Today, cybersecurity extends beyond keeping locally networked computers safe. It means keeping worldwide networks safe. Increasingly, companies are making products accessed over the Internet, making those products vulnerable to malicious attacks. The need for well-trained cybersecurity professionals has grown and will continue to increase as smart technology increases Internet use.

More than just computers

Cybersecurity requires unique skill sets because it’s concerned with more than one system of networks. You might think to work in cybersecurity; you’d be dealing only with protecting information or money. But we’ve learned that any networked devices need to be protected, regardless of what kind of data they transmit. For instance:

  • In aviation, the GPS systems need to be secure, and if the plane has an onboard entertainment link, it also needs to be protected.
  • Cars that have networked radios, maintenance systems or Bluetooth technology need protection.
  • Mobile technology (tablets, smartphones, etc.) are on networks and are increasingly becoming the target of hackers.

More Jobs = More Open Doors

As you can see, cybersecurity is an exciting and dynamic career field. The types of jobs you can get today are entirely different than regular IT network jobs. The professions in cybersecurity include:

  • Cyber Security Analyst
  • Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Manager
  • Penetration Tester
  • Network Security Administrator
  • IT Systems Security Engineer

What’s even more exciting is that the training you receive today could prepare you for jobs you haven’t even with yet.

No shortage of jobs

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the job field of Information Security Analysts is expanding “much faster than average” with a growth rate of 37%. Cybercrime threatens every industry, and the need for people to fill those jobs is increasing.

Curious, Inventive, Diligent People Need to Apply

Cybersecurity specialists need a unique skill set and specific certifications to get into the field. To enter into this field, you should have a keen interest in technology and be willing to learn about new techniques and strategies. It would help if you were comfortable with hardware, enjoy working with it, and discussing it with co-workers. Most work is done in offices and computer labs and requires a lot of thinking and problem-solving. The jobs in cybersecurity exist in both the private and the public sectors. As a trained specialist, you could find yourself working for finance companies, health care management, or even government agencies such as the CSIS, CSE, RCMP.

If you’re looking for a way to put your interest in computers and technology to work, you should definitely explore this growing profession. Begin with a Google search for classes in your area or online courses. Some excellent online sources are:

  • futurelearn.com
  • coursera.org
  • edx.org

These sites offer different classes that are either directly or indirectly related to cybersecurity.

But to learn about the profession to find somebody who works in it or uses computer security in their job. However, you decide to investigate the career, be persistent, and get your questions answered before committing money to a school or program.