7 Essential Steps to Break into the Cyber Security Field and Launch a Rewarding Career

Hey there! Are you looking to dive into the exciting world of cyber security? With cyber threats on the rise, skilled professionals are in high demand, and I’m here to share my story and guide you through the steps to break into the cyber security field. Let’s explore the best certifications, companies, and pro tips to help you kickstart a rewarding career!

1. Identify Your Area of Interest

To identify your area of interest in cyber security, consider the following factors:

• Technical vs. non-technical roles: Determine if you prefer hands-on technical tasks or non-technical responsibilities, like policy development and risk management.
• Offensive vs. defensive security: Decide whether you’re more interested in offensive security (ethical hacking, penetration testing) or defensive security (securing networks, incident response).
• Specializations: Explore various cyber security domains, such as network security, cloud security, application security, and mobile security, to see which one resonates with you the most.
• Industry-specific roles: Some industries, like healthcare, finance, or government, have unique security challenges. Consider if you’d like to focus on a specific sector.
• Education and certifications: Research the required education and certifications for different roles to better understand the skill sets and qualifications needed for each area.
• Personal strengths and interests: Evaluate your own strengths, interests, and experiences to identify the area you’re most passionate and have the most potential to excel.
• Job market and salary: Analyze job market trends and salaries for various specializations to ensure your chosen area aligns with your financial and professional goals.
• Networking and mentorship: Connect with professionals in the field, attend conferences, join online forums, or participate in meetups to gain insights into different areas and potential career paths.

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your area of interest in cyber security and focus on developing the skills and expertise needed to succeed in that specific domain.

2. Develop Your Technical Skills

Technical skills are essential in the cyber security field, as they provide a strong foundation for understanding and mitigating security threats. Here’s a list of key technical skills to learn and the reasons why they are important:

• Programming languages: Knowledge of programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or C++ is crucial for understanding how software works and how vulnerabilities can be exploited or fixed.
• Networking: A solid grasp of networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, routing, and switching) and protocols is necessary to secure network infrastructure and detect network-based attacks.
• Operating systems: Familiarity with different operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS) allows you to understand their security features, weaknesses, and potential vulnerabilities.
• Web technologies: Understanding web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, REST APIs) is crucial for securing web applications and identifying common vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting.
• Cryptography: Grasping the fundamentals of cryptography helps you protect sensitive data, implement secure communication channels, and understand encryption algorithms and hashing techniques.
• Cloud security: As organizations increasingly adopt cloud services, expertise in AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud security is essential for protecting cloud infrastructure and ensuring data privacy.
• Reverse engineering: Reverse engineering skills are invaluable for analyzing malware, understanding exploit development, and identifying security flaws in software and hardware.
• Incident response: Learning how to detect, analyze, and respond to security incidents using tools like SIEM, IDS/IPS, and threat intelligence feeds is crucial for minimizing damage and recovering from attacks.
• Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing: Mastering tools and methodologies for identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities (Metasploit, Burp Suite, Nmap) is essential for assessing the security posture of systems and networks.
• Digital forensics: Acquiring skills in digital forensics tools and techniques enables you to investigate security incidents, collect evidence, and uncover the root causes of cyberattacks.

Developing these technical skills will provide you with a solid foundation in cyber security, enhance your problem-solving abilities, and improve your ability to protect and defend against various security threats.

3. Earn Relevant Certifications

There are several popular certifications in the cyber security field that can help you enhance your skills, demonstrate your expertise, and advance your career. Here’s a list of some of the most sought-after certifications:

CompTIA Security+

• Certification: CompTIA Security+
• Purpose: Validates your foundational knowledge and skills in network security, cryptography, threat management, and risk identification. It’s suitable for beginners seeking to enter the field of cyber security.
• Why: CompTIA Security+ certification is highly regarded in the industry and can help you stand out in the job market, demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning, and potentially lead to higher salaries.
• Issuing organization: CompTIA
• Prerequisites: None, but recommended to have CompTIA Network+ certification and two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security.
• Exam format: 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, 90-minute time limit
• Exam content: The Security+ exam covers several domains, including Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities; Technologies and Tools; Architecture and Design; Identity and Access Management; Risk Management; and Cryptography and PKI.
• How: Register for the exam on the CompTIA website, study the Security+ exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CompTIA Security+ is $370.
• Maintenance: CompTIA Security+ certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by earning 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or passing a higher-level certification exam.

