How to Become a Cybersecurity Expert
Cybersecurity experts take a variety of paths to reach their career goals. Some people choose to earn degrees in computer science. Others learn essential skills by taking online classes and practicing with security tools.
The following guide to becoming a cybersecurity expert doesn’t deny that professionals have multiple paths available. It does, however, focus on some of the most critical steps you need to take before companies will hire you as a member of their cybersecurity teams.
Choose a Cybersecurity Concentration
You don’t have to know everything about cybersecurity to become an expert. Instead, you can focus on one or a few areas of cybersecurity. Some employers prefer job candidates that specialize in areas such as:
- Database security
- Networking
- Cloud networking
- Penetration testing
- Software development
- Advanced malware analysis
It helps to have a general understanding of critical topics. For example, you should know how to set up a secure network even if you don’t know every protocol off the top of your head. A cybersecurity concentration could help you stand out, though.
Earn the Right Cybersecurity Certifications
Earning cybersecurity certifications helps prove that you have the skills organizations need from experts. Several security organizations offer certification programs and tests. Cybersecurity certifications that you should consider include:
- (ISC)2: CISSP-ISSMP – Information Systems Security Management Professional
- ISACA: CISM – Certified Information Security Manager
- ISACA: CRISC – Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
- AWS Certified Security – Specialty
- CompTIA: Security+
- (ISC)2: CCSP – Certified Cloud Security Professional
Don’t take these certifications lightly. You will need to pass a challenging exam to earn them. Many people study for months before they pay to get certified. Additionally, you can expect to take future tests that ensure you still have the right skills to qualify as a certified expert.
Keep Up With the Latest Cybersecurity Threats
Cybersecurity threats always evolve. When hackers find a vulnerability in an application, software developers build a patch to seal the hole. The hackers start looking for new exploits, which developers respond to quickly. This cycle never ends.
Keeping up with the latest trends in cybersecurity will help you do your job well. Reading cybersecurity and malware blogs will keep you informed about the latest threats. Even if you don’t know how to prevent an emerging attack, you can keep your eyes open for signs that alert you of the need to consult with a team of experts.
Some websites that you should read regularly include:
Conclusion
Becoming a cybersecurity expert can lead to an exciting, challenging career. At some point, you may encounter an issue you don’t know how to solve. When that day comes, you can always rely on the cybersecurity team at CPI Solutions to provide additional support. No one can know everything about protecting an organization from security threats, so reach out for help when you need it.
