Depending on the position and the kinds of projects you’ll work on, such as software development or security threat analysis, entry-level cybersecurity job requirements may change. Gaining knowledge of these prerequisites will enable you to pursue the appropriate training and education. This page discusses typical minimum qualifications, jobs, certifications, and entry-level cybersecurity employment opportunities. It also includes examples of these positions and how to get them.
Entry-Level Cyber Security
Within an organization’s IT department, cybersecurity specialists work to safeguard networks, systems, and data. They keep an eye on the company’s current systems for hazards posed by any external services it utilizes or accesses, as well as threats from the inside. In addition, they evaluate risk, solve issues, and develop strategies for the best possible system security.
Entry-Level Cyber Security Job
A cybersecurity entry-level job is a technological position that focuses on the basic responsibilities of protecting a person’s or an organization’s data, information, and intelligence. Four basic entry-level cybersecurity jobs were identified. Here’s a brief overview of each of them:
#1. Technician or Specialist in Cybersecurity
- Information security, information systems, information assurance, network security, security operations, vulnerability assessment, project management, Linux, and the NIST cybersecurity framework are among the essential competencies needed.
- Information security specialist, IT security specialist, and IT specialist—information security are similar job titles.
- The most often requested credentials are CompTIA Security+, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), GIAC (SANS/GIAC Certified Information Systems Auditor), and CISM (Certified Information Security Manager).
- $92,000 is the average salary.
#2. Cybercrime Investigator/Analyst
- Key competencies and expertise needed include: forensic tools, UNIX, consumer electronics, hard drives, information systems, Linux, computer forensics, and malware engineering.
- Cyber forensic specialist, computer forensics analyst, cybersecurity forensic analyst, and digital forensics analyst are other related job titles.
- SANS/GIAC Certification, CISSP, EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE), GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst, and GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) are the top certificates sought.
- $94,000 is the average salary.
#3. Responder and Incident Analyst
- Information security, project management, information systems, Linux, network security, technical assistance, intrusion detection, UNIX, and security operations are among the essential competencies and expertise needed.
- Related job titles include audit project manager-information security, network technical specialist, disaster recovery specialist, and information security analyst.
- The most sought-after certificates include CISSP, CompTIA Security+, GIAC Certified Incident Handler, SANS/GIAC Certification, and IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Certification.
- $89,000 is the average salary.
#4. Technology Auditor
- Internal auditing, audit planning, information systems, Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX), accounting, risk assessment, information security, COBIT, and business processes are among the essential competencies and expertise needed.
- Similar job titles include senior IT auditor, internal auditor, manager, and consultant for IT audits.
- The most often requested certificates are ITIL, CISSP, CISM, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Information Systems Certification.
- Salary average: $98,000
Additional entry-level jobs in cybersecurity are:
- Information security analyst
- Security technician,
- junior penetration tester,
- systems administrator and further
Entry-Level Cyber Security Certification
For hiring managers looking to fill positions with the best candidates, the following entry-level cybersecurity certifications are great methods to add credibility to your experience and strengthen your resume.
#1. Microsoft Certified: Identity Fundamentals, Compliance, and Security
The most “entry-level” cybersecurity certification or qualification we’re spotlighting is the Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals certification. This certification, which is aimed at students, business users, and IT professionals, acknowledges understanding of a wide range of cybersecurity subjects, including general Microsoft 365 and Azure. It also acknowledges a general understanding of IT, work experience, and familiarity with networking and cloud computing technologies. You have to pass one exam ($99) in order to get certified.
#2. ISACA Foundations of Cybersecurity
Within the security sector, ISACA is well-known for its esteemed certifications, including the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and other comparable qualifications that offer intermediate to advanced status. They are intended for IT workers who wish to assist in preventing and avoiding risks and vulnerabilities related to network security.
The entry-level market is served by the Cybersecurity Fundamentals certificate. Four domains relating to cybersecurity are covered by this certificate:
- Threat environment
- Foundations of information security
- Keeping access secure
- Response and operations for security
For ISACA members, the single exam costs $150; for non-members, it costs $199. The certificate doesn’t expire or require periodic recertification.
#3. CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification, which covers a wide range of security and information assurance topics, is arguably the most well-known entry-level security certification. These topics include:
- Network safety
- Risks and weaknesses
- Security measures Cryptography
- Principles of risk management
- Data, host, and application security
The certification satisfies the Federal Information Security Management Act and U.S. Department of Defense Directive 8570.01-M criteria, which are crucial for anyone hoping to work in IT security for the federal government.
#4. Information Security Foundations (GISF) by GIAC
System administrators, managers, and information security officers who require a thorough understanding of computer networks, security regulations, incident response, and cryptography concepts are the target audience for the GISF certification, according to GIAC.
It is thought that the GISF exam is harder than the CompTIA Security+ exam. Test-takers for GIAC certifications typically need to apply their knowledge and problem-solving abilities; therefore, practical experience from training or work experience is advised.
The $949 GISF exam is required. GIAC offers two practice examinations as part of the certification-attempt package, but the cost of this exam is incredibly costly.
