Cyber security is becoming an increasingly important field as more of our data and systems move online. With major data breaches making headlines on a regular basis, there is a growing need for skilled cyber security professionals to help protect individuals, businesses and governments from cyber attacks. But is it worth pursuing a career in cyber security? Here we examine the pros and cons to help you decide if cyber security is right for you.
What is cyber security?
Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting internet-connected systems from digital attacks. The goal of cyber security is to create a secure cyberspace where people and organizations can carry out their activities without undue threats. This involves developing and deploying tools and processes to detect, prevent and respond to cyber attacks that aim to access, damage or misuse data and systems.
Some common cyber security roles and responsibilities include:
- Developing security standards and best practices
- Installing and managing firewalls, anti-malware software and other security controls
- Monitoring networks for anomalies and investigating cyber attacks
- Performing risk assessments and audits
- Providing employee cyber security training and awareness
- Ensuring compliance with cyber security regulations and laws
- Preparing for and responding to data breaches
What are the career prospects in cyber security?
Cyber security is currently one of the most in-demand fields in IT, with excellent career prospects. Here are some key facts about cyber security jobs:
- The cyber security job market is growing much faster than average, with over 28% projected growth from 2020 to 2030 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Median pay for cyber security roles in 2020 was around $103,590 per year, significantly higher than the median salary across all occupations ($41,950 per year).
- Some of the highest paying cyber security jobs include security architect, chief information security officer (CISO) and IT security manager.
- There is a huge shortage of cyber security professionals. Over 500,000 open roles were advertised in the US alone in 2021.
- Most cyber security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree, with many preferring or requiring a master’s degree.
In summary, cyber security offers excellent job prospects for qualified candidates, with strong demand, high salaries, abundant job openings and opportunities for progression.
What are the main pros of a cyber security career?
There are many advantages to pursuing a cyber security career path. Here are some of the main pros:
High demand and job stability
As covered earlier, there is extremely high demand for cyber security skills which is likely to continue growing. This results in great job stability and security.
Lucrative salaries
Salaries in cyber security tend to be very generous. Median pay of over $100,000 exceeds most other IT fields. Highly experienced roles can command salaries of $200,000+.
Varied and challenging work
Cyber security roles involve diverse tasks encompassing technology, compliance, risk management, investigations, training and more. Work is fast-paced and stimulating with new challenges daily.
Flexibility and remote work
Many cyber security professionals work remotely or have flexible schedules. Remote work has become even more common following COVID-19. This allows a good work-life balance.
Travel opportunities
Cyber security experts are often needed onsite by organizations to assess systems, deliver training and respond to incidents. This can enable opportunities to travel for work.
Career development and progression
The cyber security field offers many possibilities to specialize and move into more senior roles. Ongoing education and certifications can enhance skills and earning potential.
What are the main cons of a cyber security career?
However, there are also some potential downsides to weigh up when considering a cyber security career:
Stress and pressure
Cyber security professionals often have high pressure jobs requiring critical decision making. Dealing with incidents like data breaches can be stressful.
Always on call
Most organizations require 24/7 monitoring and response to cyber threats. This results in shift work and being on call outside normal hours, impacting work-life balance.
Constant learning requirements
To keep up with rapidly evolving threats and technologies, ongoing learning and development is essential. This can be challenging and requires dedication.
Negative company culture
Some cyber security teams experience unsupportive company culture, lack of resources and unrealistic expectations – leading to high turnover.
Risk of outsourcing/automation
An increasing amount of cyber security work is being automated using AI or outsourced overseas. This could limit job opportunities in future.
What qualifications and skills are required?
To succeed in the field of cyber security, certain qualifications, certifications and skills are generally required or preferred by employers. These include:
- A bachelor’s degree in computer science, cyber security or a related field.
- Industry certifications like the CompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM, CEH or OSCP certifications.
- Hands-on experience in IT, networking and security technologies.
- Knowledge of various operating systems, databases, applications and networks.
- Understanding of compliance standards like PCI DSS, HIPAA etc.
- Soft skills like communication, collaboration and critical thinking.
- Specializations like cloud security, application security or network defense.
Ongoing education and certifications are crucial for advancing your cyber security career and staying current on the latest developments.
What are some typical cyber security job roles and responsibilities?
There is a diverse range of job roles and career paths within cyber security. Here are some examples of typical cyber security positions and their responsibilities:
Security Analyst
- Monitor networks, systems and applications for security threats
- Investigate anomalies and cyber incidents
- Perform vulnerability scans and risk assessments
- Document security events and recommend remediation
Security Engineer
- Design and implement information security solutions
- Install and configure firewalls, antivirus, IDS and other controls
- Develop security policies, procedures and disaster recovery plans
- Perform security audits and identify vulnerabilities
Security Architect
- Develop overall security architecture for IT infrastructure and systems
- Align security initiatives with business goals and risk tolerance
- Create technical designs, policies and roadmaps for security solutions
- Advise on the selection and implementation of security technologies
Security Manager/CISO
- Develop and implement security strategy, policies and cyber defenses
- Lead security operations and incident response teams
- Manage security budgets, vendor relationships and resources
- Coordinate security awareness training and compliance audits
- Report to executives on security posture and risk exposure
How can you get started in cyber security?
For those looking to break into the cyber security field, here are some tips:
- Get relevant education such as a computer science or cyber security degree
- Consider an internship to gain hands-on experience
- Obtain entry-level certifications like Security+, CCNA cyber ops etc.
- Learn cyber security fundamentals through online programs and courses
- Build a home lab environment to experiment with tools and techniques
- Participate in bug bounty programs to develop practical skills
- Attend security conferences and events to network and learn
- Contribute to open source cyber security projects
- Consider volunteering or joining associations like (ISC)2
With dedication and perseverance, you can get your foot in the door and start building your cyber security career.
Conclusion
Overall, a career in cyber security offers many benefits but also some challenges to consider. For those with an analytical mindset and passion for technology, it can be a highly rewarding field where your skills are in high demand. While constant learning and stressful situations come with the territory, cyber security provides excellent opportunities for career development, stimulating work and generous compensation. With strong growth projected for years to come, there has never been a better time to get into cyber security.