Cyber security is the protection of information and data on computer networks, often via encryption and authentication technologies, as well as monitoring of such activities in order to detect unauthorized access or other malicious activity.
In our increasingly digital world, cyber security has become not only increasingly important but also increasingly necessary. With cyber-attacks becoming both more frequent and more sophisticated by the day, it’s now vital that everyone takes an active role in defending against these attacks, especially those with the skills to do so effectively.
Security is a very important part of every business today. From small to large, information technology and cyber-crime are becoming more prevalent with every passing day. Due to its growing importance, one can consider cybersecurity as one of their career options after school.
The world has grown more dependent on computers and if you want to safeguard your computer from potential threats online such as identity theft or viruses, you need to take extra precautions. For example, you can create strong passwords or try antivirus software that could also protect your system.
Also Read: Job Opportunities And Future Scope Of Cyber Security In India
Future of Cyber Security
Despite the ubiquity of cybercrime, effective cybersecurity practices are still surprisingly uncommon. As ransomware becomes more common and widespread and IT attacks become more severe, future demand for cybersecurity professionals will skyrocket.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that between now and 2026, jobs related to information security will increase by nearly 30 percent — much faster than average. If you’re interested in becoming a cybersecurity professional, now may be one of your best opportunities yet.
Cyber Security Profiles
With more than 13,000 jobs, Cyber Security Analyst remains one of the most popular and in-demand cybersecurity positions on Indeed. Many people have no idea what to expect from a cybersecurity analyst role—but you’ll be spending your days protecting an organization from cyber threats (aka hackers). Analysts are often tasked with developing countermeasures, monitoring network activity, evaluating network or system performance and identifying areas of vulnerability.
Whether it’s securing your organization’s communications networks or determining how vulnerable its online presence may be—cybersecurity analysts are essential to organizations’ digital safety.
The country, in particular, has seen a sharp increase in pay for cyber security jobs and that’s just one factor that makes India an increasingly attractive location. As demand increases and awareness spreads, cybersecurity experts are increasingly looking to develop their skills on site rather than rely on offshoring firms. In fact, there are dozens of Indian businesses that offer training courses designed specifically to teach IT, and security professionals, how to protect their data from cybercrime.
A number of institutes also offer undergraduate degrees in information technology along with postgraduate qualifications like master’s degrees in information security management.
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Network Security Engineer is an entry-level career opportunity for individuals who want to work in areas of computer and information technology (IT) networks. Network Security Engineers are responsible for protecting, analyzing, repairing and managing computer and network systems. They also develop, test and implement new strategies to protect systems from hackers or other forms of malicious intrusions. People looking at careers with Network Security Engineers must possess critical thinking skills since they will be responsible to safeguard their employer’s network infrastructure.
Cyber Security Analyst: These professionals develop, test and monitor cybersecurity systems. They often work with commercial software to understand vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Their work can lead to improvements to existing products or development of new ones. They also provide guidance on how to best secure an organization’s hardware and software. A bachelor’s degree is required for most jobs; majors include computer science, information technology or electrical engineering.
Security Architect: The Security Architect takes care of all aspects of information protection, including physical and technical safeguards. In addition to identifying and assessing threats and vulnerabilities, they may also build emergency recovery systems or disaster plans. Even if your company doesn’t have an official Security Architect on staff, you may end up doing some similar work on your own time.
Cyber Security Manager: A career as a cyber security manager can be extremely lucrative, especially if you are experienced enough to run your own business. According to studies from 2013, an estimated 1.5 million jobs were available in cyber security, and that number was projected to increase by nearly 40 percent over the next five years. A bachelor’s degree is commonly required to pursue roles such as cyber security manager or similar positions at major companies; however, an associate’s degree will typically suffice for entry-level roles where no prior experience is necessary. These can be excellent first steps toward becoming a cyber security manager or help you build up additional skillsets when coupled with practical work experience through internships or entry-level positions at corporations.
Also Read: The Growing Need For Cyber Security Experts
Cyber Security Engineers: From securing data from internal and external hackers to preventing fraud, security engineers are among one of the most important cogs in an organization’s digital machine. They’re also one of fastest-growing occupations—the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment will grow by 30 percent over the next 10 years. Moreover, demand for cybersecurity experts is set to increase by 38 percent over that same time period. Here’s why: As networked systems continue to spread throughout every aspect of our economy and culture, their value grows commensurately.
Ethical Hackers: The core responsibility of an ethical hacker is to use his skills to test and probe systems, so that vulnerabilities can be identified before actual hackers get their hands on them. Ethical hackers must have an understanding of hacking techniques and methods, but they also must adhere to rules put forth by their employer or clients, since they’re not acting maliciously. The best ethical hackers are highly analytical, have strong communication skills, and enjoy solving complex problems.
Also Read: Why You Should Choose Cyber Security As A Specialization In Computer Science Engineering?
Tips on Learning Cyber Security
Before you can choose to become a cybersecurity expert, there are some skills you need to acquire. Some of these skills can be taught, while others come with time and experience.
You’ll likely learn these skills on your own by taking courses, practicing on your own, or participating in an internship or apprenticeship program; it’s recommended that you check with local colleges and online schools to see what kind of cyber defense certifications they offer.
