybersecurity) programs

.