In a world where hackers and malicious software are everywhere, it’s vital to understand cybersecurity, how you can get involved, and the benefits of doing so. With the rise of cybercrime, it’s no wonder that more people are interested in cybersecurity careers.
When it comes to profession, cybersecurity is an excellent career for those looking for stability who want to be successful and have a good income.
Is Cybersecurity a Good Career?
Cybersecurity is a promising career because of the growing technology industry, the high-income potential, and the goal of staying ahead of cybercriminals. One must keep up with trends in this profession to remain viable in this highly competitive field. In light of the increasing technological significance and criminal activities, cybersecurity technical skills and qualifications are critical to a functioning society.
Cybersecurity is exciting, but you must consider your career options before deciding. So, let’s get into further details of this profession.
1. Growing Technology Industry
Cybersecurity is expanding and continues to require qualified professionals.
According to Statista, industry analysts predict that the global cybersecurity market will expand to $345.4 billion by 2026.
Securing networks and computer systems from unlawful online access is the goal of cybersecurity specialists. They defend and prevent attacks from hackers, malware, and other online hazards.
For individuals seeking what a cybersecurity specialist performs, you can expect that your obligations may include developing, assessing, modifying, or deploying cybersecurity mechanisms across technologies like:
- Computers
- Servers
- Data Centre
- Mobile
- Gadgets
These individuals frequently collaborate with other IT experts, particularly software developers.
Additionally, prospects must have the technical, moral, and strategic qualities to flourish in this industry.
2. A Promising Career
For many individuals, Cybersecurity is a promising career. There is minimal unemployment, and compensation can lead to high salaries.
Moreover, the competition for good employees enables staff to enjoy a healthy work-life balance, enhanced employment security, and exciting and rewarding commitments.
However, since you are the go-to person whenever something goes wrong, like a data breach, employment in this profession enables you to undergo stress and demanding hours.
Additionally, there are continuous learning opportunities because employees need to keep updated with developing trends and brand-new knowledge to enhance their skills.
Professionals in this industry may be eligible to take advantage of benefits, including flexible working hours, online employment opportunities, and decent compensation packages.
Learn more: Is Cybersecurity hard?
3. High Income Potential
Cybersecurity professionals have a vast earning capacity in one of the highest-paying sectors in the economy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the typical yearly salary for a cybersecurity analyst is $113,270, with top earners making over $170,000.
This industry also has some specializations that reward significantly, such as:
- Cybersecurity manager: $151,902
- Cybersecurity engineer: $100,303
- Penetration tester: $121,378
Lastly, cybersecurity professionals generally receive a generous benefits package when working full-time for an organization. These benefits include:
- Sick leave
- Matching pension
- Bonuses
- Paid time off
- Health insurance
While the highest-paying cities in the US include:
- Rosemead CA
- Houston, TX
- New York, NY
4. Passion for Technology Security
Interests and passions driving cybersecurity professionals are a passion for technology security and safeguarding against cyber criminals.
These professionals take pride in their work since they know it helps secure individuals’ welfare and security.
Additionally, despite the challenges, they are seen as exceptional employees because of their devotion to the goal.
Employees also gain a lot of satisfaction, keeping them on their toes and stimulating their minds.
As a result, it’s no surprise that cyber security experts exhibit some of the most potent levels of job fulfillment across all IT roles.
5. Qualifications in Cybersecurity
Aspiring cyber professionals can receive essential knowledge through university courses and degree programs such as,
- Associate degrees generally involve 60 credits over two years.
- Bachelor’s degrees take four years and 120 credits to complete.
- Master’s degrees can be completed in as short as 12 months and only require 30 credits.
- Doctoral degrees require between 3 and 7 years to attain and frequently necessitate an extra 60 credits.
One can also get a job in cybersecurity without a degree. However, one needs to demonstrate their expertise and skills. Here are some of the processes, such as self-learning and acquiring:
- Short courses certifications
- Joining bootcamps
However, higher education institutions that provide cybersecurity degrees must be regionally accredited. In addition, undergraduate programs should be accredited by ABET.
6. Cybersecurity Technical Skills
Technical skills for cybersecurity are an excellent starting point when going over job specifications.
Among the technological skills necessary for this career are the following:
- Network Security Management
- C++, Python, and Java coding
- Cloud Security
- Blockchain Security
- The Internet of Things (IoT)
In their work as cybersecurity analysts, a range of tools are used, including:
- Network Security Surveillance
- Detection of Network Intrusions
- Antivirus Programs
- Penetration Evaluation
- Encryption
- Web Sensitivity
Other competencies that can benefit your transitions into this sector include
- Risk assessment,
- Data security,
- Security issue handling & management,
- Security testing, and
- Laws and regulations.
