Is a Cyber Security PhD Worth It? (The Best Answer)

Is a Cyber Security PhD Worth It? (The Best Answer)

Cyber security, is a domain where specialized skills and knowledge are highly sought after. And if you’re reading this, you’re already considering enhancing your credentials by pursuing a cyber security PhD.

However, this isn’t a decision to be taken lightly. This article is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the considerations, commitments, and potential career paths associated with becoming a “Doctor” of cyber security.

Read on to gain insight into the nuanced aspects of this decision, from understanding the pre-requisites for admission to exploring potential job opportunities and evaluating the financial return of a cyber security PhD.

My Opinion

No, a PhD in cyber security isn’t worth it unless you’re aiming for a career in research, academics, industry regulation, or leadership (aka CISO). Why?

Honestly, a PhD in cyber is only designed for people with a distinct mindset. You’ve got to have a deep-rooted passion for cyber security with a drive to make meaningful contributions to the field.

You should NEVER do a PhD in cyber security for the money! But, if you have that passion and drive, the personal satisfaction from a PhD should outweigh all other considerations.

Let’s look at some of those considerations…

Most cyber security positions don’t require a PhD. Although getting a PhD makes you a specialist in your field, it also has the unfortunate side effect of over qualifying you for certain roles.

For instance, no one’s going to hire a PhD candidate for a cyber analyst role. On the other hand, it opens doors that a bachelor’s or master’s degree can’t.

For instance, are you dreaming of a career in academia? Or do you see yourself as a high-level cyber security researcher or policy maker?

If that’s the case, then you should absolutely pursue a PhD. But before jumping in, keep in mind that it also involves a significant commitment to research demanding a lot of your time and resources.

Many have regretted started a PhD that they either couldn’t finish or have invested so much time, they couldn’t quit. What’s worse? You’ll need to give up a full-time salary for about 4-7 years.

Trying to work, even part time, while you’re doing your PhD will be very challenging. Even though some programs offer stipends to help with your living expenses, it’s important to consider a crucial question.

Does the potential financial return align with your long-term goals?

For some people the answer is no. Think about it!

Why would you give up 4-7 years of experience and salary increases only to find that someone with a bachelor’s and a few years of experience is getting paid more? Remember that when you’re working in cyber security, it’s your skills and experience that counts, not your academic knowledge.

I’m not trying to dissuade you from pursuing a PhD of cyber security. But it’s a decision that needs careful thought and advice from industry professionals, career counselors, and your academic advisors.

In the end, the value of a PhD in cyber security isn’t an easy thing to determine. It’s heavily dependent on your career goals, your passion for the field, and your resources.

Can You Get a PhD in Cyber Security?

Yes, you can get a PhD in cyber security. But you’ve got to meet the institutions basic requirements and successfully manage the rigor of academic work.

Cyber security PhD programs typically require students to have a strong academic background in computer science, mathematics, software engineering, or cyber security. And many of the requirements to enter a PhD program are similar no matter which university you’re applying to. It’s usually a matter of submitting transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, admissions essay, and your resume.

Also, no one can give you the exact prerequisites for a PhD cyber security program because it varies by institution. But I can say, your admission is generally dependent on the program’s area of expertise and level of funding available.

PhD in Cyber Security vs Doctor of Cyber Security (DSc)?

Most of this article focuses on the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Cyber Security. But before I dive too far into the subject, there are some alternative variations of cyber security doctoral degrees to consider.

The specifics can vary by institution, and some programs may blur the lines between these general categories:

  • Doctorate in Information Assurance (DIA)
  • PhD in Cyber Operations
  • PhD in Computer Science – Cyber Security
  • Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) – Cyber Security
  • PhD in Information Science – Cyber Security
  • PhD in Technology Management – Cyber Security
  • Doctor of Science (DSc) in Cyber Security
  • PhD in Computer Engineering – Information Assurance
  • PhD in Informatics – Security Informatics
  • DSc in Information Assurance
  • PhD in Mathematics – Information Assurance
  • As you can see, the naming convention isn’t what you’d expect; however both give you the title of “Doctor”. I know that if you live abroad, the Doctor of Science designation is often held in higher regard than a PhD.

    Do your research, but I will say that if you live in the US, you’re probably better off getting your “PhD in Cyber Security” as it’s more widely understood. That may change in the next decade, but for now it’s probably the safer way to go.

    Why Should You Get a PhD in Cyber Security?

    When you get a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you’re preparing for a career in cyber security, but this isn’t true when becoming a doctor of cyber security. That’s because earning a PhD is mostly about research.

    Your dissertation offers you the opportunity to conduct original research on the forefront of new security technologies. That may even continue after your graduate. Imagine diving deep into a specialized field like quantum cryptography, artificial intelligence in cybersecurity, or blockchain security.

    That’s what a PhD in cyber security offers you!

    How Long Does a PhD in Cyber Security Take?

    A PhD isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s about becoming an expert in your field. And it’s a commitment that usually takes between 4-7 years.

    You’d typically begin your PhD by attending classes, completing projects, and passing exams for advanced cyber security coursework. It might take you about two to three years to finish this part, especially if you’re studying full time.

    If you’re going part-time, you’re looking at an even longer period. Then comes the comprehensive exams or qualifiers, which are usually taken after your coursework is complete.

    These are tough exams that test your knowledge in the field. Here, you’ll need to dedicate several months to prepare for them.

    After passing these comprehensive exams, you’ll then move on to your own research and dissertation under the guidance of a faculty advisor. The time you’ll spend here varies significantly.

    If you’re dedicated enough, you might finish in a couple of years, others may take longer. It really depends on your research topic, your advisor, your personal commitment, along with a bit of luck.

    Don’t forget, you’ll also be expected to teach classes, present at conferences, publish papers, and contribute to the academic community. All these activities take time too.

    How Much Does a PhD in Cyber Security Cost?

    A PhD in cyber security ideally costs $0! That’s right, most PhD students pay almost nothing in tuition because that’s usually covered by the research grant.

    FYI…NEVER enter a PhD program that isn’t fully funded unless you expect to pay out of your own pocket! When applying to a cyber security PhD program, you should really be asking several questions:

  • Is funding guaranteed and for how long?
  • Do your students typically take longer than the guaranteed funding period?
  • Will I still have funding after that period?
  • Are there are out of pocket costs for insurance and student fees?
  • Will I have funding through the summer term and what is the source?
  • Is there a fellowship and how are they are awarded?
  • Where do most of your cyber security students get internships?
  • What are the sources of funding in general teaching/researching/fellowship?
  • What’s the typical teaching/research ratio of funding?
  • Is there funding for conference travel and how they are awarded?
  • How much is the stipend?
  • You really should do you research regarding the total out of pocket costs associated with your PhD program.

