This work can cover computer networks, cloud servers, mobile devices, and payment software. Cybersecurity specialists serve as the first line of defense against attempts to steal sensitive or private information. As a security engineer, you’ll use your knowledge of threats and vulnerabilities to build and implement defense systems against a range of security concerns.

• The career specialisms go into far greater depth, with numerous roles under each, and promise to make it much easier for employers to advertise and candidates to search for jobs.
• Take a look at some of the most popular cybersecurity certifications companies are hiring for.
• Keep in mind that a pentester’s job isn’t 100% centered around the Hollywood-like thrill of hacking into a seemingly impenetrable infrastructure.
• Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for CyberDegrees.org as a side project.
• Cyber Security Specialists are responsible for providing security for an organization’s overall IT systems.
• There are a number of network-oriented professional cybersecurity organizations and groups that are specifically designed to alert members about job openings and professional development opportunities.

Your program should recognize that life sometimes gets in the way of educational pursuits and, accordingly, should allow generous time to complete a degree. Ideally a university will offer up to 10 how to become a security specialist years to complete the degree requirements. Security engineering and architecture could be a good fit if you enjoy tinkering with technology and like to take a big picture approach to cybersecurity.

Considering a new exciting career as an Cybersecurity Specialist?

Cybersecurity analysts protect computer networks from cyberattacks and unauthorized access. They do this by trying to anticipate and defend against cyber threats, and responding to security breaches when they do happen. Cybersecurity specialists work on IT teams that are dedicated to protecting the integrity of the business’s network and data. Traditionally, network operations and IT technology supplemented the core business.

The pay rate can depend on the industry—for example, companies such as Target pay as much as $155,892 per year for an IT security specialist, while Boeing offers an annual salary of $119,450. They are responsible for making sure that networks and computer systems are up-to-date and not vulnerable to software bugs. Read this guide to learn about the professional certifications that can help security specialists secure higher paying jobs and promotions. Specific fallout from security breaches can vary depending on the type of work an organization does.

CompTIA Certifications

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a more advanced certification designed for cybersecurity professionals with at least five years of work experience. One of the primary responsibilities of a cybersecurity specialist is to keep tabs on the systems employed by their organization and report any issues to management. https://remotemode.net/ They are also responsible for anticipating future threats and advising on how to deal with them. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 32 percent increase in job outlook for cybersecurity roles such as information security analysts. Network security professionals work within a narrower scope than cybersecurity workers.

• The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a more advanced certification designed for cybersecurity professionals with at least five years of work experience.
• They make sure that the systems perform the way they are supposed to, and that they are safe from attack.
• They collaborate across sectors to inform best practices, research, and funding opportunities for ethical data sharing.
• Cybersecurity operations jobs are among the fastest-growing roles in IT, as organizations set up security operations centers (SOCs) and establish IT security teams to monitor and respond to global security incidents.

All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network. Real-world examples and applications are covered in most courses, culminating in the capstone where you explore an area of cybersecurity that interests you most. Matt Whittle is a freelance writer and editor who holds a BA in English from Penn State University. Before shifting to education-related content, he worked in the wine industry, editing tasting notes and reviews.