What Is a Cybersecurity Specialist?
Cybersecurity specialists play a key role in securing information systems. By monitoring, detecting, investigating, analyzing, and responding to security events, cybersecurity specialists protect systems from cybersecurity risks, threats, and vulnerabilities.
Cybersecurity specialists work on IT teams that are dedicated to protecting the integrity of the business’s network and data. Traditionally, network operations and IT technology supplemented the core business. But increasingly, the success of a business relies on the success and capability of its network. As a result, employees dedicated full time to cybersecurity have gone from being a luxury to a necessity.
Contact Cisco
-
-
Call Sales:
- 1-800-553-6387
- US/CAN | 5am-5pm PT
What jobs are available in cybersecurity?
Demand for cybersecurity professionals is soaring. Companies are listing more cybersecurity jobs and paying higher salaries than ever because it is difficult to find strong, qualified talent in this industry.
There are numerous opportunities for highly technical roles, like cybersecurity specialists and developers, at cybersecurity companies. Many large corporations are also setting up their own cybersecurity taskforces and are increasingly hiring cybersecurity specialists.
Cybersecurity operations jobs are among the fastest-growing roles in IT, as organizations set up security operations centers (SOCs) and establish IT security teams to monitor and respond to global security incidents.
How do I become a cybersecurity specialist?
Many cybersecurity specialist job listings require significant technical experience. An undergraduate degree in cybersecurity is now an option. In addition, Introduction to Cybersecurity is a free course offered by Cisco’s Net Academy. There are also many opportunities to pursue further education in cybersecurity. Cisco’s CyberOps Associate certification advanced certification helps prepare candidates for careers in cybersecurity.
Is a computer science degree enough to get hired?
A computer science degree provides a foundation in information technology (IT), including understanding TCP/IP protocols that are at the core of all networking. Further educational certification may help professionals get a job in cybersecurity. The CCNA Cyber Ops certification program provides practical, relevant, and job-ready curricula that aligns closely with the specific tasks expected of cybersecurity professionals. However, the qualifications required for a cybersecurity job can vary from employer to employer.
The cybersecurity industry is changing rapidly. The level of innovation is staggering. Regardless of your degree, it is important to constantly educate yourself on new technologies and threats. Sometimes, this may mean taking additional cyber certifications or classes after you are hired.