Raise your cybersecurity career success factors by knowing first the cybersecurity certification path. In this article, learn how certifications can grow your career in cybersecurity. Also, know what specific certifications are necessary for some cybersecurity careers.
Why Consider Cybersecurity As A Career
The technology field today is ever-growing mighty in number and in sophistication. However, as much as it advances, crimes and illicit access through it are also growing on an alarming scale.
No matter what type of business or industry one might be in, all concerns cybersecurity.
Because of this, it proves true that landing a career in the field is like landing a career that can serve you for a lifetime.
Technology is not getting away, it is here to stay, and so does cybersecurity.
Dealing with cybersecurity, you not only deal with computers and a series of networks. But you are in fact protecting them. For instance, from illicit entries of attacks and threats. And so you are affecting not only the company, but also the people in it, and the people it is serving to.
Sadly, threats today amount to more than the number of qualified skills that they can cater to. That is why today, industries are experiencing a talent shortage in cybersecurity.
As a result, career opportunities are growing.
So if you are planning to jump into a career in cybersecurity, here is a quick tip for you. Test the waters first by knowing the certification path. Doing so will not only make you qualified but be more competent in the job.
Starting Out the Career
There is no specific way of entering into the cybersecurity field. In fact, every cybersecurity man entered the field straight out of college. While others gained experience as they go through studying. On the other hand, others simply shifted careers from a relevant path.
But of course, this career path all begins with IT education. It can be a degree in information technology or computer science. What is vital is you understand technology. By doing so, you will know how to protect it.
Perhaps one might consider first trying entry-level jobs. These jobs can serve as your feeder roles, which can lead you to more career opportunities in the long run.
For example:
- Systems administrator
- Web administrator
- Web developer
- Database administrator
- IT technician
- Network engineer
- Computer software engineer
Why Certifications Matter in Cybersecurity
Certifications matter and adds weight to cybersecurity professions. Also, certifications tell your expertise and span of knowledge in a certain field.
It cannot only add competence but it can raise job promotions and salaries. In fact, some job positions require specific certifications for you to qualify.
Up to 35 percent of jobs in cybersecurity require an industry certification. This is in comparison with 23 percent of the overall IT jobs in general.
Cybersecurity Certification Path in Growing Careers: Examples
Security Consultant
Security consultants assess problems and create solutions. They deal broadly with cybersecurity. As their name suggests, they serve as consultants.
The following certifications are required for the job, for instance:
- Intermediate: CEH of Certified Ethical Hacker; CySA+ or Cybersecurity Analyst
- Expert: CISSP or Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Penetration Tester
Penetration testers or ethical hackers identify weaknesses in systems and networks in a hacker’s eye. To do so, they use tools.
The following certifications are required.
For example:
- Intermediate: CEH of Certified Ethical Hacker
- Expert: CISSP or Certified Information Systems Security Professional