    What if you do end up paying tuition out of pocket?

    If you take into account both public and private institutions, the average annual cost of a PhD is about $19,749. Of course, the costs do vary depending on where you study.

    I would suggest you go for a public institution where the average annual cost is just over $12,394, compared to almost $26,621 if you go private. By pursuing a PhD of cyber security at a public institution, you’d save approximately $57,000 over four years.

    If you can have your employer cover the costs, then that’s great! However, if you need help, there are scholarships and grants designed to help you with those costs.

    What’s even better is if you have the time to work to gain real-world experience. You should take the time to apply for internships, fellowships, or assistantships.

    Whatever you decide, try to find an option that provides you with invaluable experience while providing you enough money to cover your living expenses. Here’s an article that talks all about how to get a cyber security internship!

    What Jobs Can You Do with a PhD in Cyber Security?

    With a PhD in cyber security, you’ve got a world of opportunities waiting for you. Let’s explore a few of them:

    Have you ever dreamed of becoming a university professor?

    As a professor, you get to teach the next generation of cyber security professionals. You also might get the opportunity to mentor and potentially collaborate with your students on research. Of course, you also get to contribute to advancements in cyber security by starting or continuing your own research.

    Are you looking to influence the industry?

    Your research may lead to new understandings or techniques that everyone else adopts. This gives you the credibility and expertise that can influence the direction of the field. You might even find yourself speaking at conferences, writing books or articles, or consulting on important projects. This becomes your chance to shape best practices, standards, or policies in the industry. For instance, you can influence how organizations respond to cyber threats, how new technology incorporates security, or how government crafts cyber security regulations.

    Do you have any business ideas?

    With a PhD, you’d have the knowledge and credibility to develop your own line of innovative products. Or if you enjoy the variety of helping solve different problems, you might enjoy a career as a cyber security consultant. In this role, you’d be advising companies on how to improve their security strategies.

    Are you well-published in the cyber security field?

    And if you’re lucky enough to be well-published, you become a hot commodity for roles in research institutions, innovative tech companies, or government agencies. Many of these institutions are always on the lookout for research scientists. You could be on the cutting edge of new cyber security research coming up with innovative ways to tackle cyber threats and make real contributions to the field.

    How about a leadership role?

    As a CISO, you’d be the top executive responsible for an organization’s information and data security. Your PhD would be invaluable in helping you develop and implement high-level security strategies. Your deep understanding of cyber security could also be put to good use in shaping public policy. Government agencies and think tanks often need experts to advise on the societal impact of technology and cyber security. In turn, they’d need your help to craft appropriate policies and regulations.

    What Are the Highest Paying Jobs for Cyber Security PhD Holders?

    When pursuing a PhD in cyber security, your post-doctoral salary is going to be something to take into consideration. Naturally, if you’re pursuing a PhD in cyber security and interested in working in the industry, you’re probably aiming for a career as a cyber security policy maker (aka CISO).

    To get a fair comparison of the highest paid cyber security positions, let’s look at three websites showing the average CISO salary and the typical salary ranges:

    Salary.com: $236,333 and ranges between $210,373 and $267,533.

    PayScale: $173,130 and ranges between $110,000 and $233,000.

    ZipRecruiter: $194,648 and ranges between $163,000, and $250,000.

    Between the three, the average CISO salary is about $201,370. Of course, your salary depends entirely on the responsibilities you take on, the company you work for, and the wage they advertise.

    Skip Over Anything?

    Can You Get a PhD in Cyber Security?

    PhD in Cyber Security vs Doctorate in Cyber Security (DSc)?

    Why Should You Get a PhD in Cyber Security?

    How Long Does a PhD in Cyber Security Take?

    How Much Does a PhD in Cyber Security Cost?

    What Jobs Can You Do with a PhD in Cyber Security?

    What Are the Highest Paying Jobs for Cyber Security PhD Holders?

    Interested in More…

    Is a Cyber Security Degree Worth It?

    Ways to Work in Cyber Security Without a Degree!

    What Is the Best Job in Cyber Security?

    Is Cyber Security Right for Me?


    by Amit Doshi

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    Read more
    19 of The Best Free Cyber Security Courses!

    19 of The Best Free Cyber Security Courses!

    There are many online resources and courses available that can help you get started with entry-level cyber security jobs. Many of them are free. Let’s take a look at a few of the best free cyber security courses available:

    Ready to Get Hired? Upload Your Cyber Security Resume Today!

    Cybrary

    Cybrary offers a wide range of free and paid online courses and resources for people interested in cyber security, from beginner-level courses to more advanced topics.

    Udemy

    Udemy has a several free online courses on cyber security, with options for different skill levels and interests. If you decide you like the instructor, you can move forward with their paid videos for an affordable price.

    SANS Cyber Aces

    This free program provides introductory cyber security courses designed for beginners and includes topics like networking, operating systems, and security concepts.

    Coursera

    Coursera offers a variety of online courses on cyber security, including courses from top universities around the world.

    edX

    edX is another online platform that offers a range of cyber security courses, from introductory courses to more advanced topics.

    Cisco Networking Academy

    This program provides free online courses in networking and cyber security, and also offers hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and technologies.

    Khan Academy

    Offers a variety of free online courses on computer science, including topics related to cyber security.

    IBM Skills

    Provides online courses on a range of technology topics, including cyber security.

    LinkedIn Learning

    Offers a variety of online courses on cyber security, with options for different skill levels and interests.

    Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

    This free, self-paced course provides training on cybersecurity concepts and practices.

    Codecademy

    While Codecademy doesn’t offer many cyber security courses, it does offer several free online courses on topics such as SQL that are worth taking a closer look.

    OWASP

    While the OWASP repository isn’t a traditional training course, it does offer users the ability to review security testing guides, secure coding best practices, the famous OWASP Top 10 list, security cheat sheets, and other gold nuggets that you can use to teach yourself.

    Microsoft Virtual Academy

    Provides a variety of free online courses on Microsoft technologies, including cybersecurity.

    Heimdal Security

    Heimdal Security was created by the 2011 & 2012 Defcon World Champions and offers users who sign up 5 weeks of free cyber security training with a new lesson delivered every 2 days to your inbox.

    SkillUp

    A resource provided by Simplilearn contains several free online cybersecurity courses.

    Sunny Classroom

    No list is complete without listing perhaps one of the best YouTube channels available for learning networking and security concepts, Sunny Classroom!

    Professor Messer

    Perhaps one of the most well-known instructors in the field of cyber security is Professor Messer. His instructions provides hours of free instruction teaching A+, Network+, Security+, and more!

