How to Start a Career in Cybersecurity

Jasz

VIP Contributor
The cybersecurity industry is booming. With the rise of cybercrime, the demand for qualified professionals has grown exponentially. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in cybersecurity is expected to grow by 20% from 2016 to 2026.

The BLS defines cybersecurity as a “buzzword” that refers to both physical and information security occupations that focus on ensuring the safety, integrity, availability and confidentiality of computer systems and networks. Cybersecurity professionals typically have highly technical skills that include software development and programming, computer networking and Internet security. They also must have strong analytical skills to analyze data for threats posed by hackers or malicious software.

In order to enter this career field, you will need a degree or certification in information technology (IT) or computer science. You may also need a background in mathematics or physics if you want to work in cybersecurity research. However, most employers prefer candidates with at least two years of experience in IT or related fields such as software engineering or network administration.
 
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