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)

• Certification: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Purpose: Validates your expertise in information security, covering several domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communication and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security.
• Why: CISSP certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in information security and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or (ISC)².
• Prerequisites: Five years of experience in two or more CISSP domains, or four years of experience with a college degree or equivalent certification.
• Exam format: 100-150 multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions, 3-hour time limit
• Exam content: The CISSP exam covers several domains, including Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security.
• How: Register for the exam on the (ISC)² website, study the CISSP exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CISSP is $699.
• Maintenance: CISSP certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by earning 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over a three-year period and paying an annual maintenance fee.

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

• Certification: Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Purpose: Validates your skills in identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities within an organization’s network, simulating the actions of a malicious hacker for the purpose of testing and improving security.
• Why: CEH certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in ethical hacking and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: EC-Council
• Prerequisites: Two years of experience in information security, or attendance at an official EC-Council training program.
• Exam format: 125 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit
• Exam content: The CEH exam covers several topics, including Introduction to Ethical Hacking, Footprinting and Reconnaissance, Scanning Networks, Enumeration, System Hacking, Malware Threats, Sniffing, Social Engineering, Denial-of-Service, Session Hijacking, Hacking Web Servers, Hacking Web Applications, SQL Injection, Hacking Wireless Networks, Hacking Mobile Platforms, and Evading IDS, Firewalls, and Honeypots.
• How: Register for the exam on the EC-Council website, study the CEH exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CEH is $1,199.
• Maintenance: CEH certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by earning 120 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over a three-year period and paying an annual maintenance fee.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

• Certification: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Purpose: Validates your ability to manage, develop, and oversee information security programs, focusing on areas like risk management, incident management, and governance.
• Why: CISM certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in information security management, improving your career prospects, and potentially leading to higher salaries.
• Issuing organization: ISACA
• Prerequisites: Five years of experience in information security management, with at least three years in information security management across at least three of the CISM domains. Some waivers may apply for related certifications or education.
• Exam format: 150 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit
• Exam content: The CISM exam covers four domains: Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.
• How: Register for the exam on the ISACA website, study the CISM Review Manual and other recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for ISACA members is $575, while non-members pay $760. Additional costs may include study materials and training courses.
• Maintenance: To maintain the CISM certification, you must earn at least 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over a three-year period and pay an annual maintenance fee.

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

• Certification: Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
• Purpose: Validates your expertise in cloud security knowledge and skills, including cloud architecture, data security, legal and compliance issues, and cloud application security.
• Why: CCSP certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your cloud security expertise and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organizations: (ISC)² and the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)
• Prerequisites: Five years of experience in IT, with at least three years in information security, and one year of cloud security experience. Alternatively, you can have a four-year degree or regional equivalent.
• Exam format: 125 multiple-choice questions, 4-hour time limit
• Exam content: The CCSP exam covers six domains, including Cloud Concepts, Architecture and Design, Cloud Data Security, Cloud Platform and Infrastructure Security, Cloud Application Security, and Legal and Compliance.
• How: Register for the exam on the (ISC)² website, study the CCSP exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CCSP is $599.
• Maintenance: To maintain the CCSP certification, you must earn at least 90 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over a three-year period and pay an annual maintenance fee.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security

• Certification: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security
• Purpose: Validates your skills in securing Cisco networks and devices, including firewall, VPN, and intrusion prevention systems.
• Why: CCNA Security certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your ability to secure network infrastructure and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: Cisco
• Prerequisites: Valid Cisco CCENT, CCNA Routing and Switching, or any CCIE certification.
• Exam format: 60-70 multiple-choice questions, 90-minute time limit
• Exam content: The CCNA Security exam covers several topics, including Security Concepts, Secure Access, VPN, Secure Routing and Switching, Cisco Firewall Technologies, and Intrusion Prevention Systems.
• How: Register for the exam on the Cisco website, study the CCNA Security exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CCNA Security is $300.
• Maintenance: CCNA Security certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by passing any Cisco recertification exam or by completing the Continuing Education Program.

GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

• Certification: GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
• Purpose: Validates your practical, hands-on security skills and knowledge, including network security, cryptography, risk management, and incident response.
• Why: GSEC certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in information security and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)
• Prerequisites: None, but recommended to have basic knowledge of TCP/IP and networking concepts.
• Exam format: 180 multiple-choice questions, 5-hour time limit
• Exam content: The GSEC exam covers several topics, including Networking and Protocols, Access Controls, Malware, Incident Handling, and Cryptography.
• How: Register for the exam on the GIAC website, study the GSEC exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for GSEC is $1,899.
• Maintenance: To maintain the GSEC certification, you must earn at least 36 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over a four-year period and pay an annual maintenance fee.

Certified Cyber Security Analyst (CySA+)

• Certification: CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
• Purpose: Validates your skills in behavioral analytics, threat detection, and incident response, focusing on identifying and addressing vulnerabilities and threats within an organization’s network.
• Why: CySA+ certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in identifying and mitigating cyber security risks and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: CompTIA
• Prerequisites: CompTIA Network+ or Security+ certification, or equivalent experience.
• Exam format: 85 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, 165-minute time limit
• Exam content: The CySA+ exam covers several domains, including Threat Management, Vulnerability Management, Cyber Incident Response, Security Architecture and Tool Sets, and Risk Management.
• How: Register for the exam on the CompTIA website, study the CySA+ exam objectives and recommended resources, and take the exam at an approved testing center or through online proctoring.
• Price: The exam fee for CySA+ is $370.
• Maintenance: CySA+ certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by earning 60 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or passing a higher-level certification exam.

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

• Certification: Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
• Purpose: Validates your practical, hands-on skills in penetration testing, focusing on identifying and exploiting vulnerabilities within an organization’s network.
• Why: OSCP certification is highly regarded in the industry, demonstrating your expertise in penetration testing and potentially leading to higher salaries and career advancement.
• Issuing organization: Offensive Security
• Prerequisites: None, but recommended to have knowledge of basic TCP/IP networking concepts, basic Bash/Python scripting, and experience with Linux or Unix-based systems.
• Exam format: 24-hour hands-on penetration testing exam, followed by a written report.
• Exam content: The OSCP exam requires you to identify and exploit vulnerabilities within a network, using your skills in information gathering, network scanning, exploitation, post-exploitation, and report writing.
• How: Register for the exam on the Offensive Security website, study the Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK) course materials and practice labs, and take the exam through the Offensive Security Proving Grounds (OSPG) virtual environment.
• Price: The exam fee for OSCP is $1,150.
• Maintenance: OSCP certification does not have an expiration date, but Offensive Security recommends completing ongoing training and education to maintain your skills and knowledge.

These certifications cater to different skill levels and areas of expertise within the cyber security field. Pursuing relevant certifications can help you stand out in the job market, demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning, and boost your career prospects.

