Starting a Career in Cybersecurity: What You Need to Know – IT Exams Training

Cybersecurity is a field that is experiencing immense growth, driven by the increasing number and sophistication of cyber threats facing individuals, businesses, and governments. One of the primary reasons to consider a career in cybersecurity is the glaring global skills gap in the industry. Experts and professionals across the tech world have long highlighted this issue. John McAfee, a pioneer in the industry, famously stated that the field of cybersecurity remains the least populated area within the technology sector. According to him, there are two job openings for every qualified candidate. This statistic underlines a clear imbalance in supply and demand, making the job market incredibly favorable for individuals who choose to pursue this path.

The advent of technologies like artificial intelligence has only exacerbated the complexity of cyber threats. AI-driven phishing attacks, for example, are becoming more common, outpacing traditional defensive mechanisms and forcing companies to constantly innovate their cyber strategies. Despite these growing threats, employers are struggling to find professionals with the right skill sets to address the evolving challenges. Gary Hayslip, an industry author and professional, points out that companies often look for a ‘unicorn’ candidate—someone who can fulfill the roles of three specialists in one position. This unrealistic expectation results in job descriptions with a wide array of required skills, discouraging many otherwise qualified candidates from applying and contributing to the overall talent shortage.

The silver lining for new entrants to the field is that this gap offers opportunities. It provides a pathway for new graduates and career changers to enter a high-demand profession. Many companies are now more willing than ever to train enthusiastic and capable individuals who show potential, even if they do not meet every item on a lengthy job specification list. The demand for skilled professionals far outweighs the supply, making it an opportune moment to enter the field.

High Demand and Job Security

In addition to the obvious demand, one of the more attractive aspects of a career in cybersecurity is job security. As long as there is sensitive data to protect and systems to safeguard, cybersecurity professionals will be in demand. This job stability is not only attractive in economic terms but also provides a level of professional assurance that is hard to match in many other sectors.

Cyber attacks have far-reaching implications for organisations, ranging from data breaches and financial loss to reputational damage. The need for skilled professionals to mitigate these risks is constant. This leads to sustained employment opportunities across industries such as finance, healthcare, government, and e-commerce. Cyber professionals are often seen as critical assets within companies, contributing directly to organisational resilience.

However, it is also important to acknowledge the challenges. The field does have a relatively high turnover rate—around 20% in many companies. The main reason for this is burnout. Given the skills shortage, many organisations stretch their limited cybersecurity staff to cover more ground than is reasonable. This results in stress, overwork, and ultimately, employee attrition.

But this challenge can also be interpreted positively. In a job market so heavily tilted in favor of candidates, professionals have more leverage to negotiate work conditions, benefits, and even switch jobs for better roles. Cybersecurity is one of the rare sectors where being in high demand can translate to practical control over one’s career trajectory. Candidates can be more selective about the culture and structure of the companies they choose to work for.

Diverse Career Paths and Ongoing Engagement

One of the most enticing aspects of cybersecurity as a career is the variety it offers. Unlike some careers that become repetitive over time, cybersecurity is dynamic and constantly evolving. Professionals can explore multiple specialisations, such as penetration testing, cryptography, digital forensics, security architecture, and risk analysis. Each specialisation brings its own set of challenges and skills, allowing individuals to find a niche that aligns with their interests and strengths.

Cybersecurity is not a monolithic profession. It intersects with almost every area of technology and beyond. From automotive manufacturing and robotics to health care systems and cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity is an integral part of numerous industries. Wherever there is an online component, there is a need for cybersecurity. This cross-disciplinary relevance means that professionals can apply their skills in a variety of environments, enriching their work experience and increasing their employability.

Another important dimension is the technological scope that cyber professionals are exposed to. Whether it is cloud computing, artificial intelligence, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cybersecurity touches all modern innovations. This exposure not only keeps the job exciting but also provides continuous learning opportunities. Professionals are expected to stay updated with the latest threats, tools, and regulatory requirements, keeping the role intellectually stimulating.

