subject: IT Security Jobs - How to get one [print this page] IT Security Jobs - How to get one IT Security Jobs - How to get one
Information has been a valuable commodity for thousands of years thus different mechanisms have been developed to handle it, most recently information technology. Currently, businesses and other organizations use computers to be more productive and reduce potential risks, like human errors. Yet, this higher level of production also has weak spots that need to be addressed. This is where an IT security professional comes to work.
1st Objective: Find out if it's for you
It takes a special type of personality for a professional to succeed in information technology security. Simply put, you must be able to visualize what can go wrong in a system or design. Therefore you must understand how different operating systems work and identify all the elements that make up a network.
2nd Objective: Build a professional network
Build a network of people you know who work in information technology. They can help you understand complicated concepts, lead you in the right direction or introduce you to someone who is more knowledgeable than them. Become a member of different organizations, clubs and online forums that specialize in IT.
3rd Objective: Get Educated
Schools spend much of their resources researching the industry and figuring out what knowledge students need to be successful professionals. To get into IT security, first you must learn the basics of information technology. In college you will be able to choose electives to reinforce your weaknesses or enhance your strengths.
4th Objective: Get experience
Working as a system administrator or network engineer will teach you the skills needed to become an IT analyst. You will learn about protocols, network architecture, firewalls, anti-virus and project management. Furthermore, you will be able to detect vulnerable spots or threats in a network.
5th Objective: Get certified
The CISSP certification proves you have IT security knowledge. Candidates must have 3 to 5 years of experience to be eligible for the certification. Applicants will not only obtain proof to show potential employers but also learn about the different areas in security as they study for their credential, making it a worthwhile investment.
6th Objective: Get the job
Transitioning to an IT security job might require you to accept a job in an area you are not specialized in as well as a pay cut. However, remember it's easier to get a job you like in the future once you are working in IT security. To keep things in perspective, consider that many professionals in technology change jobs every 12 to 18 months.
Don't forget
So many things can go wrong at any point in time. You name them. If seeing what can go wrong in any given situation comes naturally to you, then a career in IT security might be the challenge you are looking for. Furthermore, learning the different components involved in information technology will widen the amount of opportunities you will have in your career.