    Certified in Cybersecurity

    The Certified in Cybersecurity is a foundational cybersecurity certification designed to help recipients build a pathway to a career in cybersecurity. ISC2 will offer free exams and courses to the first 1 Million participants!

    NIST

    If anything else has been missed, NIST provides a good catchall for online learning courses. Some of them are free while others may be paid content. It’s definitely worth checking out!

    These are just a few more examples of the many online resources and courses available for learning about cyber security. It’s important to research and evaluate different options to find the ones that best suit your interests and needs.

    Interested in More…

    Cyber Security vs. Data Analytics

    The Future of Cyber Security: Overview of New Technologies

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    Top 10 Cybersecurity Companies to Work for in 2023

    How to Become a Cyber Security Researcher?


    by Amit Doshi

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    Cyber Security vs Data Science: Which Is Better?

    Cyber Security vs Data Science: Which Is Better?

    Cyber security vs data science, trying to decide between the two? Today’s article compares both industries to help you make the right decision for your career!

    Table of Contents

    Cyber security vs data science, trying to decide which is better?…Click below to find out more!

    What is Data Science?

    What Is the Role of Data Science in Cyber Security?

    How to Use Data Science in Cyber Security?

    Python for Data Science vs Cyber Security

    Is Data Science Related to Cyber Security?

    What Is the Difference Between Data Science and Cyber Security?

    Which Is Harder Data Science or Cyber Security?

    What Pays More Data Science or Cyber Security?

    Which Is Better Data Science or Cyber Security?

    What is Data Science?

    You’ve probably heard the term “data science” before, but what is it exactly?

    In a nutshell, data science is a field that involves the collection and analysis of large datasets to extract knowledge about a particular topic.

    The main goal of this field is to find patterns and trends within the data to make predictions about future outcomes to improve business decisions.

    Data scientists use various data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, and observations, which are then analyzed using statistics software, like R and Python, and machine learning techniques, such as clustering and classification.

    What Is the Role of Data Science in Cyber Security?

    One common role for data science in cyber security is threat detection.

    Threats are often detected by looking at a variety of different factors, such as where the threat originated, what kind of device was infected, what type of malware was involved, etc.

    By using machine learning algorithms and other data mining techniques coupled with a SIEM (security incident and event management) tool, you can identify patterns within the SIEM that indicate suspicious activity across your network or within specific systems.

    This in turn improves the ability to detect, prevent, and respond to future cyberattacks before irreparable damage occurs.

    How to Use Data Science in Cyber Security?

    Anomaly Detection. Threat analysts can detect anomalies within the network traffic indicating suspicious activity is occurring – such as an intrusion attempt by hackers attempting to gain unauthorized access. By identifying these activities early on, you can act immediately.

    Threat Investigation. After threats have been reported, it’s up to the security analysts to investigate the threat to understand if has been previously documented, how the threat affects information systems and data, etc. While an investigation can be manually performed, its better to incorporate more efficient automated processes. Using various machine learning techniques, anomaly detection and threat investigation can be combined into a single process flow.

    User Behavior. Data science can help you understand user behavior across multiple channels to identify potential threats that might be developing within your network. This knowledge can help you develop strategies for preventing future incidents by identifying specific actions taken by malicious users or bots (i.e., automated scripts designed to attack your network).

    Python for Data Science vs Cyber Security

    Python is considered by many to be an ideal data science object-oriented programming language because it’s easy to learn, versatile, fault tolerant, and easy to implement.

    The syntax is simple and straightforward, and the language itself is designed to be readable—which means that it’s not only easy to learn but also easy to read.

    You can even create your own algorithms without having any prior experience in programming languages like C++ or Java.

    Python for Data Science

    Python can handle everything from web applications to scientific computing tasks like neural networks or machine learning systems.

    Its versatility makes it an attractive choice for data scientists who want to experiment with multiple tools or languages during their work.

    Even if you’re just getting started with data science, this versatility will come in handy when you’re ready to move beyond basic analysis techniques and into more advanced topics like artificial intelligence (AI).

    Python for Cyber Security

    Python has also been used extensively in the field of cyber security because it helps identify potential vulnerabilities in software systems and networks by analyzing huge amounts of data at once.

    Python can be used for everything from testing applications for vulnerabilities to writing code that runs on servers or embedded systems like intrusion detection and prevention systems or routers.

    Additionally, Python’s flexibility makes it an ideal choice for cyber security professionals who need to create custom tools or scripts that can run on multiple platforms.

    Is Data Science Related to Cyber Security?

    Data science and cyber security are both demanding and highly competitive fields. These two professions are often seen as an either-or choice, but there is some overlap between them.

    Analytical Thinking. Both require strong analytical thinking skills to determine solutions for complex problems.

    Industry Usage. Both data science and cyber security are applicable to nearly any industry for everything from marketing to healthcare.

    Data and Information. Both are information related industries. While data science seeks to turn data into meaningful information, cyber security seeks to protect such data and information.

    Pattern Recognition. Both data science and cyber security involve working with technology to analyze data sets and uncover patterns that can be used to make better business decisions or implement better security solutions.

    Data Visualization. Both utilize statistics and data visualization techniques to help organizations understand how their data is being used or how threats are being applied or vulnerabilities exploited.

    What Is the Difference Between Data Science and Cyber Security?

    Data science is mainly used to improve organizational efficiency and profitability. It’s a discipline that focuses on the collection, analysis, and manipulation of data to draw conclusions to make better decisions about customer behavior.

    Cyber security is all about protecting organizations against security breaches. Cyber security isn’t just a single activity, it requires a collaborative effort from multiple disciplines to ensure the information systems and data remain confidential, intact, and available.

    Which Is Harder Data Science or Cyber Security?

    Data science and cyber security are two fields that can be hard to understand, and both require a lot of training and dedication.

    Data science requires:

      A deep understanding of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Having a team with expertise in all three areas is needed to ensure statistically relevant models are being developed in order to produce relevant information.

      A deep understanding of the data. The size of the dataset and the data types, such as structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data aids in determining the best hardware and software architecture to handle the data.

      Coding, creative and critical thinking about how different kinds of data can be used together and in what contexts. Each new project requires brainstorming, continuous reiteration, and quite a bit of patience to understand how the data will be sourced, collected, and processed to achieve the intended results.

      Ensuring outcomes aren’t based upon implicit bias, improperly cleansed data, overfitted, etc. Developing statistical models that unintentionally incorporate these negative aspects are sure involve more resources to correct.