Equally important is the fact that there is no single, fixed pathway to enter the field. Unlike traditional professions that require a very specific academic background or certification, cybersecurity allows for multiple entry points. People come into the field from helpdesk positions, software development, networking, and even non-technical roles. The diversity of backgrounds enriches the profession and opens doors for people from various walks of life.

Problem-Solving and Intellectual Engagement

Cybersecurity is a field that heavily relies on problem-solving skills and critical thinking. Every day brings a new challenge, a new vulnerability, or a new form of attack. Professionals are expected to stay vigilant and proactive, constantly identifying weaknesses and implementing preventive measures. Unlike repetitive tasks, cybersecurity work is never quite the same from one day to the next.

This constant need for innovation makes cybersecurity an ideal choice for individuals who enjoy puzzles, logic-based thinking, and strategic planning. It appeals to those who are naturally curious and who like to understand how systems work, identify flaws, and improve upon them. From defending against malware and ransomware to safeguarding cloud environments, the problem sets are complex and varied.

The work also requires adaptability. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and what works as a defense today might be obsolete tomorrow. Professionals must be willing to update their knowledge, undergo training, and experiment with new tools and methods. The rapid pace of technological change ensures that the learning curve never flattens, making the profession an excellent fit for lifelong learners.

What makes this problem-solving nature even more rewarding is the tangible impact it has. Unlike abstract puzzles, the problems solved in cybersecurity have real-world implications—protecting businesses, safeguarding personal data, and even defending national infrastructure. The sense of responsibility and contribution is profound, making the profession not just intellectually stimulating but also morally fulfilling.

Cybersecurity professionals often work closely with other departments as well, including IT, legal, and executive teams. This collaborative nature of the role means that problem-solving often involves communicating complex issues to non-technical stakeholders, refining solutions through teamwork, and maintaining a holistic view of organisational goals. As a result, soft skills like communication, empathy, and teamwork are just as important as technical acumen, offering a balanced and rewarding career experience.

How to Get Started in Cybersecurity

Educational Pathways and Self-Learning

Getting into cybersecurity doesn’t always require a traditional computer science degree, though it certainly helps. Many professionals in the field start with degrees in information technology, computer engineering, or even completely unrelated fields like psychology or business. The key factor is developing a strong understanding of core IT concepts and then building on that foundation with security-specific knowledge.

For those pursuing a formal education, cybersecurity programs are increasingly available at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These programs often include coursework in network security, cryptography, operating systems, ethical hacking, and information assurance.

However, cybersecurity is one of the few tech fields where self-learning can be equally effective. Many successful professionals are self-taught or transitioned from adjacent roles by learning on the job. Free and low-cost online resources such as Cybrary, TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and YouTube channels like NetworkChuck offer beginner-friendly, hands-on training environments.

Certifications

Certifications can be a powerful way to validate your skills, especially if you don’t have a traditional background. Entry-level certifications such as:

CompTIA Security+ – Covers foundational security concepts
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Focuses on penetration testing and offensive security.
Cisco’s CCNA Security – Networking with a security focus

These certifications help demonstrate your knowledge to potential employers. As you advance, more specialized certifications like CISSP, OSCP, and CISM can further elevate your career.

Certifications aren’t mandatory, but they can serve as useful milestones, especially for career changers. They’re also frequently used as filters in job listings, making them valuable for getting past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Building Hands-On Experience

Experience is often the differentiator in cybersecurity hiring. One effective way to gain it is through home labs. Setting up a virtual lab environment using tools like VirtualBox, VMware, or cloud services such as AWS can help you simulate network environments and practice attack and defense strategies safely.

Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions are another hands-on avenue. Platforms like PicoCTF, Hack The Box, and CTFtime allow you to test your skills in real-world scenarios. Participation in these competitions not only builds skills but also serves as proof of your practical experience.

Internships, volunteering for small businesses, or contributing to open-source security projects can also provide invaluable experience. These efforts help build a professional portfolio and demonstrate your initiative and capability.

