Perform research, testing, evaluation, and deployment of security technology and procedures. Matt Whittle is a freelance writer and editor who holds a BA in English from Penn State University. 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. In their role, Cybersecurity Analysts determine whether any weaknesses exist in information systems and develop strategies and solutions to fix these vulnerabilities. It is now projected that damage from cybercrime will exceed $6 trillion, making cybersecurity more important now than ever.

• Payscale also reports that cybersecurity specialists are compensated across a wide range, depending on experience, responsibilities, and geography.
• But most people are reluctant to change, especially if it requires learning a new operating procedure or work-flow.
• To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available.
• The How to Become One tab describes how to prepare for a job in the occupation.
• These cyber security experts use their in-depth understanding of security threats, technologies, and countermeasures to ensure that an organization has robust computer security systems.

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 35 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. Finally, those studying for the SSCP will be assessed by a three-hour exam. Develop custom systems for specialized security features and procedures for software systems, networks, data centers, and hardware. Conduct threat and risk analysis and analyze the business impact of new and existing systems and technologies to eliminate risk, performance, and capacity issues. They implement vulnerability assessments and configure audits of operating systems, web servers, and databases and detect patterns, insecure features, and malicious activities in the infrastructure.

Cyber Security Specialist

A notch above security engineers, security architects are in charge of overseeing the general security work. A security architect is a vulnerability assessor – the security engineers develop the necessary software structures based on their recommendation. A computer forensics analyst can also be called an information security crime investigator. Professionals in this field are tasked with inspecting cyberattacks and finding their perpetrators and the exact methods they used to infiltrate an information or network system. The average security specialist salary in the US ranges from $69,123 to $76,336 per year.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a job growth rate of 32% between 2018 and 2028. And, as you look for a position, keep studying and maintain your high grades—your future career relies heavily on this. You may start searching for certifications that apply to the field or fields you may be interested in at this how to become a security specialist point. The ones that require you to complete a degree to take the certification exam may allow you to sign up if you will be finished with your degree when the exam in offered. Go through the job ads and make note of the required certifications; use your class studies to begin getting those skills you need.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

As mentioned, an undergraduate degree in computer science, information security, cybersecurity or a related field is highly desirable for this type of position. With skills alone, individuals can often earn entry-level certification. Connect with professors, employers, and fellow classmates to build a professional network. Consider joining professional cybersecurity communities to connect with field experts and attend conferences. More advanced security positions may require 3-5 years of experience. This list of the top 50 cybersecurity networking groups and professional organizations from Digital Guardian is a good place to start. Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll connect you with schools that offercyber security degreeprograms.

While this type of job is engaging and unpredictable, it can also take up a lot of time. Security analysts work long hours and are often called in from their free time to take care of a security incident. Learn the core concepts of operating system and network-level security to avoid threats and eliminate system vulnerabilities. Admissions advisors can provide more info about security programs and curriculum, admissions & start dates, career placement, tuition costs, personalized financial aid options & scholarships.

The Cybersecurity Specialist Job Hunt

Anyone can take the Security+ exam, but it’ll be helpful to earn a Network+ credential first and gain experience in IT with a concentration on security. Cybersecurity experts must have a solid knowledge of vulnerability testing. Furthermore, they need to be familiar with products and know effective threat intervention and prevention strategies. Businesses find the challenge of implementing effective security measures daunting. Also, cyber attackers are devising new ways to carry out their crimes. Once you get to this highly prestigious position, you can expect to earn around $179,763 per year on average. Glassdoor estimates that the average pentester salary is around $69,123.

The type of jobs you pursue plays a considerable role in determining the certificate or combination of certificates best for you. Below are some of the leading cybersecurity specialist certifications available. Although certification is not needed for all entry-level cybersecurity roles, having one can boost your resume and demonstrate competencies to potential employers. Cybersecurity specialists who expand their skill set and are up-to-date with the latest frameworks and regulations are typically more valuable in any organization.

According to Payscale, security specialists with 10 or more years of experience earned an average annual salary of $98,389 as of September 2021. Security specialist salary prospects improve as employees gain more specialized skills in areas like risk management, security information and event management, cybersecurity, and security testing and auditing. Cyber Security Specialists are responsible for providing security for an organization’s overall IT systems. They search for vulnerabilities in software, hardware, networks, and data centers and design strategies and defensive systems to protect against attacks and threats. Cyber security specialists are in demand with a continued growth projection and a robust salary. This profession will continue to evolve as technology advances and as new security concerns continue to develop. Given the broad scope of cybersecurity specialist work, not all employers require significant professional experience when hiring.