If you’re a science geek with an analytical mind, rejoice! Several companies are looking to hire you! Why, you ask? Because they are constantly on the lookout for cyber security experts to protect their data.
Who is a cyber security expert and what does he/she do?
A security guard safeguards assets. A bodyguard safeguards people. And a cyber security expert safeguards information from theft, illegal duplication, and unauthorized access. Any computer associated with the web is powerless against cyber attacks. Cyber security, or IT security, is the procedure used to shield PCs and systems from criminal disruption. Today, experts in cyber security are among the most sought-after experts in the technology sector. Cyber security experts always need to be one step ahead of hackers and systematized crooks if they want to successfully protect the data they are entrusted with.
What education do you need to become a cyber security expert?
You need to have a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field to become a cyber security expert. You can obtain a bachelor of science in IT management and cyber security. You can also choose a diploma course in cyber security. The duration for the same will be 15-18 months. Chandigarh University, Hindustan University (Chennai), and SJES College of Management Studies (Bangalore) are some colleges that offer a cyber security course.
Are there any particular skills that you need to hone for this field?
Yes, you need to hone these 3 major skills to survive and thrive in this field.
- Programming Skills – You need to be well-versed with programming if you want to build successful security programmes and break down cyber attacks and ruptures. You will not be able to recognise a cyber attack without knowledge of programming.
- Understanding Network Protocols – You also need to understand what network protocols are, the various types of network protocols, their similarities and differences, how they work and what they are used for.
- Security Principles – Security principles include privacy, confidentiality, authentication, and access control. These are basic principle cyber security experts need to understand to be able to build a programme that will withstand attacks.
What is the scope of cyber security in India?
In the past few years, the need for cyber security experts has suddenly increased. As the world is embracing digitization, there is a rising threat to businesses across all sectors. Along with the big and middle-sized conglomerates, even startups are recruiting cyber security experts. According to industry insiders, each graduate has an average of five offers waiting for him! While newer technologies like machine learning and artificial intelligence are eliminating the need for lower end and mid-level engineers, cyber security is touted to remain unaffected. Suffice it to say that the demand for cyber security engineers is growing exponentially.
Can you earn a living as a cyber security expert?
As the corporate sector is growing, companies are looking for experts who have good knowledge of security. The average salary of freshers in this field ranges from 3 to 5 lakhs. Those who have a degree in cyber security and a minimum of 5 years of experience take home a neat package of 10-15 lakhs per annum. If you work abroad, your annual salary can be a whopping 12 lakhs!
In India, cyber security is a lucrative career option. With an increase in digitization, several companies like TCS, WIPRO, Infosys, and Cognizant are looking for cyber security experts. If you’re a science nerd, this is the field to be in!
Found this article interesting? Click here to read how you can become an image consultant in India!
