Hackers are the number one threat to modern businesses. That\u2019s according to a survey by PwC, which found that 49% of CEOs are worried about their cybersecurity\u2014more than the number of leaders concerned about the economy (43%) or war (32%) (PwC, 2022).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you look at cybercrime statistics, you can see why CEOs are so concerned. In 2020, the average business experienced 206 attacks, 22 of which were successful. In 2021, that had risen to 241 attacks per year, of which 29 were successful\u2014a staggering 31% year-on-year rise (Bissell et al., 2022).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Businesses desperately need security personnel at all levels. If you\u2019re an IT professional considering a career change, then a network security job could be the ideal next move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Network security is about creating systems that allow for the safe movement of data between people and platforms. A network security professional will study the organization\u2019s entire network and try to resolve any vulnerabilities that hackers might exploit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Network security jobs can range from network security technicians\u2014who are responsible for day-to-day tasks, including reporting and system maintenance\u2014to the architects who design the organization\u2019s network security infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The network security team is responsible for tasks such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ultimately, network security is about balancing data safety with data availability. Your role is to help everyone in the organization have access to the systems they need to do their job while ensuring that hackers are kept out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Corporate networks are under constant threat, which means they need skilled professionals to help keep them safe. Unfortunately, there is a massive talent gap right now, with up to 3.5 million security jobs going unfilled in 2021 (Morgan, 2022).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This level of demand means there are always plenty of network security jobs available at every level. With cybercrime on the rise, it seems likely that the demand for network security professionals will also increase over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Network security professionals often command high salaries. The current national median salaries for related positions include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your long-term career path includes some excellent options, including network security senior architect, or even chief information security officer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Everyone\u2019s got to start somewhere, but how do you get your first network security job?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The good news is that, because of the enormous skills gap, many employers are willing to hire people without prior network security experience. Some companies may provide you with training, support, and on-the-job experience to help you become a security expert.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, you will need to show that you have the right qualities to succeed in a network security job. Employers will look for someone with strong soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and an analytical approach to thinking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They will also want to see things like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Employers will want to see that you have experience in an IT role, such as network administration or software development. Ideally, you will have been part of an IT team, and you\u2019ll understand the culture of a network security team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you already have a relevant IT certification, you\u2019re in a good position to land a network security job. Relevant certifications include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
All of these are a good foundation for a move into a network security job. Recent graduates might also be able to find network security opportunities if they hold a bachelor\u2019s degree or higher in a relevant discipline.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Security is a fast-paced world of emerging threats and zero-day vulnerabilities. You have to stay one step ahead of the hackers, and that means studying the latest security news.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re applying for a network security job, you should be able to talk about things like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A passion for network security can help you stand out as a job candidate, even if you don\u2019t yet have any practical experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Networking security certifications can show employers that you\u2019re serious about your new career path. A certification training program can also give you a grounding in security concepts so that you\u2019re ready to help protect your new employer from day one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are several certifications available, each with a different curriculum. You can search for the one that best suits your needs, but be sure that the course will cover topics like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a certification from an industry-recognized body, you have a great chance of landing your first network security job<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Network Defender (C|ND) program from EC-Council is one of the few vendor-neutral network security certifications available. With a C|ND, you\u2019ll have a strong foundation in security principles, plus an unbiased view of security practices. Most importantly, you will have a recognized qualification from an organization that employers know and trust. There are also multiple learning options, including network security training online so you can study at your own pace.Is C|ND a Good Way to Get a Network Security Job?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
C|ND is the perfect qualification to get you started in network security jobs like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
Ready to start your network security career?\u202fFind out how to get started with C|ND<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n