Overall, ensure you stay updated regarding recent hacks and obtain skills in working with new technology tools.
7. Bootcamps, Internships, and Certifications
Bootcamps and certifications can accompany cybersecurity degrees or provide a professional advancement roadmap.
These programs typically promote hands-on learning to mirror real-world situations.
While completing an internship, learners received training in email security and management, phishing investigation, cloud security, file servers, endpoint security, and interpersonal skills.
Entry-level employees also perform duties in an organization’s information technology department, including:
- Educating staff on appropriate computer security procedures
- Assistance with more sophisticated projects, such as databases development
- Program development for asset recovery
8. Massive Industry Expansion
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that in this decade, employment in the field of cybersecurity will expand at a pace of 35% annually, with 19500 new jobs added yearly.
At the same time, by 2025, 3.5 million cybersecurity positions are expected to become accessible, as projected by Cybercrime Magazine.
Here are the top five fields requiring cybersecurity professionals:
- Financial services
- Advanced technologies Information
- Government
- Professional services and consulting
Therefore, there will be an increase in the employment of cybersecurity professionals in various positions.
- Entry-Level Roles (Cybersecurity Specialist, Cybercrime Analyst, IT Auditor)
- Mid-Level Roles (Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Consultant)
- Advanced Roles (Cybersecurity Manager, Cybersecurity Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect)
Overall, we expect an expansion of the cybersecurity workforce globally in the coming years.
9. Pick a Lifestyle
From a cybersecurity employer’s standpoint, you must be flexible, adaptive, and ready to switch directions depending on client demands.
Additionally, the eight to ten hours comprising a typical day are spent enhancing the customer experience, technology acquisition, network development, and problem-solving.
On the other hand, you can work from anywhere with a variety of cybersecurity careers. In addition, you may own an RV and tour the world while preserving your employment and income.
Lastly, most cybersecurity-related occupations are moderate to low-stress.
10. Self Employment
There are several self-employment chances in cybersecurity that any of us can enjoy the benefits of, which frees up more time for hobbies and activities.
As a result, one can choose a location with good schools and attractive homes that match them and their family, move there, settle in, and begin freelancing.
As mentioned, those who work in Cybersecurity can successfully manage their personal and professional lives.
You can work 40 hours weekly and take enjoyment in your spare time. Above all, they are also rewarded well for their work.
11. Exhausting Hours and Cyberattacks
Cybersecurity professionals deal with long hours and on-call schedules because cyber attacks are a severe problem.
In case of a breach, staff may have to answer emails while on vacation, alternate on-call on weekends, or even work from Friday am until Sunday night in the workplace.
Some of their tasks, such as reviewing incident logs and holding conferences, may be tedious or repetitive.
Last but not least, learning never ceases. To stay in place, they must continually acquire new knowledge.
12. Remote Work
Professionals in the field of cybersecurity operate in a range of settings, including:
- Working from home or remotely
- Offices
- Client Site
Some also work in a partially protected space, closed to the public, and might even have security staff on-site, such as in the US Department of Homeland Security.
These professionals have embraced remote and hybrid work arrangements while being seen as many businesses’ front-line defenders.
Companies usually provide the tools employees need, including a laptop or computer and VPN connections, and may pay them back for using their home internet access.
Overall, hybrid or entirely remote employment has rewards for cybersecurity professionals that lessen stress.
13. Interstate and Overseas Work Opportunities
Professionals in Cybersecurity may be deployed overseas by their company to participate in a project or accomplish a contract.
Having fluency in the local tongue could boost a cybersecurity professional’s future job prospects.
According to surveys, Singapore has the greatest need for cybersecurity analysts and engineers. However, DC is one of the most sought-after metropolises in the US for cybersecurity employment.
In addition to possible travel opportunities between the remote country and the United States, these roles may offer an allowance to cover living expenses such as housing, transit, and meals.
Additionally, other nations also need cybersecurity professionals such as:
- Germany
- Canada
- Austria
- Japan
- Australia
In European countries, Luxembourg compensates more than any other nation.
To learn more, you can also see our posts on Web Development, Digital Marketing, Programming, Computer Science, Network Engineering, Blockchain Developer, and Data Analytics.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the world of cyber security is exciting. This career path has everything from high salaries and potential self-employment to spending more time with family and friends.
As technology continues to be an integral part of our day-to-day lives, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals will grow. You could enjoy a satisfying career in this exciting field with a little hard work and dedication.