To complete the degree, a student must earn at least 120 graduate credit hours with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher. The program is directed and taught by faculty and industry experts who help students handle current cyber threats. This includes taking advantage of training programs offered by your employer or even taking classes online to keep learning and growing. After you have learned the basics of cyber security, getting certified will be an important step on your journey to becoming a specialist.

• It’s the role of cybersecurity specialists to protect organizations and the public from hackers, scammers and other online criminals.
• To earn the CEH certification, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as network scanning, Enumeration, social engineering, and SQL injection.
• Security specialists are in high demand as companies implement measures to protect themselves from cybercriminals.

If that sounds like you, an online Master’s of Science in Cybersecurity might be a logical educational step. Through this two-year program, you will acquire skills that equip you for leadership and specialized roles alike. Let’s break down the basics of how to become a cyber security specialist, no matter where you currently are in your career.

How to get into cybersecurity: First steps

You will learn about cryptography, network security, malware analysis, and more while surrounded by other students who share your interests. This will allow you to gain the experience necessary for your resume and show future employers with real-world knowledge of cyber security. These include firewalls (both hardware-based and software), anti-virus and anti-malware programs, encryption tools (SSL), patch management software, etc. One of the most common certifications that system administrators should have. This is because it adds to their resume and shows employers that they know how to keep their systems secure.

To qualify for this position, you tend to need a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a related subject. Even if these extra qualifications aren’t required, they can still give you a leg up when it comes to applying for jobs. A security specialist, also known as an IT security specialist or a cyber security specialist, is responsible for developing and implementing security measures for an organization. As a security specialist, your overarching goal is to analyze current security procedures and suggest changes to upper management for improving efficiency and overall security. To conclude, in order to succeed as a cybersecurity specialist, you’ll need to hone all of the skills we’ve discussed. Employers and clients seek out well-rounded experts that can adapt to the unpredictable nature of this threat landscape and in the event of an emergency, there won’t be a moment to lose.

How to Become a Cyber Security Specialist

Security researchers spend their days investigating the systems in operation, evaluating the layout of the network, and checking security mechanisms such as firewalls and permissions for applications. Security experts assume responsibility for the computer-related security of how to become a security specialist their organizations, ensuring that corporate data is secure and guard against cyberattacks. Companies employ these experts by reviewing existing processes, studying ever-evolving threats, recommending enhancements, and introducing modifications to stop security breaches.