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But regardless of the range, a cyber security engineer can earn some serious pay. Cybersecurity Engineering profession involves the creation and management of hardware, software, and security policies that protect computers, networks, and information. The purpose of cyber engineers is to understand cyberspace by combining electrical engineering and computer science.
With data breaches becoming a pressing problem for a growing number of businesses across a wide range of industries, the demand for highly skilled cyber security professionals is on the rise. The Cyber Security Specialist must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, telecommunications, computer engineering, or any related field.
Associate of Arts in Information Technology
You may be protecting computer networks of retail chains, government agencies such as the Social Security Administration, and private companies such as Equifax, which was hacked in 2019. As more small and medium-sized businesses adopt cloud services, they risk cyber assault. Additionally, banks, financial institutions, and healthcare institutions will need to increase their immunity against cybercriminals. As such, they’ll employ more security analysts to create innovative methods to stop cybercrime in its tracks. The BLS estimates that the employment rate for information security analysts would grow by a whopping 33 percent from 2020 to 2030.
This is because hackers can cut off utility supplies, causing the country to lose vast sums of money. Applying for a CISA certificate requires five how to become a security specialist years of experience in IS or IT audit, assurance, security, or control. In contrast, a four-year degree takes the place of two years of experience.
Step 4. Develop Hard and Soft Skills
According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency , ransomware attacks occur about every 11 seconds in 2021, up from every 39 seconds in 2019. Computer security specialists work in pleasant, well-maintained offices and they usually work a forty-hour week or more. They may work unpredictable hours and be on constant call to handle emergencies. Because of the high level of responsibility, the job can be very stressful. Computer security specialists face the same risks as other computer workers, including eyestrain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and backache. And here we are in 2022, and not only has the Forbes prediction come true, but the situation is also getting worse.
- You may have heard so many times that the career you are entering is in extreme demand—the unfilled job openings number not in the thousands, but in the millions.
- Consider some of the following professional organizations for cybersecurity workers.
- Whether or not you hold a degree in cybersecurity or a similar field, having one or several certifications under your belt is a huge bonus.
- A simple way of thinking about a cybersecurity specialist is as someone who keeps tabs on a company’s or organization’s security while also helping other employees and teammates stay current on best practices.
- Working a full-time job for no money isn’t ideal, but if you use your internship well, it will only be a matter of time before you are hired as a regular employee.
- With the right level of experience and skills, they can advance to director and analyst positions.
Regardless of the course format, it is highly recommended that students have access to a reliable computer with broadband internet. All courses use online resources and require students to access course information through mySandburg. Career and technical programs/courses are offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or status in any group protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Spend time with one of our Admissions Advisors who can help you find the program that works for your goals and your life. You’ll also learn about ECPI and see our commitment to providing the people, the environment, and the equipment needed to keep our students in step with today’s workplace.
Where Can A Cybersecurity Specialist Work?
Below are some of the leading cybersecurity specialist certifications available. Although certification is not needed for all entry-level cybersecurity roles, having one can boost your resume and demonstrate competencies to potential employers. Cybersecurity specialists who expand their skill set and are up-to-date with the latest frameworks and regulations are typically more valuable in any organization. Some cybersecurity threats are a result of natural disasters or accidents.
What does a Cyber Security Specialist do?
Cyber Security Specialists ensure that a company’s systems are safe from attack. They create and implement security audits across computer hardware, software programs or both – making sure the information being processed on these devices still performs as it should despite any vulnerabilities they may find in order to protect against data breaches.
Information security specialists may handle aspects like multifactor authentication and access to physical information storage areas. Network security professionals work within a narrower scope than cybersecurity workers. Cybersecurity defends against attacks on hardware, software, networks and users. In contrast, network security focuses on vulnerabilities in the connections between devices.
If you already hold a degree in an IT branch not connected to cybersecurity, you likely won’t need to get an additional degree. However, it would be best to supplement your education and experience through various IT security certifications to become a cyber security specialist. These can be geared towards ethical hackers, security software developers, security architects, analysts, or any other computer security job title.