Today, cybersecurity demands more than merely blocking hackers. It also entails making sure that your databases, apps, and networks adhere to all applicable legal standards. Given the current situation, which includes growing worries about cyberattacks and increased funding for cybersecurity, the demand for cybersecurity positions is expanding dramatically. Experts in cybersecurity are at the forefront of the fight against cybercrime. Yet, there is a labour shortage in this industry, with India alone predicted to have 1.5 million open positions by 2025. In light of this, a career in cybersecurity offers tremendous potential for individuals and expanding prospects in the industry. Let’s now explore the job descriptions, professional skills, and educational requirements necessary to work in this burgeoning industry.
Job Titles and Duties in Cybersecurity
1. Cyber Security Analyst
Security controls and safeguards are planned, designed, and implemented by cyber security analysts. They are in charge of keeping an eye on security access and running internal and external audits to make sure there aren’t any potential security hazards to the network. Some of the responsibilities of a Cyber Security Analyst include Risk analysis, Vulnerability testing, Security assessments, Network management, Employee capacity building and Building awareness on best practices
Average annual salary- ₹ 7.6 lakhs
2. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
The practice of appointing a Chief Information Security Officer is becoming more common among companies. CISO harmonises the cyber security plan with the business’s vision, technology, and operations, given the escalating threats to cyber security in this exponentially expanding global economy. To prevent any type of security breach, the CISO follows a defined procedure for organisational process identification, development, implementation, and maintenance. They are responsible for creating and reviewing a company’s security policies and risk mitigation procedures.
Average annual salary- ₹ 22 lakhs
3. Network Security Engineer
The Network Security Engineer’s job is to make sure a company runs smoothly. The primary duties of this position are identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring the maintenance of firewalls, network monitoring tools, VPNs, routers, and switches, system’s maintenance and better automation.
Average annual salary – ₹ 7 lakhs
4. Cyber Security Manager
The organization’s security protocols are managed by the Cyber Security Manager. They participate in the planning stages for enhancing network and data security. These managers are in charge of a large group of IT specialists who work around the clock to improve data management and security policies and systems. Also, when it comes to the most recent cyber threat trends that influence the creation of security policies in a firm, cyber security managers carry out essential research.
Average annual salary – ₹ 22 lakhs
5. Security architects
The entire network and computer security architecture is created by security architects. The many security components are planned and designed by them. When it comes to suggesting adjustments, security policies, and protocols, security architects are crucial.
Average annual salary – ₹ 21 lakhs
6. Penetration Tester
An organization’s information security environment is breached by penetration testers in order to evaluate and improve security. It is a fictitious attack designed to find security holes and thereby safeguard the data. They are aware of network security problems and make sure policies are followed. They assess the system’s responsiveness, adhere to the best security recommendations, and raise staff knowledge.
Average annual salary – ₹ 5 lakhs
7. Security Systems Administrator
Computer, network, and data security systems are installed, monitored, maintained, and troubleshooted by Security System Administrators. They are responsible for daily tasks such as user accounts, backups, and system monitoring. Additionally, they make sure that the most recent security patches are applied and that software is maintained using the finest security procedures. Also, they spot unauthorised modifications, access, or other cyber dangers.
Average annual salary – ₹ 5.5 lakhs
8. IT Security Consultant
They are largely responsible for safeguarding cybersecurity initiatives and achieving the security goals of a company. They are frequently hired by small businesses that do not have the resources to build an internal team. They might have to travel to the client’s business location as part of their duties. Apart from the broad title “IT Security Consultant”, Computer Security Consultant, Information Security Consultant, Network Security Consultant, and Database Security Consultant are just a few of the titles for this position.
Average annual salary – ₹ 9.8 lakhs
Cybersecurity Professional Skills
Each role in the cybersecurity profile has a different set of criteria. To pursue a career in this field, you must, however, have or develop a few essential talents. Some of them are listed below:
Technical Expertise
- Networking And System Administration
- Operating Systems and Virtual Machines
- IoT And Cryptography
- Virtualisation Network Services and Security
- Coding And Cloud Security
- Network Security Control
- Windows Server
- Risk Analysis
- Information Security
- Security Incident Handling & Response
- Security Audit
- Laws And Regulations.