    Cyber security requires:

      Being familiar with the latest industry trends. Cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated and organized, meaning they’re continuously able to develop new techniques that can bypass even the most advanced defenses.

      Understanding that cyber security is all about risk mitigation. Because it’s not possible to have 100% security, companies must prioritize security from highest to lowest. This can be labor intensive because it’s difficult to determine the value of data stored on a system.

      Realizing that cyber security is often viewed as an expense rather than a source of value creation. As such security departments are often underfunded and resource intensive. It’s not uncommon to find yourself in a position to be overwhelmed and burned out within a few short years!

      Knowing the field is still very male-dominated (about 92% men). Many companies have never had a female perspective on the way they think about their systems and security.

      An understanding that cyber security has legal implications for many businesses. It’s difficult to find a business that’s willing to experiment with entry-level candidates; as a result, finding your first job will be challenging.

    What Pays More Data Science or Cyber Security?

    To provide an apples-to-apples comparison, we compared data science vs cyber security salary information for both industries using PayScale and came up with the following:

    • Data Analyst average $63k/year with a salary range of $46k – $88k
    • Cyber Security Analyst average $77k/year with a salary range of $54k – $116k
    • Data Engineers average $94k/year with a salary range of $66k – $133k
    • Cyber Security Engineers average $98k/year with a salary range of $69k – $139k

    Based on this information alone, you can see that the cyber security pays more than the data science; however, readers are cautioned to do their own research as salary may vary depending on the role, location, and demand!

    Which Is Better Data Science or Cyber Security?

    Data science and cyber security are two of the hottest fields in technology right now. They both require a lot of technical know-how, but they also have some important differences that make them unique—and it can be hard to know which one is right for you.

    The first thing to consider is what kind of work you want to do after you graduate. If you’re looking for a job where you’ll have a lot of autonomy or creative freedom, then data science might be a better fit for you. The field is constantly changing and evolving, so there’s always something new to learn about.

    Cyber security has more defined standards and procedures that need to be followed, which means you may not get as much freedom in your day-to-day work.

    If money is an important factor in choosing between the two fields, then cyber security could be your best bet because there’s more demand for it right now than there is for data scientists.

    You might also find that working in cyber security allows for more opportunities down the road—for example, if you decide later on that law enforcement or intelligence agencies are something that interests you, then having experience with cybercrime investigations could help open doors when applying for those jobs later on down the road.

    Data science vs cyber security, which is better? Well, that depends on you!

    Interested in More…

    Difference Between Cyber Security vs Cloud Security

    Cyber Security vs Network Security: Which Is Better?

    Cyber Security vs Software Engineering: The Difference?

    Cyber Security vs Information Security?


    by Amit Doshi

    If you enjoyed reading today’s article please subscribe here.

    Read more
    Difference Between Cyber Security vs Cloud Security

    Difference Between Cyber Security vs Cloud Security

    Trying to decide between a job in cyber security vs cloud security? Read on as we discuss the difference between two to help you make the right career choice!

    Cyber Security vs Cloud Security: Quick Overview

    What is cyber security?

    By now most people understand what cyber security is; it’s the protection of information and information systems against cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorized access.
     
    Interested in learning the difference between cyber security and information security?

    What is cloud security?

    As you may have guessed, it’s not surprising to understand that cloud security is the process of securing the hardware and software assets within a cloud environment. However, it’s not to be confused with the cyber security requirements of the cloud service provider. I’ll discuss that further below.

    What Is the Cloud?

    To give you a little background, when IT gurus talk about the cloud, what they’re usually (though not always) referring to is a remotely located server setup.
     
    These setups (aka the “cloud”) allow organizations to have access to virtual servers, operating systems, software, applications, databases, networks, and data storage from pretty much anywhere in the world.
     
    The cloud provides end users the ability to store and even process data from the servers instead of on their own devices.

    Why Do Companies Need the Cloud?

    Let’s take a look at the main reasons why companies make the decision to move to the cloud:
     
    Scalability: They no longer need to worry about application related bottlenecks. Companies can choose to grow horizontally to handle additional workloads or vertically for additional power and capabilities depending on their needs.
     
    Flexibility: As corporate workloads grow, shrink, or change, the cloud environment has the advantage of meeting the client’s evolving demands within minutes.
     
    Cost Savings:The largest benefit of using the cloud is the cost savings associated with not having to purchase and maintain the network infrastructure, which can be significant.
     
    No Licensing: Because software isn’t being run on each user’s device and is simply being accessed over a remote location, companies can now purchase a service instead of a license.
     
    Wider Accessibility: End users can work from remote locations while accessing the application and data on the cloud from anywhere. Interested in learning more about working remotely?
     
    Enhanced Collaboration: It’s also made it easier for companies to work with partners without requiring them to have physical access to company servers.
     
    Increased Productivity: Companies can harness the power of accessibility and collaboration efforts to increase the speed at which workloads are processed.
     
    Ease of Use: End users aren’t burdened by the need to understand how the cloud environment works. From their perspective, it’s as simple as accessing the application or data from their own devices.
     
    It’s not surprising then that many organizations are moving their critical applications and workloads to the cloud, but there is a downside.

    Who Is Responsible for Security of The Cloud?

    Responsibility for the cloud environment varies depending on the deployment model (i.e. private, community, hybrid, or public) and service type an organization chooses. No matter what solution is chosen, prior to any data being stored in the cloud, the organization’s IT security team will always be responsible for encryption of the data before it’s stored on the server.
     
    Private cloud environments are completely owned and managed by the organization. If an organization chooses to utilize a private cloud environment, then the security of the cloud environment solely rests upon that organization.
     
    Community cloud environments are owned by the members of the community and either share the resources to manage the environment themselves or outsource that responsibility. The same holds true for its security, either it can be shared among the members, outsourced to a third party, or both. Because it’s not truly a private environment, it’s not as secure as a private cloud, but it is more secure than a public cloud.
     
    Public cloud environments are owned and managed by third party vendors. As such, public clouds are less secure because the client maintains no control over the data and is also forced to share resources with other users.
     
    In a public environment, there are usually two separate parties, the Cloud Service Provider (CSP) and organization, involved in the cloud’s security. The CSP will always be responsible for the management and operation of the remote facility. This includes the physical security of the facility which houses the servers, networks, and other hardware.
     
    After that, things get slightly complex. Depending upon the type of service (e.g. IaaS, PaaS, or SaaS) the organization is purchasing, the responsibility of the security varies. In all three scenarios the CSP is responsible for implementing security into the network, storage drives, servers, and hypervisors.

      IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): If the organization chooses IaaS, cloud security becomes the responsibility of the client who must implement security for the application, data, and everything down to the operating system, virtual machines and networks.
       
