Thursday, November 10, 2022 • 7 min read
Is Cybersecurity Hard? — Expectations and Tips For Success
By Abdul B
Cybersecurity professionals are in demand throughout the world. As the threat of cybercrime increases sharply, businesses are hiring cybersecurity professionals to protect their assets.
The increase in demand and high-paying salaries have attracted people worldwide to make a career in cybersecurity. But, as a beginner, it cannot be very clear to figure out if cybersecurity is the right field for you.
Naturally, the question comes to mind. Is cybersecurity hard? Well, to put it simply, no — Not with the right expectations, at least.
Cybersecurity is challenging but not hard. The right knowledge about this field can set you on the right track to success. In this article, we will look at the different aspects of a cybersecurity career. We will cover the different roles of a cybersecurity career specialist in brief.
Cybersecurity Can Be Hard Without The Right Expectations
Beginners struggle to find good cybersecurity jobs because of this basic mistake. They don't identify the key skills required for their desired position, which leads them to have the wrong expectations about the role they sign up for.
As a cybersecurity professional, you must know about common threats and system vulnerabilities. But there's much more to it than just that. Cybersecurity is a vast field, and companies are looking for professionals to fill different roles.
We can divide cybersecurity jobs into 3 categories based on required skills.
Let's take a look at them
Programming and Hacking Skills
Programming is a must-have skill in any field of computer science. Often, companies need custom security software to help them tackle the threats faced by their clients.
As such, they may require one-off software specially designed for the task at hand. Large corporations also have unique requirements for security software that they can employ for their company use.
Companies are constantly testing their security systems by carrying out penetration testing exercises. For these exercises, a tester is tasked to penetrate the company's security system to identify potential flaws.
Cybersecurity Consulting Skills
Companies hire cybersecurity consultants to help them understand the threats they are up against and devise a security strategy.
Even with a security strategy in place, it is almost impossible to be immune from cybercrime. Companies often have their security systems breached; in such cases, they must prioritize minimizing further damage to their systems/business.
For this, companies need consultants to help them minimize losses and prevent further damage from the attack.
Management skills in Cybersecurity
Companies often form dedicated cybersecurity teams to handle online threats. These cybersecurity teams can be quite large for large businesses and cover different company systems.
There is a need to manage these teams to form a solid security strategy. For this purpose, companies hire cybersecurity managers and admins.
Professionals hired as security managers are well-rounded professionals experienced in dealing with different security threats.
Read our "Is Cyber Security a Good Career?" blog post to understand the types of cybersecurity jobs and their required certifications.
How To Pick The Right Cybersecurity Job?
Now that we have looked at the 3 major categories for cybersecurity jobs. You might wonder what skills and certifications you require for different jobs.
Let's review a few positions you can take up under each category.
Cyber Security Consulting Jobs
- Cybersecurity Consultants
Cybersecurity consultants are tasked with researching an organization's security systems and strategies.
You can expect to carry out vulnerability testing, security checks, and analysis of your employer's system. In addition, you will deliver technical reports highlighting the overall situation of your organization's security systems.
Relevant skills
- Network and security applications
- Network and security foundations
- Cloud computing and infrastructure
Relevant certifications
- Certified Informations Systems Security Professional
- Certified Information Systems Auditor
- Offensive Security Certified Professional
Programming & Hacking Jobs
- Security Engineering
Security engineers design and develop security systems to defend against cyber threats.
As a security engineer, you are responsible for screening security software for potential vulnerabilities and providing safer, more reliable alternatives.
Relevant skills
- Threat modeling and ethical hacking
- Programming
- Secure network architecture
- Network routing methods
Relevant certifications
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
- Ethical Hacking
Penetration testing and ethical hacking are vital procedures in cybersecurity.
All security systems are bound to have vulnerabilities. Penetration testers are tasked with hacking a client's security system to identify key vulnerabilities present in the system.
Relevant skills
- Penetration testing
- Database skills
- Cryptography
Relevant certifications
- EC Council - Certified Ethical Hacking
- OSCP Certification
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
Management
- Cybersecurity Administrator
As a cybersecurity manager, you are responsible for coordinating security teams and verifying security protocol compliance for your organization.
Relevant skills
- Project Management
- Communication
- Security Operations
- Information Security and Systems
Relevant certifications
- Certified Information Security Manager
- Certified Informations Systems Security Professional
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
If you want to see more jobs for each category, we have a list of Cybersecurity Jobs ranging from entry-level to more experienced positions. Every cybersecurity job on our website is listed with its required skill set.
How To Get Started In the Cybersecurity Job Market
Starting your career in cybersecurity can be a little challenging as a beginner. Clients look for technicians they can trust with sensitive data and systems.
