One thing’s for sure—with this job description you’ll never be bored! But being a key component of a company’s information technology needs can be a rewarding responsibility. SNHU provides affordable online technology degrees that are respected by employers and universities nationwide. « Security is the only area of certified IT skills that has never had a negative quarter throughout this recession, » says David Foote, CEO and Chief Research Officer of leading research firm, Foote Partners. « We’ve never had a three-month period with a loss or decline in premiums for IT security specialists. »

And while it’s important to have fluency in programming languages and experience with UNIX-, Linux-, and Windows-based systems, it’s even more important to have a bachelor’s degree to be qualified for this job. IT security specialists defend an organization’s data and information systems. They accomplish this through a mix of managing security software and educating personnel on cyber security best practices to prevent data breaches, and responding with the appropriate countermeasures should a cyber attack breach the defenses. IT security specialists need strong communication skills, as they are responsible for educating technical and non-technical staffers on computer security protocols and raising information security awareness. In addition to an encyclopedic knowledge of computers, network infrastructures, and breaches (which you’ll learn about while earning your IT degree), certifications can also help set you apart from other IT security specialists.

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Cyber security jobs of all sorts are becoming increasingly crucial in the digital age. From a specialist to an analyst to the IT security director, there are many jobs that focus on network security and all of these positions are vital for information security success. It’s not just that more companies are adopting technological advancements to run their businesses—it’s that those advancements are becoming increasingly sophisticated and, in some ways, invite a challenge from hackers looking to breach those systems. As a result, cyber security jobs have only grown in importance and demand—especially with the growth of ransomware attacks and data breaches that expose sensitive information. In today’s era of rapidly escalating threats and sophisticated cyber warfare, organizations need to be vigilant in combating attackers and protecting information assets. IT security specialists leverage an in-depth understanding of cyber security threats, technologies and countermeasures to ensure secure computer systems.

The LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+. Find out how different WGU is about personalizing and supporting your education.

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The average Service Contract Administrator salary in New York is $70,190 as of September 25, 2023, but the range typically falls between $61,666 and $82,965. IT security specialists can opt for a degree in computer science, cyber security and information assurance, or network operations and security. There’s also the option to go the extra mile and attain a master’s degree in categories such as information technology management. https://remotemode.net/ Choosing a reputable online degree program can make earning your bachelor’s or master’s more accessible by granting you freedom and flexibility in managing your course load. They’re tasked with being the ultimate problem solvers, drawing on a wealth of knowledge to enhance information security and defend their employer and fellow employees from attack, while routinely strengthening those systems to seal off vulnerabilities.

The U.S. Army also offers $4,244 per month for their IT security specialist roles. Workforce demand for computer security specialists is high in all verticals, including corporations, schools, medical practices, and government agencies. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT security specialist job market will grow by 33% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the 8% average for all occupations, placing it among the nation’s fastest growing career paths.

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The more a security specialist can guard against attacks, the more a business is able to function at full technological throttle. The actual job description of a security specialist can be hard to pin down, because these specialists may have varying duties based on their actual position. But typically these specialists are expected to install, configure, and maintain security software designed to prevent outside attacks on the company’s internal network.

IT security professionals are also be expected to monitor the company network for any breaches or vulnerabilities, devising plans for further safeguarding as needed. Most entry-level IT security jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, how to become a security specialist information assurance, or a related field of study; these programs typically take 4 years to complete as a full-time student. As you might expect, IT security specialists require extensive technical skills and knowledge to effectively do their jobs.

The good news is, the job outlook for IT security specialists is exceptionally strong—and only getting better. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this sector is projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Plus, demand for this role continues to be exceptionally high with no signs of slowing. Employment of IT security specialists is expected to increase by thirty-three percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the 8% average for all U.S. occupations. Security will remain a top concern for IT hiring managers as the frequency and impact of cyber attacks continues to rise. Research and compare top-rated cyber security degree programs online and in your area.

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• Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+.
• Salary ranges can vary widely depending on the city and many other important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession.
• They accomplish this through a mix of managing security software and educating personnel on cyber security best practices to prevent data breaches, and responding with the appropriate countermeasures should a cyber attack breach the defenses.
• The average Service Contract Administrator salary in New York is $70,190 as of September 25, 2023, but the range typically falls between $61,666 and $82,965.
• As a result, cyber security jobs have only grown in importance and demand—especially with the growth of ransomware attacks and data breaches that expose sensitive information.