Soft Skills
- Interpersonal and Communication Skills
- Presentation Skills
- Management Skills
- Problem-Solving Ability
- Ability to Convince Others
- Logical Reasoning
- Team Leadership
- Creativity
- Curiosity and Inquisitiveness
- Business Acumen
- Adaptability
Education Requirements for Cybersecurity Professionals
Experts in cybersecurity need to have specialised knowledge in areas like computer operating systems, programming languages, penetration testing, and ethical hacking. Professionals in numerous jobs apply their technical expertise to certain commercial or governmental concerns. Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity is required for a mid-level cybersecurity professional. Managers in the field of cybersecurity and advanced technical professionals frequently hold Master’s degrees. A PhD may be necessary for jobs in research and education.
Bachelor’s degree
- You can acquire technological expertise and commercial knowledge with a Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity
- Also, you develop a foundation in the liberal arts
- Introduction to smart grid, emerging cyber threats and defences, and cyber-physical energy systems security are possible major courses
- Several institutions offer concentrations in game creation, cloud computing, offensive cybersecurity, computer programming, and analytics
- You may have an advantage on the job market if your concentration is related to the vocation you want to pursue
- A cybersecurity bachelor’s degree can prepare you for work as Source Code Audits, Security Specialists, or Vulnerability Assessors
- You might need to complete extra cybersecurity education requirements to advance to a more advanced technical role or a security leadership position
Master’s degree
- You can pursue online and in-person Master’s courses in cybersecurity
- A Master’s degree in Cybersecurity imparts crucial knowledge and abilities in Computer Engineering, Computer Architecture, and Intelligent Systems
- Technical literacy in Network Security, Forensics, or Hacking may be emphasised in the coursework
- If you want to concentrate on Cybersecurity Leadership, you might enrol in courses in Business Administration or Cybersecurity Auditing
- Some universities offer research-focused degrees that culminate in thesis projects
- Graduates with Master’s degrees in Cybersecurity can work as Penetration Testers, Cryptographers, And Security Engineers.
Doctoral degree
- You can pursue online and in-person doctorates in cybersecurity
- Ph.D. programmes typically concentrate on cybersecurity theory and you will carry out original study
- You can focus your research on topics like Computer Security, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity Theory, or Cybersecurity Policy. For instance, a Machine Learning concentration typically calls for Deep Learning, Advanced Machine Learning, and Pattern Recognition classes.
- You may concentrate on your areas of expertise in your dissertations or capstone research projects
- Cybersecurity specialties are available for Doctoral Degrees In Computer Science or Technology Management
- You can become Research Scientists, University Teachers, or Chief Information Security Officers after earning a Doctorate in Cybersecurity
Pursuing a job in Cybersecurity without a degree
A job in cybersecurity can be pursued without a degree as well. You can opt for non-degree approaches like certificates, certifications, bootcamps, and self-directed learning to pursue a career in this field. Let’s take a look at the five potential solutions.
1. Independent Learning
You can use books, specialised publications, podcasts, and other resources to build your own learning experiences. Although this strategy can be beneficial, you might find it difficult to show your knowledge and skills in a way that employers can quickly assess.
2. Online programmes
You can start your cybersecurity career with the aid of free and inexpensive online classes. These courses may cover the fundamentals of the field and prepare you for bootcamps or degrees.
3. Bootcamps
You can attend Cybersecurity bootcamps that provides hands-on instruction in a condensed amount of time. They frequently include hands-on instruction in basics of cybersecurity.
4. Certificates from Universities
You can enrol for Cybersecurity certificates that are offered by many colleges and universities. Some programmes, like MBAs with a cybersecurity concentration, enable you to apply your certificate credits towards degrees.
5. Certifications from professional organisations
You can earn a certification from a professional organisation by passing a test and accruing the necessary work experience. Vendor-specific certifications necessitate completing a test on the offerings of that company.
Conclusion
Organizations are more susceptible to hacking and cyber-attacks now that there are more Internet-connected computers and communications in the world as a result of our global economy. The prospect of employing professionals is expanding swiftly as the business environment throughout the world moves to online and cloud data storage and management. There are countless opportunities for professional progress for individuals who are eager to follow this fascinating sector. By keeping up with cutting-edge technologies, acquiring both technical and non-technical abilities, you can explore the boundless growth potential in this evergreen field.