      PaaS (Platform as a Service): If the organization choose PaaS, cloud security only includes security of the application, data, and data interfaces; everything else becomes the responsibility of the CSP.
       
      SaaS (Software as a Service): In a SaaS solution, all security aspects of the cloud environment except for the data and data interfaces are the responsibility of the CSP.

    Hybrid cloud environments are a mix of private and public cloud infrastructure depending on the corporate need. Highly sensitive applications or data requiring increased security may be run on a private cloud whereas all other data could be run in a public environment.

    What are Typical Cloud Security Salaries?

    Look at the typical cloud security job salary for the following positions:

      Salary.com

    • Cloud security analyst averages $86k and falls between $72k and $92k
    • Cloud Security engineer averages $98k and falls between $87k and $110k
    • ZipRecruiter

    • Cloud security analyst was unavailable
    • Cloud security engineer salary averages $141k and fall between $86k and $191k
    • Glassdoor

    • Cloud security analyst averages $77k and fall between $74k and 180k

    What are Typical Cyber Security Salaries?

    Look at the typical cyber security job salary for the following positions:

      PayScale

    • Cyber security analyst averages $74k and falls between $54k and $116
    • Cyber security engineer averages $98k and falls between $69k and $139k
    • ZipRecruiter

    • Cyber security analyst averages $100k and falls between $41k and $145
    • Cyber security engineer averages $120k and falls between $54k and $181

    Is Cloud Security Same as Cyber Security?

    No, cloud security and cyber security are not the same thing. Read further to find out why.

    What’s the Difference Between Cloud Security and Cyber Security?

    The essential difference between the two is that cloud security only focuses upon the security of the cloud environment; in contrast, cyber security is a holistic approach to securing data and information systems within the entire organization and not just the cloud.
     
    The security of a cloud environment can be holistic within the confines of a private cloud environment where the enterprise has full security control. When this happens the security of the cloud is enveloped into the organization’s overall cyber security strategy.
     
    If the cloud environment is not private, the security of the environment must be partitioned or shared between organizations, or between organizations and third-party users. As a result, cloud security isn’t fully encased by the organization’s cyber security risk management system.
     
    Interested in learning the difference between cyber security and network security?

    Cyber Security vs Cloud Security: What Is Better?

    If you’re still trying to determine the best field between the two, then it really depends on the factors you’re considering.
     
    Salary: Unfortunately, salary information was widely varied depending on the source. Using ZipRecruiter, an apples-to-apples comparison clearly shows that cloud security engineers average about $21k more than their cyber security counterpart. Although as we move towards the more experienced end, the difference becomes minimal.
     
    Education: Cybersecurity degrees are becoming ever increasingly popular and are now being offered at many major institutions; on the flip side, you’ll be hard pressed to find a cloud security degree program; you’re better of getting a degree in cloud computing with security certifications.
     
    Job Stability: Both fields are here to stay and won’t be going away anytime soon. You may see increased job stability in cloud security and cyber security as the need for remote data access and infrastructure will only increase.
     
    Job Opportunity: As a result of the increased growth, cloud security and cyber security job opportunities are also expected to grow in parallel. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates a 30% increase in job growth just for information security analysts alone. That doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of cloud security positions available. A recent check of Indeed shows nearly 19,000 positions available for cloud security related positions.
     
    Job Growth: In either field, job growth is nearly guaranteed; however, as with any job, increased competition is normal the higher you get promoted. If your aim is to become either a cloud security or cyber security director, ensure you’ve spent a minimum of 15 years providing and implementing security solutions. By then you should have sufficient knowledge to design technical solutions from the ground up!
     
    Work Life Balance: Having a work life balance is important, but as most professionals in the security industry are keenly aware, having that balance is extremely difficult. Limited security budgets lead to limited security personnel implementing complex solutions, making long work hours very common.
     
    Ultimately, what is better is dependent on what factors you consider to be important and your area of interest.

    TLDR

    Deciding between cyber security vs cloud security…Click below to find out more!
     
    Cyber Security vs Cloud Security: Quick Overview
     
    What Is the Cloud?
     
    Why Do Company’s Need the Cloud?
     
    Who Is Responsible for Security of The Cloud?
     
    What are Typical Cloud Security Salaries?
     
    What are Typical Cyber Security Salaries?
     
    Is Cloud Security Same as Cyber Security?
     
    What’s the Difference Between Cloud Security and Cyber Security?
     
    Cyber Security vs Cloud Security: What Is Better?


    by Amit Doshi

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    Cyber Security vs Network Security: Which Is Better?

    Cyber Security vs Network Security: Which Is Better?

    Debating between cyber security vs. network security? Read on as I discuss each field to help you determine what’s right for you!

    Interested in learning the difference between cyber security and software engineering?

    Is Network Security and Cyber Security the Same?

    The short answer is no. While they’re both important, they aren’t the same thing; there’s a lot more to it than that.

    However, that doesn’t mean there’s no overlap between the two fields; both have a significant amount of study dedicated to networks and network security principles.

    We’ll explain a bit of each field below.

    What is Cyber Security and Why You Should Do It!

    What is cyber security:

    It’s important to understand that cyber security isn’t just one thing; it’s a holistic approach to “electronic” security.

    There are various cyber security domains that implement a broad collection of tools, policies, and actions which are brought together to protect an IT infrastructure and its data from attack, damage or unauthorized access by individuals and organizations such as:

    Application Security: The practice of ensuring that applications are free from vulnerabilities, and that they are developed with appropriate security controls.

    Enterprise Risk Management: Is a set of activities designed to identify, assess, and manage risk to an organization’s assets or operations.

    Governance: The set of processes used to establish common objectives, decision-making rules, and security operating procedures among various parties to achieve effective coordination among them.

    Physical Security: The protection of people and property from physical harm or theft.

    Security Architecture: Describes the technical aspects of designing a system’s security capabilities. It includes design choices like authentication mechanisms (e.g., passwords), access control policies (e.g., which users have access to what data), audit trails (e.g., logs of user actions), etc.

    Security Framework & Standards: The standards an organization should use when designing and implementing its security architecture.

    Security Operations: The process by which an organization monitors its systems for changes that may indicate a security breach, and its ability to mitigate them.

    Risk Assessment: Risk Assessment is the process of determining the likelihood that an event will occur and the impact it will have on the organization if it does occur. The goal of risk assessment is to identify risks before they have a chance to materialize into something that could seriously disrupt business operations.

    Threat Intelligence: Information about threats—such as malware—that can be used to protect against future security breaches. With threat intelligence, organizations can better defend themselves against attackers who exploit vulnerabilities in their software or hardware products.