Did you know? The average global salary of a cybersecurity professional is above $100,000. You can check out Cybersecurity Salaries on our website and compare your salary with others in the field.
But before you get hired for your first big role, you'll need to build up your resume.
Here are a few tips you can use to kickstart your cybersecurity career.
1. Get Certified
Employers are not willing to take risks when hiring a cybersecurity professional. Having the right educational background for the job you are applying for helps you get ahead of your competitors.
2. Get Industry Experience Via Internships
Internships are a great starting point for a cybersecurity professional looking to land their ideal job. Getting a recommendation letter to go with your job application shows your client that you know what it's like to work on-site.
Read our "20+ Cybersecurity Internships You Can't Miss Out On" blog post to learn how to land cybersecurity internships easily.
3. Apply for Jobs That Suit You
Play to your strengths; if you're an excellent communicator and have earned public speaking or teamwork certifications, make sure to mention those if you're applying for a role that requires you to be an excellent communicator.
Bring those up to impress your client if you have participated in prominent hackathons or other ethical hacking forums.
For an in-depth guide on getting hired as a cybersecurity professional, read our "How to get a job in Cyber Security? 5 Pro Tips" blog post for better understanding.
Conclusion
In this article, I explained how you could navigate the cybersecurity career to find the job that fits your skills.
Before you start applying for jobs, it helps to break down cybersecurity jobs into different categories. Each category requires unique skills, and we have covered them in detail in this article.
These categories are as follows:
- Programming and Hacking
- Consulting
- Management
Once you figure out the category that suits you the best, you can go through the relevant certifications.
But as a beginner, you may not be able to land jobs easily as employers are unwilling to risk getting targeted by cybercriminals.
Read next
How to Become a Cryptanalyst? Full Career Guide
Hijab Sheikh • September 19, 2022 • 5 min read
Cryptanalysts are code breakers. These individuals create and evaluate already developed algorithms to deflect hacker attacks by converting coded data into easily understandable text. In doing so, they can decipher messages to safeguard organizational and public confidential data. So, if you want to start your career as a Cryptanalyst, keep reading this guide. We will discuss the job requirements and share some tips to help you advance in your career. ## What Is a Cryptanalyst? Cryptanalysis is the ability to understand ciphertext, ciphers, and algorithms possessing the encryption key. The Cryptanalyst meaning is derived from the Greek words _kryptós_ and _analýein_, which translate into hidden and analyze. Therefore, a cryptanalyst analyzes mathematical systems to understand their hidden aspects. ## **What Does a Cryptanalyst Do?** Cryptanalysts interpret coded data and translate it into easy-to-understand text. As a cryptanalyst, you must understand complex algorithms without encryption keys. After accessing the information, you will use it to protect the organization's data. Moreover, you will develop systems and firewalls that prevent cyber criminals from accessing sensitive data. After becoming a cryptanalyst, your duties will be encrypting: · Personal data · Financial information You will constantly update and run tests on encryptions to certify robust security and authorized access. ## Cryptanalyst vs. Cryptographer The terms [cryptographer](https://cybersecjobs.io/cryptography) and cryptanalyst go hand in hand and are sometimes used interchangeably. However, both fields are slightly different from each other. Cryptographers secure confidential data using encryption techniques derived from mathematical concepts. In comparison, cryptanalysts decrypt codes without an encryption key. ## Is Cryptanalyst a Good Career Choice? Becoming a cryptanalyst is a great career choice if you are an expert in solving puzzles. The job outlook is also great for cryptanalysts. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment ratio of cryptanalysts will grow by [13%](https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm) between 2020 to 2030. This field is expected to see an addition of about [667,600](https://eng.libretexts.org/Courses/Prince_Georges_Community_College/INT_1010%3A_Concepts_in_Computing/08%3A_The_People_in_Information_Systems/8.04%3A_Computer_and_Information_Technology_Occupations#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Bureau%20of,add%20about%20667%2C600%20new%20jobs.) new job openings, making it an excellent time to enroll in a cybersecurity program. ## How to Become a Cryptanalyst? You need certain certifications to become a cryptanalyst because this field heavily depends on concepts extracted from maths and computer science. To become a cryptanalyst, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria: ### Degree in Maths or Computer Science Cryptanalysis stems from maths and computer science, as you are required to encrypt codes using concepts from both fields. So, you must have a bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity. However, if you want to apply for a high-level job, it would require a master's degree or Ph.D., especially if you want to work in the cryptanalytic research department. In case you don't have a computer science degree, you can get one in maths and then enroll in a cybersecurity certification program. That said, starting your cryptanalyst career with a non-technical degree is possible, provided that you have the experience and proficiency in meeting the job requirements. Some institutes offer cryptanalysis development programs even for entry-level