Common myths about working in cybersecurity

If you’re considering a career in cyber security, then you might have some questions before you make the leap. Whether you’re interested in becoming a cyber security analyst, cyber security specialist or something else related to cyber security, then knowing what the industry entails can help you decide whether it’s the right way forward for you. Read on to learn more about the world of cyber security as we help dispel some of the common myths about the sector!

Is cyber security a risky job to have?

Working in cyber security is not a risky job to have. Part of the appeal of cyber security is that it is a growing industry that it’s in high demand – and you can be confident that as the world continues to move online, more businesses in all industries will be looking to invest more in their cyber security. If you’re preparing to move into the world of cyber security, then you can learn more about the job interview questions that you may be asked here. 

However, it is a role that comes with a lot of responsibility, especially if you work your way up into a senior position. While it’s not a risky job, you will be required to stay up-to-date with what’s going on in the world of cyber security, which may require further study/enrolment in bootcamps. If you’re someone that loves technology and is happy to embrace a lifelong approach to learning, then a career in cyber security may suit you.

Do I need to know how to hack to work in cyber security?

You do not need to know how to hack to work in cyber security. While you will want to understand black hat hackers’ intentions and how they operate, knowing how to hack is not necessary in order to become a cyber security specialist. Instead, networking with like-minded and gaining practical experience will help you start working towards a career in cyber security. 



Knowledge and skills that will help you excel in a cyber security role include:

• How to design security frameworks and architectures
• How to pre-empt cyber security risks (which can involve keeping up to date with trends in the cyber security industry)
• The pros and cons of migrating to the cloud 
• The different requirements around storing, transferring and accessing data 
• How to complete cyber security audits and implement any changes required 
• How to solve problems on the fly, especially those that you may not have encountered before 
• Understanding how to communicate cyber security risks to relevant stakeholders (especially those that may not necessarily be technologically savvy)

There is one exception to this question, however. If you’re looking to complete the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) exam, then you may want to learn to hack. Upskilled’s Cyber Security Specialist Bootcamp Program provided you with the necessary training to ace the CEH exam. You can learn more about the course here.

Can I move up the career ladder if I work in cyber security?

There are a range of roles available in the world of cyber security, and there is room to grow. For example, you may start off as a help desk technician or equivalent before moving into a more cyber security-centric role. You might then become a penetration and vulnerability tester, before ultimately working your way into a cyber security architect role. 

Like any industry, a range of factors can determine whether you progress in the world of cyber security. Being able to demonstrate a desire to upskill, network and implement your skills in a range of real-world scenarios can help you press your case for a promotion/find a new role when the time is right. 

Does cyber security require long hours of work?

If you work in the world of cyber security, then you most likely will not be required to work long hours on a consistent basis. However, given that cyber security threats can pop up at any time, you may find yourself working flexible and different hours if necessary. This is especially true if you’re working on a freelance/consultant basis, rather than being employed by the one company. 

What may require long hours, however, is teaching yourself the skills needed to work in cyber security. This is where further study may come in handy. Being taught by experts in the field and completing practical, skills-based assignments can help accelerate your learning and put you in the best position to work towards a career in cyber security. 

Now that you’ve learnt more about cyber security, enrolling in a cyber security course might just be your next step. Upskilled offers a range of nationally recognised qualifications in a range of sectors, including cyber security. You can learn more about Upskilled’s cyber security courses here, or reach out to our education consultants to learn more about how you can start working towards a career in cyber security!
 

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