LEARNING THE ART
Know what it takes to build a career in cyber security
How to build a career in cybersecurity
With technology reshaping the legal industry, several distinct roles have emerged that are transforming the business of law. Adoption of advanced technologies for data and information exchange related to legal cases have taken away tedious aspects of law practice, allowing lawyers to focus on a higher level of analytical work. To stay ahead in the market, it is essential for law professionals and firms to innovate by embracing new technology tools. Cybersecurity is one such area that requires skilled professionals with a deep understanding of the issues and possible threats, arising out of business and social functioning on most digital platforms. There are four things those looking at a career in cybersecurity should take note of.
ENROL IN THE RIGHT PROGRAMME
For a thriving career in cybersecurity, it is important that your fundamentals are strong and you have the right domain knowledge. Therefore, specialised programmes have an edge over generic courses. Look for a programme that provides you a dual edge in terms of knowledge of information technology and law as both are interconnected.
BUILD YOUR KNOWLEDGE BASE
Besides what you are taught in the classroom, spend time in learning basic fundamentals of TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or intellectual property, coding and programming, how hacker tools work and how to use them. Practice on platforms such as Burp Suite, Nmap and Metasploit that will enhance your knowledge and skills in detecting and taking remedial actions to resolve security breaches. You must also watch YouTube videos such as SecurityTube, SANS CyberAces and introduction to practical hacking and penetration testing as these will help in sharpening skills for ethical use and testing.
BOOST NETWORKING
Follow security experts on Twitter. Attend conferences and events related to cybersecurity as well as volunteer with NGOs who often need help securing their computer systems.
KNOW WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR
With an expertise in cybersecurity, you can be a security consultant, security engineer, security architect, computer forensics expert, security analyst, security software developer or security auditor. While these may sound confusing, these are distinct roles. Spend time knowing more about them.