Here is how to get into cybersecurity, skills, certifications, and a step-by-step guide.
In our increasingly digital world, cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics, leading to more frequent security breaches. Safeguarding organizational data against these risks is paramount. According to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), nearly half of adults in the US have fallen victim to personal data exposure by cyber attackers. With the average cost of a data breach soaring to $9.44 million in the US, the demand for cybersecurity solutions is understandably high.
Now’s the perfect moment to dive into this field! Let’s explore the essential skills and certifications you’ll need to thrive.
What is cybersecurity?
To make sure our digital assets stay safe and sound, cybersecurity involves safeguarding a company’s computers, networks, and information from sneaky intruders aiming to tamper with or steal sensitive data like passwords, financial records, and personal information.
How to get into cybersecurity Career
To safeguard against such threats, businesses enlist the expertise of IT and cybersecurity specialists to fortify both internal and external systems. Exploring various cybersecurity career paths, tailored to your unique skill set, could involve roles like engineering and architecture, incident response, management and administration, consulting, and testing, and ethical hacking.
How to get into cybersecurity: 7 steps
Navigating the dynamic world of cybersecurity offers numerous pathways for entry. Let this friendly guide be your compass as you explore the diverse opportunities awaiting you in this high-demand field.
- Do some research on what’s happening in the world of cybersecurity
Previously, we highlighted various job roles within the cybersecurity field, emphasizing entry-level positions. If you possess adaptable skills and a foundation in IT, exploring lateral transitions is within reach. Take the time to delve into potential career trajectories. Assess which skills you possess that might seamlessly align with particular roles. For instance, if you hold an engineering degree, aspiring to become a cybersecurity engineer could be a natural fit. Consider researching professionals on platforms like LinkedIn who occupy positions you aim for—what credentials or certifications do they hold?
- Develop your skills
Once you’ve pinpointed the cybersecurity roles that pique your interest, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start honing the necessary skills. Typically, you’ll want to grasp the fundamentals of the following:
- Network and systems administration: Knowing the ins and outs of working with networks and systems is the foundation for entry-level jobs.
- Familiarity with operating systems: Being able to work with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS is needed for penetration testing, cybersecurity research and analysis, and computer forensics.
- Familiarity with cloud security platforms: Know your way around Azure, AWS, and Google Cloud.
- Coding skills: You’ll want to be comfortable coding in languages like Python, C and C++, JavaScript, and SQL.
- Risk analysis and security auditing: These are necessary for strategizing how to mitigate potential threats.
Because cybersecurity professionals often collaborate with teams to address and forestall issues, it’s essential to hone soft skills like effective communication, leadership, critical thinking, and adaptability.
- Consider a certification
Having certifications in cybersecurity not only showcases to hiring managers that you possess a tangible credential but also demonstrates a certain level of expertise. Take, for instance, the CompTIA Security+, a widely recognized entry-level certification that confirms your foundational skills essential for a cybersecurity role. Similarly, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) credential signifies your capability to evaluate security risks and ensure regulatory compliance, serving as another valuable certification option.
How to get into cybersecurity without a degree
Many wonder if a bachelor’s or associate’s degree is necessary for those aiming for a career in cybersecurity. Surprisingly, no! Numerous individuals have secured positions through certifications and specialized certificate programs. Consider starting with programs like Google IT Support, securing an IT technician role, and gradually adding more certifications and skills to progress into higher positions within cybersecurity. While having a degree may expedite your climb up the career ladder, weigh the costs and time investment carefully to determine if it aligns with your goals.
Ever thought about whether you need a bachelor’s or associate’s degree to break into cybersecurity? Believe it or not, you don’t! Many folks have landed cybersecurity gigs by snagging certifications and completing specialized certificate programs. Start with something like the Google IT Support program, get your foot in the door as an IT technician, and then build up your skills and certifications from there. While having a degree might speed up your career advancement, think about the expenses and time commitment before deciding if it matches your aspirations.
In the Google IT Support Professional Certificate program, I learned skills to assist customers with end-to-end support, ranging from identifying problems to troubleshooting and debugging.
— Janelle H.
- Get familiar with cybersecurity tools and software
As you delve into honing your skills, you’ll naturally start getting acquainted with various cybersecurity tools, software, and hardware systems. It’s advisable to get comfortable with at least one cloud platform such as Azure, as this knowledge will likely give you a solid grasp of the fundamentals behind AWS and Google Cloud. Many platforms offer free trials, allowing you to gain hands-on experience. Being well-versed in the tools and software preferred by companies can significantly enhance your readiness for different scenarios.
- Gain some work experience
Getting hands-on involvement in cybersecurity projects in real-world settings stands out as one of the most effective methods to grasp concepts and showcase your skills to potential employers. Whether your passion lies in auditing, consulting, or incident response, seeking internships or entry-level roles aligned with these areas, or ones where you can collaborate closely with professionals in these fields, can significantly bolster your expertise and career prospects.
How to get into cybersecurity with no experience
If you’re just stepping into the world of IT, it’s a great place to lay the groundwork for a future in cybersecurity. And if you’re already in IT or dabbling in junior cybersecurity positions but haven’t snagged your ideal job yet, hang in there. Consider exploring freelance gigs or volunteering opportunities to gain the experience you need while you wait for the perfect opportunity to come your way.
- Grow your network
Building relationships through networking can give you a competitive edge by allowing you to establish personal connections or be introduced by a mutual acquaintance. You might already have a connection in the cybersecurity field who can offer insightful guidance or recommend you for a position within their organization. Consider reaching out to cybersecurity experts on platforms like LinkedIn for informal chats, or drop a friendly message to hiring managers to express your enthusiasm after submitting your job application.
Expanding your connections could involve hopping into a local cybersecurity group on Meetup or Facebook, offering a chance to mingle with fellow professionals in your neck of the woods.
- Update your resume and apply for jobs
Make sure to refresh your resume by adding in any new certifications, skills, and experiences you’ve acquired. Remember, customizing your resume and cover letter for each job application is a smart move, as it shows employers that you possess the precise qualifications they’re seeking in the job listing.
Keep sending out those job applications! Remember, it’s typical to apply to numerous positions and navigate through several interviews before securing the perfect fit. Stay focused on your goal, and with persistence, you’ll snag that dream cybersecurity role before you know it!
Learn cybersecurity with Google
Excited about how to get into cybersecurity? Join Google’s Cybersecurity Professional Certificate program to master sought-after skills and gear up for the job market in just around six months. Throughout this extensive course, you’ll uncover how to spot common threats and vulnerabilities, while mastering effective techniques to counter them.