How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist: A Comprehensive Guide

Cybersecurity is a booming field with growing demand as digital threats evolve. From protecting sensitive data to thwarting sophisticated cyberattacks, cybersecurity specialists play a critical role in safeguarding organizations. If you're curious about this career path, this guide will walk you through who cybersecurity specialists are, what they do, how much they earn, and the steps to become one. Many certification available like CEH certification, OSCP Certification and many more.

What Is a Cybersecurity Specialist?

A cybersecurity specialist is a professional who protects computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats like hacking, data breaches, and malware. According to Alexander Simenenko, Executive Director at Xilant, the term is broad, encompassing roles from ethical hacking to developing secure software and drafting company security policies.

Here are some common specializations:

• Network Security Engineer: Designs and secures network infrastructure, configuring firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
• Ethical Hacker (Pentester): Simulates cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities, helping companies strengthen their defenses.
• Digital Forensics Specialist: Investigates cyber incidents, recovering data and tracing attack origins.
• SOC Analyst: Monitors systems for suspicious activity, responding to threats in real-time.
• Cryptography Specialist: Develops encryption methods to protect sensitive data, often in banking or defense sectors.
• Cybersecurity Consultant: Audits systems and recommends strategies to enhance security.

In smaller companies, specialists often juggle multiple roles, while larger organizations may have dedicated teams for each.

What Do Cybersecurity Specialists Do?

The daily tasks of a cybersecurity specialist vary by role but generally include:

• Threat Monitoring: Tracking emerging threats, like phishing or ransomware, to stay ahead of attackers.
• Implementing Protections: Setting up firewalls, antivirus software, and encryption to secure systems.
• Vulnerability Testing: Conducting penetration tests to uncover weaknesses before hackers do.
• Incident Response: Investigating and mitigating breaches to minimize damage.
• Policy Development: Creating security protocols, such as password guidelines or data access rules.
• Employee Training: Educating staff on avoiding risks, like suspicious email attachments.

For instance, during a DDoS attack, specialists might redirect traffic through filters to restore website access, ensuring business continuity.

Is the Profession in Demand?

Yes, cybersecurity specialists are highly sought after globally. Here’s why:

• Digital Growth: By 2030, an estimated 40 billion IoT devices will be online, each a potential target.
• Sophisticated Attacks: Hackers now use AI and social engineering, making defenses more complex.
• Financial Stakes: Ransomware demands often exceed $100,000, pushing companies to invest in security.
• Automated Threats: Bots scan websites for vulnerabilities, increasing attack frequency.

In Russia, a shortage of 54,000–65,000 cybersecurity professionals is projected by 2027. Globally, companies face a deficit of about two million specialists, with cybersecurity spending reaching $191 billion in 2023. As attacks grow more advanced, this demand will likely persist.

How Much Do Cybersecurity Specialists Earn?

Salaries depend on experience, location, and sector. In Russia:

• Entry-Level: From 80,000 RUB/month.
• Experienced (Moscow): 125,000+ RUB/month in commercial roles, 86,000+ RUB in government.
• Regions: 65,000+ RUB (commercial), 40,000+ RUB (government).

Internationally, salaries are higher:

• USA: $95,000–$150,000/year, with CISOs earning over $200,000.
• UK: £45,000–£65,000/year.
• Australia: AUD 90,000–130,000/year.
• Singapore: SGD 72,000–120,000/year.
• Switzerland: CHF 90,000–140,000/year.

These figures, current as of January 2025, reflect the profession’s lucrative nature, especially for those with expertise and global experience.

Where to Study Cybersecurity

In Russia, top universities offer bachelor’s and master’s programs in information security, requiring strong EGE scores (260–300) in math, physics or informatics, and Russian language. Notable institutions include:

• Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (MIPT)
• National Research Nuclear University MEPhI
• Bauman Moscow State Technical University
• Higher School of Economics (HSE)
• ITMO University
• Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University

Program codes include 10.05.01 (Computer Security) and 10.05.03 (Information Security of Automated Systems). Alternatively, online platforms offer accessible learning:

• TryHackMe: Interactive tasks for beginners.
• Cybrary: Free courses with certifications.
• HackTheBox: Labs for ethical hacking practice.
• PortSwigger Web Security Academy: Web security tutorials.

How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist

Here’s a step-by-step guide to entering the field:

1. Choose a Specialization: Explore areas like pentesting or cryptography to find your niche. Alexander Simenenko advises trying multiple roles early on to discover what excites you.
2. Get Educated: A degree provides a strong foundation, but short-term courses or self-study via platforms like TryHackMe can suffice. Focus on networks, cryptography, and operating systems.
3. Build Skills: Master:
• Network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS) and tools (Wireshark, Nmap).
• Linux/Windows administration.
• Programming (Python, Bash, C++).
• Cryptography basics.
• Analytical thinking and stress resilience.
4. Gain Experience: Start with internships, CTF competitions, or open-source projects like OpenSSL on GitHub.
5. Land an Entry-Level Role: Positions like Junior SOC Analyst or IT Security Specialist offer a foot in the door, paving the way for advanced roles like pentester or security manager.

Pros and Cons of the Profession

Pros:

• High Demand: Companies need specialists to combat rising threats.
• Lucrative Pay: Competitive salaries reflect the role’s value.
• Career Growth: Diverse paths from junior roles to leadership.
• Impactful Work: Protect data and ensure business stability.

Cons:

• Stressful Environment: Rapid response to attacks can lead to burnout.
• Constant Learning: Staying updated requires time and investment.
• Irregular Hours: Threats can strike anytime, disrupting work-life balance.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity is a dynamic, rewarding field for those passionate about technology and problem-solving. While it demands continuous learning and resilience, the high demand, competitive salaries, and meaningful impact make it a compelling career choice. Start by exploring specializations, building skills, and gaining hands-on experience—your journey to becoming a cybersecurity specialist begins today!