How to Get into CyberSecurity | Step by Step Roadmap (2024)

Summary

In this informative video, Caleb, a certified cybersecurity professional, shares a clear and simple roadmap for beginners aiming to break into the cybersecurity industry. He emphasizes the importance of understanding IT fundamentals through certifications like CompTIA A+ and then advancing with cybersecurity-focused courses or certifications available on platforms like Coursera. Caleb advises viewers to identify their areas of interest within cybersecurity, align with job descriptions to acquire necessary skills, engage in practical projects, and document their experiences. He also discusses the challenges of entry-level positions and suggests starting with IT support roles to gain experience before transitioning into cybersecurity roles, reminding viewers to keep their ultimate goal in sight.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility within a company and involves roles beyond just engineers.
• 🔐 Start with the basics: Understanding IT fundamentals like networking, hardware, software, and operating systems is crucial before specializing in cybersecurity.
• 📚 CompTIA A+ is a recommended certification for building a solid foundation in IT.
• 🎓 Cyber-focused courses or certifications, such as Microsoft's Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate or Google's Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, are valuable for advancing in the field.
• 📈 Utilize platforms like Coursera for online learning and to take advantage of their 7-day free trial.
• 📝 Job descriptions are key to understanding the specific skills and areas of cybersecurity that employers are looking for.
• 🛠️ Engage in practical projects to solidify your understanding and demonstrate your skills, ensuring they are well-documented on your CV.
• 🔎 Look for entry-level roles in IT support or related fields if you're struggling to find a direct entry into cybersecurity.
• 🚀 Use your experience in IT roles to pivot into cybersecurity, highlighting relevant skills and knowledge gained.
• 🔄 Keep learning and updating your skills in cybersecurity even while working in other IT roles to stay on track for your ultimate goal.
• 🌟 Persistence and continuous learning are essential for breaking into the cybersecurity industry and advancing your career.

Q & A

What is the speaker's name and what does he specialize in?

The speaker's name is Caleb, and he specializes in the tech industry, specifically in cyber security.

What is the main purpose of the video?

The main purpose of the video is to provide clear and simple steps for beginners to start their journey in breaking into the cyber security industry.

Why is it important to understand that cyber security is not the job of one person?

It is important because it emphasizes that cyber security is a shared responsibility within a company, involving roles beyond just the cyber security engineer or analyst.

What is the first step Caleb suggests for someone looking to break into cyber security?

The first step Caleb suggests is to learn the IT fundamentals, such as networking, hardware, software, and operating systems, through certifications like CompTIA A+.

What does Caleb recommend for practical learning of IT fundamentals?

Caleb recommends taking apart a system unit, like an old laptop, to physically understand the components like the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and optical drive while studying for CompTIA A+.

What are some of the cyber-focused courses or certifications Caleb mentions?

Caleb mentions the Microsoft Cyber Security Analyst Professional Certificate and the Google Cyber Security Professional Certificate on Coursera, as well as CompTIA Security Plus and ISC^2 Certified in Cyber Security.

What does Caleb suggest doing after completing a cyber security course or certification?

Caleb suggests figuring out the specific skills and areas of cyber security one is interested in by looking at job descriptions and learning the required skills.

How can job descriptions help someone interested in cyber security?

Job descriptions can help by providing a clear understanding of the skills and qualifications employers are looking for, which can guide further learning and training.

What is the importance of doing practical projects after learning new skills?

Practical projects are important for solidifying the understanding of new skills and providing hands-on experience, which is valuable for both the CV and interview settings.

What advice does Caleb give for someone struggling to find an entry-level cyber security role?

Caleb advises that if one is struggling to find an entry-level cyber security role, they should consider starting in an IT support role and use that experience to transition into a cyber security role later.

What is Caleb's final reminder for those starting in a non-cyber role with the ultimate goal of cyber security?

Caleb's final reminder is to keep focusing on the end goal of breaking into cyber security, continue learning in that area, and use the experience gained in the initial role to transition into the desired cyber security role.