What is cyber security - and how can I find work

What is cyber security - and how can I find work by Michael Cheary Looking for a new skill? Cyber security could be for you… With businesses increasingly concerned about the safety and security of their information, demand for people working in the industry is on the rise. In fact, cyber security jobs advertised on reed.co.uk are up 99% year-on-year â€" meaning there’s never been a better time get started.We spoke to the experts at the Learning People, one of the UK’s biggest providers of cyber security qualifications, to find out more about the current skills shortage â€" and how you can help fill it.What is cyber security?      Cyber security is the name given to the technologies and processes set out to protect online data â€" primarily from attacks and unauthorised access.It’s a billion pound industry, and one that continues to grow as threats from the likes of malware, ransomware, phishing, DDoS attacks and hacking steadily increase.Why is cyber security important? With almost all of our personal data now stor ed online, cyber security attacks have the potential to completely ruin businesses â€" not to mention people’s lives â€" in the process.And with a number of recent high-profile attacks, such as those on the NHS, Yahoo and LinkedIn, companies are becoming increasingly concerned with any potential leaks that could occur.In fact, a report this year by the UK government found that nearly half of all UK businesses experienced some form of attack in the last 12 months.So companies large and small are turning to cyber security professionals to help them keep their sites and their customers’ details safe.Why is there a cyber security skills gap? Because of how fast the numbers of cyber security opportunities out there are rising, the UK workforce is struggling to meet demand.In a recent survey conducted by ESG, 44% of IT employers called cyber security their biggest concern when it came to the lack of skills in their organisation.And with the number of threats continuing to increase eve ry year, the problem is only set to get bigger unless more people start to get the skills they need to help fill the gap.What cyber security jobs are there?Cyber security is an incredibly diverse field, with staff specialising in everything from different platforms and types of technology (such as cloud storage and apps) through to certain skills (e.g. hacking and analysis).Some examples of cyber security jobs could include:Cyber Security EngineerSOC AnalystSoftware Security OfficerSecurity AdministratorEthical HackerWeb DeveloperCloud Security ConsultantHow much could I earn in cyber security? Cyber security roles are amongst the highest paying jobs in tech.Salaries range from around £20,000 for entry-level Cyber Security Consultants, through to well over £100,000 for Security Directors at the top tech companies.How can I find a job in cyber security? The fastest way to find a role in cyber security is to get qualified.There are a wide range of different certifications out there, whether you’ve already got some experience in the industry, or you’re a complete beginner.Many of them can be taken online, and are self-paced, meaning you can fit them around your current schedule. And with some courses starting right away, and with plenty of payment options available, you could be qualified in a matter of months.Other ways to break into the industry include internships and apprenticeships, as well as working your way up from another tech-based role, such as Network Engineer or Web Developer.What certifications are there?Some of the most popular cyber security certifications include:CompTIA â€" The world’s most popular entry-level IT certifications, with networking and security-specific levels to help you get up-to-speed and security qualified fast.CCNA Security â€" Part of the globally respected CISCO framework, CCNA Security teaches how to keep networks secure, and how to deal with a variety of security threats.Certified Ethical Hacker â€" This qualificati on will allow you to apply for ethical hacking roles right away, to help companies detect potential security vulnerabilities before they’re exploited by people outside the company.  Most of these qualifications have no formal prerequisites to get started, and are also available in bundles â€" like the Learning People’s Cyber Security Collection and Premium Cyber Security Collection.Why study with the Learning People? The Learning People is a leading provider of online training in IT security, coding and digital marketing.They partner with some of the biggest names in tech, including CompTIA and Cisco, and use their expertise to ensure your training is always up-to-date with the latest industry trends meaning you develop skills that are actually in demand right now.And as all of the training they provide is industry recognised and delivered by expert tutors, you’re guaranteed to get dedicated support whilst you study.Other benefits of studying with the Learning People include: An easy-to-use online learning platformProgress reports, so you can see how youre getting onFlexible payment optionsNUS student discount cardExpert career advice to help you find the right role after you complete your courseInterested in Cyber Security? Talk to the Learning People today.The Learning People are one of the UK’s leading eLearning providers, specialising in world-class certifications in project management, IT and digital marketing.