employees. You can register for these programs and enhance your skills. ### Get an Entry-Level Job Even after completing your education, you won't be an expert cryptanalyst because some skills are only learned through experience. Therefore, instead of looking for a higher-level job,[ apply for an entry-level](https://cybersecjobs.io/entry-level) position. Most cryptanalysts start their career as cybersecurity analysts and later climb the professional ladder. With this approach, you can get one of the high-level cryptanalyst jobs after you acquire more skills, experience, and education. ### **Keep Learning New Skills** The sooner you expand your cryptanalyst skills, the quicker you can land your dream job. Experts recommend continually taking certified courses to expand your skill set. You can benefit from: · **_Advanced mathematics courses:_** Take courses that cover linear algebra, number theory, and other mathematical concepts used in breaking ciphers. · **_Programming languages courses:_** You should learn as many computer languages as possible, such as C+, C++, Python, Java, and JavaScript. · **_Encryption courses:_** Learn various encryption methods. For example, symmetric and asymmetric encryption can help you excel in your career. · **_Data structures courses_**: Learn how to structure data and its importance in decoding encrypted data. ### **Become Certified** Additional certificates will help you advance in your career and stay competitive with the market's demands. Some of those certificate programs are: · EC-Council Certified Encryption Specialist (ECES) · GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) · PenTest+ (Plus) Certification by CompTIA · EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) · Cybersecurity Certification (CISSP) ## **How Much Do Cryptanalysts Earn?** A cryptanalyst's salary can go up to $[58,709](https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/exploitation-cryptanalyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm) per year. That said, your final salary package depends on your skills and experience level. So, if you are certified and working for a large enterprise, you can make around $76,000 to $130,000 per annum. ## Industries Cryptanalyst Works In Cryptanalysts are required in every industry. Most often, governmental departments demand services to safeguard confidential data. Law agencies, banks, and trust companies also need Cryptanalysts to secure personal client information. However, you can also land a job at software houses and big business enterprises to secure their data hubs. ## Conclusion Cryptanalysts are an essential part of businesses' software and I.T. team, so if you pursue this career, you will have access to multiple work opportunities. So, if you meet the eligibility criteria for the role, search for opportunities at[ Cyber Security Jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/). You can find several job openings within the cybersecurity industry.
10 Free Online Cyber Security Courses to help you get a Job in this Industry
Krichelle Ching • September 20, 2022 • 6 min read
There is an increasing need for cybersecurity professionals as cybercrime affects both individuals and corporations globally. The necessity to improve cybersecurity measures has sharply increased as digitalization sweeps the globe, increasing the number of jobs available for experts in the field. Begin with these free Cyber Security Courses Online to learn about the vast array of amazing career options in the cybersecurity industry. These cybersecurity courses offer a starting point for prospective new careers in the field. To assist you in selecting the best solution, we provide you with a shortlist of possibilities.  1. ## [Short Course: CISSP by IT Masters of Charles Sturt University](https://itmasters.edu.au/free-short-course-cissp-updated/) Anyone who might be interested in earning the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification should take the free short course offered by Charles Sturt University's IT Masters. The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, sometimes known as "IISSCC," oversees the CISSP, an independent information security certification (ISC). It is sometimes referred to as the "gold standard certification" and is regarded as useful (if not mandatory) for many information security professions in the modern world. You can use this four-week course as a stepping stone to pursuing a Master of Cyber Security. The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) credential from ISACA, which is regarded as one of the essential qualifications to demonstrate mastery of cyber security management principles and procedures inside a business, is an alternative to the CISSP. IT Masters also offers courses for [CISM jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/cism).  2. ## [CISSP Mentor Program by FR Secure](https://frsecure.com/cissp-mentor-program/) A cyber security company called FRSecure provides a CISSP Mentor Program to fill the global skills deficit in cybersecurity. It provides free cyber security courses with knowledge applications to create more experts in the information security business and lower entry barriers. In addition to helping you gain skills, this 2-hour live session program over 2 months gives you the chance to get employed directly by FRSecure as they seek to fill more positions in the cyber security sector.  3. ## [Cyber Security Training Course by Cyber Aces](https://www.sans.org/cyberaces/) Cyber Aces is a thought leader in the cybersecurity space. It offers both online and offline cyber security courses that are certification-focused. Its free training programs contain three modules designed to address the operating systems, networking, and system administration fundamentals of information security. The goal of Cyber Aces is to provide knowledge materials that present and future cybersecurity practitioners can use to advance their careers in the field.  