#5. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (ISC) II (SSCP)
Currently, the most well-known and well-liked security credential is arguably the (ISC)2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
If you don’t already have technical or engineering-related experience in information technology, the SSCP prepares you for positions like security analyst, network security engineer, and security administrator, which usually begin at the junior level.
You need to pass a single exam covering seven common body of knowledge (CBK) domains in order to become an SSCP.
- Limitations on Access
- Identification, Monitoring,
- Analysis of Risk in Security Operations and Administration
- Reaction to Events and Recuperation
- Applications, Network and Communications Security,
- Cryptography, and Security Systems
(ISC)2 advises that you read books and white papers, take part in webinars, and attend training sessions or conference seminars to make sure you have enough practical security knowledge before the exam.
How to Get an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Job
If you work in IT or a similar sector, you may want to look into a cybersecurity entry-level position. The following actions can help you get a job in entry-level cybersecurity:
#1. Select the Area of Study.
Making a decision on the cybersecurity topic you wish to study is the first step. Once you’ve chosen a particular area within cybersecurity, take into account degree programs and relevant employment experience that align with that area of study.
#2. Earning Your Degree
A bachelor’s degree is typically required for cybersecurity professions, while specific positions may have different requirements. For instance, a master’s or PhD may be necessary for a specialized position in threat analysis. Programs to think about are as follows:
- Computer science
- Engineering for cybersecurity
- Operations related to cybersecurity
- Engineering using computers
- Information security
#3. Acquire Experience
While most cybersecurity jobs demand experience, entry-level positions may not always require it. A few positions outside of cybersecurity that can give you significant experience are as follows:
- Networking: You maintain networks, hardware, and software in a networking role. You can also carry out data protection procedures and troubleshoot problems.
- Software development: The design, development, and testing of new software or hardware can fall within the purview of software developers.
- Systems engineering: Like a developer, a systems engineer is in charge of designing and creating software systems as well as maintaining and updating them.
- Financial and risk analysis: To track information and determine dangers, financial and risk analysts may create software. This helps businesses forecast profitability and anticipate future security requirements.
- Security intelligence: Analysts in this position may identify possible risks to the data, intelligence, and software of a business and offer countermeasures.
#4. Obtain accreditations
Certification criteria might differ depending on the sector, the technology being utilized, and company-specific needs, much like employment and degree requirements. You may want to look into a few fundamental certifications, which range from worldwide standards to product-specific ones.
#5. Get Your Resume Ready.
Make sure to update your resume as soon as you have obtained certifications, experience, and education. In addition to showcasing your technical abilities, you should also showcase the soft skills—like problem-solving, communication, and other abilities—that you’ve acquired via education and work experience.
#6. Progress in Your Work
Think about developing your career, regardless of whether you begin as a junior penetration tester or an IT technician. If you have a bachelor’s degree and want to work in corporate IT administration, management, or executive leadership, you should think about getting a master’s or PhD. Keep looking for certification programs that will help you progress in your profession and add to your portfolio.
What Is the Entry-Level Qualification for Cyber Security?
There are a few broad requirements you might need to gain an entry-level cybersecurity career, such as The specific needs for an entry-level cybersecurity job can vary depending on position and specialization.
- Education: An associate degree is typically the minimal education needed to obtain employment in cybersecurity; however, firms may want less work experience if you have a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- Certification: Those looking for entry-level cybersecurity jobs have access to a wide range of certification alternatives. Depending on the position and organization, these can range from software or system certifications to company-provided.
- Experience: A minimum of one year of experience in relevant fields, developing related abilities, is required for most professions, even those with advanced degrees.
- Skills: In addition to technical proficiency, an entry-level cybersecurity position calls for teamwork, quick thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- US cyber security career
What Is the First Level of Cyber Security?
Information security analyst, junior penetration tester, information system security professional, and network security analyst are among the job names associated with entry-level cybersecurity professions. Assuming these positions entails contributing to the prevention of network intrusions, data breaches, and other dangers.
What Skills Are Needed for Entry-Level Cyber Security?
Examples of skills in cybersecurity
- Essential technology skills.
- Programming skills
- Recognizing and controlling risks.
- Administration and examination of data skills
- Implementing and managing cloud computing
- Reasoning logically and debugging
- The ability to adjust.
- Good communication skills
How Do I Start a Cyber Security Career From Scratch?
The following actions will help you land a cybersecurity job, even if you have no prior professional experience or want to start from scratch:
- Ascertain your degree of readiness.
- Decide on the job path you prefer.
- Get access to resources that will enhance your understanding.
- Try out some of your abilities.
- Go for certification.
- Apply for jobs at the entry level.
What Is the Easiest Field in Cybersecurity?
Security analysts, penetration testers, digital forensic investigators, and security architects can all find lots of entry-level positions. The ones that you are interested in and are somewhat knowledgeable about will be the simplest to land.
- Cyber Security Analysts: What They Do & How To Become One in 2023
- Cybersecurity Specialist: Definition, Duties & How to Become One
- Here’s How You Can Get Into Cybersecurity With Little or No Experience!
- How To Get Into Cyber Security In 2024: Step-By-Step Guide.
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