How I Would Learn Cyber Security if I Could Start Over in 2025 (Beginner Roadmap)

Summary

In this video, Ben breaks down the steps he would take to restart his cybersecurity career from scratch in 2024. He discusses obtaining affordable certifications, starting with the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, followed by CompTIA's Security+ and Network+ certifications. Ben also highlights the importance of cloud certifications like AWS or Microsoft Azure and developing a personal portfolio. As he advances, he suggests pursuing more specialized certifications based on career goals, like Blue Team or Red Team roles. He emphasizes that while certifications are key, skills and continuous learning are the real drivers of success in cybersecurity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Focus on building foundational cybersecurity skills when starting from scratch in 2024.
• 😀 📚 Begin with affordable certifications, such as the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, to learn the basics without prior experience.
• 😀 💰 The Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate costs $49 per month, and you only pay for the time spent on the course.
• 😀 🛠️ The Google certificate covers key topics like network security, Linux, SQL, and automating tasks with Python, which are essential for a cybersecurity career.
• 😀 🛡️ After completing the Google certificate, pursue the Security+ certification to improve your resume and meet industry expectations.
• 😀 🌐 Security+ is a widely recognized entry-level certification that covers a broad range of cybersecurity topics.
• 😀 💻 Consider the Network+ certification next to boost your understanding of networking fundamentals, which are critical in cybersecurity roles.
• 😀 ☁️ Cloud certifications like AWS Cloud Practitioner or Microsoft Azure’s AZ-900 will enhance your skillset, as cloud computing is vital in modern cybersecurity.
• 😀 🖥️ Personal projects and portfolios are crucial for demonstrating hands-on experience when applying for entry-level cybersecurity roles and internships.
• 😀 🎓 Advanced certifications like Blue Team Level 1 or the PJP for Red Team/penetration testing can further specialize your skills for specific cybersecurity roles.
• 😀 💡 Certifications are valuable for resumes but mastering practical skills is more important for success in cybersecurity careers.

Q & A

What would be the first step to restarting a cyber security career in 2024 according to the speaker?

The first step is to get the Google Cyber Security Professional Certificate. It is affordable and doesn't require prior experience, which makes it ideal for beginners in cyber security.

Why does the speaker recommend the Google Cyber Security Professional Certificate?

The certificate is affordable, costing $49 per month, and the payment plan is flexible. It also provides a foundational understanding of key cyber security concepts like network security, using Linux and SQL, and automating tasks with Python.

What is the next certification the speaker would pursue after the Google Cyber Security Professional Certificate?

After the Google certification, the speaker would pursue the Security Plus certification, which is a widely recognized entry-level certification in cyber security.

What is the purpose of the Security Plus certification?

The Security Plus certification covers a wide range of foundational cyber security topics, and it is recognized by employers looking for entry-level candidates in the industry.

Which certification does the speaker recommend after Security Plus?

After Security Plus, the speaker recommends pursuing the Network Plus certification, also from CompTIA. This certification helps build networking knowledge, which is crucial for cyber security roles.

What role does networking knowledge play in cyber security?

A strong understanding of networking concepts is essential in cyber security, as it helps you understand how computers communicate with each other, how data flows, and the overall structure of networks.

What is the next step in the certification path after completing Security Plus and Network Plus?

The next step would be to earn an entry-level cloud certification. The speaker recommends the AWS Cloud Practitioner or the Microsoft AZ-900 certification, as cloud computing is becoming increasingly important in many companies.

How do cloud certifications impact a cyber security career?

Cloud certifications are valuable because many companies use cloud infrastructure, and having knowledge of cloud computing services like AWS or Microsoft Azure is crucial for cyber security professionals.

What should someone do after completing the foundational certifications?

After obtaining foundational certifications, the speaker advises starting personal projects, building a portfolio, and applying for internships and full-time jobs to gain practical experience.

What advanced certifications does the speaker suggest depending on your career interest?

If aiming for a Security Operations Center (SOC) analyst role, the speaker recommends the Blue Team Level 1 certification. For those interested in red team roles or penetration testing, the PJP certification offered by TCM Security is a good option.

What is the most important aspect of breaking into cyber security according to the speaker?

While certifications help with getting your foot in the door, the most important factor is developing real skills. It's essential to thoroughly understand the material and continue building your skills throughout your career.