Entry-Level Roles and Career Progression

Many cybersecurity professionals begin their careers in entry-level IT roles. Positions like help desk support, junior system administrator, or network technician often serve as stepping stones. These roles provide a critical understanding of IT systems and user behavior, both of which are essential in security roles.

From there, one might transition into more specific security roles such as:

Security Analyst – Monitoring security tools and responding to incidents
SOC Analyst – Working in a Security Operations Center to detect threats
Threat Intelligence Analyst – Researching emerging threats and vulnerabilities
Penetration Tester – Simulating attacks to identify vulnerabilities

As professionals gain experience, they may move into more advanced positions such as security architect, security consultant, or CISO (Chief Information Security Officer).

Career growth in cybersecurity is often faster than in many other fields due to high demand. Lateral movement is also common; someone working in penetration testing may shift into policy and compliance, digital forensics, or cloud security, depending on their interests.

Networking and Community Involvement

Cybersecurity is a collaborative field, and community involvement can significantly accelerate your growth. Engaging in forums like Reddit’s r/cybersecurity, Stack Exchange, or Discord groups allows you to learn from peers, ask questions, and get feedback on your work.

Attending local meetups, participating in hackathons, and joining professional organizations such as ISC², ISACA, or local DEF CON groups can help you build a network. These connections can lead to job opportunities, mentorships, and collaborations.

Building an online presence also helps. Contributing to a blog, sharing write-ups of CTF challenges, or creating YouTube tutorials showcases your knowledge and dedication to the field. Many employers look favorably on candidates who demonstrate their passion through public contributions.

Developing a Cyber Security Mindset

Beyond technical skills, mindset is critical in cybersecurity. This includes:

Curiosity – Always wanting to understand how things work
Persistence – Willingness to dig deep and solve complex problems
Attention to Detail – Small oversights can lead to major vulnerabilities
Ethical Integrity – Trustworthiness and adherence to professional standards

Cultivating this mindset means developing an adversarial way of thinking: asking how a system might be exploited and how to defend against it. It also involves staying informed about the latest trends, tools, and vulnerabilities by following industry news, reading threat reports, and continually testing your assumptions.

Cybersecurity is not a destination but a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. With the right combination of curiosity, foundational skills, and real-world practice, anyone motivated enough can break into and thrive in this exciting and impactful field.

Advanced Paths and Long-Term Success in Cyber Security

Specializations and Niche Roles

Once you’ve gained foundational experience in cybersecurity, the field opens up into a wide array of specialized paths. Each specialization caters to a different interest or skill set, allowing you to tailor your career based on what excites and motivates you.

Penetration Testing / Ethical Hacking: Focused on offensive security, this role involves simulating attacks to discover vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do. Pen testers need skills in scripting, networking, and knowledge of attack tools like Metasploit and Burp Suite.
Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR): This specialization revolves around investigating breaches and analyzing compromised systems. It requires attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with forensic tools like EnCase or FTK.
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst: These professionals monitor systems in real-time, identify anomalies, and respond to threats. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy fast-paced environments and immediate problem-solving.
Cloud Security: With many businesses migrating to cloud platforms, specialists who can secure environments like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are in high demand. Familiarity with DevSecOps, Kubernetes, and container security is valuable here.
Application Security: Also known as AppSec, this focuses on identifying and fixing security flaws in software development. Professionals need to understand coding practices and tools like static/dynamic analysis (SAST/DAST).
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC): This path appeals to those interested in legal, regulatory, and policy aspects of cybersecurity. It often involves frameworks like NIST, ISO 27001, and GDPR.

Each of these specializations requires continued learning and often benefits from targeted certifications (e.g., OSCP for penetration testing, GCIH for incident handling, or CCSK for cloud security).