4. ## [Become a Penetration Tester by Cybrary](https://www.cybrary.it/catalog/career-path/penetration-tester/) Cybrary is a fantastic resource for learning about cyber security. It brings together individuals, businesses, and educational resources to increase everyone's access to the sector. To have complete access to its materials, there are some films with limited free access and a 2-month teams free offer. As one of the top three most sought-after positions in the expanding cybersecurity job market, becoming a penetration tester is a choice for a career in cybersecurity. [Penetration Tester](https://cybersecjobs.io/pentester) plays a critical role in system security because they are responsible for identifying vulnerabilities in a company's systems and carrying out ethical hacking. In order to help you develop your PenTest career path, Cybrary provides more than 148 hours of content on subjects including vulnerability scanning, Kali Linux foundations, Phishing, ethical hacking, password cracking, sniffing, and more. Cybrary also offers courses for cyber security career paths such as [SOC Analyst](https://cybersecjobs.io/soc-analyst), Information Security, and Cyber Engineer.  5. ## [Introduction to Information Security (CISSP) by Simplilearn](https://www.simplilearn.com/introduction-to-information-security-basics-skillup) For any information technology professional seeking to pass the CISSP certification test, SkillUp by Simplilearn offers an introductory course on CISSP covering all facets of IT security. This 12-hour program, which is aligned with (ISC)2 CBK 2018, gives you an introduction to information security and develops your skills in establishing IT architecture as well as creating and maintaining safe work environments. Other starting courses for [careers like cryptographers](https://cybersecjobs.io/cryptography), CISSP security assessors, cloud security officers, ethical hackers, and cyber security officers are available on Simplilearn.  6. ## [Enterprise and Infrastructure Security by NYU Tandon School of Engineering via Coursera](https://www.coursera.org/learn/enterprise-infrastructure-security?specialization=intro-cyber-security) Through the online learning platform Coursera, the School of Engineering at New York University provides a self-paced learning course. The 15-hour Enterprise and Infrastructure Security Course covers the fundamentals of enterprise compliance frameworks and gives an overview of NIST and PCI. It has been demonstrated that hybrid cloud architectures offer a chance to address many of the security flaws in contemporary perimeter local area networks. This course is a part of the Introduction to Cyber Security Specialization, which is available through Coursera's paid subscription or a free 7-day trial and contains a variety of master's degree options in cyber security.  7. ## [Cybersecurity Basics by IBM via edX](https://www.edx.org/course/cybersecurity-basics) IBM provides a 4-week course on CyberSecurity Basics to help students gain a foundational understanding of cybersecurity. Students will learn about information security's history, different types of cybercriminals, and cybersecurity dangers before finishing up with the tools required to stop an attack. While courses are free, certifications and skills badges are only accessible after paying course fees, similar to other subscription-based MOOCs. For a variety of occupations in cyber security, edX also offers a range of online courses. 8. ## [Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) via Udemy](https://www.udemy.com/course/information-systems-security-professional-cissp/) Udemy, another MOOC powerhouse, provides free information security courses as well as study materials for the CISSP exam. As part of a robust certification program that enables candidates to demonstrate a breadth of knowledge across seven domains of information security, this 33-minute course for entry-level cyber security professionals aids hopefuls in passing the exam. The course that follows examines the exam's comprehensive curriculum in full.  9. ## [Computer Systems Security Course by MIT Open Courseware](https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/6-858-computer-systems-security-fall-2014/pages/syllabus/) On its Open Courseware platform, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology makes free training materials available. One of these is Course 6.858 Computer Systems Security, which is about designing and putting in place secure computer systems. The course, taught by Prof. Nickolai Zeldovich, consists of 24 1.5-hour lectures covering the security of operating systems (OS), capabilities, information flow control, languages, network protocols, hardware security, and security in web applications.  10. ## [Cyber Security for Beginners by Heimdal Securities](https://cybersecuritycourse.co/) Anyone interested in learning how to be safe online can sign up for a free 5-week cyber security course from Heimdal Securities. The 2011 and 2012 Defcon World Champions in hacking developed Heimdal Security to defend Internet users from sophisticated cyberattacks. Some of the biggest companies in the world use its cyber security services, and it has since spread its know-how by offering free classes. ## Conclusion We see a plethora of Cyber Security Courses for people at all levels. Universities, training institutes, and cybersecurity firms are offering free courses to usher in new talents into the information security industry. Take advantage of these opportunities and land that dream job in the cybersecurity space.
About us
Raman Sha • August 05, 2023 • 1 min read
Cyber Security Job Board is fresh job board solely focused on all things cyber security. Started in 2022 in Singapore. For support, contact us at [email protected] Enquiries: [email protected] Currently there is no support phone line. Just email us!
