Wondering what the scope of cyber security in IT is? With the changing scenario, cyber security has quickly entered the mainstream industries. There was a time when only national government agencies and defence offices employed cyber security experts. But now, every major company/organization utilizes cyber security to protect their valuable information. There is always a danger of cyber leaks lurking. Thus, there is a growing demand for cyber security experts in this field.
It is said that global cybercrime would cost damages worth $6 trillion annually by 2022. Hence, there is a huge demand for cyber security professionals. However, there is a severe shortage in the cyber security job market. In fact, according to a report, the cyber security workforce will range from 1.8 million positions by 2022.
On the positive side, aspiring and existing professionals in this field have bright career prospects! Here is all you need to know about a career in cyber security.
Education
You can go for a full-time degree course if you have decided to start your career in this direction. A cyber security degree will equip you with in-depth knowledge of critical subjects like database applications, data recovery, systems administration as well as applied topics like digital forensics and criminal psychology necessary for IT security. As cyber breaches become the norm, newer courses are being launched for updated knowledge in this vast field. Such degrees qualify you for job positions like cryptographist, security analyst, engineer or architect and many other highly paid designations.
Another way to enter the cyber security world is to enrol for cyber security certification. This is especially a good option for those who have already been working with the IT industry and want to upscale their career by specializing as a cyber expert. This can also be done online along with hands on experience in a particular cyber security sector. Cyber security certification adds credentials to your resume as well as fills the knowledge lacunae that you have been experiencing in this field.
Some companies require master’s level degrees for advanced level experts. Students can opt for it after completing Bachelor degree and can seek for company assistance for higher education too. You can choose the most appropriate course that suits your career goals completely.
Also Read: 6 Skills You Need to Succeed in Cyber Security
Wide Range of Career Choices in Cyber Security
Be it banks, hospitals, corporate or government agencies, everyone is facing new cyber threats and there is a constant need to protect online data leaks as well as to be vigilant for potential threats. Thus cyber security professionals can choose to work for various roles. You can be the Chief Cyber Security Officer (CCSO) whose job is to take care of the company’s IT security branch. You can also be selected as a Forensic Computer Analyst who reviews computer info to find evidence for a security breach. Like a detective, you will be needed to identify vulnerabilities, search hard drives and recover destroyed data being sensitive to security processes. Cyber security certification may also help you to become an Information Security Analyst. They work with data encryption and handling cyber attacks. Other recognized job positions like Security Architect and It Security Engineer are also well-paid designations for cyber security experts. Then, there are ethical or white hat hackers who are hired by companies and government bodies to find the vulnerability and weaknesses in the system legally with an aim to protect information.
Core Skills for Career in Cyber Security
A degree or certification in cyber security will equip you with the necessary technical skills which form the core of expertise. These skills also include knowledge about various programming languages, cloud security, security application development, etc. However, soft skills are equally crucial. Strong communication skills, as well as team work, are necessary for this profession. Natural to the kind of job that it is, you need to be inculcating qualities of integrity and discretion as you are always expected to remain sensitive to the organization’s security in a trustworthy manner. Besides, organizational and problem-solving skills helps in handling the huge mass of complex data involved.
Learning is Always Required
To be successful in cyber security, you can never rest on your existing skills and knowledge. New threats crop up every day and you need to stay updated. Certifications are constantly needed whether you are an entry level candidate or working with significant experience in the field. Combining them with core strength skills makes you the best in the lot. It is a field which has a high demand and you can establish your career very well with the right professional certifications and ever-growing opportunities.
The world is Your Limit
The demand for cyber security professionals is across the global organizations. The principles of cyber security remain the same, barring the security protocols that differ from one country to another. Hence, you can apply for jobs anywhere as long as you have the necessary qualifications and expertise.
There is a huge career opportunity in cyber security. All you need is to get started!
More Information:
Introduction to Cyber Security
Fundamentals of Cyber Security