A Huge Advantage of Being Cyber Security

How to Become a Cyber Security Consultant

A cyber security consultant performs a variety of roles within the cyber security field. They act as attackers and defenders in computer systems, networks, and software programs. Their role is to see what weaknesses there are and look for ways to strengthen the system, to prevent hackers from exploiting vulnerabilities.

Here is some information you need to keep in mind on your journey to becoming a cybersecurity consultant.

Qualifications to become a Cyber Security Consultant

In the cybersecurity industry, there are many factors that determine your eligibility for a job and your salary level. Some of the factors include your educational background, your experience, and your certifications.

Educational Background for a Cyber Security Consultant

An associate degree is a great starting point for your first position in cybersecurity. But soon, you'll want to work on a bachelor's degree, and maybe a master's degree. This education will make you knowledgeable about your field and validate this knowledge for your employer.

Work Experience for a Cyber Security Consultant

As this is a highly specialized field, you must have experience. Between three and five years is usually considered a solid amount of time previously spent working in the industry. Remember that the more experience you provide, the more employers will believe you have something of value to offer their team.

Having specialized knowledge of the latest hacking and security strategies available in cyberspace is a huge bonus, so make sure you stay on top of new developments in the online world by reading tech blogs, magazines, and websites.

Skills Required to be a Successful Cyber Security Consultant

Each project in this field of study requires specific demands on security experts. The following list is an overview of the skills cybersecurity professionals are expected to hone:

1. Penetration testing, as well as measuring vulnerability ratings of cyber programs and software used by certain companies.

2. Firewall security and management, including backup and fail safe features, and breach detection and prevention protocols.

3. Knowledge of advanced persistent threat management, including phishing, as well as social engineering and network access control.

4. Encryption techniques and capabilities. Able to send and receive data over the internet without succumbing to hacking attacks.

5. Programming language used for raw data storage and processing. The more languages you know, the better.

6. Familiarity with various operating systems. Windows, Linus, UNIX and other systems are still in development or available to the public.

7. Principles of ethical hacking and coding practices. Working knowledge of threat modeling and configuration.

Other Skills to Help You Succeed as a Cyber Security Consultant

The job also requires the use of soft skills such as the following:

Leadership skills

At the highest job levels, you can be responsible for running the entire operation of the security team, with multiple people reporting to you and seeking your guidance in the event of a threat. Leadership skills are essential in such cases.

Negotiation Skills

Cybersecurity is often a confusing part of the digital world, with some countries drafting their own cyber laws and contracts that may mean different things in other countries. You need to be aware of all of these regulations, and make an informed judgment about possible actions against your company as lawful criminal acts.

Ability to communicate

As well as effective communication with your security team, this also refers to relevant departments and your superiors. Since cybersecurity is often an obscure subject for ordinary people, it is up to you to explain the security threats and the seriousness of possible emergency situations to other members of the company in a way they can easily understand.

Professional Certification for Cyber Security Consultants

Professional certification is another important part of becoming a cybersecurity consultant. Certification not only validates your knowledge and skills but also shows that you are keeping up with the latest innovations and trends. In a field that moves as fast as cyber security, staying up to date with the latest news is key to being a valued employee.

 

With a combination of education, work experience and certification, you could find yourself at the top of the cybersecurity field. If you are interested in becoming a cybersecurity consultant, consider ECPI University for the educational background you will need for this position. Contact an admissions counselor today to see if the ECPI University where your journey begins.

It could be the Best Decision You've Ever Made!