Do you know that cybersecurity jobs are growing at a rate of 32% annually (Source: US. BLS). To your surprise, that’s a record, it is quite evident that the number of vacancies for network security specialists is more than the number of available individuals applying for this job.
With more and more devices and systems getting connected to the internet and other networks, our systems can store and access the information we need without storing it on our devices. The platforms and services available on the cloud have opened a world of opportunities for us too. Although new network technologies have made our lives easier, it has increased the vulnerability of our networks. Network systems are at constant risk of security breaches and information theft.
What is the solution?
Organized network security procedures make networks secure and safeguard the systems from external interference. Secure systems make your organization trustworthy for customers, suppliers and partners, and help you achieve the organization’s goals. Moreover, your confidential data remains safe from theft and vulnerabilities.
What is Network Security?
Network security is a series of organized acts by an organization to prevent accidental damage or malicious attack on a network’s confidential information, users, or devices. The goal of network security is to make the network up and secure for all legitimate users.
The organization has to take a broad range of steps because networks can have security breaches in many ways. These practices involve:
- Deploying active devices: Use of applications to stop malicious programs from entering the network. Stopping users from sending and receiving emails from unreliable sources. Blocking unauthorized usage of the network. Moreover, blocking the network’s user access to websites that are known to be suspicious.
- Deploying passive devices: Using programs and software that alerts the firm about malicious attacks on the network, or suspicious acts by authorized users.
- Using preventative devices: Installing devices that assist in identifying security holes, which network security professionals can fix instantly.
- Ensuring users follow safe practices: Ensuring that authentic users follow guidelines to avoid potential threats. Network security staff have the responsibility to create awareness about the safety of networks from malicious invades.
Job Description of a Network Security Specialist
In general network security specialists are responsible for ensuring the security of networks from potential threats. Security specialist’s job responsibilities may vary based on the place they work for, but the most common duties are mentioned below:
- Stay informed with the latest security tools and techniques.
- Control and monitor security systems
- Protect the network systems from harmful changes, damages or unauthorized accesses.
- Deploy and run proper security tools including firewalls, anti-virus software and intrusion detection systems.
- Train the users and create security documentation of networks to ensure security systems.
- Develop response procedures after analyzing security risks.
- Develop customized solutions for ensuring secure systems.
- Conduct regular security audits and prepare security status reports.
- Developing procedures for disaster recovery and collecting evidence regarding cybercrimes.
Skills required to become a Network Security Specialist
Every job comes with a set of skills required by employers. Here are the knowledge and skills required to excel as a network security specialist.
- Hardware and Operating System Fundamentals
Learn how operating systems work, their role in modern systems, and essential troubleshooting techniques.
- Networking Fundamentals
Learn how different parts connect to form complex networks. Learn the concepts of popular communication protocols, the configuration of routers/switches, and TCP/IP implementation.
- Security Fundamentals
Learn data security and auditing fundamentals. Identifying, evaluating, and mitigating risks. You should know the best practices for securing software and hardware assets.
- Python Programming: Introduction
A comprehensive practical-based course component that helps students develop proficiency in Python programming.
- Ethical Hacking
Discover how malicious hackers attack systems and learn the tactics needed to thwart online attacks.
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
Explore the role played by Cybersecurity Analysts and learn the skills required to thrive in this demanding role.
- CompTIA PenTest+
Get familiar with penetration testing, and help organizations sort their security postures to prevent attacks from malign hackers.
- Hands-on training to access remote environments, coding exercises and develop remote desktop scenarios.
You need to master certain soft skills as well, to grow in this career path.
- Self-motivation
- Ability to work with others
- Strong communication skills
- Critical thinking
- Problem Solving
Employers often prefer candidates with security certifications. You can stand out in the job market and kick start a promising career by earning cybersecurity certifications and attending cybersecurity boot camps.
By earning such professional credentials, security specialists are validated and improved. Additional skills are learned to excel as security professionals, and it also paves the way to better job opportunities.
Employment Outlook
Stats show a favorable outlook in the field of information security. When you look for job openings in this field, be attentive about the positions offered as Computer Security Specialist, Information Security Specialist and IT Security Specialist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the field of information security specialists has shown an increase in the demand as 32%. Around 35,500 more jobs will be added between 2018 and 2028. The average salary for information security analysts was $ 98,350 in May of 2018. As revealed by payscale.com, the median salary for different job roles in the cybersecurity sector ranges from $72,000 to $145,000.
Conclusion:
As the world is connected through networks like never before. Our information is at a constant threat of theft and attacks with malicious intent.
Network security specialists with the responsibility of securing networks of an organization are there to save the day. Designations offered in this field are cybersecurity Analyst, Security Engineer, Systems Administrator, Penetration Tester, IT Security Engineer and Security Consultant.
Increasing demand for security experts has persuaded many people in the IT industry to pursue network security as a career and boost their demand by earning certifications in the field of network security. It is a discipline that can make you work in fortune 500 companies including hp, IBM, Amazon, Starbucks, Visa, and more.