How to become A Computer Security Specialist

• Information Security Analyst
• IT Security Specialist
• Security Specialist
• Cyber Security Analyst

What do Computer Security Specialists do?

A Computer Security Specialist would typically need to:

• Analyse current organisational systems; identify weaknesses and research constantly evolving risks; monitor and evaluate cybersecurity breaches, malware threats, attacks and unauthorised or illegal network activity; suggest and implement improvements
• Keep an information security risk register; help the enterprise conduct internal and external audits relating to information security; control the abuse of permissions by authorised system users
• Examine hardware for the vulnerability of access points
• Use advanced analytics tools to monitor network activity; identify emerging threat patterns and vulnerabilities early in terms of IT specifications, and communicate them to IT teams or senior management
• Prepare for disaster recovery and create contingency plans for possible security violations; investigate breaches and research ways to resolve them
• Write reports to document security violations and the damage inflicted on the network; adapt reports to both technical and non-technical staff and stakeholders
• Install and use software such as firewalls and data encryption programs to secure confidential information; investigate security alerts and provide incident response; protect networks using systems such as password protection
• Conduct ‘ethical hacking’ and penetration testing by simulating security attacks and looking for vulnerabilities in an organisation’s network
• Develop safety measures, data recovery plans and security standards for an organisation; draft policies, guidelines and best practices for the organisation
• Design new security measures and upgrade existing ones
• Advise and train staff on issues such as dealing with spam emails; create, maintain and deliver cybersecurity awareness training programs for colleagues; help computer users with installation and educate them about the latest security products and processes
• Liaise with diverse stakeholders to advise them on how to minimise cyber security problems

As a Computer Security Specialist, you will typically work in an office, seated at a computer for extended periods. You would likely collaborate with colleagues in the information technology department, such as network administrators or computer systems analysts. If you also work as a consultant, your tasks may mandate occasional travel to meet clients. 

Computer Security Specialists typically work 35 to 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Each project and the nature of work would determine any overtime required. Shift work may include evenings, nights and weekends.

The need for swift responses to cybersecurity incidents may need you to stay on call 24/7. 

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Computer Security Specialists can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Computer Security Specialists are generally employed by:

• Computer Systems Design Firms & Related Services
• Finance & Insurance
• Management of Companies 
• Information Technology Companies
• Administrative & Support Services

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Information Security Systems Association (ISSA International), are crucial for a Computer Security Specialist interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Making sure to provide efficient protection to all computers through a well-designed and secure network even if the work tends to be monotonous, repetitious and stressful with daily and weekly deadlines to meet
• Dealing tactfully and patiently with clients highly frustrated with malfunctioning computers
• Tackling decision-making that has an impact on employees
• Sitting for long periods, which can give rise to health complaints
• Tackling the risk of losing data and inviting security threats while implementing cloud computing
• Working with discontent, inadequately trained people may increase network vulnerability, especially when login credentials are shared with unauthorised users

Computer Security Specialists typically have professional pre-entry work experience such as an internship or a job in an information technology department as a network or computer systems administrator. 

However, some employers look more specifically for experience in a similar field to which they are hiring. For instance, an opening in database security may need experience as a database administrator. 

Certain graduate schemes and internships do not require pre-entry experience but may provide limited opportunities. Employers may instead look for an evident passion for and an understanding of the cyber and information security field. 

Networking with those in the industry and attending cyber and information security events helps open doors for experience and jobs.

 Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working as Computer Security Specialists to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. (customise this sentence to your current write-up).

Computer Security Specialists require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, information assurance or other related fields. Occasionally, employers prefer those with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems. 

Employers hiring candidates with a master’s degree typically prefer specialisation in STEM subjects, such as cyber, information or network security, computer science, computing and information systems, software/electrical/network engineering, and other IT/security/network-related degrees.

Certification demonstrates a Computer Security Specialist’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Certification from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market, carry a significant salary premium, increase your chances of advancement, and allow you to pick up the best practices for a Computer Security Specialist.

Some employers seek candidates with certification. Before you choose a certification program, look at job postings for your role to assess what prospective employers are looking for and consult with them if possible.

You may attain a general certification, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or you may obtain a more specialised certification in areas such as penetration testing or systems auditing.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years.

You would typically begin your career in an entry-level or junior cyber security role, earning experience to tackle roles such as Senior Cyber Security Analyst or Consultant.

Once you acquire significant experience, you may step into managerial or senior leadership roles, leading you to become Director or Head of Cybersecurity. Make sure to receive the relevant certifications that your employers specify. Also keep in mind larger organisations and financial services usually offer greater scope for progress.

With experience, you may take up self-employment or independent consultancy, work as a contractor through an agency or even establish a cybersecurity company.

Given that cybersecurity skills are in high demand with rapid evolution in the field, candidates with the necessary skills, experience, and education have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Computer Security Specialist build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

You will typically receive on-the-job training along with mentoring from senior colleagues. Organisations that offer structured graduate training schemes may support you financially in acquiring a master’s degree in cyber or information security.

In addition, you may keep yourself current with industry information, trends and developments, events, and networking opportunities through relevant associations.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Computer Security Specialists have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

A full-time Computer Security Specialist, on the other hand, has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

Hackers - The Different Kinds

White hat or ethical hackers are professional cybersecurity experts who work for governments or organisations and are authorised or certified to hack systems, working within the rules set by the government. 

Black hat hackers are also knowledgeable computer experts but with unethical intentions to attack systems without authorised entry and typically steal the data or destroy the system. 

Red Hat Hackers, similar to the white ones, aim to block off black hat hackers and are ruthless while counteracting malware. 

Grey hat hackers fall in the grey area between white and black. They are not certified, and their intentions lack clarity, although personal gain is likely one of them. 

Green hat hackers are fledgling hackers learning the ropes from experienced counterparts.

Every 39 seconds, a hacker attack is encountered.

As a Computer Security Specialist, you would shoulder immense responsibility as you play a critical role in your organisation. It is a role that demands sharp foresight and quick responses to maintain cybersecurity and keep your employer’s data and information systems networks safe. 

Working in a cybersecurity position, you are likely to be well-paid. Hence, make your interests and not just your remuneration the basis of what you decide to pursue. 

Think about what aspect of your work truly motivates you, and select a job that cashes in on your strengths and one that you love doing day after day.