A computer or a network connection to the internet is vulnerable and can be attacked by cybercriminals at any time without effective security procedures and policies. Owing to this, there is an increased demand for cybersecurity professionals across the world, and hence, it stands as a field with excellent career opportunities.
As per the US News and World Report, the Security Analyst has always been among the top five technology jobs, taking into account the number of jobs available and the salaries. Hence, planning to opt for a career in cybersecurity can prove to be a smart move.
But to become a professional in cybersecurity, there are specific steps that need to be followed to possess the right skills and to avoid being confused along the path. Let us see what all is required to become an expert in cybersecurity.
The Basic Requirement
To start a career in cybersecurity, it is imperative to learn the basics of cyber and network security. This includes knowledge of systems, routing, switching, LAN, WAN, etc.
One must also know at least one computer language. This is because a cybersecurity professional would often require coding if the tools get blocked by antivirus; and to perform reverse engineering, malware analysis, and automation.
It is also essential to be clear about the domain or project that a candidate wishes to handle. Understanding this is extremely important because this helps to decide the area of interest, strengths, and weaknesses; and hence enables the candidate to excel in the chosen field.
Job Requirements
Cybersecurity demands numerous job responsibilities, such as:
Ensuring safety during the development stages of systems
Finding out vulnerabilities in both hardware and software
Creating firewalls within a network infrastructure
Keeping a check on attacks or intrusions
Identifying perpetrators or attackers
Most in-demand Certifications
A cybersecurity professional is most of the times preferred to possess certification. Cyber Certifications validate expertise in and knowledge of all the tools and technologies required in securing networks.
Looking at all the certifications, a list of shortlisted or the most popular certifications has been shared here under:
CISSP — A accreditation in Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) from (ISC)2 demonstrates your expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a cybersecurity program.
CCNP Security — A certification in CCNP Security validates your skills in securing routers, switches, networking devices and appliances; and managing and troubleshooting firewalls, VPNs, and IDS/IPS solutions for the networking environments.
CEH — A Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) gains expertise in finding out the vulnerabilities and weaknesses in target systems and often uses the same techniques and practices used by a hacker, but in a lawful manner.
Though a list has been shared, it is strongly recommended to go through the details of other certifications as well, as you may be needing accreditation in some different domain as per your current job responsibility.
Conclusion
There are a lot of career opportunities in cybersecurity, but excellent skills and the right attitude can only help you get through the exams and excel in your career. Employers demand professionals with explicit knowledge of tools and techniques so they may test you in various areas during the interview rounds. Hence, all you need is to be highly proficient in what you choose.
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