The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to
CYBERSECURITY
MASTERY
UNDERSTANDING THE
CYBERSECURITY
LANDSCAPE
Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field with a wide range of roles and
specialties. It’s important to understand the different areas of cybersecurity
and how they fit into the larger picture. This includes areas such as:
INFORMATION SECURITY:
This involves protecting information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure,
disruption, modification, or destruction to provide confidentiality, integrity, and
availability.
NETWORK SECURITY:
This involves protecting a network from intruders, whether targeted attackers or
opportunistic malware.
APPLICATION SECURITY:
This involves keeping software and devices free of threats. A compromised application
could provide access to the data it is designed to protect.
OPERATIONAL SECURITY:
This includes the processes and decisions for handling and protecting data assets.
DISASTER RECOVERY AND BUSINESS CONTINUITY:
This involves how an organization responds to a cybersecurity incident or any other
event that causes the loss of operations or data.
LEGAL, REGULATIONS, COMPLIANCE, AND INVESTIGATIONS:
This involves the legal aspects of cybersecurity and the related regulations and
compliance issues. Investigations involve finding out what happened in the event of a
breach or incident.
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STEP 1:
PICK A SPECIALIZATION
To help you navigate your career path, we’ve compiled a list of common
cybersecurity roles along with their average salaries. This includes roles such as:
INFORMATION SECURITY MANAGER:
This role tops the list of highest-paid cybersecurity jobs with an average salary range of
$150,000 to $225,000. They play a key role in avoiding security disasters by identifying
any areas that might make your information systems vulnerable.
CYBER SECURITY ENGINEER:
The average cybersecurity salary for this position falls between $126,000 to $213,000.
They are primarily responsible for multiple security engineer functions, including
designing, developing, and implementing secure network solutions to defend against
advanced cyberattacks, hacking attempts, and persistent threats.
APPLICATION SECURITY ENGINEER:
The average salary for this role is between $130,000 to $200,000. They are tasked with
securing all software and business applications used throughout your workforce and ensuring
that all privacy and compliance constraints are built into the software and followed.
NETWORK SECURITY ENGINEER:
The average salary for this role now ranges between $120,000 to $208,000. They are
tasked with maintaining your LAN, WAN, and maintaining and monitoring virtual networks,
firewalls, email security and web protocols, security, and programs.
CYBER SECURITY ANALYST:
The average cybersecurity salary for this position falls between $114,000 and $160,000.
They help create, plan, and carry out security measures to keep your infrastructure secure.
PENETRATION TESTER “ETHICAL HACKER”:
On average, they make between $80,000 to $130,000. They complete various, in-depth
tests across your computer systems, networks, and even web applications to identify
vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cybercriminals.
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STEP 2:
BUILD SKILLS
After you have picked your specialization, it’s important to build your skills and gain
practical experience. This can be done through:
CERTIFICATIONS:
There are numerous cybersecurity certifications that can validate your knowledge and
skills. Some of the most respected certifications include the Certified Information Systems
Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA Security+.
CERTIFICATIONS TO AVOID
There is an appeal to certifications that are free. The problem? These certifications may
teach you something, but won’t get you the job you are looking for. Your will save a lot of
time by just focusing on an industry-recognized certification, rather than the free Google
certificate.
ARE BOOTCAMPS WORTH IT?
Boot camps are expensive! Sure, they give you a live teaching experience, but there is
nothing in a boot camp that you can’t learn somewhere else for free or for very cheap.
Boot camps rely on your lack of knowledge. They don’t guarantee you a job either. Learn to
self-educate.
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STEP 3:
GET EXPERIENCE
Gaining hands-on experience in cybersecurity, even when entry-level roles demand it, is
possible. Start by creating your own practice environment at home, working on personal
projects like securing your home network or conducting vulnerability assessments, and
documenting your achievements. Consider volunteering your skills with nonprofits to apply
your expertise in a real-world context. Lastly, stay updated with the latest industry trends
through online courses and webinars, showcasing your commitment to continuous learning.
By doing these, you can demonstrate your practical abilities and increase your chances of
landing that entry-level cybersecurity role.
In a nutshell, hands-on experience is key in cybersecurity. Build your skills, take on personal
projects, volunteer, and never stop learning. Even without prior job experience, these steps
will make you a strong candidate for entry-level roles.
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STEP 4:
JOB HUNTING
TAILOR YOUR RESUME:
Make sure your resume is tailored to the job you’re applying for. Highlight relevant
skills, experiences, and certifications.
NETWORK:
Attend industry events, join online forums and groups, and connect with
professionals in the field. Networking can often lead to job opportunities.
LEARN CONTINUOUSLY:
The cybersecurity field is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends,
tools, and techniques.
JUST DO IT:
People are often scared of applying for jobs when they feel inexperienced. Don’t
be. The more interviews you do, the better off you will be. If you never apply, you
will never get a job. Show effort, passion, and interest.
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STEP 5:
INTERVIEW PREP
RESEARCH THE COMPANY:
Understand what the company does and its culture. This will help you tailor your
responses and show your interest in the company.
PRACTICE COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS:
This will help you articulate your thoughts and make your responses more compelling.
DRESS PROFESSIONALLY:
First impressions matter. Dressing professionally shows respect and interest in the position.
FOLLOW UP:
Send a thank you note after the interview. This shows appreciation for the opportunity
and can help you stand out from other candidates.
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