How To Break Into The Cybersecurity World

Ransomware. Viruses. Malware. Hacking. Data Leaks.

We hear these buzzwords constantly as of course we are doing more and more online and so it makes sense that the “bad guys” are moving their operations online too.

Therefore, if you have an interest in cybersecurity, you have probably considered how you can make it a career.

There is a need for cybersecurity experts to help companies and even governments deal with the ever-evolving threat that is posed by cybercriminals.  So here are some tips on how to break into the world of cybersecurity as one of the “good guys”!

Get a Degree in Cybersecurity

While this isn’t 100% a must-have, it is definitely a way to get ahead of the others; especially if you are thinking long-term and want a management position in the future.

And yes, I know that you can pick up coding skills at home, but what a lot of people need is structure and accountability which you will get in college.

Obviously, the financial cost of college can be a factor, so you can work with a private lender for a student loan to finance your education.

Even after graduation, you have the option to refinance your student loan, making monthly repayments easier.

Regardless of your financial situation, there are options out there to get the help you need.

Practice Coding

The ability to code is simply part of being a cyber security expert. You will be constantly writing scripts and automating those routine tasks.

Even if you leave cybersecurity, knowing how to code will not be wasted in virtually every career path you land upon.

If you have limited experience with coding, start off with tutorials you can find online. They range from absolute “hello world” beginner level to advance and complex scripting.

Self-Learn Security Flaws

One of the jobs you could have in cybersecurity is identifying security flaws within a network or a single computer.

So you best be proficient in networking architecture, design, and have a deep understanding of routers, switches, hubs, firewalls, protocols, IP Subnets, and more.

One of the best ways to learn is to set up your own network and then try to break into it. Think like the enemy and look at what they can exploit.

One of the cool ways to learn is to challenge friends to hack your network and you can defend it. Then switch the roles.

Get Experience in hacking

Approach companies and ask if you can intern for them or even shadow one of their employees.

Even if it is only for a short period of time, it all adds up to the experience that will make your resume stand out.

Learning different skills can also help decrease the possibility of an AI robot taking your job because you will be adaptable and well-versed.

Cybersecurity keeps evolving so keep learning

Regardless of how many coding languages you are proficient in, take the time to learn the basics of others.

Take online certification classes and attend meetups in your area.

Network with other people in the industry so they can assist you in getting to your end goal of being a cybersecurity expert.