Key Takeaways
- 3.5M unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally
- No degree required for most roles
- Hands-on skills matter more than certs
- Multiple paths into cybersecurity
Contents
1. Cybersecurity Industry Overview
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields with a massive talent shortage. Organizations of all sizes need security professionals, from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
2. Common Security Roles
Security Operations
- SOC Analyst: Monitor, triage alerts (Entry)
- Incident Responder: Handle security incidents
- Threat Hunter: Proactive threat detection
Offensive Security
- Penetration Tester: Find vulnerabilities
- Red Team Operator: Adversary simulation
- Bug Bounty Hunter: Independent researcher
Engineering & Architecture
- Security Engineer: Build security solutions
- Security Architect: Design secure systems
- DevSecOps Engineer: Security in CI/CD
3. Breaking Into Cybersecurity
- IT experience helps: Helpdesk, sysadmin, networking
- Build a home lab: Practice skills hands-on
- CTF competitions: Demonstrate technical ability
- Start with SOC: Most accessible entry point
- Get certified: CompTIA Security+ as baseline
4. Certification Roadmap
| Level | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Entry | CompTIA Security+, CC (ISC2) |
| Intermediate | CySA+, CEH, eJPT |
| Advanced | OSCP, GIAC (GCIH, GCFE), AWS Security |
| Expert | OSEP, CISSP, CISM |
5. Essential Skills
# Technical skills:
- Networking (TCP/IP, protocols)
- Linux and Windows administration
- Scripting (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
- Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Security tools (SIEM, EDR, IDS/IPS)
# Soft skills:
- Communication (reports, presentations)
- Problem-solving
- Continuous learning mindset
- Teamwork and collaboration6. Salary Overview (US, 2024)
| Role | Entry | Mid | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOC Analyst | $60K | $80K | $100K |
| Pentester | $80K | $120K | $160K |
| Security Engineer | $100K | $140K | $180K |
| CISO | - | - | $300K+ |
7. Career Progression
# Example path - Blue Team
SOC Analyst (1-2 years)
→ Senior SOC Analyst (2-3 years)
→ Threat Hunter / IR Lead (3-5 years)
→ Security Manager / Director (5-10 years)
# Example path - Red Team
IT Support → Jr Pentester (or self-study)
→ Pentester (OSCP helps)
→ Senior Pentester / Red Team
→ Principal / Red Team Lead8. Learning Resources
- Practice: TryHackMe, HackTheBox, PentesterLab
- Courses: TCM Security, SANS, Offensive Security
- YouTube: John Hammond, NetworkChuck, IppSec
- Books: The Web App Hacker's Handbook, PTFM
- Community: Discord servers, local meetups, DEF CON
FAQ
Do I need a degree for cybersecurity?
No. While helpful, most companies value skills and experience over degrees. Certifications, home labs, CTFs, and practical experience can get you hired without a degree.