How to Become a Cybersecurity Expert: Explore Top Certifications, Skills and Career Paths

According to Cybercrime Magazine, there is a critical shortage of cybersecurity professionals. The number of unfilled cybersecurity jobs is expected to reach 3.5 million globally by the end of 2025. This is a pretty crazy scenario in the tech industry, but still good news for the professionals, they are practically among the few professionals immune to global layoffs. So if you think cybersecurity is a field you want to make a career in, then read our blog and understand how to become a cybersecurity expert.

What is a Cybersecurity Professional?

The cybersecurity professional identifies disparities and weak points in computer networks and systems. In general, they create, test, and analyze systems to protect data and information against hackers, cyberattacks, and every other external threat. After the identification of threats, they seek ways of keeping the internal computer network of an organization safe from malware, phishing, password attacks, and other intrusions. Some of the most in-demand job titles in cybersecurity include but are not limited to Cybersecurity Engineer, Information Security Analyst, Computer Forensics Expert, Security Researcher, Risk Analyst, Malware Analyst, and Incident Manager.

Top Cybersecurity Skills

To have a successful career as a Cybersecurity Professional, you must possess the following skills –

Technical skills

A cybersecurity expert must have a sound technical knowledge of the following:

• Intrusion detection, powerful Trojans and backdoor codes
• Cloud security and Black Hat techniques
• Knowledge of Microsoft and Linux servers, Citrix and Microsoft Exchange, Cisco network switches and virtualization
• Awareness of contemporary information security standards, practices, procedures and methodologies
• Use of hacking tools such as AppScan or Fortify, and security policies and regulations
• Malware Analysis and Cryptography
• Programming languages such as C, C++, PHP, Perl, Java, and Shell 
• Internet of Things (IoT) security, network identity, and access management 
• Advanced use of firewall, VPN, Cisco, IDS/IPS, SIEM and DLP technologies
• Database, Risk analysis and Risk mitigation 
• Networking and programming logics 
• Operating systems, e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux (e.g., Kali Linux, Parrot Security OS, BlackArch Linux, Tails OS), etc.
• Incident management and control in operating systems, networking, IDS, IPS, FW, blog analysis and network traffic analysis
• Microprocessor and assembly language
• Databases
• A proactive approach towards cybersecurity

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and diagnostic skills 
• Awareness of contemporary standards, practices, procedures and methodologies 
• Excellent presentation and communication skills 
• Effective communication to explain complex technical ideas and methods

Becoming a Cyber Security Professional

If you plan to begin a career in cybersecurity, here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

1. Complete Your Formal Education 

You would require a formal technology background to apply for jobs which concern cybersecurity.

Recommended degrees

• B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Electronics
• B.Sc. in Computer Science or Information Systems
• Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA)
• MCA in Cyber Security

During your studies, focus on subjects such as:

• Programming (Python, Java, C++)
• Operating Systems (Windows, Linux)
• Networking Fundamentals
• Databases and Cloud Computing

If you do not have a technical degree, you can still enter the field by taking online courses in IT, networking, and cybersecurity.

2. Gain Relevant Certifications

Certifications are important because, besides verifying your skills and knowledge, they serve as an advantage in career changes or for those just entering the job market.

Popular Cybersecurity Certifications

3. Gain Hands-on Experience

Practical experience is highly valued in cybersecurity. Employers look for candidates who can handle real-world threats and security issues.

How to gain experience:

• Pursue an internship in Cybersecurity or take up any entry-level role as a security administrator, system administrator, or network engineer.
• Learn how to carry out penetration tests on computer systems, networks, and web applications.
• Take up relevant industry certifications and earn more advanced IT certifications and training.
• Learn to develop strategies and plans to deploy information security technologies and enhance existing programs.
• You can also set up a personal lab with virtual machines, emulating the security environments to try out your skills safely.

4. Stay Updated with the Latest Trends

Cybersecurity is a dynamic domain, and you need to keep yourself updated with new attacks, tools, and technologies. Keeping yourself updated is essential. You are advised to:

• Stay updated with cybersecurity news websites like The Hacker News, Infosecurity Magazine, CNET, Cybersecurity Insiders, KrebsOnSecurity, CSO Online, SecurityWeek, etc.
• Join and participate in online cybersecurity communities on:
• Reddit: r/cybersecurity, r/netsec, r/AskNetsec, r/SecurityCareerAdvice, r/malware, r/blueteamsec, r/OSINT, r/ReverseEngineering, r/hacking, etc.
• Discord: TCM Security, TryHackMe, OffSec, Black Hills Infosec (BHIS), Darknet Diaries, Red Team Village, OSINTion, etc.
• Upskill yourself in the field of cybersecurity through online courses on top online course providers, such as Coursera, Udemy, Cybrary, Simplilearn, Pluralsight, etc.
• Attending bootcamps, webinars and workshops 

Top Cybersecurity Career Paths 

Salary Source: Ambitionbox

Conclusion 

The journey of cybersecurity specialization begins with a very strong foundation in computer science and networking. The basics of operating systems, network protocols, and computer architecture need to be known; similarly important, programming is the leading factor, as many cyber-attacks and defence depend on manipulating code. You must keep updating yourself with relevant certifications for practical preparation and increasing your job prospects.