How to get into a Cybersecurity career without an IT background?

If you are reading this post then it means that you are interested in making a career in cybersecurity and probably you are from a non-IT background.

The cybersecurity industry is booming and there are plenty of opportunities available in this domain. As per Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be around 3.5 million vacant cybersecurity jobs by 2025. But is there any room for professionals without an IT background in it?

Well, the cybersecurity domain is highly technical and there are some prerequisites that students and professionals need to meet to enter and excel in this field. So, if you are looking to enter into a cybersecurity career or want to switch from your existing career to this domain, then here we share some basic steps and the best cybersecurity certifications to launch your career in cybersecurity.

An Overview of Cybersecurity Career

Before you explore certifications in cybersecurity, it is advised that you understand this domain clearly. The field of cybersecurity is huge. From protecting devices to networks, and managing risks to designing and implementing cybersecurity policies, the role of cybersecurity professionals is highly diverse.

To enter this field, you need to have a better understanding of different types of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, mitigation strategies, and other basic concepts like network security, encryption, IoT security, etc.

You must also understand that this is a highly dynamic field where cyber attackers and hackers are employing new techniques, using the latest technology, and using innovative and sophisticated attack tactics to breach data and gain unauthorized access to organizational and personal resources. So, to enter this field, you should be excited as well as committed to protecting infrastructure and sensitive data from ever-evolving cyber threats.

How to Begin the Career Switch to Cybersecurity

The first thing first, you are eligible to work in the cybersecurity domain even if you do not have proper technical IT background. However, you need to ensure you possess the basic requirements to perform cybersecurity tasks smoothly without struggling with your daily chores.

Start with the basics

So, the first thing you need to do is build a strong foundation. Though an IT degree is not mandatory, knowledge of fundamental concepts will be beneficial for your career switch. Here are the things you need to get familiar with:

•  Operating systems: Learn about various functions, architecture, and security principles of different operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux.
•  Networks: Get the basic knowledge of network and network security such as various network infrastructure, communication protocols, and other network security principles like firewalls, intrusion detection systems, etc.
•  Other cybersecurity concepts: familiarize yourself with other important cybersecurity terms like cryptography, risk management, incident response, vulnerabilities, and more.

Resources to gain cybersecurity skills

Often switching to a career in cybersecurity can be expensive if you want to earn a degree or course to meet the basic requirements. But thankfully, you do not need to start from scratch. There are other cost-effective options available to help you learn the essential cybersecurity skills.

1. Online tutorials: there are several blogs, forums, YouTube videos, and free courses to help you learn the basic concepts and terminologies in cybersecurity that can serve as a great starting point.

2. Online boot camps: you can also learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity along with hands-on practical experience through cybersecurity bootcamps. These are short-term intensive programs, fast-paced that cover the essentials to begin your career with.

3. Cybersecurity certifications: Many cybersecurity certifications are also available to empower you with the foundational knowledge and skill in cybersecurity such as CCGP™ by USCSI®, GIAC Information Security Fundamentals, ISC2 Associate, CompTIA Network+, etc. which is designed especially for beginners who want to start a career in this field.

Hands-on Practice

While these resources may help you gain theoretical knowledge of basic cybersecurity concepts, you must try to gain practical experience in real-world projects as well. Start by setting up a virtual machine to experiment with various types of operating systems and network configurations.

You can also use online platforms and labs like Hack The Box, TryHackMe, Vulnhb, etc. that offer hands-on experience through a variety of cybersecurity challenges and competitions. Moreover, you can work on any of your own cybersecurity projects or contribute to open-source projects that will help you gain real-world experience.

Networking and job hunting

Finally, after gaining the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge of various cybersecurity concepts, you can start your cybersecurity job search. Remember, there are plenty of opportunities but the competition is also huge and you need to distinguish yourself from the crowd by demonstrating your commitment.

Cybersecurity certification is one way to demonstrate your commitment to this field. Apart from this, network with other established cybersecurity professionals through cybersecurity events, LinkedIn, and other discussion forums, which will increase your chances of opportunities and help you get hired faster. Also, make job hunting a full-time job. Customize your resume as per specific jobs and prepare well for interview.

Conclusion

Getting into the cybersecurity field without an IT background can be difficult but not impossible. There are various established professionals in this field without a core technical background and you can take inspiration from them. The only thing that matters is your dedication, a willingness to learn and update regularly, and showing your commitment in this domain. With your hardwork and right certifications, you can truly ace this career path.