The cybersecurity industry offers a lot of jobs. One of those involves cybersecurity consulting services. Let’s find out more about them in this article.
There are a lot of opportunities waiting in the cybersecurity industry. Those include cybersecurity architects, administrators, analysts, engineers, and CISOs. Yet, have you heard the title “cybersecurity consultant”?
Consultants are experts that don’t stick in a single company. Thus, they hire themselves to different customers. Consultants provide contracted services. Afterward, they move on to the next client.
We often hear the title ‘consultants’ in the accounting field. But, the cybersecurity industry needs consultants! This article will provide an overview of what cybersecurity consulting services mean.
What Is A Cyber Security Consultant?
Digital data is everywhere, so are the risks. A cybersecurity consultant tests the company’s systems for weaknesses. Then, they design and install solutions that fit the business’ needs.
They strengthen the cyber defense of a company. Cybersecurity consulting services may also include working on physical computer systems. It is to protect those from malware.
As we have mentioned earlier, a cybersecurity consultant doesn’t only work for a company. They move on to the next client after strengthening the cybersecurity of a business. They are sometimes known by different names, such as:
- Information security consultant
- Computer security consultant
- Database security consultant
- Network security consultant
What Does A Cyber Security Consultant Do?
They use their expertise and knowledge to prevent cyber attacks. The consultant prevents unauthorized access to data. Furthermore, consultants keep computer systems running in a smooth way.
After assessing the systems, consultants make recommendations for software and hardware upgrades. Examples of technical tests they perform are AV. It is also called penetration testing. One more test malware analysis.
Moreover, consultants educate the company on the best cybersecurity practices. They teach the company how to make their systems secure.
Furthermore, a consultant advises the company on anything. The client always asks about the best cybersecurity practices. In return, a consultant is always ready to answer those.
Besides, a consultant recommends security fixes and enhancements. They recommend solutions as long as it fits the client’s needs.
Required Education For This Job
First, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in the field of cybersecurity. A bachelor’s degree in IT or Computer Science is also acceptable. Without it, it is unlikely to attract clients.
You can also strengthen your chances of having certificates. The following certifications are valuable in the cyber industry.
- CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker.
- CISM: Certified Information Security Manager.
- CompTIA Security+
- CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional.
- GSEC: SANS GIAC Security Essentials.
Skills Needed To Be A Cybersecurity Consultant
Moreover, you should be skilled in cloud computing. Also, you must be skilled in cybersecurity and related areas.
Additionally, regular training related to cybersecurity is important. It will make you updated on the latest risks since as technology evolves, so are the cyber threats.
Salary Of A Cybersecurity Consultant
Overall, you can expect a good salary in this job. Starters earn an annual salary of $51,000. That number increases to $84,000 just within a few years. Senior consultants earn up to $149,000 a year.
