Which Cybersecurity Career Is Right for You?
Due to the pandemic, many businesses have shifted their operations online. While this has allowed teams to continue working despite the changes in setup, hosting data on the worldwide web comes with added security vulnerabilities. Last year, TechRadar reported that corporate networks experienced 50% more attacks compared to 2020. The industries with the highest reported volume of cyberattacks were education and research, government and military, and communications and media.
Consequently, careers in the field are currently in demand. According to the Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2022, 59% of the respondents even fear falling victim to cyberattacks due to the lack of cybersecurity skills in their team.
The demand is there; the threat is imminent. If this is a field you’d like to pursue, below are some cybersecurity careers that will suit you:
Security Architect
The first step in protecting a system from attacks is to have security designed for it. A security architect’s job is to create a security system. They also handle the implementation and management of security infrastructure.
This job will suit you if you have skills in analytical thinking, working with data, and designing programs. Since this job involves management, you should also be able to communicate well and educate a team, review their work, and recommend solutions to stakeholders.
Cybersecurity Analyst
A cybersecurity analyst makes themselves knowledgeable about their company’s IT infrastructure to protect it from cyberattacks. They monitor the system at all times and identify potential threats to prevent them from happening. Additionally, they improve the company’s network security system to protect their data.
If you are knowledgeable in IT and pay attention to detail, this is perfect for you. You need to have a Certified Ethical Hacker certification for this job. You also need to be creative in order to think of ways the system can be breached so you can prevent it from happening.
Cryptographer
Cryptographers develop security systems and algorithms used in data encoding and encryption. If you’re interested in developing codes and puzzles, then Maryville University highly recommends taking up cryptography. Cryptographers also analyze systems to detect and correct potential weaknesses. They also keep hackers and other cyber threats from entering the system.
If you have an analytical mind, a detail-oriented way of thinking, and have strong skills in encryption, being a cryptographer is a job you will thrive in. Since you’re going to work with algorithms, you must be skilled in the application of mathematical theory and concepts.
Ethical Hacker
This career involves performing penetration tests on a company’s system to check any weak points or areas vulnerable to breaching. An ethical hacker assumes the role of a cybercriminal to protect their own system from attacks. They’re responsible for creating preventive measures in response to the weak points they spot.
Similar to a cybersecurity analyst, this job requires a CEH certification. Dakota State University offers ethical hacking graduate certificates to those who have existing knowledge in a programming language. If you like challenging yourself and possess strong problem-solving skills then being an ethical hacker is the job for you.
Cybersecurity Project Manager
This position entails supervising the development of the security systems that protect the company’s data. A person with this job coordinates with the people involved in all stages of the project to ensure that goals are being met within their budget and time frame. It is also their duty to ensure that security measures are implemented after analysts have suggested a solution.
Skills in leadership and communication are vital for this role since you will be handling a team. Knowledge in finance and budgeting is a plus because you would need to ensure that the project turns out successful with the provided funds.
Careers in cybersecurity are needed at present in order to protect data now that digitalization has greatly increased. These duties are in demand right now, so you’re sure to land a job after graduation when you study in the field.