How to start career in cyber security

Protecting systems, networks, and programmes from cyberattacks is the practice of cybersecurity.These cyberattacks typically try to gain access to, alter, or delete sensitive data; demand money from users; or obstruct regular corporate operations.

Government, military, corporate, financial, and medical entities acquire, process, and store unheard-of amounts of data on computers and other devices, making cyber security crucial.Sensitive information, such as intellectual property, financial data, personal information, or other sorts of data for which illegal access or exposure could have unfavourable effects, can make up a sizable amount of that data.

In the course of conducting business, organisations transfer sensitive data across networks and to other devices; cyber security refers to the field devoted to safeguarding such data as well as the technology used to handle or store it.Companies and organisations, particularly those responsible with protecting information related to national security, health, or financial data, must increase their cyber security as the number and sophistication of assaults rise.

Scope of cyber security

National Association of Software and Services Companies survey found a shortage of 1 million cyber security personnel to handle online threats.Therefore, there is no better time than now for any young person hoping to establish oneself in this competitive field.They can begin by earning an IT degree, the most important certifications, such the one for cyber security, or by enrolling in an effective cyber security school.

The rising number of job posting hits indicates that India has established itself as a hotspot for cyber security professionals,contrasted with the United States and United Kingdom.The positions that have the most demand, growth, and scope, according to industry statistics in cyber security are Cyber Security Analyst, Security Architect,Cyber Security Manager,Chief Information Security Officer,Network Security Engineer.

Steps to begin career in cyber security

1) Educational background

A career in this profitable and in-demand industry typically begins with earning a degree in cybersecurity.The choices are numerous and varied if you have a degree in information security and relevant expertise.The majority of aspiring cybersecurity experts begin their education with a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or information technology.A master's degree in cybersecurity operations and leadership or information technology is the next step in expanding your career prospects and improving your appeal to employers hiring for higher-level roles after earning an undergraduate degree and gaining experience in the subject.

2) Get certification

You should think about obtaining industry certification in a field or subject matter that interests you if you want to work in cybersecurity.Some of the most well-known and sought-after certifications in the cybersecurity sector are, CompTIA Security+,CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional, CISM - Certified Information Security Manager,CISA - Certified Information Systems Auditor,GIAC - Global Information Assurance Certification and CEH - Certified Ethical Hacker.
Employers also find a lot of vendor-specific certifications appealing, like those provided by Cisco, RSA, and Symantec.Of course, depending on the function or roles you are aiming for, different employers will have different requirements.

3) Develop your abilities

While formal credentials speak volumes, the best way to stand out for a cybersecurity career is by teaching yourself as many ancillary skills as you can.In fact, it has become so simple for cybersecurity students to practise their abilities outside of the classroom thanks to the availability of free tools and free trials for premium software programmes that those who don't are at a disadvantage.
A virtual lab is a best area to test your abilities as well.Malware, databases, firewalls, encryption standards, and other cybersecurity protections are all included in a virtual lab, which is a simulated environment.You can set up your own virtual lab where you can develop and test different security defences using a system like VirtualBox.

4) Prepare your cybersecurity portfolio and resume

In order for a recruiter to connect your talents with the demands of the position, a technical CV must emphasise pertinent skills.List specific functions you are familiar with executing rather than a list of technologies and programming languages you are familiar with.For instance, identifying risks by sketching out a fundamental network architecture with its firewalls and IPS/IDS to look for anomalies or developing a strategy to counter a cross-site scripting (XSS) attack

Internships are the best approach to demonstrate any practical experience, but you should also demonstrate that you're eager to take the initiative and pick up new skills on your own.