Alyaniz
What do you need to know to be a IT Security Specialist?
#technology #study #securityspecialist #career
3 answers
Sheila Jordan
Sheila’s Answer
Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. Their responsibilities are continually expanding as the number of cyber attacks increases. I agree with Nisha's comments and would like to include a few more items for your consideration.
IT security analysts are heavily involved with creating their organization’s disaster recovery plan, a procedure that IT employees follow in case of emergency. These plans allow for the continued operation of an organization’s IT department. The recovery plan includes preventive measures such as regularly copying and transferring data to an offsite location. It also involves plans to restore proper IT functioning after a disaster. Analysts continually test the steps in their recovery plans.
Information security analysts must stay up to date on IT security and on the latest methods attackers are using to infiltrate computer systems. Analysts need to research new security technology to decide what will most effectively protect their organization.
EDUCATION
Information security analysts usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information assurance, programming, or a related field.
Some employers prefer applicants who have a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems. Programs offering the MBA in information systems generally require 2 years of study beyond the undergraduate level and include both business and computer-related courses.
CERTIFICATION
many employers prefer candidates to have certification, which validates the knowledge and best practices required from information security analysts. Some are general information security certificates, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), while others have a more narrow focus, such as penetration testing or systems auditing. Best of luck to you on your journey!
Sheila recommends the following next steps:
Ken Taitingfong
Ken’s Answer
IT Security Specialists are usually versed in multiple disciplines - operating system security, network security, application security, mobile security, incident response, and so forth. They are not necessarily experts in all of the fields - maybe two or three of them - but they can speak to the other fields at least at a high level. This could be considered an entry-level to mid-level career depending on the position and company. For a good basic fundamental option of learning networking and security, look at the Network+ and Security+ certifications.
Ken recommends the following next steps:
Nicholas Johnson
Nicholas’s Answer
You will need to know the ins and outs of security, security+ will be a requirement, you will need a knowledge of networking. Certifications are a must in the IT field, security+ is a mandatory, I would suggest getting certifications for cisco devices and most operating systems/network management systems i.e. CCNA, server level certifications windows/linux/and etc. Security+ is a test with a very broad knowledge base, you will need to know about threats, authentication, malware, networking, cryptography, network security, what to do when your defense fails, and management of security risks.