4. Gain Hands-on Experience

Gaining hands-on experience is crucial for beginners in cyber security. Here are some ways to build practical skills and enhance your understanding of the field:

• Set up a home lab: Create a safe, controlled environment using virtual machines or old hardware to experiment with various operating systems, tools, and security configurations.
• Participate in Capture the Flag (CTF) events: CTF competitions provide real-world cyber security challenges, allowing you to develop your skills in areas like vulnerability assessment, reverse engineering, and cryptography.
• Online training platforms: Websites like Hack The Box, TryHackMe, or OverTheWire offer practical exercises and labs that simulate real-world security scenarios, helping you learn by doing.
• Contribute to open-source projects: Get involved in open-source security projects on platforms like GitHub. This not only helps you develop your technical skills but also demonstrates your passion and commitment to potential employers.
• Take on internships: Apply for internships or co-op positions in cyber security-related roles. This will give you invaluable hands-on experience and a better understanding of the industry’s day-to-day operations.
• Attend workshops and boot camps: Look for cyber security workshops, boot camps, or training courses that offer hands-on exercises and practical learning opportunities.
• Network with professionals: Connect with experienced professionals through online forums, social media, or local meetups. They can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and guidance on how to gain hands-on experience.
• Learn from online resources: Many cyber security professionals and organizations share their knowledge through blogs, video tutorials, and podcasts. Use these resources to learn new skills and practice them in your home lab.
• Participate in bug bounty programs: Some companies offer rewards for discovering and reporting security vulnerabilities in their systems. Bug bounty programs can help you sharpen your skills while potentially earning some extra income.
• Volunteer: Offer your skills to non-profit organizations, schools, or community groups that need cyber security help. This allows you to gain real-world experience while making a positive impact.

By pursuing these opportunities, beginners can gain valuable hands-on experience, develop practical skills, and build a strong foundation for a successful career in cyber security.

5. Network with Professionals

Networking with professionals is essential for career growth and development in cyber security. Here are some tips on how to effectively network with professionals in the industry:

1. Attend industry events: Participate in conferences, seminars, and workshops related to cyber security. These events provide excellent opportunities to meet professionals, share knowledge, and learn about industry trends.
2. Join local meetups: Search for local cyber security meetups or groups in your area. These gatherings are usually more casual and focused on networking, making it easier to connect with like-minded individuals.
3. Get involved in online forums and communities: Become an active member of cyber security forums, discussion boards, or social media groups. Share your knowledge, ask questions, and engage with others to build relationships and learn from their experiences.
4. Leverage social media: Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to connect with cyber security professionals, follow industry influencers, and stay informed about industry news and developments.
5. Join professional associations: Organizations like ISSA, ISACA, and (ISC)² offer networking opportunities, resources, and events for their members. Becoming a member can help you expand your professional network and gain access to industry-specific knowledge.
6. Build a strong online presence: Create a blog, website, or portfolio showcasing your skills, projects, and accomplishments. This helps you establish credibility and makes it easier for professionals to discover and connect with you.
7. Ask for informational interviews: Reach out to professionals in your desired field or role and request an informational interview. This allows you to learn more about their experiences, gather advice, and build relationships.
8. Follow up and maintain connections: After meeting professionals, be sure to follow up with a thank-you message, connect on social media, or share relevant articles and resources. Keep in touch and nurture your relationships over time.

By actively networking with professionals in the cyber security field, you can gain valuable insights, access new opportunities, and create a strong support system for your career growth.

6. Target Top Cyber Security Companies

Once you’ve built a strong foundation, it’s time to target leading cyber security companies like:

• IBM: A global tech giant offering a wide range of security services; the average salary for a cyber security analyst is around $80,000.
• Cisco: Networking leader with security solutions like firewalls and intrusion prevention; cyber security analyst salaries average $85,000.
• Palo Alto Networks: Known for next-gen firewalls and cloud security; cyber security engineer salaries average around $120,000.
• Check Point Software: Specializes in network security, endpoint protection, and mobile security; cyber security analyst salaries average $85,000.
• Symantec (Broadcom): Leader in antivirus and endpoint protection; cyber security engineer salaries average around $100,000.
• Fortinet: Offers a variety of security solutions like firewalls, VPNs, and endpoint protection; cyber security analyst salaries average $85,000.
• FireEye: Focuses on threat intelligence and incident response; cyber security engineer salaries average around $110,000.
• CrowdStrike: Cloud-native endpoint protection and threat intelligence provider; cyber security analyst salaries average $90,000.

