Networking, internships, and certifications can help individuals land entry-level security positions. Many cybersecurity experts start out as network engineers, help desk technicians, or systems administrators. Candidates may spend 3-5 years gaining technology experience, often in non-security IT roles.

For these learners, bootcamps can deliver just the right amount of training to jumpstart a cybersecurity career. People with bachelor’s degrees in a nontechnical discipline may benefit from coding basics prep courses before starting a bootcamp. Bootcamps offer actionable, targeted curricula that prepare graduates for entry-level cybersecurity jobs. Since these intensive career-training experiences feature a narrower range of subjects, participants may not learn as much about theory and context as they would in a bachelor’s program. A cybersecurity engineering job is unlikely to be the first role in your career. First, you should seek entry-level cybersecurity jobs to help you gain experience and build your skills.

CAREER PATH AS A CYBER SECURITY SPECIALIST

Paychecks and job openings aside, earning a degree still represents an investment of both time and money. Online degree options make it easier to earn a degree while working, raising a family, or managing other life obligations. Information security shares some overlap with cybersecurity—in fact, cybersecurity is a subset of information security. However, cybersecurity focuses exclusively on protecting digital assets, while information security covers digital and physical information across all mediums. Emerging and developing technologies like machine learning, cloud computing and the Internet of Things will open up both new opportunities and new challenges in the field.

From a specialist to an analyst to the IT security director, there are many jobs that focus on network security and all of these positions are vital for information security success. As a result, cyber security jobs have only grown in importance and demand—especially with the growth how to become a security specialist of ransomware attacks and data breaches that expose sensitive information. Some cybersecurity professionals pursue experience before earning certification. Whatever path they choose, security specialists need strong technical skills and a commitment to continuing education.

A Day in the Life of a Security Specialist

For many roles, professionals apply their technical expertise to specific business or public policy issues. Aspiring cybersecurity workers can gain this knowledge through bootcamps, academic programs, or self-directed learning. Security specialists, also known as cybersecurity specialists, develop and implement security measures that protect computer networks and systems. Companies often hire security specialists to secure data networks, prevent security breaches, and make changes to improve security.

Analysts often report to upper administration and may have to present findings and recommendations before management. Security analysts sometimes work with multiple departments to ensure their colleagues understand the organization’s best practices for information security. Earning a certification in cybersecurity can validate your hard-earned skills and help you advance your career. Here are some things to consider when choosing which certification is right for you.

Key Soft Skills for Security Specialists

Burning Glass Technologies’ report describes a tight job market, citing a 94% increase in demand for cybersecurity workers from 2013 to 2018. Cyberseek reported nearly 715,000 cybersecurity job openings from May 2021 through April 2022. Earning a cybersecurity degree can also affect pay rates and job security.