How to become a cybersecurity expert?

In the face of digital and technological evolution, cybersecurity has become a major challenge. Many companies call on an IT security expert to help them guard their data. What does this professional do? How to become one? What are its qualities and skills? How much does a cybersecurity expert earn?

In summary:

• Becoming an expert in cybersecurity is crucial in the face of growing IT security threats, with strong market demand.
• Reasons to become a cybersecurity expert: Protect data, ensure confidentiality, act as a bulwark against cyber-attacks, help secure networks, keep abreast of technological advances.
• Cybersecurity experts: system protection, security system design, network monitoring, complete system management, incident response.
• Qualities and skills required: in-depth technical knowledge, programming and scripting, risk analysis, application security, responsiveness, IT intelligence.

Why become a cybersecurity expert?

There are many reasons why you should become a cybersecurity expert:

• you help protect data and infrastructures against cyber-attacks;
• you guarantee the confidentiality of certain information;
• you become the bulwark between sensitive information and cybercriminals;
• you contribute to network security;
• you’re always on the lookout for new technological advances. Indeed, a cybersecurity expert needs to keep abreast of digital trends in order to anticipate and combat any potential threats;
• you are a key player in the preservation of digital security, on a global scale.

What does a cybersecurity expert do?

The cybersecurity expert ensures the protection of computer systems. It also has certain roles to play in preventing attacks. Among other things, it ensures :

• designing and implementing an effective security system: the professional is required to develop IT security strategies. This may involve the design and implementation of effective measures such as firewalls, antivirus and intrusion detection systems;
• network monitoring: to combat attacks, this professional must analyze data flows. This detects suspicious behavior, intrusion attempts and other malicious activity;
• complete system management: it is the duty of a cybersecurity expert to manage the entire system: updating, correcting flaws, implementing patches, and so on;
• incident response: in the event of a security incident, the cybersecurity expert intervenes quickly to contain the threat. It initiates procedures to minimize damage and restore system security.

What qualities and skills are needed to become a cybersecurity expert?

To become a cybersecurity expert, you need certain qualities and skills. Here are some of the most important:

• in-depth technical knowledge: an understanding of operating systems, networks, protocols and security technologies is fundamental to the job of a cybersecurity expert;
• programming and scripting: skills in programming (e.g., Python, C++, Java) and scripting (e.g., PowerShell) help to better understand potential threats and to develop security tools;
• Risk analysis: knowing how to assess potential risks and implement appropriate preventive measures is a crucial skill for a cybersecurity expert;
• application security: the professional must understand the principles of application security and know how to apply them;
• be reactive: a cybersecurity expert is a reactive person. When faced with a threat, he must react quickly and find the best solutions;
• IT watch: IT watch is a must for any cybersecurity expert. To do this, he or she must have the necessary tools.

What is the average salary of a cybersecurity expert?

Cybersecurity experts are among the highest-paid professionals on the market. They generally enjoy competitive salaries due to the growing demand for their skills. Salaries vary according to years of experience, degree and geographical location. However, they are interesting and reflect the strategic value that these professionals bring to the protection of IT systems.

What training do you need to become a cybersecurity expert?

To become a cybersecurity expert, you can take a training course at ECE. The latter offers a range of courses for cybersecurity professionals, from bac +3 to bac +5.

Bachelor

You can follow the Bachelor program at ECE. The course enables you to specialize in security and IT development.

Cybersecurity major in the engineering Grande Ecole program

ECE also offers a major cybersecurity program. The course helps you acquire the knowledge you need to work as a cybersecurity expert.

MSc cybersecurity manager

ECE’s MSc cybersecurity manager program provides you with the foundations and all the knowledge you need to work in the world of cybersecurity.

At ECE, you’ll have the opportunity to do internships to deepen your knowledge and put it into practice. Beneficial for your professional career, they give you the opportunity to expand your network.

Updated 31 May 2024