    Why should you consider a career in cyber security:

    Cyber security is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world; according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS), the number of jobs in the industry will grow by 33% between 2020 and 2030, making it “much faster than the average for all occupations.”

    Even better, if you’ve never considered yourself a “computer person,” rest assured, there are many different roles within this field that don’t require technical skills or previous experience working on computers.

    For example, the role of cyber security analyst only needs a basic understanding of how computers operate but aren’t necessarily required to know how to code; the rest can be taught!

    And if you’re looking for a job right away, there are plenty of available cybersecurity positions that don’t require a degree.

    What’s the Salary for Cyber Security Jobs?

    According to PayScale the average salary for a cyber security engineer ranges between $68k to $139k averaging to about $98k.

    For a cyber security analyst position, the salary ranges between $54k to $116k and averages about $74k.

    What is Network Security and Why You Should Do It?

    What is network security:

    As networks become increasingly complex, there’s also an increased chance of vulnerabilities being unintentionally introduced into the network.

    Therefore, network security refers to the security practices implemented and security measures that are deployed to protect the network infrastructure, including the servers and systems containing sensitive data, against security breach.

    As a security measure, any access to your network that could potentially cause harm must be monitored, detected, and identified by network security measures. Such measures include firewalls, routers, Intrusion Prevention and Detection System, and other network monitoring tools.

    Why should you consider a career in network security:

    Luckily, we’re not going back into the dark ages before the internet anytime soon, meaning networks and network security are here to stay for a long time.

    Sure, it might change a bit, but I would venture to say that network security is one of those careers that’ll be around for decades to come.

    The demand for these experts is high and the opportunities for growth are vast, making it a good time to get into the industry.

    Interested in studying network security?

    What’s the Salary for Network Security Jobs?

    According to PayScale the average salary for a network security engineer ranges between $61k to $132k averaging to about $93k.

    What is the Difference Between Network Security and Cyber Security?

    The two terms can be used interchangeably in some situations, but it’s important to understand the core difference.

    Cyber security is broader in perspective and involves multiple technologies and strategies aimed at protecting all aspects of the infrastructure from cyber threats; on the other hand, network security is a subset of cyber security that’s more heavily focused on network engineering principles and specifically refers to protecting the network infrastructure.

    Therefore, network security should be considered as part of an overall strategy rather than as an isolated issue on its own.

    Which Is Better Cyber Security or Network Security?

    It really depends on what factors you consider better.

    Salary: Although, there might be situations where the reverse is true, cyber security is the clear winner. You can expect to earn an average of $14k more annually.

    Education: Two is better than one. Because of the heavy overlap in coursework, you may be able to get two degrees for just a couple extra semesters. Start with a cyber security degree as it’ll give you a general feel for the industry, then take additional networking related courses if you’re ready to move in that direction.

    Job Stability: Both are equally stable and aren’t going away anytime in the foreseeable future.

    Job Opportunity: Network security is a widely available job position so if you’re interested in the technical route, then network security is a better option. However, if you want more career opportunities, then cyber security should be your goal because it’s wider in job scope.

    Job Growth: The growth prospective for both fields are good, but the higher up you go, the more competitive it becomes. This means you need to become an expert in enterprise-wide security policies and processes and must have excellent people and business/management skills. This is especially true of cyber security managers and directors!

    Job Stress: This is the one factor many don’t consider when considering cyber security vs. network security. Because cyber security professionals are unfortunately expected to have knowledge of everything cyber-related, and because of the limited personnel that security departments are provided (making for long work hours), cyber security personnel burn out rather quickly versus their network security counterparts.

    Ultimately, what you consider better is dependent on what factors you consider to be important.

    TLDR

    Cyber Security vs Network Security: Which Is Better? Click below to find out!

    Is Network Security and Cyber Security the Same?

    What is Cyber Security and Why You Should Do It!

    What is Network Security and Why You Should Do It?

    What’s the Salary for Cyber Security Jobs?

    What’s the Salary for Network Security Jobs?

    What is the Difference Between Network Security and Cyber Security?

    Which Is Better Cyber Security or Network Security?


    by Amit Doshi

    If you enjoyed reading today’s article please subscribe here.

    Read more
    Cyber Security vs Software Engineering: The Difference?

    Cyber Security vs Software Engineering: The Difference?

    Are you trying to decide on career between cyber security vs software engineering?

    In this article we’ll compare the difference between these two fields of study and help you decide which is right for your future career path.

    And When You’re Ready… Upload Your Cyber Security Resume!

    My Opinion…

    If you’re trying to decide between a career in cyber security vs. software engineering, there are pros and cons to either industry. At the end of the day, the only truly important question to ask yourself is where your passion lies!

    If you already have a degree in software engineering or are contemplating it, then you’re most likely technical in nature. So, if you enjoy building software systems, then software engineering is probably your best bet.

    However, if you’re interested in taking it a step further and understanding how the security piece works, then I suggest you go ahead and get your software engineering degree then either a) take the few extra courses to get a minor or major in cyber security or b) obtain security certifications when you’re ready.

    Why?

    Builds a foundation. Software engineering gives you a solid foundation for software and its ability to enable interoperability between different devices, which of course is the basis for cyber security. By getting your software engineering degree, you’ll already have the background knowledge.

    Easier to switch. Trying to move into software engineering with a cyber security background is much more difficult if you ever decide to change your mind. Software engineers by their very trade are required to learn extensive amounts of coding skills which isn’t as necessary for cyber security professionals. By doing it the way I suggest, you’ll have the best of both worlds and can choose from a variety of careers.

    Career options. With some experience, you won’t have to worry about being denied a career in cyber security and will most likely know the lingo to give you the advantage over others.

    Cyber Security Vs Software Engineering: Overview

    The first thing to understand is that software engineering is a field of study and a job title (software engineer) whereas cyber security is a field with many different job titles and responsibilities.

    What Is Cyber Security?

    Cyber security is an umbrella term that encompasses different types of activities. The goal is to protect the IT infrastructure from unauthorized access or harm to ensure an organization’s data remains secure.

    These activities also cover non-technical measures such as policy development, awareness raising campaigns, and training programs for employees.

    What Is Software Engineering?

    Software engineering is a field in which you develop and maintain software systems. As a software engineer, you role is to understand user requirements, design software architecture, and implement code to create functional and efficient software products.

    In this profession, you’ll work on problem-solving, system design, and the selection of appropriate technologies to achieve desired outcomes. Your role as a software engineer involves not only writing code, but also testing, debugging, and improving the software over time to ensure its reliability, efficiency, and usability.