Please note that these salary figures are approximate and may vary depending on the specific role, company, location, and experience level.

7. Keep Learning and Stay Updated

• Scripting languages: Learning scripting languages like Bash, PowerShell, or Perl helps automate tasks, parse logs, and manage system configurations, making you more efficient in your work.
• Virtualization: Understanding virtualization technologies (VMware, Hyper-V, VirtualBox) is essential for securing virtual environments, managing virtual machines, and isolating security incidents.
• Database management: Familiarity with database management systems (SQL, NoSQL) and their security best practices is crucial for protecting sensitive data and preventing unauthorized access.
• Secure software development: Learning secure coding practices, like input validation and secure session management, helps you develop more robust applications resistant to common vulnerabilities.
• Mobile security: With the widespread use of mobile devices, expertise in mobile security (Android, iOS) allows you to identify and address mobile-specific vulnerabilities and protect sensitive data.
• Identity and access management (IAM): Knowledge of IAM concepts, like authentication, authorization, and single sign-on (SSO), helps secure user access to systems and prevent unauthorized access.
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Understanding SIEM tools, like Splunk or LogRhythm, enables you to analyze log data and detect potential security threats in real-time.
• Endpoint protection: Familiarity with endpoint protection tools (antivirus, EDR, DLP) helps you secure individual devices, like laptops and mobile phones, against malware and data breaches.
• Firewalls and VPNs: Understanding how firewalls and VPNs work and how to configure them is crucial for securing network perimeters and enabling secure remote access.
• IoT security: As IoT devices become more prevalent, knowledge of IoT security best practices helps you secure connected devices and protect against potential risks.
• Project management: Skills like organization, communication, and time management are essential for leading security projects; consider obtaining a PMP or PRINCE2 certification.
• Soft skills: Developing communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities will help you excel in your cyber security career and collaborate effectively with colleagues.
• Continuous learning: Stay updated on the latest trends, vulnerabilities, and emerging technologies by attending conferences, webinars, and workshops, or joining industry-specific forums and communities.

By exploring and developing these technical skills, you can broaden your expertise in cyber security and be better prepared to handle a wide range of security challenges.

Pro Tips

• Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant skills and certifications for each job application.
• Practice your interview skills, including technical questions and behavioral scenarios.
• Consider pursuing a degree in a related field, like computer science or information systems, to further boost your credentials.

FAQs

🔎 What is the best cyber security certification to get?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on your career goals, interests, and experience level. Some popular certifications include CISSP, CISM, CEH, CySA+, and OSCP.

🕑 How long does it take to get a cyber security certification?

The time it takes to get a cyber security certification varies depending on the certification and your experience level. Some certifications require prerequisites, such as a certain amount of experience or completion of training programs, while others do not. On average, it can take several months to a year or more to prepare for and earn a certification.

💰 Are cyber security certifications worth it?

Yes, cyber security certifications can be worth it in terms of career advancement and higher salaries. They demonstrate your skills and knowledge in the field, and can help you stand out among other candidates when applying for jobs.

💻 Can I study for a cyber security certification online?

Yes, many cyber security certifications offer online training programs and study materials, and some exams can even be taken online through remote proctoring.

🎓 Do I need a degree to get a cyber security certification?

No, a degree is not always required to earn a cyber security certification, but it may be helpful for certain certifications or job positions. Experience and hands-on skills are often more important in the cyber security field than formal education.

🤔 How do I know which cyber security certification is right for me?

Consider your career goals, interests, and experience level when choosing a cyber security certification. Research the different certifications and their requirements, as well as the job positions and industries they are most commonly associated with. You can also seek advice from professionals in the field or online communities.

Conclusion

Breaking into the cyber security field is undoubtedly challenging, but with the right mindset and strategy, you can achieve your goals. By following these seven essential steps, earning relevant certifications, and networking with industry professionals, you’ll be well on your way to launching a rewarding and successful career in cyber security. Remember, perseverance and continuous learning are the keys to success in this exciting and ever-evolving field. Good luck!