A Career in Cyber-Security
Cyber-security is the discipline dedicated to protecting computer systems, networks, and the data they process or store. This information can be anything from intellectual property to financial data. Government, military, corporate, medical and other organizations transmit vast amounts of this data in the course of their operations. This information is valuable to criminals, who target this data for unauthorized access and exposure. Companies must constantly bolster their cybersecurity strategies to counter these threats.
A career in cyber security can be rewarding and lucrative. However, it requires certain traits and skills to thrive. Those interested in this field should familiarize themselves with the criterium of the industry and how to best prepare themselves for success.
The main areas of focus for cyber security include:
Network defense: This involves protecting the physical infrastructure of a company’s network, including routers and switches. It also includes the use of firewalls and antivirus software to protect devices from malware attacks. It is also important to have a strong business continuity and incident response (BC-IR) plan in place, should a breach occur.
Endpoint management: With more employees working from home, it is becoming necessary to protect their endpoints. This includes securing computers, phones, tablets and internet of things devices. It also involves creating secure cloud architectures and implementing encryption.
Keeping up with the latest software updates and ensuring passwords are strong is essential. It is also a good idea to back up data regularly, in case it becomes compromised. Additionally, training employees on how to recognize phishing scams is vital.