What certifications do you need as a modern day cyber and information security professional?

With data breaches becoming a critical problem for a growing number of businesses across a wide range of industries, the demand for highly skilled cyber security professionals is on the rise. Since the pandemic, many businesses move online and become more technologically advanced, the issue of information security is only set to increase in priority and those individuals with the right cyber security qualifications and skills are set to succeed.

Graduate entry into cyber security

The career path into cyber security is not fully clear, however graduates typically have two primary routes into cyber security.

1. Starting in a junior role to build hands-on experience will be an opportunity to build cyber expertise and understand where you fit into the business.
2. Develop your technical skills through education by undertaking a Master’s degree to gain greater awareness of the cyber security landscape.

Via Resource has set up a group on LinkedIn called ‘Cyber Launchpad’ where we connect graduates or new entries to cyber security with Hiring Managers completely free of charge. You will also see regular advice and guidance on Cyber Launchpad that you may find useful.

Industries

In addition, organisations are open to bringing new candidates from different sectors, as a varied job experience gives diverse skill set that can make you valuable to an employer — especially in industries where your co-workers have a narrow area of expertise. A broad work experience can benefit you and helps you evaluate a potential workplace with a keener eye.

Cyber security apprenticeships

Another option to break into the industry is to consider a cyber security apprenticeship – an ideal mix of on and off-the-job learning, resulting in a qualification and masses of industry experience.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Certifications for a career in cyber security

Certifications are key, to progressing your career and remaining up to date with the latest technologies. Where qualifications also teach you the value of your expertise and build communication skills – crucial if you consider moving from a technical to a managerial role.

There are several well-regarded certifications that you should be aiming for as a cyber-security professional:

- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) – the SSCP is great for professionals just starting in cyber security, this qualification only requires one year’s experience and provides the perfect opportunity for individuals to prove their technical skills and security knowledge.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – the CEH is a popular entry-level cyber security certification that introduces you to the hacking tools and techniques used by real cyber criminals. By familiarising yourself with how hackers think, you’ll be better at fixing vulnerabilities and flaws you might otherwise miss.
- Certificate in Information Security Management Principles (CISMP) – CISMP is widely regarded as the ‘qualification of choice’ for IT professionals, and is recognised across the UK as an essential first rung on the ladder to a successful career in information security.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – the CISSP is among the most sought-after certifications in security. Achieving the CISSP certification is a career highlight and is aimed at the top-tier cyber security professionals.

People skills

People skills and the ability to communicate are key within cyber security. Where knowledge of the commercial aspects of the job and of the wider picture outside of IT is advantageous. These skills can be taught through certifications, but most valuable through job training in an organisation.