    Cyber Security Vs Software Engineering Salary

    According to PayScale, the average software engineer salary is $89k and ranges between $64k to $130k. The average cyber security engineer salary is $98k and ranges between $69k to $139k.

    As previously mentioned, software engineering is a field and title whereas cyber security is a field with many different roles and salary ranges; however, for simplicity the salary range listed is that of cyber security engineer.

    But the difference in those numbers isn’t just about the skill sets of the jobs themselves. There are other factors at play that make one career path more lucrative than another.

    For example, if you’re a software engineer working at a small company, learn to negotiate a better pay with your boss. They probably value you more than they would an employee at a larger firm.

    What about looking for a job as a cyber security professional at a smaller company where there are fewer employees? It may be hard to find one because there’s less demand for those skills outside of larger companies that have teams dedicated specifically to this type of work.

    What Are the Responsibilities of a Software Engineer?

    Software Engineers work on a wide range of projects, including operating systems and applications for mobile devices or desktop computers. They focus on building specific parts of an application, such as performance monitoring or error handling.

    Requirements Gathering. Before the implementation of any software architecture, engineers must determine the products usage, technical and non-technical requirements, as well as understand the limitations of the environment in which the software will operate. This can be a whole field unto itself commonly known as requirements engineering.

    Design. Once the requirements have been well established, software engineers work to create a model of the software architecture. The design will represent how the software will function within the major components and subcomponents of the system and how it will facilitate the interaction between those components. The design process is complex and is intended to identify functionality and system vulnerabilities.

    Development & Maintenance. After the design of the system architecture is complete, coding and testing of the system software begins. During this phase of the software development life cycle vulnerabilities and new features are continuously being identified.

    Deployment. Deployment activities such as beta testing, client release, and production release require technical scrutiny as the product is now public facing and will elicit extensive customer feedback regarding any software bugs or features in the beginning. Therefore, it’s important for the software engineer to aid the management team in overseeing software deployment and provide immediate technical response and updates.

    Technical Writing. Being able to develop technical documentation is a must! The documentation supports other development teams in cross-collaboration efforts and is maintained as a record for future design and development activities. Technical documentation should communicate clearly to all team members, and clients, the technical concepts and details about the software architecture and how it functions.

    What Can You Do with a Degree in Cyber Security?

    If you’re considering a degree in cyber security, you’re not alone; the field is growing at an astonishing rate. But what do you do as a cyber security professional?

    And how do you know if this is the right career path for you? Let’s look at a few jobs in the industry and what they require.

    Jr. Cyber Security Engineer

    A cyber security engineer is usually responsible for designing and implementing cyber security measures that protect information systems, networks, and data against criminal or malicious activities. In addition to these tasks, they also perform other general IT functions such as system security administration and maintenance.

    Junior engineers are expected to have knowledge of basic cyber security concepts and functions. You must apply this knowledge in real-world situations to solve problems and create new solutions for organizations that need your help.

    Cyber Security Analyst

    A cyber security analyst is responsible for analyzing the network infrastructure which involves monitoring everything from traffic patterns to user activity, identifying and reporting upon potential threats, and proposing solutions to those threats. Security analysts are expected to learn how to operate network security scanning and monitoring tools.

    They analyze data breaches to determine how they happened and how to prevent similar breaches in the future. Senior cyber security analysts train other employees on how to protect their data and prevent data breaches.

    Computer Forensics Analyst

    A computer forensics analyst is a person who is trained to collect, examine, and preserve digital evidence from a computer system. They are responsible for investigating a cyber-attack or other crime that involves computers. The analyst will use software tools and techniques on the system to determine who was involved in the crime, and how it happened.

    A forensic analyst works with different types of software tools to recover data from various types of storage media. They must also have excellent communication skills since they’re often called upon to present their findings in court as an expert witness. A computer forensic analyst works with law enforcement agencies and private organizations that need help investigating cyber-crimes or other incidents involving computers.

    Network Security Administrator

    A network security administrator is a person who is responsible for implementing and managing policies and procedures to ensure the security of computer networks and their users. The network security administrator typically works closely with system administrators and other IT staff to ensure that all aspects of the network are secure. Interested in learning more about becoming a network security admin.

    Is Cyber Security Harder Than Software Engineering?

    Are you trying to decide which field is more challenging between cyber security and software engineering? It’s important to remember that the level of challenge depends on your skills.

    In cyber security, you’ll be protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. You must understand various security tools, techniques, and protocols. It’s also important to have a deep understanding of how attackers think and operate. It’s often considered more dynamic and fast-paced, as threats and vulnerabilities are constantly evolving. You’ll need to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. However, that doesn’t mean it’s hard to learn cyber security.

    On the other hand, software engineering involves designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. In this field, you’ll need expertise in programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and software development methodologies. While software engineering also evolves, the pace of change is generally slower compared to cyber security. The engineer’s focus is more on building and improving software applications.

    Both fields require strong problem-solving skills, but the nature of the problems you’ll face differs. As a cyber security professional, you’ll often deal with unknown threats and vulnerabilities. As a software engineer, you’ll work on well-defined problems related to software design, development, and maintenance.

    When it comes to job stability, both fields are in high demand. Cyber security offers more stability due to the increasing number of cyber threats and the ongoing need for skilled professionals.

    In either situation, the salary is usually commensurate with the level of effort.

    What Can You Do After Getting a Software Engineering Degree?

    Of course, software engineer is the most obvious option for someone with this degree, but it’s also one of the best ones if you’re looking for a career that provides stability and growth opportunities.

    Software engineers are in high demand but take a look at several alternatives to software engineering jobs:

    1. Data Engineer

    2. Data Scientist

    3. Database Administrator

    4. Front or Back-End Engineer

    5. Full-Stack Web Engineer

    6. Game or Graphics Engineer

    7. Machine Learning Engineer

    8. Quality Assurance Engineer

    9. Software Architect

    10. Systems Engineer

    11. Technical Lead or Manager

    12. Test Engineer

    Can A Software Engineer Work in Cyber Security?

    Absolutely! Software engineers make great candidates for positions in cyber security. They have experience with coding, testing, and building complex systems. These are all skills which are essential to cyber security.

    In fact, there are many software engineers who’ve made the transition to cyber security. If you’re interested in making this shift yourself, here are four things you should know:

    It’s Not That Difficult. As long you remain on the technical side of the house, you’ll find that it’s not that different from what you’re already doing. Now, if you choose to move into a different field entirely, expect to encounter a significant learning curve. However, it shouldn’t be as difficult with a software engineering background.

