Reports predict that there will be a gap of 1.8 million jobs in Cybersecurity by 2022. There has never been a better time to get into the networking & cybersecurity profession. Growing demand and increased salaries and job opportunities are promising.
So, what it takes to start a Networking & Cybersecurity career?
- Experience : In most cases, you don’t need any cybersecurity experience to get started, but similar skills such as system administration or data analysis is most apt for a cybersecurity career. If you possess specific transferable skills, the career in Cybersecurity is an assured start. From entry-level jobs to expert positions, industry-standard certifications combined with past experience will give you a head-start in the cybersecurity profession.
- Get Involved: Indulge yourself in learning the ethical hacking skills, you need to attain the mindset from both a business and technical perspective. Online forums, workshops and networking with like-minded people will help you gain knowledge of the area.
- Analytical Skills : People with analytical skills do well in this profession. You would need to analyze and think like a hacker, come up with innovative solutions to handle any issues and threats to the business. The role requires you to cover all of the possible vulnerabilities and aspects of a system.
- Communication Skills: Communication skills are a must for IT professionals as they work as part of large teams. Presenting data to a non-technical audience, creating reports and sharing findings with the team is imperative.
- How can you stand out?: The qualifications you need will depend on your career path. Even if you are from a non-technology background, it is not impossible to enter the cybersecurity domain. You would have to start from the foundational course and may have to put in extra effort to gain required skill set.
Certifications in Cybersecurity to get you started
When it comes to the technology sector, companies prefer certifications and experience over college degrees. Professional certifications that are globally recognized is an excellent way to start the career. Some of the foundational certifications include:
- CSCU– Certified Secure Computer User, a foundation course in Cyber security essentials.
- CompTIA Security+ – An entry-level exam to kick-start your career in Cyber security.
- ECES– Certified Encryption Specialist, testing your basics of applying encryption.
As you gain experience, there is a range of certifications to test your advanced skills. Both formal and informal organizations offer networking events, even if you are not active on social networks, stay up to date with the industry for the latest happenings through expert blogs.
——
Still confused about whether networking and cybersecurity a right career choice? Talk to our subject matter experts, who can help you guide through the process. BizTech College offers a variety of technology programs and industry certifications that will help you fast-track your career. Check out our technology programs, click here.