Is Learning Cybersecurity Challenging? (7 Tips for Learning)

So you're interested in learning cybersecurity. Maybe what you read online makes you feel intimidated. Perhaps you've heard from others who have experienced it firsthand how terrible it is, or you're dealing with imposter syndrome.

All of us have been there.

But we're here to inform you that cybersecurity is something you can learn. In fact, you can learn the principles of cybersecurity in just 24 weeks, going from having no prior knowledge to being prepared to find your first job in the industry.

Absolutely, it is doable. All you have to do is work hard.

What is Cybersecurity?

In its simplest form, cybersecurity protects systems and data against threats, viruses, and cyber attacks.

Today, cybersecurity is the practice of securing networks, resources, and systems. Those who work in cybersecurity aim to defend technology networks (i.e., servers, mobile devices, electronics) against malicious attacks, unauthorized access, and security breaches.

Is Cybersecurity Hard to Learn?

Cybersecurity is not hard to learn. However, some aspects of cybersecurity may seem challenging, particularly if you’re entirely new to the field.

An example is learning how to code. It takes time to learn and patience to master, and it can feel very challenging if you aren’t familiar with programming. 

There are multiple facets of cybersecurity. If analytics and engineering aren’t your thing, you can pivot into another branch such as consulting, administration, or management.

5 Reasons to Learn Cybersecurity

If you’re interested in cybersecurity, chances are you’re all ready to begin your learning. If you’re unsure, here are five reasons why cybersecurity is a great field to get into.

1. Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

Experts estimate that there will be 3.5 million job openings in cybersecurityby 2025! With technology and the internet ever-evolving, the need for cybersecurity and data protection has never been greater.

2. Various Career Branches

If you’re ambitious and you like having options when it comes to your career growth, then cybersecurity is a great field to get into. From analysis and IT to administrative and engineering, there are many branches available with cybersecurity.

3. Opportunities for Growth

Each branch of cybersecurity has plenty of growth opportunities. As you learn new skills and niche down, you can easily move into a more senior-level role.

4. Keeps Your Mind Sharp

Threats to online security constantly evolve, so remaining vigilant is essential in this job. When you’re always learning, looking out for new innovative ways hackers are trying to infiltrate systems, and solving complex technical puzzles, it helps your brain! You can grow new neural connections and strengthen your memory, problem-solving abilities, and more.

5. Excellent Pay

While it shouldn’t be the only reason you get into cybersecurity, the base salary is quite lucrative. This role is vital, and the entry-level salary can begin around $71,000, capping around $200,000+ for senior-level roles.

How to Learn Cybersecurity for Beginners

We all start somewhere! Here are some tips to start your cybersecurity learning journey.

1. Narrow Down Your Scope

Before you begin learning everything there is to know about cybersecurity, you should consider which branch of cybersecurity you’re interested in.

Once you have figured out which facet of cybersecurity you’re most interested in, you can narrow down and focus on the fundamentals and learn what goes into your specific branch. If you’re new to the field, learning everything can feel overwhelming. Taking it a step at a time and focusing on only what’s relevant to you is an excellent place to start.

2. Read Cybersecurity Books

In the age of Google, why pick up a book to learn something new? Well, information online isn’t always accurate. Anybody can claim they know something and charge a small fee for access to this information.

In reality, the internet generally isn’t vetted for accuracy.

Cybersecurity books, on the other hand, are written by experts, reviewed by editors, and published. It’s a long, iterative process that deep-dives into a topic specifically to teach you and share information. 

3. Enroll in a Cybersecurity Bootcamp

One of the best ways to learn is by getting real, hands-on experience. By joining a cybersecurity bootcamp, you’ll learn the fundamentals and then apply those to more advanced learning, constantly building on your knowledge.

5 Most In-demand Cybersecurity Skills to Learn

You’ve already got your suite of soft skills – excellent communication, attention to detail, problem-solving, and an interest in learning and personal development. 

But on the technical side, here are 5 important cybersecurity skills you should have:

1. Programming languages (C, C++, Python, JavaScript, PHP, SQL)
2. Knowledge of different operating systems, applications, networks, etc.
3. Ethical hacking
4. Network security control
5. Computer forensics

The Types of Cybersecurity to Learn

As we mentioned earlier, there are many branches of cybersecurity that you can get into. Here is a list of different types of cybersecurity you could focus on:

• Network Security
• Application Security
• Cloud Security
• Information Security
• Endpoint Security
• Mobile Security
• Infrastructure Security
• End-User Education
• IoT Security (Internet of Things)

FAQ: Is Cybersecurity Hard?

Frequently Asked questions about learning cybersecurity.

Is Cybersecurity a Good Career?

Cybersecurity is a great career! In 2021, Information Security Engineer was the number 1 most in-demand tech job. In our age of technology, there is high demand for this career, and it pays well because it’s such an important job.

How Hard is Cybersecurity?

Becoming a cybersecurity professional can be challenging. Specific topics may take extra time to understand and master, but it is a rewarding career that anybody can learn. You just need to have the passion and dedication to learning. 

How Long Does it Take to Learn Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is a lifelong learning process. There’s no “one-and-done” course because technology and cyber attacks constantly evolve. However, to learn and apply the fundamentals of cybersecurity, it generally takes two years.

Does Cybersecurity Require Coding?

Entry-level cybersecurity jobs do not generally require coding. However, it will help. As you advance in your career, more knowledge will be required. It also helps to have the fundamentals of coding languages down. 

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