Is a career in network security a good choice?

No matter an organization’s size and nature, they need a security expert in their team. This is because cyberattacks are increasing every day, and it is predicted that cybersecurity will cost the world US$6 trillion by 2021, indicating that a career in network security is a hot commodity. At the same time, the risks brought on by the pandemic have also led to a significant rise in cyber threats across the world. Microsoft Threat Intelligence teams reported an eleven-fold spike in COVID-19-themed cyberattacks the week following the announcement of WHO recognizing the pandemic.

The importance of network security

Why pursue a role in network security?

Network defenders are in demand

Now is the best time to start a career in network security as there are not enough professionals to go around. Furthermore, the jobs in this field are plenty, and it is estimated that professionals need to grow to about 145% before they can meet the global demands in the market.

Network security is a lucrative career

The average salary of a network security analyst is $81,100 annually. However, this may vary based on one’s experience, skill-set, company, and role, with some entry-level roles making well over $95,000 per annum.

What are the skills you need to become a network defender?

A network security administrator’s major goal is to protect an organization’s network infrastructure by creating and implementing policies and procedures. Network security jobs are an evolving role, and professionals need to be skilled in analyzing risks and weaknesses in a network.

To become a network defender, the following skills are recommended:

◉ Managing LAN, WAN and server architecture

◉ Solve security issues

◉ Testing systems for both hardware and software vulnerabilities

◉ Managing VPNs, firewalls, email security, web protocols and security programs

◉ Developing and implementing virus detection systems

◉ Track and record system vulnerabilities

◉ Document and report security analysis findings

◉ Supervise the instillation of new applications (software and hardware)

◉ Analyze and implement new security protocols and technologies

◉ Modifying regulatory systems within IT security

◉ Maintain the integrity of hardware and software

◉ Analyze and investigate security breech alerts

◉ Develop and Implement security policies

◉ Create user authentication/access policies and protocols

◉ Maintain and update system architecture

◉ Maintain and monitor servers and switches

For a career in network security, you need to know the basics of networking, such as networking concepts, fundamentals of computer networks, communications, devices, layers, etc.

How to become a network security defender?

You can join a network security training program that follows the protect, detect, and respond approach to defend a system. The program must also cover all the necessary topics that are related to network security. Furthermore, the network security certification program must be recognized and accredited by a governing body.

If you have experience in networking or have a network security certification in any network security program, you can join the network security program to kickstart your career. However, if you are new to the computer network niche, you will need to enroll for certifications like Network Security Fundamentals (NSF).

The NSF program is an entry-level program designed by EC-Council for people who want to start a career in network security. IT professionals that are not into security but are looking to progress in their career can join network security programs like Certified Network Defender (CND). The Certified Network Defender (CND) programs by EC-Council helps administrators to develop their network defense skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is cybersecurity as a career?

There is a wide range of career opportunities for network security engineers in the cybersecurity field. Potential jobs in the cybersecurity field are security architect, information security analyst, chief information security officer, and security engineer.

Industries that can hire cybersecurity professionals are computer systems design and related services, credit intermediation and related activities, management companies and enterprises, etc.

What are the types of network security?

Some of the common types of network attacks are:

◉ Virus

◉ Malware

◉ Worm

◉ Phishing

◉ Botnet

◉ DoS (Denial of Service)

◉ Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)

◉ Man-in-the-middle

Source: eccouncil.org