Where to Start in Cybersecurity
Introduction
So you’ve just finished watching a movie or TV show about hackers, and now you’re itching to dive deeper into the world of cybersecurity. The characters made hacking look so cool and complex, throwing around technical jargon that left you scratching your head. But fear not, because I’m here to help you figure out where to start on your cybersecurity journey.
Building a Foundation
You probably have some basic computer knowledge, like running programs, tweaking settings, and maybe even upgrading hardware. But let’s face it, the way computers are portrayed on screen can make us question what we really know about these machines we use every day without a second thought.
My suggestion to kickstart your cybersecurity education is to take advantage of free fundamental courses offered by your local library. And once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to consider industry certifications such as:
These resources will give you a solid understanding of cybersecurity concepts and help you explore the different paths available in the information security industry.
Why These Certifications Matter
When companies are looking to hire cybersecurity professionals, they want individuals who are competent, skilled, and professional. While university degrees can provide the necessary theoretical knowledge, they often fall short when it comes to hands-on experience that employers crave in their new hires.
That’s where industry certifications come in. They offer a virtual environment with hands-on labs where you can put your knowledge to the test. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, these certifications help you retain information through muscle memory and allow you to showcase your skills during job interviews. And if you’re curious about the standards businesses follow when building their cybersecurity teams, you can check out DoD Approved 8570 Baseline Certifications that are widely referenced in the industry.
Is The Degree Still Worth It?
In a nutshell, yes, it is. While you can definitely break into the cybersecurity field with certifications alone, it’s highly recommended to pursue at least a two-year Associate of Science degree to supplement your certification training. University education goes beyond certifications by teaching you the nitty-gritty details and expanding on your existing knowledge. You’ll dive into topics like project management, digital forensics and incident response (DFIR), cybersecurity analysis, and much more. Plus, a degree can help you figure out your preferred path in the information security field.
Conclusion
To sum it up, you can absolutely make a career in cybersecurity without a university degree, experience, or certifications. However, combining a degree with certifications can give you a powerful edge in the field.
Resources for Getting Started
(some of these may require subscriptions)