Salary Expectations and Growth Potential

Cybersecurity offers strong earning potential, with salaries varying based on role, experience, location, and industry. Here’s a rough breakdown for the U.S. market:

Entry-Level Roles (e.g., Security Analyst, SOC Analyst): $60,000 – $90,000
Mid-Level Roles (e.g., Penetration Tester, DFIR Specialist): $90,000 – $130,000
Senior Roles (e.g., Security Architect, Incident Manager): $130,000 – $180,000
Executive Roles (e.g., CISO, Director of Security): $180,000 – $250,000+

Certifications, specializations, and geographic location can significantly influence earnings. Roles in finance, defense, or tech hubs like San Francisco, New York, and Washington, D.C. tend to offer higher compensation.

Freelance and consulting opportunities are also available for experienced professionals. Many cybersecurity experts supplement their income through bug bounty programs, independent consulting, or launching their own training and tool platforms.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even as opportunities abound, there are pitfalls to avoid on the path to a successful cybersecurity career:

Trying to Learn Everything at Once: The field is vast, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Focus on one area at a time. Build a strong foundation in networking and operating systems before diving into advanced topics.
Ignoring Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and project management are essential. Security professionals often need to explain complex issues to non-technical audiences, making soft skills just as critical as technical knowledge.
Skipping Fundamentals: Jumping straight to hacking tools without understanding the underlying principles can lead to shallow knowledge. Employers value those who understand how systems work at a deep level.
Neglecting Continuous Learning: Threats and technologies evolve constantly. Professionals who fail to stay updated risk becoming obsolete. Follow blogs, attend webinars, read threat reports, and engage in ongoing education.
Burnout: Passion is essential, but so is balance. Set boundaries, manage stress, and seek supportive environments to sustain a long-term career.

Staying Ahead: Trends and Future-Proofing Your Career

The future of cybersecurity promises both challenges and opportunities. Here are some trends to watch and prepare for:

AI and Machine Learning in Security: These tools are becoming essential for detecting anomalies and automating responses. Understanding how AI is used by both attackers and defenders will be critical.
Zero Trust Architecture: This security model assumes no user or device is trustworthy by default, requiring continuous authentication and strict access controls. It’s becoming the new standard in enterprise environments.
Quantum Computing: Though still emerging, quantum computing poses potential risks to current encryption methods. Keeping an eye on quantum-resistant algorithms may be important in the long term.
Privacy and Data Ethics: With rising concerns over digital privacy, roles focused on data governance, ethical use of data, and regulatory compliance will grow in importance.
Cyber Warfare and Nation-State Attacks: As geopolitical tensions rise, cyber warfare is becoming a critical domain. This has implications for both defense contractors and civilian infrastructure.

To stay competitive, consider building a “T-shaped” skillset: a broad understanding of cybersecurity with deep expertise in one area. Maintain a learner’s mindset and seek mentors, peers, and opportunities that challenge and grow your skills.

A career in cybersecurity offers intellectual challenge, job stability, and the opportunity to make a real-world impact. While the path may be demanding, it is also deeply rewarding for those who are curious, determined, and passionate about making the digital world a safer place.

Whether you’re a student, career changer, or self-taught learner, there’s a place for you in this dynamic and vital field. With the right mix of mindset, skill-building, and networking, you can carve out a successful and meaningful cybersecurity career.

Breaking Into Cybersecurity Without a Technical Background

It’s Possible: Cyber Security Isn’t Just for Coders

One of the most persistent myths about cybersecurity is that it’s only for people with computer science degrees or years of coding experience. In reality, cybersecurity is a multidisciplinary field that requires a range of skills, from analytical thinking and problem-solving to communication and policy development. Many successful cyber professionals started their careers in completely different domains: teaching, law enforcement, customer support, business, or even retail.

Cybersecurity is about protecting information, systems, and people. That broad mission opens the door to many non-technical roles that are vital to any security team. Roles like risk analyst, compliance officer, technical writer, project manager, and awareness trainer all play essential parts in the cyber defense ecosystem.

Leveraging Transferable Skills

If you’re coming from a non-technical background, chances are you already possess valuable skills that can be transferred into cybersecurity

Communication: Vital for explaining risks and procedures to non-technical stakeholders.
Attention to Detail: Useful for identifying anomalies in logs or spotting policy violations.
Problem-Solving: Core to incident response and vulnerability management.
Project Management: Important in rolling out security initiatives and coordinating teams.
Compliance and Policy Awareness: Helpful in roles dealing with regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI-DSS.