    No Additional Degree Needed. If you’re looking at cyber security as a career path but don’t want to go back to school, try online courses. Though these programs aren’t always recognized by employers mainly because they haven’t been accredited yet, that still shouldn’t stop you from your professional growth.

    Just Get Certified. You’ll want to obtain security certifications from organizations like ISACA and CompTIA. They offer training programs specifically designed for professionals interested in moving into this field. While it’s true that many cyber security roles require a degree or certification, it is possible to enter the field without either.

    You Have the Advantage! You’ll want to keep your eyes out for open positions at companies that already have teams of cyber security experts on staff. These companies will often be happy to hire someone with experience in software engineering who wants to make the switch.

    Which One Is Better Software Engineering or Cyber Security?

    Software engineering and cyber security are two different fields with two different focuses.

    Cyber security is a branch of computer science that deals with the protection of information systems and networks while software engineering is the process through which software is created, enhanced, and maintained.

    Both work with software, but each has its own set of goals. As a software engineers have an end-product in mind when they begin their work: a finished program that accomplishes whatever task it was designed for.

    Cyber security experts, on the other hand, are concerned with protecting systems from intruders and malware before any damage is done—which means they need to think about different aspects of computer security to protect against threats as early as possible in their development cycle. Security has no end-product and is a continuous improvement process.

    Both fields require extensive training, but each has its own unique challenges and rewards. If you’re interested in working in either field, it’s important to know what those differences are before making any career decisions!

    Accidently Skip Over Something?

    Cyber Security vs Software Engineering: What’s the Difference? Click below to find get back!

    My Opinion…

    Cyber Security Vs Software Engineering: Overview

    What Is Cyber Security?

    What Is Software Engineering?

    Cyber Security Vs Software Engineering Salary

    What Are the Responsibilities of a Software Engineer?

    What Can You Do with a Degree in Cyber Security?

    Is Cyber Security Harder Than Software Engineering?

    What Can You Do After Getting a Software Engineering Degree?

    Can A Software Engineer Work in Cyber Security?

    Which One Is Better Software Engineering or Cyber Security?

    Interested in More…

    Learn the difference between cyber security and network security?

    Ways to Work in Cyber Security Without a Degree!


    by Amit Doshi

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    Cyber Security vs Information Security?

    Cyber Security vs Information Security?

    Wondering what’s the difference between cyber security vs information security? You’re not alone!

    Cybersecurity and information security are two very different concepts, but they’re also related.

    Understanding the similarities and differences between these two fields is important for anyone who wants to be involved in either.

    Data vs Information

    Before we dive into a further explanation, let’s differentiate between data and information.

    Though you may not have thought about it, these are not the same thing.

    When someone talks about data, its simply means the raw data stored or passing through the IT infrastructure.

    For example, encrypted data filled with random alphanumeric characters, binary digits, or even plain text such as “dogs and cats” are all considered data, but it’s data that probably won’t mean anything to the average person; and since it conveys nothing, it isn’t information.

    While all information is data, not all data is information; it only becomes information once data can be pieced together to convey a message that can be understood such as an image, video/audio, or meaningful text, regardless of who receives the message.

    A good way to remember this is that information “informs” whereas data does not.

    And even though they’re quite often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that distinction.

    What is Information Security?

    Information security is a subset of cyber security that focuses on preventing the loss, corruption, and theft of information.

    A familiar concept in information security is confidentiality, integrity, and availability, commonly known as the C.I.A. triad of information.

    • Confidentiality prevents information theft
    • Integrity prevents information corruption
    • Availability prevents information loss

    What is Cyber Security?

    The first thing to understand is that cyber security involves the hardware and software of the entire IT infrastructure (i.e. the network, computers, operating systems, etc.) all working together in concert to create layers of protection around the organization’s data in order to keep information safe from attacks both external and internal.

    The other thing you should know about cyber security is that it’s not static; it changes constantly as we learn more about how hackers operate and what new vulnerabilities arise every day.

    Similarities Between Cyber Security and Information Security

    While cybersecurity focuses on protecting the infrastructure from threats, information security focuses on protecting data from being compromised by those same threats; therefore, since data loss means information loss, both are concerned with protecting information from unauthorized access or use by keeping data (or information) secure.

    The two disciplines are very similar. In fact, it’s hard to think of anything you’re going to do in one field that won’t be applicable to the other. However, there is a difference to keep in mind.

    Differences Between Cyber Security and Information Security

    The main difference between cyber security vs. information security is what aspect of security is being prioritized.

    Information security focuses on preventing unauthorized access to information while cybersecurity is a broader field that refers to protecting against all threats that could impact the IT infrastructure.

    Though in practice no distinction is made, it’s important to note that cyber security is more holistic in perspective which includes all security domains.

    Read here to learn more about the other cybersecurity domains!

    Cybersecurity is a culture

    Cyber security is also not a technical issue – it’s a cultural one that requires a commitment from all employees in an organization and is not just the responsibility of a few technical folks; rather, it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure information security and data protection practices are implemented and followed.

    This means creating an organizational culture where security is everyone’s top priority, including C-level executives who should be setting the example for others through their own best practices and behaviors (such as using strong passwords).

    How to Get into Cyber Security?

    Interested in diving into this field? In general, there are several ways that one can get into this field:

      Training: If you already have experience working in IT or in another related field like law enforcement or military intelligence (all good sources for people who want to break into this market), then it may be possible for your employer to provide some training opportunities where they send employees offsite for short courses on topics relevant to their work environment. These courses would vary depending on what kind of organization they work for (and whether they’re willing/able) but could include topics such as penetration testing and incident response management techniques as well as white hat hacking techniques like social engineering.

      Certification: There are plenty of programs out there that offer certificates in cybersecurity/information assurance (CISSP/CISA). One of the best certifications to obtain if you have no experience in IT is the CompTIA Network+ certification. It’s a good certification for individuals that have little to no understanding of IT infrastructures and provides a good entry point.

      Education: It’s also possible to earn a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or an MBA with a focus on cyber security or information assurance.

    Read here for more information about how to break into the cyber security job market.

    How to Get into Information Security?

    The answer to the question, “How do I become an information security professional?”, is so similar to asking “How do I become a cyber security professional?” that you’ll find most of the information here applies equally well to both.

    Some places will refer to information security as cybersecurity and vice versa. Just know that they’re all likely to mean the same thing.

    TLDR

    Cyber Security vs Information Security: What’s the difference? Click below to find your answer!

    Data vs. Information

    What is Information Security?

    What is Cyber Security?

    Similarities Between Cyber Security and Information Security

    Differences Between Cyber Security and Information Security

    How to Get into Cyber Security?

    How to Get into Information Security?


    by Amit Doshi

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