In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is more important than ever before. With the increasing number of data breaches and cyberattacks, businesses and organizations are in high demand for infosecurity professionals who can safeguard their data and systems from malicious intruders.
But breaking into this field can seem daunting. How do you acquire the right skills and knowledge to become an infosecurity professional?
In this article, we’ll discuss the demand for infosecurity professionals, investing in infosecurity education and training, unconventional approaches to breaking into the field, and the importance of having non-technical skills. The Demand for Infosecurity Professionals:
Data breaches are becoming more common, and as a result, there is a high demand for cybersecurity talent.
According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs worldwide by 2021. This means that there is a significant shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, which makes it a great time to break into the field.
Investing in Infosecurity Education and Training:
If you’re looking to break into infosecurity, education and certifications are crucial to your success. There are many certification classes available online, such as Udemy, Khan Academy, and Veracode.
These courses are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an infosecurity professional. In addition to certifications, it’s also important to add security elements to your IT projects.
As an IT professional, incorporating security into your projects will show your potential employers that you understand the importance of cybersecurity. Unconventional Approaches to Breaking into Infosecurity:
If you don’t have a background in IT or cybersecurity, there are still ways to break into the field.
Entry-level positions, volunteering, and taking courses are all excellent ways to gain experience and knowledge in the field. Entry-level positions can provide you with hands-on experience, while volunteering can give you the opportunity to work on real-world projects while making connections in the industry.
Taking courses on cybersecurity-related topics can also help you gain knowledge and skills. Infosecurity Beyond Technical Skills:
Having non-technical skills is just as important as having technical ones.
Cybercriminals often use social engineering tactics to gain access to systems, which means that being aware of these tactics and how to prevent them is crucial. In addition, knowledge of design and psychology can also be helpful in understanding cybersecurity.
Conclusion:
Breaking into the infosecurity field can seem overwhelming, but with the right knowledge, skills, and training, it’s possible to become a successful cybersecurity professional. Investing in certifications and education, incorporating security into your IT projects, and utilizing unconventional approaches to gain experience are all great ways to break into the field.
Additionally, having non-technical skills can make you a valuable asset to any company or organization that needs to safeguard their data and systems from cybercriminals.
Starting Somewhere to Break into Infosecurity
Breaking into the infosecurity field can seem daunting for those who are new to the industry. However, there are a few ways to make the transition more approachable, including connecting job postings to required skill sets, starting small with entry-level positions, and paying attention to small security aspects.
Connecting Job Postings to Required Skill Sets:
Many job seekers overlook the importance of the required skill sets listed in a job posting. However, these lists can provide valuable information on what skills are necessary to enter the infosecurity field.
Look for job postings that have skill sets that align with your background and education, then focus on enhancing those skills. For instance, if the required skill sets include proficiency in Python, you can take courses or join communities that specialize in Python programming.
Starting Small with Entry-Level Positions:
Entry-level positions are an excellent way to start your journey into the field of information security. Some phone companies have entry-level positions that focus specifically on cybersecurity, so consider looking for roles with these companies.
Additionally, volunteering to work on cybersecurity projects can help you gain hands-on experience while making connections in the industry. Taking courses, listed in online learning platforms like Udemy or Coursera, on fundamental topics such as cybersecurity can provide experience to showcase in your CV.
Paying Attention to Small Security Aspects:
Paying attention to small security aspects shows thoroughness and dedication to cybersecurity. For example, checking the server room for old equipment or prohibited items, such as personal devices or USB drives, can help ensure that systems remain secure.
Recognizing and dealing with phishing emails, fake emails sent by hackers, can also be crucial in preventing cybersecurity attacks. By paying attention to small security aspects, you’ll develop the attention to detail needed to excel as an information security professional.
Breaking into Infosecurity Beyond Technical Skills
Breaking into the field of information security involves more than simply technical skills. Broadening your view on information security, understanding the importance of human-computer interactions, and recognizing that infosecurity jobs are expected to continue to grow are all critical.
Broadening the View of Information Security:
To broaden your view of information security, consider how topics in economics, political science and psychology tie into cybersecurity. By recognizing how these areas relate to information security, you’ll have a more informed and well-rounded perspective on the field.
For example, understanding cryptocurrency’s effect on cybercrime can help secure blockchain-related systems. Increasing Importance of Human-Computer Interactions:
With the dawn of the Internet of Things, the importance of human-computer interactions has only increased.
It is essential to understand the principles behind human-computer interfaces and how these interactions relate to information security. Understanding how people interact with technology can help you design technologically robust systems that take people’s behavior into account.
Infosecurity Jobs Expected to Continue to Grow:
The infosecurity field is expected to experience continued growth, and top-level executives will be seeking skilled professionals to ensure that their systems remain secure. According to a report by Cybersecurity Ventures, the global cybersecurity market is expected to reach $300 billion by 2024.
Therefore, the field of infosecurity can open doors to a plethora of opportunities and is an excellent choice for those considering a career change. In conclusion, breaking into the infosecurity industry requires a blend of technical and non-technical skills.
By connecting job postings to required skill sets, starting small with entry-level positions or exposure opportunities, and paying attention to small security aspects, you can begin to build a strong foundation in the field. Broadening your view to encompass areas such as economics, political science and psychology, understanding the significance of human-computer interactions, and recognizing the anticipated growth of the infosecurity industry are all critical for success in this field.
In conclusion, breaking into the field of information security requires a mix of technical expertise, education, and broadening your view of the field. Key tactics to start include: connecting job postings to required skill sets, starting small with entry-level positions, and being mindful of small security aspects.
Additionally, broadening your understanding to include economics, political science, and psychology will help to prepare you for the increasingly sophisticated nature of the industry. With the field expected to continue experiencing growth, there is a great opportunity for those entering the industry to make a significant impact and contribute to securing networks and systems for years to come.