Considering a Cybersecurity Career? Here are 7 Industry Facts You Need to Know First.

The recent increase in cyber security attacks is concerning to many companies, resulting in rising demand for cyber security professionals who can assess vulnerabilities and mitigate threats effectively.

But is it really worth it to consider a career in cyber security ? What is the long-term value of a career in cyber security?

Let's look at the facts about careers in cyber security and what to expect in the future.

1. The cyber security industry is booming, and the demand increases every day.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers in cyber security are projected to grow 28% annually. The average annual job growth in other job areas is just 7%. Careers in cyber security will continue to grow at the same pace into the next decade. This means that there are plenty of opportunities for you and other cyber security professionals who are entering the industry.

2. All organizations need cyber security professionals.

Data is the most valuable asset for any organization. Security breaches could be catastrophic. Cyber security is important to all organizations, regardless of industry sector. Whether they are employed in financial institutions, retail, healthcare, defense or government, cyber security professionals perform the same crucial duties.

3. There is a shortage of qualified cyber security professionals.

(ISC)² Cyber security Workforce Study estimates that there is a global talent shortage of 2.93 million qualified cyber security workers. About two-thirds of organizations reported that they are at extreme or moderate risk due to the unavailability of qualified workers. This is encouraging news for any aspiring cyber security professional. The barrier to entry into the cyber security industry is very low for a well-trained professional.

4. Cyber security salaries are high.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for a cyber security professional in 2018 was $98,350.. In comparison, the median wage for all workers in the United States was $38,640. Because of a shortage of qualified personnel, employers are willing to pay more for cyber security professionals. Moreover, salaries for cyber security professionals are projected to increase over the next decade.

5. Skills required for an entry-level cyber security career can be acquired in a short period of time.

Many employers recruiting for entry-level positions require candidates to have basic certifications (Network+, Security+), aptitude for learning technology, and knowledge of cyber security tools such as Nmap, Wireshark, BurpSuite, Snort, Splunk, Nessus, and Metasploit. Working knowledge of these tools can be acquired with directed training over a short period of time.

6. Cyber security skills are highly versatile and transferable.

Since cyber security professionals essentially perform the same job duties in any industry sector, their skills are highly transferable. This allows you to choose an industry sector that you are passionate about. If you are passionate about serving your country, you can choose the government sector, military or law enforcement agencies. If you are passionate about serving your community, you can choose the healthcare sector or a non-profit organization.

7. There will never be a dull day at the office.

Cyber security professionals monitor network traffic, configure firewalls, conduct penetration breaches on networks and applications, and research security trends. Cyber crime trends are constantly changing, and new attacks are discovered on a daily basis. Cyber security professionals have to stay one step ahead of the attackers and are constantly learning.

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