In contrast, network security focuses on vulnerabilities in the connections between devices. The good news is, the job outlook for IT security specialists is exceptionally strong—and only getting better. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this sector is projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Plus, demand for this role continues to be exceptionally high with no signs of slowing.
These companies may hold job fairs, put on conferences and provide resources for connecting with peers and employers. Consider some of the following professional organizations for cybersecurity workers. This certification from the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is an entry-level security credential for those with some background in information systems and networking. Earning this credential validates your skills in security tasks like active defense, network security, cryptography, incident response, and cloud security. CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level security certification that validates the core skills needed in any cybersecurity role.
How to Become an IT Security Specialist
Employers may also view a degree as a sign of focus and discipline, core skills for security specialists. Cybersecurity workers and information security specialists both protect valuable information and data. However, cybersecurity prevents access by bad actors, and information security considers aspects like the availability and confidentiality of data. Information security specialists may handle aspects like multifactor authentication and access to physical information storage areas. Payscale reports an average annual cybersecurity salary of around $92,000, and these wages typically increase with experience.
According to Glassdoor.com, the national average salary for an cybersecurity specialist is $95,689 based on a scale that checks in at $45,000 per year on the low end and up to $102,000 per year at the high end. The pay rate can depend on the industry—for example, companies such as Target pay as much as $155,892 per year for an IT security specialist, while Boeing offers an annual salary of $119,450. The U.S. Army also offers $4,244 per month for their IT security specialist roles.
Types of Cybersecurity
Most IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a related field; these programs typically take four years to complete as a full-time student. Companies are listing more cybersecurity jobs and paying higher salaries than ever because it is difficult to find strong, qualified talent in this industry. 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.
- At the app level, infrastructure security professionals develop and deploy effective databases to prevent access by bad actors.
- If you’re still gaining experience with networking and information systems, this could be a good place to start.
- Employers may also view a degree as a sign of focus and discipline, core skills for security specialists.
- There are numerous opportunities for highly technical roles, like cybersecurity specialists and developers, at cybersecurity companies.
Keep in mind that most certification exams require significant preparation, and some include experience requirements. While most cybersecurity professionals have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, many companies prefer candidates who also have a certification to validate knowledge of best practices. There are hundreds of certifications available, from general to vendor-specific, entry-level to advanced.
CASP+ is an advanced certification that validates critical thinking and judgment across a spectrum of security disciplines in complex environments. Network+ certifies the essential skills needed to confidently design, configure, manage and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+.
Others consider these cybersecurity careers to exist under the same umbrella of computer security. The following section explores differences among various subsets of cybersecurity. The CISSP certification from the cybersecurity professional organization (ISC)² ranks among the most sought-after credentials in the https://deveducation.com/ industry. Earning your CISSP demonstrates that you’re experienced in IT security and capable of designing, implementing, and monitoring a cybersecurity program. If you’re just starting out in the world of cybersecurity, consider an entry-level credential, like the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate.