IT security specialists generally need to have previous work experience in a related occupation as well. Many choose to work their way up to being an IT security specialist by gaining hands-on experience in an information technology department as a network or systems administrator. You may also want to consider pursuing additional credentials by becoming a Certified Information Systems Security Professional through the (ISC)². Given the broad scope of cybersecurity specialist work, not all employers require significant professional experience when hiring. Some organizations employ these specialists in entry-level roles, allowing them to develop on-the-job experience. Cybersecurity specialists handle a broad set of technical responsibilities related to safeguarding sensitive digital information and data.

it security specialist

Project+ gives technical and non-technical professionals the basic concepts to successfully manage small- to medium-sized projects. WGU is an accredited online university offering online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. But being a key component of a company’s information technology needs can be a rewarding responsibility. The OSCP from https://remotemode.net/ Offensive Security has become one of the most sought-after certifications for penetration testers. The exam tests your ability to compromise a series of target machines using multiple exploitation steps and produce detailed penetration test reports for each attack. Discover programs you’re interested in and take charge of your education.

IT Security Foundations: Network Security

The website also offers resources to help candidates land technology jobs. With training and experience, candidates can also pursue other security specialties, such as computer forensics, penetration testing, and governance, risk, and https://remotemode.net/become-a-security-specialist/ compliance. The security specialist role best suits people who enjoy new challenges and want to protect data. Internships can help security specialist hopefuls gain the experience needed for certification and high-level positions.

Confirmed: Palo Alto has acquired Talon Cyber Security, sources say for $625M – TechCrunch

Confirmed: Palo Alto has acquired Talon Cyber Security, sources say for $625M.

Posted: Mon, 06 Nov 2023 14:07:05 GMT [source]

Most IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or a related field; these programs typically take four years to complete as a full-time student. Workforce demand for computer security specialists is high in all verticals, including corporations, schools, medical practices, and government agencies. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT security specialist job market will grow by 32% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the 3% average for all occupations, placing it among the nation’s fastest-growing career paths. Since a security specialist is essentially an entry-level position in the large world of cyber security, there are positions you can start out in at first and then, you can work your way up the ladder into a management role.

Resources for Future Cybersecurity Specialists

“Security is the only area of certified IT skills that has never had a negative quarter throughout this recession,” says David Foote, CEO and Chief Research Officer of leading research firm Foote Partners. “We’ve never had three months with a loss or decline in premiums for IT security specialists.” The median annual wage for IT security specialists is $112,000, according to the latest data from the U.S. To write an effective IT security specialist job description, begin by listing detailed duties, responsibilities and expectations.

Network+ certifies the essential skills needed to confidently design, configure, manage and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+.

How To Become A Cybersecurity Specialist

As experts in cybersecurity, these specialists help to create, analyze and deploy organizational security systems. Cybersecurity specialists test for areas of potential exposure in interconnected computer networks, document their findings and provide solutions for vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity specialists perform crucial work in protecting sensitive digital information and communications. These professionals work with public and private employers of all sizes to ensure the safety of data for customers, government entities and healthcare organizations.

  • In order to plan and implement these company trainings, the IT security specialist must not only have the required technical skills for the position, but also necessary soft skills.
  • Department of the Navy are also looking to recruit in this sought-after field.
  • Information technology security specialists take home a median annual wage of $112,000, according to the latest salary data from the U.S.
  • Like Dig, Talon is working in a newer area of the wider cybersecurity market, which would make it attractive to Palo Alto as it looks to keep up with the evolving threats in the market.
  • Keep in mind that most certification exams require significant preparation, and some include experience requirements.