Security specialists take responsibility for their organizations‘ computer-related security, protecting company data against cyberattacks. Companies hire these professionals to prevent security breaches by analyzing current systems, researching ever-evolving risks, suggesting improvements, and implementing changes. An IT security specialist generally holds a bachelor’s degree in a field such as programming, information assurance, computer science, or a related subject.

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According to Payscale, major companies paying security specialists well above the national average include the Boeing Company, the Walt Disney Company, and American Express Co. Aspiring cybersecurity specialists may also find ample opportunities in companies like CACI International Inc, American Electric Power, and IBM. Additionally, cybersecurity specialists are often called on in times of crisis or emergency — or when there are issues with networks or data systems. There are also a few certifications that an IT security specialist could choose to obtain. Some employers prefer to hire those who are certified, as it proves they have the necessary knowledge and experience required.

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We reveal the essential aspects of the position, how to get hired, data on salary expectations, and the best companies that are hiring. Security specialists can find employment in a broad range of commercial, governmental, and not-for-profit organizations. 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.

The fact that more and more businesses are relying on cloud computing, technology, and remote work presents further reasons to prioritize security infrastructure. A Bachelor of Science in information technology provides you with the opportunity to develop foundational proficiencies in information systems. In addition to the increase in demand for IT specialists, this career path offers rewarding salary expectations for graduates. Read our informational guide to learn about the degrees, certifications, and professional experiences needed to become a security specialist.

Minimum Education

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• With this intermediate security credential from (ISC)², you can show employers that you have the skills to design, implement, and monitor a secure IT infrastructure.
• According to Payscale, security specialists with 10 or more years of experience earned an average annual salary of $98,389 as of September 2021.
• The BLS also reported the IT sector should result in an additional 682,800 new employment opportunities by 2031.
• As you gain experience and move into more advanced roles, salaries often go up as well.
• CSIA focuses on intelligence issues related to cybersecurity, military, and space.

It makes sense to start thinking about what kinds of certifications are required by an employer, or what kinds of certifications make job applicants competitive within the field. „Security is the only area of certified IT skills that has never how to become a security specialist had a negative quarter throughout this recession,“ says David Foote, CEO and Chief Research Officer of leading research firm Foote Partners. „We’ve never had three months with a loss or decline in premiums for IT security specialists.“

What skills does a computer programmer need?

However, cybersecurity prevents access by bad actors, and information security considers aspects like the availability and confidentiality of data. Information security specialists may handle aspects like multifactor authentication and access to physical information storage areas. Network security professionals work within a narrower scope than cybersecurity workers. Cybersecurity defends against attacks on hardware, software, networks and users. In contrast, network security focuses on vulnerabilities in the connections between devices. As a discipline within network engineering, this field covers protection against breaches for interconnected electronics rather than individual databases or devices.

• There are a number of network-oriented professional cybersecurity organizations and groups that are specifically designed to alert members about job openings and professional development opportunities.
• Ethical hacking, also known as white hat hacking, penetration testing, or red team, involves lawfully hacking organizations to try and uncover vulnerabilities before malicious players do.
• Learn about how to become one, education requirements, job duties, traits and qualities, national salary outlook as well as top national employers of IT Security Specialists.
• However, cybersecurity prevents access by bad actors, and information security considers aspects like the availability and confidentiality of data.
• Security specialists will also use a range of tools to assess the level of security in an organization’s computer and network systems.

Keep in mind that most certification exams require significant preparation, and some include experience requirements. As you might expect, IT security specialists require extensive technical skills and knowledge to effectively do their jobs. Other companies may stipulate that they seek cybersecurity specialists with a specific amount of professional experience. Candidates can accrue experience in other cybersecurity roles or through internships while still pursuing their degrees to meet this requirement. A big challenge for aspiring security specialists is getting their first job without years of experience.