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Embarking on a journey into the dynamic realm of cybersecurity is an exciting venture, but it can be daunting without a roadmap.
In five strategic steps, we will navigate the essential knowledge and mindset you need for a successful entry into cybersecurity. Whether you aspire to become a Security Operations Centre (SOC) analyst, a malware analyst, or an ethical hacker or penetration tester, this guide is tailored to help you build the foundation for a thriving cybersecurity career.
I. Cybersecurity Career Paths
I. Cybersecurity Career Paths
The most important thing to know is that the biggest lie in security is “there are entry-level roles." The fact is, you don’t need lots of certifications, nor do you need a university degree. However, cybersecurity is part of IT (call it tech if you will). Hence, it has its prerequisites—things you must know to have a smooth transition. For instance, computer networking is vital for aspiring SOC analysts, computer programming for prospective malware analysts, and a combination of both, along with system administration and more, for those aiming to become ethical hackers and penetration testers.
Below are articles designed to demystify the necessary prerequisites and hopefully serve as a guide in selecting your cybersecurity career path:
II. Certifications
II. Certifications
There’s no doubt that cybersecurity is super-saturated at the entry level. In order to land your first role, you need to be able to stand out and give yourself an edge over others. One of the things that can help achieve that edge is an industry-recognised certification.
There are tonnes of certs out there; however, almost all sub-fields of cybersecurity have the same required skillset at the foundational level. That being said, below are certifications that would not only proof your worth but also give you the needed boosts to stand out:
All Security Roles
2. Escpecially for intending SOC Analyst (Related) Role:
3. Especially for intending Penetration Testers
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/pentest
https://security.ine.com/certifications/ejpt-certification/
III. Lab Practice
III. Lab Practice
The below resources are very helpful in getting hands-on experience with tools and terminologies you’ve encountered in books. They are also often gamified to make them more interesting and less boring.
Note: Some of the modules are paid (subscription-based), but they also give certificates of completion that look good on your CV and LinkedIn page.
TryHackMe
2. CyberDefenders
4. HackTheBox
IV. CV
IV. CV
Most companies would require a CV, and that’s usually a crucial determinant of whether one would proceed to the interview stage or not.
I’d advise that after a while (more personal lab work and certification), you can come up with a top-notch CV that boosts your chances of getting to the interview stage, either for an internship position or an entry-level role.
V. Networking/Mentorship
V. Networking/Mentorship
Information is key, and in the world of cybersecurity, networking is one crucial way to get that key. Keep an up-to-date LinkedIn account while posting your learnings and certifications; every little win matters.
It is also of dire importance to have a mentor, someone who is already doing what you want or love to do. There is no spoon-feeding in cybersecurity, and everyone has a plate-ful already. Only ask questions when you’ve researched online and couldn’t find an answer. This is what ensures you have a healthy mentor-mentee relationship.
Below are some communities you can benefit from:
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