How to: get into cyber security

There’s actually a lot more ways than you think, but some are quicker, and more effective, than others.

But let’s backtrack, give this some context and background, shall we?

Data breaches and cybersecurity have been in the headlines since the turn of the century, but never has it quite been at the forefront of news and gossip than in the last few years where attacks have become more frequent and greater in sophistication.

By 2022, it is anticipated there will be 100,000 unfilled cyber security jobs in the UK alone, which will give more opportunity for these cyberattacks to grow even further and wreak more havoc. Cyber security is the only job role where there is a 0% unemployment rate for professionals – just think about that for a second.

The demand has never been higher and cyber security is an exceptional career path to follow, not just for the demand, but for the salaries that are being thrown around. If a business wants to protect its most vital assets (namely their IT systems, data, and information) they will be willing to pay over the odds to match their demand.

So, how do you get into cyber security?

Well, there are multiple paths.

One of the most commonly walked paths is university, but that is starting to go out of fashion: three years to become fully trained to degree level and a constantly changing landscape mean that after a year or so of a degree has passed, some of the skills can become obsolete. But, it’s still a good way to start in a junior role specialising in cyber security. Master’s degrees also allow for a specialisation in cyber security, and a varied specialisation in the techniques in case you don’t know which area to break into – and remember, degrees are not essential.

You could also go into it fresh - Junior IT Technician, right at the beginning, working your way up the career ladder type of fresh.

There are also cyber security apprenticeships which are usually government-backed. You don’t need experience to apply and you don’t need to hold a qualification in a technical field – like web development, computer science etc. The only issue with this option is there are only a certain number of places up for grabs and it’s almost like a raffle as to whether you will be chosen or not.

Currently the most popular route with aspiring professionals is to study towards attaining recognised qualifications, including the ones on offer from CompTIA and Mile2, where experience can be picked up while training. Certifications are the best way to keep your knowledge of the latest technologies and trends up-to-date, while being recognised for doing so with more than just a stamp of technical knowledge, but the vital backing of communication, information and managerial skills.

At e-Careers, our courses also come with Live Labs and mentoring to ensure you have all the support you need in forging your new career path.

So, now you’re ready to jump into your new career in cyber security our most popular package consists of CompTIA’s core qualifications of IT Fundamentals+, A+, Network+, and Security+, in addition to their Cyber Security Analyst+ qualification so you can specialise in detecting vulnerabilities, threats and risks using analytical techniques. This is backed by Mile2’s flagship Certified Professional Ethical Hacker (CPEH) qualification which bridges the gap by teaching you both ethical hacking theory and ethical hacking technical skills. Finally, you will learn the world’s foremost IT service management framework, ITIL®, to deliver efficient IT services that align to business goals.

Call us on +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 to speak to one of our Career Consultants today, to discuss your career goals or get started.