How to get a job in Cyber Security? 5 Pro Tips
Nicholas Oluoch • September 13, 2022 • 6 min read
Are you trying to land a job in cybersecurity? Well, we have good news for you. The demand is way higher than the supply in this market! And, entry-level jobs in this field pay better compared to other jobs. According to [payscale.com](https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Skill=Cyber_Security/Salary), the annual salary for an **[entry-level cybersecurity analyst](https://cybersecjobs.io/salaries/entry-level-salary)** ranges from $73,000 - $90,000 in the United States. Also, you don’t have to be a coder or programmer to get into Cybersecurity! Pretty neat, right? The path to cybersecurity industry jobs is clear. Follow along as we break down how you can plot a career path in Cybersecurity using 5 pro tips! No games and no guesswork, just good old-fashioned facts loaded with helpful insights with great tips. Let’s go! ## So how can you get into Cybersecurity? You can secure a job in cybersecurity by: * Learning the skills the job role requires, * Starting small and focusing on getting in first, * Grabbing Internship openings, * Getting the relevant and recognized certifications, * Checking Reputable Cybersecurity Job Boards and Applying ## 1. Learn the Skills Obviously, the first thing you should do is learn the trade. This is as basic as it can get. According to a [report by NASA](https://www.intelligencecareers.gov/nsa/nsacyber.html), most cybersecurity jobs require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (IT), Computer Science, or a similar IT field. But maybe a degree looks like the long way round. What can you do? Bootcamps and online courses are up for grabs for learners in cybersecurity. You could also teach yourself most of the coding languages. Today, lots of cybersecurity jobs require that you have essential IT skills that meet technical needs in these 7 main categories: * Security * Programming * System and Networks * Data analysis * DevOps * Cloud Computing * Machine Learning **Here’s what to do**: Identify the cybersecurity career path that excites you and educate yourself in it. It is important to **choose a path that energizes and motivates** you right from the onset. This way, you will fight for it because you already want it. **PRO TIP**: Cybersecurity is a rapidly growing, dynamic, and highly versatile field of work. Stay hungry for knowledge and you will grow to be the top in your field. ## 2. Start Small Starting anything can be tough. Starting a career in cybersecurity has a special upside. Once you have relevant education, you can **get a job with no experience** but by just **showcasing your ability/competency. ** Having relevant experience is great but don’t let that hold you back where you know your stuff! Show what you can do in your **resume and portfolio** and you will land that IT job! Entry-level Cybersecurity job roles like **IT Auditor, IT Specialist, Digital Analyst, and Policy Analyst** may take you on with little or no work experience. Your goal here should be to get your foot in the door. In time, you will accumulate the knowledge and skills needed for more technical roles. **PRO TIP:** Focus on entry-level jobs as you start off because you don’t have years of work experience to leverage here. Just strategize how you can get in, then grow from there. ## 3. Apply For [Cybersecurity Internships](https://cybersecjobs.io/internship) With the relevant skills, it shouldn’t be difficult for you to get an internship at an IT firm. Plus, Internships are a great way to get into the company you’ve dreamed of working for. It is the chance to prove yourself as a competent and dependable hard worker. Think of it as your internship as a 5-minute happenstance with the CEO on the elevator! Use your time to prove that you’re an asset worth keeping! Since you are just starting, consider the small startup companies. They are more likely to consider taking you on as a newbie. **PRO TIP:** Cybersecurity internships are low-hanging fruits that you can grab on the way to the job of your dreams. ## 4. Get Relevant and Recognized Certifications The great thing about most certifications in cybersecurity is that they don’t have academic prerequisites. You don’t need to have done your degree in a relevant field to qualify. These certifications show employers that you are equipped with the knowledge needed for the work you apply for. And are a big plus on your resumé/CV in the eyes of a prospective employer. Some of these certifications include: - [CompTIA](https://www.comptia.org/) – A+ - CompTIA Network+ - CompTIA Security+ - CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP) - CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) - [CCNA](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/associate/ccna.html) Think of **certifications** **as proof **to someone who doesn’t know you. That you are a competently trained professional because you know this work. Employers and recruiters alike are drawn to professionals who keep their skills up to date with the latest advances in their field. So, having the proper skill certification from a reputable institute shows you as both a serious and **PRO TIP:** Prioritize pursuing relevant certifications in your field of expertise, which are also recognized internationally by employers. ## 5. Check Reputable Cybersecurity Job Boards and Apply! We have lots of cybersecurity job opportunities listed here on our [website](https://cybersecjobs.io/entry-level) at cybersecjobs.io. The options include **remote work or in-person**, **local or international**, for various roles that are up for grabs. Plus, we are a reputable outfit. You can trust that our listings are real jobs. No scam job ads here! [Click here](https://cybersecjobs.io/entry-level) to check them out. **PRO TIP: **Don’t limit yourself to local or regional employers only. There are great opportunities for [remote cybersecurity jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/remote). Check far and wide for opportunities internationally and apply as long as you qualify!  ## Here’s Something Extra! [Cybersecurity jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/) require both technical competence and soft skills. Now that we have the certifications and education locked down, look at these additional skills that make you an attractive person, beyond the competent individual you already are. What are those transferrable competencies that make you attractive to a cybersecurity employer? * Being a good team player * Communicating to others clearly and on time * Listening skills – to receive feedback positively * Negotiation skills * Being an effective planner/scheduler * Goal-oriented – setting and hitting set goals What this list says is this: **BE A GOOD HUMAN!** That’s it! Everyone enjoys being in a team where they are valued, considered, and acknowledged. When you as a cybersecurity professional show yourself to be a great human being, people will want to have you on their team! It’s a human thing and it works! Happy hunting, cybersec humans!
