How Long Does it Usually Take to Get Into Cybersecurity?

How long does it take to become a cybersecurity professional? While the answer to that question will depend on your background, we can follow some general guidelines and things that can be done to speed up the process.

With a minimal background, most people can reach an entry-level cyber security position within two to four years if they concentrate on education, experience, and security clearance.

Notice that I have listed four things you need: experience, certifications, education, and clearance. These are essential for your cybersecurity success and getting in the field quickly. While not required for all jobs, security clearance is a must-have for many.

Our typical timeline takes between two and four years. Let’s look at some ways you can speed up your timeline so that you can get your foot in cyber Security in as little time as possible.

Begin the Learning Journey

There are thousands of free resources on the internet, and YouTube is a great place to start if your cybersecurity knowledge is limited. Networking and cybersecurity are rapidly evolving industries. There is so much you can learn and so many things to do to be a professional in this field. While a college degree is a great help in finding work, it won’t be sufficient. You must have a passion for learning to pursue a career in cybersecurity. You will continue to learn and earn certifications throughout your career.

You should take classes or receive training to pursue a career as a cyber security professional. You have too many options and too much to learn, so definitely consider enrolling in an educational program.

Don’t depend only on classes.

Do not make the same mistake as so many others, assuming that just enrolling in a college or training class is sufficient.

A common misconception in higher education and society is that a college degree will guarantee a job. A technical school is more likely to prepare you. Many people finish four years of coursework without ever thinking about how they would qualify for the job. Then, when they graduate, they realize that they are not ready to enter the workforce.

Do not fall for the trap of thinking that just taking classes will get you to cyber Security. You will need to do much more than that and all of these things simultaneously.

Read about Cybersecurity daily

The best strategy for success in any field is to read at least an hour per day.

If you read at least an hour per day, you will be in the top 10% of your field in three years. Cyber Security is a complex field with so much to learn and so many new threats every week that it is essential to keep up-to-date.

Read something about cyber Security every day, regardless of whether you are taking any class.

Try to get into a Technical Job.

Part-time positions in technology are a great option. Many employers are now willing to hire technology professionals at all levels. They will offer flexible hours, part-time work, or take on people with less experience than usual.

Many people who start out after completing a few courses assume they’re not ready. Many people assume they don’t have enough knowledge to transition from a non-technical to a technical job. This is false.

Opportunities are plentiful, and employers are more flexible than ever so you should take advantage of this opportunity to enhance your education by gaining hands-on experience.

Part-time options exist for those who work full-time and can use their salary to support themselves or their families. This includes technology options that allow you to work remotely. If you’re willing to think outside of the box, these opportunities are available to you.

To accelerate your timeline, it’s crucial to add experience to your coursework.

Develop a Certification Goal List

In the cybersecurity industry, certifications are essential. Employers can use certifications to prove that candidates have the right skills and knowledge in a particular area. A certification roadmap specific to your job is key to your success. A cybersecurity engineer will earn a new certification approximately every six months. 

There are many ways to get certifications. However, the easiest and fastest way to obtain certification is through a Bootcamp. Bootcamps can help you become certified in just five days. They also give you practical skills that you can use to transition into the workforce. Employers around the globe need certified and hardworking professionals. CISSP and Security + are the most sought-after certifications. Employers will be impressed by candidates who have the appropriate certifications to prove that they are qualified to work in cybersecurity.

Attend as many Cybersecurity Networking events and Conferences as possible

Building professional relationships and networking are as important as building a resume with many certifications and degrees. Many cybersecurity events are free or inexpensive. You can meet people who are more advanced in your cybersecurity career and have the opportunity to interact with them. Many of these people are industry veterans and will be happy to assist you with tips and tricks to get a job in cybersecurity. You can make the right connections to help you with your job search and possibly find a mentor who will guide you to success.

It is difficult to make a career shift or choose a new career. It takes many people between two and four years to get a job as an entry-level cybersecurity worker. So take it step by step. Take it all in, and you will see why cybersecurity is the best industry.

Conclusion

These strategies will help you get started on your path to a career as a cyber security professional. It can seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Enjoy the journey by taking it one step at a time. Each step you take will bring you closer to your career in cybersecurity. These strategies are not required, but they have been proven to be the most effective in accelerating your path to a career in cyber security.