Are you curious about starting a career in cyber security? Fear not, because you’re at the perfect place to begin your journey! My name is Josh Mador, and I’ve guided many people into cyber security roles. Through my own experience, I’ve gained a keen insight on how to break into this exciting field.
Free Resources to Start Your Learning
First off, let’s talk about how to start learning without spending a penny. My team and I have created a lot of free exam test banks. These cover exams like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and many more. These are fantastic tools to get your knowledge up to speed.
https://lognpacific.com/free-certification-practice-tests/
Understanding Cyber Security
A common misconception is that all cyber security jobs require coding or Linux skills. This isn’t true! Cyber security is a broad field with various roles, and not all require the same skill set. For example, an auditor might not need Python skills. However, having a solid foundation is crucial for everyone. At a minimum, you should have knowledge equivalent to what’s covered in the Security+ certification. You don’t necessarily need to take the exam (though it can help), but understanding the content is key. Watching the video below to get more information about the Security+ certification and Google Cybersecurity certification.
Getting Interview Ready
Achieving your dream job in cyber security boils down to two main steps: getting an interview and acing it. Having a strong resume and good networking can significantly boost your chances. Don’t fret if your network isn’t vast. Focusing on other areas like certifications or building a compelling resume can make a huge difference too. Video below talks the employability framework that helps you ace your interview!
Projects That Impress
Speaking of labs, let me share a cool project idea. Set up a mini Security Operations Center (SOC) using cloud platforms like Microsoft Azure. Expose some virtual machines to the internet (safely!), and then monitor and respond to the attacks they attract. This practical experience is fantastic for your resume and shows interviewers you’re both skilled and enthusiastic. Check out my Hands-On IT and Cybersecurity Course, which includes a mini SOC environment to experience actual attacks that help you bridge the gap between being skilled and landing a job!
https://joshmadakor.tech/cyber
If your resume showcases a good foundation in cyber security knowledge, certifications (even if in progress), and projects that reflect real-world experience, you’re probably ready! Don’t limit yourself to entry-level positions either. Cyber security is unique, and with the right skills and passion, you could land a role that typically requires years of experience.
Applying for Jobs
When it comes to job applications, aim wide but be realistic. While it’s unlikely your first job will be a Senior Security Architect, don’t shy away from applying to positions that might seem a bit out of reach. Your unique skills and projects could make you the perfect candidate.Remember, passion and aptitude are key. Employers look for candidates who go the extra mile and have a true interest in cyber security. So, whether you choose to learn through my course, other free resources, or by creating your own projects, the most important thing is to start.
Your Path to Cyber Security
To sum it up: Leverage free resources and consider certifications. Work on real-world projects to build experience. Craft a resume that highlights your skills and passion. Apply widely but realistically, and prepare thoroughly for interviews. Cyber security offers a dynamic and rewarding career path. With dedication and the right strategy, you can break into this field and make a real impact. Good luck on your journey into cyber security!