20+ Cybersecurity Internships You Can't Miss Out On
Abdul B. • September 09, 2022 • 4 min read
Cybersecurity has become a necessity in the modern world, and companies are looking for experienced workers to protect their online assets and data. But before you can take up responsibility as a full-time employee, you will need to put some time in as an intern. Often, cybersecurity interns assist a dedicated security team in a real-world work environment. Here are some responsibilities you can expect to take up as a cybersecurity intern: 1. Monitoring security data. 2. Assessing networks for security shortfalls. 3. Researching potential threats. 4. Assisting in the design and implementation of security solutions. Once you get enough experience under your belt, you can expect a cozy career ahead. The median salary of a cybersecurity employee globally is above 100,000USD/Year. On our website, we have a dedicated page for [cybersecurity salaries](https://cybersecjobs.io/salaries) that allows you to compare your salary to similar job posts in your field. ## How to Prepare for Cyber Security Internship To make the most of your time as an intern, you should be prepared to absorb as much information as possible from the experience. Here are a few tips that will allow you to absorb information like a sponge. 1. Research Security tools Research the tools used by the company you will be interning at. Take some time to familiarize yourself with them before you apply for the position. You will get a better understanding of what is going on in the work environment. 2. Stay up-to-date on security news Read articles on cybersecurity news, and industry practices. Is there any news on the tools used in the industry? Perhaps new threats that you can discuss with your peers in the new position. All of this helps you in starting a conversation in the workspace. 3. Familiarize yourself with cybersecurity terminology Why does this matter? Once you enter any professional environment, you will notice unique acronyms and terminology used by specific professionals. Being able to pick up on these language shifts minimises unrelated questions. What’s the best way to do this? The answer is social media. Keep up with the cybersecurity community on Twitter, and other media platforms. Strike conversations with them and try to build a presence. Our [Twitter account](https://twitter.com/cybersecjobsio) is a great resource to keep up with industry updates. With our weekly newsletter and hourly job postings, you get the most important updates straight to your Twitter feed. ## Available Cybersecurity Internships We have compiled a brief list of cybersecurity internship programs available on our website. To view the full list of 20+ positions, visit our [internships page](https://cybersecjobs.io/internship). 1. [Security Consultant at Amazon](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/professional-services-consultant-intern-security-consultant-direct-supply) [Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/) is a global e-commerce company looking for a Security Consultant Intern. Earning over 450 Billion USD in revenue in 2021, this company is recognized for its global success. Apply for this role 👉[Security Consultant at Amazon](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/professional-services-consultant-intern-security-consultant-direct-supply). 2. [Security Analyst at Euronet Worldwide](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/security-analyst-direct-supply-121) [Euronet Worldwide](https://www.euronetworldwide.com/) is a global payment and financial technology solutions provider looking for a Security Analyst intern. Serving over 190 countries and territories, Euronet Worldwide has become a go-to for customers. Apply for this role 👉[Security Analyst at Euronet Worldwide](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/security-analyst-direct-supply-121). 3. [Junior Cybersecurity Engineer at Prosource.it](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/jr-cyber-security-engineer-intern-direct-supply) [Prosource](https://prosource.it/) is an IT services provider looking for a Junior Cybersecurity Engineer. Focusing on infrastructure, operational, and project requirements for the corporate space, Prosource has working experience in more than 25 countries. Apply for this role 👉[Junior Cybersecurity Engineer at Prosource.it](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/jr-cyber-security-engineer-intern-direct-supply). 4. [Cloud Security Intern at Tanium Inc. ](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/cloud-security-intern-direct-supply) [Tanium](https://www.tanium.com/) is a cybersecurity and systems management company looking for a Product Security intern. Launched in 2007, this US-based company has become a reputable cybersecurity provider, earning over 400 million USD in revenue in 2019. Apply for this role 👉[Cloud Security Intern at Tanium Inc.](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/cloud-security-intern-direct-supply) 5. [Information Security Intern at Commercetools](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/information-security-intern-summer-2023-direct-supply) [Commercetools](https://commercetools.com/) is a digital commerce software provider looking for an Information Security intern. Serving over 116 countries and territories, Commercetools has built an impressive portfolio since its market launch in 2013. Apply for this role 👉[Information Security Intern at Commercetools](https://cybersecjobs.io/jobs/information-security-intern-summer-2023-direct-supply). ## Summary In this article, we discussed the responsibilities of a cybersecurity intern in the workplace. These include: * Monitoring security data. * Assessing networks for security shortfalls. * Researching potential threats. We have listed 5 internship opportunities in premier companies, along with the median salary for cybersecurity employees. To view the full list of 20+ internship opportunities, visit our [cybersecurity internships](https://cybersecjobs.io/internship) page. To compare your salary to your peers, head on over to our [cybersec salaries](https://cybersecjobs.io/salaries) page. In addition, we also discuss how you can prepare to make the most of your internship experience by following our practical tips: * Research security tools * Following security news * Keeping up with industry lingo
Is Cyber Security a Good Career?
