If we think about jobs of the future, ethical hacking is at the top of the list. The field of cybersecurity is growing rapidly, and with it a growing demand for professionals with expertise in the field. Enter: ethical hacking.
Ethical hackers work on the right side of cybersecurity, testing computer systems and networks for vulnerabilities and stopping security threats in their tracks. Here, ESET gives us a glimpse into cybersecurity careers —including the exciting sector of ethical hacking.
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What is an ethical hacker?
Think of ethical hackers as the “good guys” fighting cybercrime. These cybersecurity professionals are tasked with hacking into various systems to find vulnerabilities in the software, hardware or network. They then report these weaknesses to their employers, and are often involved in figuring out how to strengthen cybersecurity based on their findings.
Known as “white hat hackers,” ethical hackers need to understand how their criminal counterparts — aka “black hat hackers” — operate. They learn about cybersecurity and tend to use similar methods and techniques to reveal weaknesses and flaws in their employers’ systems that could be exploited by malicious actors. Speaking of employers, ethical hackers can work for government entities or in the private sector for individual companies or security firms. Either way, their main job is to protect organisations and data from a diverse range of cyberattacks.
How to become an ethical hacker
Ethical hacking is an emerging industry, but there are a few pathways into this career based on education, skills and experience.
Education
Just like many cybersecurity careers, it’s helpful to have a relevant Bachelor degree in a field like computer science, information technology (IT), software engineering and/or web production. Many ethical hackers start their careers working in some type of information security role, such as network engineering, and gaining experience that way.
Degrees aside, professional certifications can help you stand out among a sea of applicants. The global CompTIA Security+ certification is popular among cybersecurity professionals. Depending on where you live, you might also explore the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) or Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) designations.
Required skills
Degrees and certifications can give you a good baseline of knowledge, and you’ll be able to build on your skills on the job. The best ethical hackers are detail-oriented problem solvers who can use these traits to outsmart “black hat hackers” at their own game. They’re creative and critical thinkers, and constantly learning about new trends and issues in the cybersecurity world. They’re collaborative and communicative, and can work with tight deadlines without compromising quality.
To get into the door, you’ll want to be able to demonstrate these types of skills:
- Solid understanding of ethical and professional conduct, as well as the steps and strategies of ethical hacking.
- Deep awareness of common cyberattacks, including malware, identity theft, phishing and social engineering tactics, plus how to avoid and prevent them.
- Strong knowledge of networking and computer systems, as well as current security protocols for Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Proficient in coding languages like Python, SQL, PHP, Java, C and C++, as well as website development.
- Ability to hack into networks or systems and identify weaknesses.
- Ability to put preventative and corrective measures in place against cybercrime attempts.
The most common ethical hacking jobs
Ethical hacking is a growing and in many cases, high-paying field. If you pursue this career path, chances are you won’t be hired as an “ethical hacker.” Instead, you’ll have one of these job titles:
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
- Cybersecurity Analyst/Architect
- Cybersecurity Consultant/Advisor/Specialist
- Information Security Analyst
- Information Security Manager
- Penetration Tester
- Security Engineer/Auditor
- System Administrator
- Vulnerability Assessor
With cybercrime on the rise, more companies are going to hire professionals to handle and strengthen their cybersecurity. Ethical hacking cybersecurity jobs are likely to increase, as those companies will want to seek professionals to help keep their systems safe and data secure.
Peek into the world of cybersecurity careers
Cybersecurity is a great career prospect, and people in the field have flexible and transferable skills to make for an interesting and fulfilling career. If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity or looking to transition to a new role within the industry, check out ESET’s blog, WeLiveSecurity. Run by ESET’s experts, it’s packed with valuable insights and information about trends and top-paying cybersecurity jobs.
