The following section explores the requirements for becoming a cybersecurity analyst. This guide offers information on how to become a cybersecurity analyst, along with details on other cybersecurity roles such as information security specialist. If you’re wondering how to get into cybersecurity, read on to explore salaries, job outlooks and available certifications in the field. Explore the necessary certifications for security specialists and learn more about the educational requirements for this profession. Start your journey to becoming a security specialist by earning one of these certifications. Review professional expectations, median salaries, typical responsibilities, and required skills for security specialists.

This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. CASP+ is an advanced certification that validates critical thinking and judgment across a spectrum of security disciplines in complex environments. Certifications like ITF+, CompTIA A+ and Network+ give you the background you need if you don’t already have it, and CompTIA Security+ is recommended to begin your career as a Cybersecurity Professional. Find out how different WGU is about personalizing and supporting your education.

IT Security Specialist Skills & Responsibilities

For data, this field protects information by building structures for backups and encryption. As a discipline within network engineering, this field covers protection against breaches for interconnected electronics rather than individual databases or devices. Network security professionals use firewalls, physical hardware and education efforts to safeguard against intrusions and retain lost data. Students can attend university job fairs, ask professors about internship opportunities, and join IT security organizations. Groups like the Information Systems Security Association International host conferences and seminars that provide ample networking opportunities.

• There are a number of network-oriented professional cybersecurity organizations and groups that are specifically designed to alert members about job openings and professional development opportunities.
• In all professions, networking offers a reliable pathway to finding job opportunities.
• This specialty may focus on safeguarding sensitive items using structures like generators, security systems and locks.

Before shifting to education-related content, he worked in the wine industry, editing tasting notes and reviews. Matt lives in Warrington, Pennsylvania, where he spends his free time watching movies with his family and recording music. Workers in this specialty area may spearhead organizational efforts to create stronger passwords or limit web browsing to trusted sites. Discover programs you’re interested in and take charge of your education.

Licensing or Certifications for

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Security remains a top concern for IT hiring managers as the frequency and devastation of cyber attacks rise. Organizations hire security specialists to prevent security breaches, which involves identifying any system how to become a security specialist weaknesses that a cyber criminal might exploit. A security specialist should also research evolving risks (new methods that cyber criminals employ) and implement changes that take all known risks into account.