It is not easy to get into cybersecurity without a degree. But let us learn here how it is possible.
Cybersecurity is a growing field, with increasing demand for experts in the field. It is expected that there will be a shortage of at least 1 million cybersecurity experts by 2020.
There are now online programs to help non-experts learn the basics of cybersecurity. Then get a foot in the door of this growing field.
The most basic need for getting into cybersecurity is an understanding of security. This includes knowing how to use tools and services to protect data and networks. As well as how to spot and prevent attacks. Even, how to fix security issues when they arise and how to create secure systems.
In this article, we will discuss the most vital skills a cybersecurity expert should have. This will help you better understand what is needed to get into cybersecurity. As well as the strengths you should focus on during training.
Skills Needed to Get into Cybersecurity Without a Degree
1. Technical Skills
The most important part of cybersecurity is the technical side of things. There are many tools you’ll need to use for this job. Such as firewalls, routers, servers, intrusion detection systems (IDS), spam filters, and more.
You’ll also need to know how to set up your own network from scratch. In other words, you’ll need to be able to configure all of these tools on your own. Then make them work together as intended.
You will also need a good understanding of how computers work. As well as how networks work, and how data is transmitted over networks.
This includes knowledge of different types of computer networks. Such as the following examples:
- LANs and WANs
- protocols (e.g., TCP/IP)
- OSI model (Layers 1-7)
- encryption methods (e.g., public-key cryptography)
- data structures (hashes, salts, etc.)
- various types of network attacks
This also means that you should be familiar with various types of software. Such as web browsers, email clients, word processors, FTP clients, etc.
This will help you better understand how they can be exploited during an attack. Also, used in an attack by hackers or malware/viruses, etc.
You should also know how exploits in software are created and used by attackers. Even by auditors/penetration testers to break into systems or networks etc.
2. Networking Skills
A good understanding of networking skills is vital. Especially for any cybersecurity professional.
There are many different types of network configurations out there today. Some are more secure than others.
So, you must evaluate network configurations based on their security level. Then write suggestions as to what they could do better in terms of security.
You should also know about some basic network attacks. Such as Denial of Service (DoS) and Man-in-the-Middle (MitM).
You should be able to recognize them when you see them. So, that you can help your company avoid falling victim to such attacks.
There is another important aspect of networking. It is the ability to find vulnerabilities in a network.
This includes understanding how to find and exploit them. Then explain in detail what the vulnerability is and how it can be used by an attacker.
You should also be able to write a report of your findings. This report will help the firm understand what needs improvement regarding network security. This includes suggesting solutions for any vulnerabilities you find.
3. Malware Analysis Skills
Malware analysis is another important skill of a cybersecurity expert. This includes reverse-engineering malicious code. So that you can find out how it works and how to stop it.
This also includes identifying weaknesses in the code. As well as finding out how to exploit them. So, that you can create your own malware or exploit kits. Also, distribute them to help your company protect against such attacks.
4. Cryptography Skills
Cybersecurity experts should also have a good understanding of cryptography. Such as
public-key cryptography. This will help you better understand how encryption works and how to break it.
You should also know how to use encryption tools. Such as PGP, GPG, and others. You’ll need to know the strengths of each of them. So that you can write reports about their security level, strengths, and weaknesses, etc.
Another important aspect of cryptography is steganography. This is the art of hiding messages in data files such as images, videos, PDFs, etc.
You should be able to spot such messages in such files. Then find out what they mean. So that you can advise your firm on how to protect against such attacks or prevent them from happening.
Conclusion: Cybersecurity Without a Degree
These are the most important skills you need to get into cybersecurity. If you know these areas, then you can easily learn more during your training.
If you want to learn how to get into cybersecurity, then you can use online courses. There are many such courses available today.
