Introduction to
Cyber Security
Discover what cyber security is, why it matters, and how you can build a rewarding career protecting organisations from digital threats. Understand the realities of entering this competitive field.
What is Cyber Security?
At its core, the primary function of cyber security is to safeguard the wide array of devices we rely on daily, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and computers. Furthermore, it extends its protective wingspan over the various online services we utilise both in our personal lives and within the professional realm, effectively shielding them from potential theft or damage.
The importance of cyber security cannot be overstated, given the substantial role that smartphones, computers, and the internet play in our modern lives. These technological wonders have seamlessly integrated into our existence, and imagining life without them is indeed a daunting prospect. From the convenience of online banking and shopping to the efficiency of email and social media interactions, they have become indispensable components of our daily routines. Consequently, it is paramount, now more than ever, to adopt proactive measures that prevent cyber criminals from gaining access to our invaluable accounts, data, and devices.
Why Choose a Career in Cyber Security?
Choosing a career can be driven by various factors, such as aptitude, passion, or unexpected opportunities. However, for many people, the deciding factors are more practical, including a good salary, job security, interesting work, and potential for career advancement. Cyber security offers compelling reasons to consider it as a career, though it requires realistic expectations about entry pathways.
Research shows that cyber security professionals are in great demand, with a significant skills gap in both technical and non-technical areas. However, it is crucial to understand that this gap predominantly exists at mid-level and senior positions, not entry-level roles. Organisations seek experienced professionals who can immediately contribute to complex security challenges.
Technical skills gaps are particularly notable in threat assessment, information risk management, assurance, audits, compliance, testing, cyber security research, implementing secure systems, and governance and management. These specialisations typically require several years of practical experience, making the transition into cyber security more challenging for complete beginners than headlines might suggest.
Non-technical skills, such as communication, leadership, and management, are also essential for success in this field. Effective cyber security management involves various activities, such as identifying threats, establishing protection policies and systems, detecting and responding to cyber threats, and recovering data and systems after breaches.
What Career Specialisations Are Available to Me?
There are a lot of different specialisations in cyber security and whilst we haven't covered all of them below, hopefully we have provided you with a good starting point to begin your research. Most specialisations require foundational knowledge and practical experience before you can secure your first role.
Cyber Threat Intelligence
Cyber Threat Intelligence involves the collection and analysis of information about current and potential attacks that threaten the safety of an organisation or its assets.
Incident Response
Incident Response involves proactive preparation for, effective handling of, and subsequent follow-up on cyber security incidents to minimise organisational damage and prevent future occurrences.
Security Testing
Security Testing encompasses the examination and assessment of a network, system, product, or design to validate compliance with designated security requirements and to identify potential vulnerabilities.
Digital Forensics
Digital Forensics involves the identification, preservation, collection, analysis and reporting of digital evidence found on digital devices.
Network Monitoring
Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection involves the continuous observation and analysis of network traffic to detect and respond to security threats.
Secure System Development
Secure System Development integrates security best practices throughout the software development lifecycle to build resilient applications.
Identity Access Management
Identity and Access Management (IAM) controls user access, manages digital identities, and protects critical resources through authentication and authorisation.
Cyber Security Governance
Cyber Security Governance and Risk Management involves developing policies, managing risks, and ensuring compliance for effective security leadership.
Understanding the Job Market Reality
Cyber security offers a wide array of job roles, making it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds. Educational requirements vary accordingly; whilst many entry-level positions don't mandate a cyber security or related degree, more advanced roles may require at least a bachelor's or even a master's degree.
If you've researched cyber security positions, you will likely have encountered the cyber security talent gap, which refers to the scarcity of skilled personnel to fill essential roles in organisations. Recent research reveals a significant global cyber security workforce shortage, with a staggering deficit of 3.4 million professionals. However, it is essential to understand that this gap exists primarily at mid-level and senior positions, not entry-level roles.
Organisations are seeking experienced professionals who can immediately address complex security challenges, manage teams, and make strategic decisions. Entry-level positions remain competitive, with many candidates vying for limited openings. Success requires not just certifications, but demonstrable skills, practical experience through labs and projects, and often a relevant educational background or transferable professional experience.
Where Demand Exists
The skills gap is most acute in experienced roles requiring:
3-5+ years of hands-on experience Advanced threat assessment and analysis Strategic risk management capabilities Leadership and team management Specialised technical expertise Governance and compliance knowledge
Entry-level positions exist but are competitive. Building practical skills and gaining relevant experience is essential for breaking into the field.
How Do I Get a Job in Cyber Security?
Unfortunately, there is no 'one-size fits all' way to get that all-important first job in cyber security. The path requires dedication, continuous learning, and realistic expectations. Here are steps you can take to give yourself a competitive advantage:
Research Thoroughly
Begin by researching various roles within the cyber security field. Identify positions that interest you, such as cyber threat intelligence analyst or incident responder. Understand the experience requirements and skill expectations for each role.
Learn About Potential Employers
Read online posts by current and former employees to understand more about potential employers. Utilise social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, Slack, Discord, and GitHub to connect with professionals and learn about company cultures.
Build Practical Skills
Focus on mastering the fundamentals and acquiring hands-on technical skills. Create a home lab, participate in capture-the-flag competitions, contribute to open-source security projects, and document your learning journey.
Pursue Relevant Certifications
Whilst certifications alone won't guarantee employment, they demonstrate commitment and foundational knowledge. Invest in an educational curriculum that leads to industry-recognised certification and provides practical skills.
Develop Soft Skills
Communication, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities can set you apart from other candidates. Emphasise these skills in your job applications and during interviews, providing concrete examples.
Build Your Professional Network
Leverage social media, particularly LinkedIn, to build your professional network and personal brand. Attend industry conferences, join local security meetups, and engage with the cyber security community online.
Leverage Transferable Experience
If you have experience in fields like IT support, system administration, military, law enforcement, or risk management, explore how your existing skills align with cyber security roles. Many successful professionals transition from adjacent fields.
Be Patient and Persistent
Breaking into cyber security often takes time. You may need to start in an adjacent IT role and transition internally, or accept a junior position to gain experience. Stay committed to continuous learning and skill development.
Essential Skills
Technical Foundations
Master fundamentals in networking, operating systems, programming, and security tools. Build demonstrable hands-on experience through labs, projects, and documented learning.
Soft Skills
Develop communication, leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. These differentiate you from other candidates with similar technical credentials.
Continuous Learning
Stay current with emerging threats, tools, and techniques. The cyber security landscape evolves rapidly, requiring ongoing education and adaptation.
Realistic Expectations
Understand that entry-level positions are competitive. Be prepared to start in adjacent IT roles, pursue internships, or accept junior positions to gain crucial experience.
Start Learning
For Free
Begin your cyber security journey today with our free CTI 101 course. Build foundational knowledge and discover if a career in cyber security is right for you. No credit card required, no commitment: just high-quality training to help you make an informed decision.