The key is to reframe your existing experience in a security context. For example, if you’ve worked in customer service, you understand user behavior—a critical component of social engineering defense and user awareness training.

Entry Paths for Non-Technical Candidates

Here are some cybersecurity roles particularly suitable for individuals without deep technical experience:

Security Awareness Trainer: Develops and delivers training to help employees recognize and avoid cyber threats.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Analyst: Ensures that the organization complies with security regulations and standards.
Technical Writer: Documents security policies, procedures, and system specifications.
Project Coordinator or Manager: Oversees the execution of security-related projects.
Security Analyst (Tier 1): Some entry-level analyst roles focus on alert monitoring and triage—skills that can be taught on the job.

With training and hands-on experience, you can eventually branch into more technical roles like SOC analyst or threat researcher, if that’s your goal.

Building Technical Foundations the Smart Way

Even in non-technical roles, having a basic understanding of IT and security fundamentals can set you apart. Focus your early learning on:

How networks and the internet work
Basic security principles (CIA triad: confidentiality, integrity, availability)
Common types of threats (phishing, malware, ransomware)
Security tools (firewalls, antivirus, SIEM platforms)

Resources like CompTIA’s IT Fundamentals (ITF+) or Security+ can provide structured introductions. Online platforms such as Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer beginner-friendly cybersecurity courses. Many of these are low-cost or free.

Building Confidence and Credibility

Your first goal should be demonstrating that you’re serious about the field. Here’s how:

Create a Learning Journal or Blog: Document what you’re learning. It shows initiative and helps with retention.
Get Involved in the Community: Attend webinars, join LinkedIn groups, participate in cyber Twitter, or attend local events.
Complete Entry-Level Certifications: A credential like CompTIA Security+ or Certified in Cybersecurity (ISC2 CC) shows you’ve done the work.
Volunteer: Help a local nonprofit with their IT or security needs. Real-world experience, even unpaid, builds your resume.
Ask for Informational Interviews: Talk to professionals in the field to learn more and get your foot in the door.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Feeling like you don’t belong is common, especially in a field filled with jargon, fast-paced changes, and high stakes. But remember: everyone starts somewhere, and cybersecurity thrives on diverse perspectives. Companies are actively looking for people who can bring fresh ideas and bridge the gap between technical teams and the broader business.

Imposter syndrome fades as competence grows. Take small steps consistently, seek mentorship, and measure progress, not perfection.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re just discovering cybersecurity, switching from another field, or looking to level up your existing career, know this: the field is broad enough for everyone, and there’s no single path to success.

CCybersecurityis not just about technology—it’s about protecting people, systems, and data. It’s a mission-driven profession that rewards curiosity, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Whether you’re decoding logs, writing policy, simulating cyber attacks, or training employees to avoid phishing scams, your work matters.

Here are a few guiding principles to carry with you:

Start Where You Are: You don’t need to know everything to begin. The most important step is the first one—learning a concept, applying it, and building momentum.
Stay Curious: The threat landscape is always evolving. Be a constant learner. Embrace puzzles, stay updated on news, and keep asking questions.
Build Community: CyCybersecuritys not a solo mission. Engage with others—mentors, peers, and communities—to learn faster, gain support, and share your knowledge.
Give Back: As you grow, help others. Share your experiences, teach newcomers, and contribute to projects or events. It reinforces your learning and strengthens the field.
Be Ethical: Above all, integrity matters. With great knowledge comes responsibility. Use your skills to protect, not exploit.

In an increasingly connected world, cyber security professionals are the digital guardians. The world needs more of them—and it needs them from all walks of life. Your background, your perspective, and your passion can help build a safer future.

So take that first step, stay the course, and don’t be afraid to carve your own path. The journey may be challenging, but the impact is profound—and the destination is well worth it.