Abdul B. • September 20, 2022 • 9 min read
Cybercrime affects the security of more than [80% of businesses](https://securityboulevard.com/2022/03/the-rise-of-cybercrime-an-overview/) throughout the world today. With an expected growth of over 15% per year, cybercrime is predicted to cost businesses more than [$10 Trillion](https://cybersecurityventures.com/cybercrime-damage-costs-10-trillion-by-2025/) by 2025. Companies are in dire need of cybersecurity professionals, and it shows in their employment figures. The US Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates the employment of security analysts to grow [more than 30%](https://brainstation.io/career-guides/is-cybersecurity-a-good-career#:~:text=Cybersecurity%20is%20a%20great%20career,percent%20from%202019%20to%202029.) by 2029. With the global average salary of a cybersecurity professional standing above $100,000 - it is clear that cybersecurity is a lucrative profession. So, the short answer is - Yes, cybersecurity is an excellent career option. Sounds great, but it may not be that simple for everyone. ## Cybersecurity Jobs - What You Need to Know  Cybersecurity is an expansive field, there are multiple roles that you can expect to see in the job market and some of these roles may not be a good fit for your experience and personality. Some jobs are interactive and you might want to avoid these if you lack communication skills. On the other hand, some jobs are a bit mundane and might become tedious down the line for certain people. In this article, I will go over different kinds of cybersecurity career paths. I will highlight the responsibilities you can expect to take up in each career path so you can decide if it is a good fit for you. In addition, I will provide some actionable tips you can use to start your cybersecurity career on the right track. Let’s start with a cybersecurity career roadmap. Here, you will learn how you can enter the world of cybersecurity as a professional. ## Cybersecurity Career Roadmap  While the demand for cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high, there are a few things you need to clear up before starting your career in cybersecurity. Given the nature of the profession, employers are not willing to take risks with inexperienced employees. You will need to develop certain skills and gain experience to become a valid candidate. Here’s a roadmap that you can follow to land your ideal job in cybersecurity. 1. Bachelors in related field Employers prefer candidates who have earned their bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or other related fields. Subjects such as Computer Networks, Cryptography, and Programming equip you with the skills required to establish your career in cybersecurity. 2. Certifications By earning certifications, you can still have a chance to become a valid candidate; even if you don’t have a bachelor’s degree. Cybersecurity courses offered by [Coursera](https://www.coursera.org/search?query=Cybersecurity&), [Udemy](https://www.udemy.com/courses/search/?src=ukw&q=cybersecurity), or [EdX](https://www.edx.org/search?q=Cybersecurity) are a great place to start learning about the technical aspects of cybersecurity and earn relevant certifications. If you are already pursuing a bachelor's degree, completing these courses makes you an even more attractive candidate for employers. 3. Internships Once you have gathered enough technical knowledge in the field, you can start applying for cybersecurity internships. Internships are the perfect place to start as you get on-field experience, and you can earn a recommendation letter to back up your expertise. Read our ["20+ Cybersecurity Internships You Can't Miss Out On"](https://cybersecjobs.io/blog/20-cybersecurity-internships-you-cant-miss-out-on) blog post to learn how you can easily land cybersecurity internships. 4. Applying for jobs With certifications in multiple courses and a recommendation letter to back up your expertise; you can finally start your cybersecurity career. Now, you will come across multiple career paths with confusing job titles. You might be unsure about the working experience in different jobs. It helps a lot to know about specific requirements for different career paths so you can land a job that you will love. ## Cybersecurity Career Paths  We can divide cybersecurity jobs into five major career paths. Each path is different and requires unique skill sets and certifications. Let’s explore these career paths and learn about their work experiences. ### 1. Testing and Ethical Hacking Testing and ethical hacking are vital procedures in cybersecurity. All security systems are bound to have vulnerabilities. It is your job as a cybersecurity tester to gain access to your target system (ethically, of course!) and identify key vulnerabilities present in the system. **Relevant skills** * Penetration testing * Database skills * Cryptography **Relevant certifications** * EC Council - Certified Ethical Hacking * OSCP Certification * CompTIA Security+ Certification ### 2. Incident Response Cybersecurity incidents are difficult to prevent. Once an incident occurs, small mistakes can cause even further damage to the organization’s system. As an incident responder, it is your responsibility to minimize the damage incurred by an organization. This field requires good communication skills as you will need to gather information from your employer’s IT staff. **Relevant skills** * Communication * Investigation * Analysis * Monitoring **Relevant certifications** * EC Council - Certified Incident Handler * GIAC Certified Incident Handler * Incident Handling & Response Professional ### 3. Security Engineering Security engineers design and develop security systems to defend against cyber threats. As a security engineer, you are responsible for screening security software for potential vulnerabilities and providing safer, more reliable alternatives. **Relevant skills** * Threat modelling and ethical hacking * Programming * Secure network architecture * Network routing methods **Relevant certifications** * GIAC Security Essentials Certification * Certified Information Systems Security Professional * CompTIA Security+ Certification ### 4. Management and Administration Cybersecurity managers supervise network and computer security systems. As a cybersecurity manager, it is your responsibility to coordinate security teams and verify security protocol compliance for your organization. **Relevant skills** * Project Management * Communication * Security Operations * Information Security and Systems **Relevant certifications** * Certified Information Security Manager * Certified Informations Systems Security Professional * CompTIA Security+ Certification ### 5. Consulting Cybersecurity consultants are tasked with researching an organization’s security systems and strategies. You can expect to carry out vulnerability testing, security checks, and analysis of your employer’s system. In addition, you will deliver technical reports highlighting the overall situation of your organization’s security systems. **Relevant skills** * Network and security applications * Network and security foundations * Cloud computing and infrastructure **Relevant certifications** * Certified Informations Systems Security Professional * Certified Information Systems Auditor * Offensive Security Certified Professional ## How to Start a Cybersecurity Career  With the required internship experience and certifications under your belt, you are finally ready to start your cybersecurity career. Landing jobs is not an easy task, you need to establish yourself as a skilled professional in your field to become the most desired candidate. Here are some actionable tips you can follow to start your career on the right track. ### Have the relevant skill set Cybersecurity fields are highly specialized. You have to equip yourself with the relevant skill set for a successful career in your ideal cybersecurity field; A great way to acquire skills in your field is by earning certifications and recommendation letters from internships. ### Apply for the right positions As a beginner in your cybersecurity career, you will need to start with entry level jobs to earn some work experience in your field. You should ensure that you have the required skills and certifications for the job that you are applying for. We have a list of [cybersecurity jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/) ranging from entry level to more experienced positions. Every cybersecurity job on our website is listed with its required skill set. You can visit our [Entry-Level Cyber Security Jobs](https://cybersecjobs.io/entry-level) page to start applying for your first cybersecurity job. ### Carry out research for the interview You can easily land your ideal cybersecurity job by carrying out a bit of research before your interviews and screening. Employers are looking for candidates that are interested in their field and organization. Your goal is to gather relevant information on your employer’s organization and try to establish yourself as a skilled professional. The best way to establish your credibility is to start a conversation with your employer on a topic that is relevant to them and their organization. Here are some tips to find interesting talking points for interviews. * Learn about the organization’s preferred security software * Follow their posts on social media platforms, identify their pain points * Research the organization’s security history to discuss relevant security events ### Compare Salaries Before you sign the contract with your organization, you should compare your salary package to similar jobs in the field. This will give you a good idea if you are receiving fair compensation for your expertise. You can check out [Cybersecurity salaries](https://cybersecjobs.io/salaries) on our website to compare your salary package to similar jobs in the field. ## Final Thoughts Cybersecurity is a major concern for any modern organization, and jobs for experienced cybersecurity professionals are readily available. If you are thinking about starting your cybersecurity career, there are a few things you need to know beforehand. 1. Cybersecurity is an expansive field, different jobs in cybersecurity require you to have unique skill sets and certifications. 2. Cybersecurity careers can be divided into five major paths. Each cybersecurity career path gives you unique responsibilities that require specific skill sets and certifications. These are: * Testing and ethical hacking * Incident response * Security Engineering * Management and Administration * Consulting 3. Employers are looking for cybersecurity professionals with exceptional skills and knowledge. Here are some actionable tips you can use to ace your job interviews. * Acquire the relevant skill set * Apply for the right positions * Carry out important research before interviews In this article, I went through each of these points in detail and provided actionable tips that you can follow to land the ideal cybersecurity job for your skills.