WANT TO LEARN CYBERSECURITY (ON YOUR OWN) LIKE AN EXPERT?

The debate over whether degrees are necessary for cybersecurity continues! The reality? While a degree isn’t mandatory, it still holds weight-especially from a reputable institution. Employers view degrees and global certifications as proof of commitment and foundational knowledge in networking, operating systems, and security principles. There are many who advocate learning cybersecurity all by themselves and gaining their dream cybersecurity career. Looks like a distant dream? Keep reading as we make it a reality! 

“Technology trust is a good thing, but control is a better one.”

Stephane Nappo, Vice President, Group Cybersecurity Director at Groupe SEB 

In the wake of recent updates from the International Monetary Fund highlighting that cybercrime will cost the world US$ 23 trillion by 2027- it does ring an alarm! They further go on to stress that lack of resources and skills is the biggest challenge for a majority of global organizations in designing cyber resilience, even as transforming legacy technology and processes is another significant barrier. Gartner adds that Generative AI, unsecured employee behavior, third-party risks, continuous threat exposure, and identity-first approaches to security are the top trends to look for a robust cybersecurity landscape in the future. Are you prepared to face the brunt? 

Who can learn cybersecurity? 

l  Students from non-technical backgrounds

l  Career changers from any industry

l  IT support professionals

l  Project managers in Tech

l  Legal and compliance officers

l  Teachers and trainers

l  Writers and content creators

l  Researchers and analysts

l  Customer support staff

l  Self-learners with strong interest 

Yes, you read them correct! If you fall into any of the above categories, yes- you are eligible for an entry! Looking for how to start? Read on! 

Can Cybersecurity be Self-taught? 

Cybersecurity has become the recent favorite of security enthusiasts from different backgrounds as discussed above. Opening gates wide open to global opportunities is what cybersecurity skills do to your portfolio. If you wish to make it a reality, you must follow the steps discussed below: 

1.       Identify Skills- See what transferable skills you bring to the table before you plan out a cybersecurity career trail.

2.       Begin with the basics- This shall bring you a lot of confidence as you pivot in the cybersecurity industry. Network operating systems, security principles, incident response, and many other cybersecurity skills will be a requiste before you dive in.

3.       Choose learning method- Self-paced, bootcamp, or hybrid- choosing the right mode to grow in cybersecurity industry is a must.

4.       Get hands-on- Labs, CTFs, and homelab such as HackTheBox, and VulnHub are a great option to brush your skills with realtime projects.

5.       Get certified- Earning that best cybersecurity certification can take you to a notch higher when it concerns your credibility as a cybersecurity expert, boosting your employability manifold.

6.       Build portfolio- Documenting attained projects and futuristic cybersecurity skills shall enable you to put heavy weights into your cybersecurity portfolio, making you an invincible force in cybersecurity.

7.       Network with industry geniuses-  Grab every opportunity possible to learn cybersecurity from the industry leaders and big influencers themselves. Channels to connect shall include Reddit, LinkedIn, and Discord groups. 

Why Self-teaching Works? 

Sets your own pace and is flexible

Countless resources access for free, becoming affordable

Customize your learning as you focus on the requisite skills

Employers increasingly value skills, portfolios, and certifications, over formal education

 

Now you know why these strategic learning guidance could be pivotal in building your future career. 

Learning for FREE: 

Free Platforms	YouTube channels	Open-source Tools and labs	Online Communities, boot camps,  & Forums
l  TryHackMe l  Cybrary l  Coursera l  edX	Tutorials from: l  John Hammond l  InsiderPhD l  BlackHat l  Computerphile l  KasperskyLab	l  Hack The Box l  VulnHub l  Kali Linux	l  Reddit l  LinkedIn l  Discord l  Springboard l  Cyber Risk Academy

 

Participating in the above listed options could leverage results in the form of being the most cost-effective learning strategy, amplifying your job readiness, and opening gateways for building networks with industry experts and visionaries. 

Self-paced PAID options (that won’t hurt!): 

Put in that extra penny and earn a lifelong credibility and trust of being a certified addition to the global cybersecurity talent force. We are not joking- that’s actually true. Certifications such as;

1.       CompTIA

2.       United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®)

3.       Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)

4.       EC Council 

All the above mentioned certifications providers are ranked highly among global credentialing leaders, paving the way forward; building strength to strength; and enabling cybersecurity enthusiasts to turn dreams into tangible realities. 

Adding to the list would be certificates offered by industry tech giants such as Google, Salesforce, Amazon Web Services (AWS), etc, and long-tenured credentials from distinguished international universities, to name a few- MIT Cambridge, Imperial College London, NUS Singapore, etc, shall pave the way forward by delivering the most essential skillsets that shall power your professional growth. 

Succeeding as a Self-Taught Cybersecurity Expert: 

Cybersecurity is not merely a passing trend! It is the bare necessity that every business and global organizations have realised. It is not limited to the undustry space. Humankind need to be equally aware and rugged for the upcoming cyberattacks that could stall your future actions; leading to severe financial and or reputational damages. Progressing as a certified cybersecurity expert is what the global cybersecurity space demands of you. Making the most of today’s opportunities shall pave the way for a greater career expansion in the future. Learning it on your own or putting that extra effort with that added dollar- you can get access to a world-class top-rated cybersecuritycertification program; that not only levels you for the unknown ahead as well as you as an expert put a strong foot forward in your next industry interview- gaining the most-awaited trust of the recruiter. Become the rightful choice today!