Cyber Security Administrator – Before We Get Into The Topic , let’s Learn Some Basic Of This Topic
Security administrators are responsible for IT security and safety issues. They ensure that their organization’s computer systems are protected against all cyber threats. Security administrators can find work in almost all industries, as most businesses rely on computers networks every day. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer systems administrators earn salaries exceeding $83,500 per year.
This exciting career is for security administrators who are interested in learning more. This page will explain how to become a security administrator. It also covers the certifications and experience required to get into the field.
Continue reading to find out what security managers are looking for in employers. This page includes information about the main career paths that cybersecurity students can take, as well as the salary they can expect once they graduate.
What does a security administrator do?
One of the most important roles in information technology (IT), is that of the security administrator. Security administrators have many responsibilities that ensure the security of their organization’s computer networks and systems. Security administrators help to create a secure digital environment that allows IT staff and other employees to function effectively.
Organizations are vulnerable to hackers, terrorist groups, and foreign governments stealing data or money if they don’t have adequate security measures. Cyber attackers can infiltrate companies’ computers network and lockout users, demanding ransom money. Cyberattacks are being managed by security professionals and their coworkers.
These professionals create policies and systems to protect the sensitive data of their customers and companies. They might also establish regulations that govern information flows between employees and outside of the office. Security administrators typically work in teams to find weak points in their networks and then install firewalls, anti-malware software, and site-blocking program. Security administrators also respond to intrusions.
Steps to become a security administrator
Security administrators who are interested in becoming security managers should be prepared for a long and complicated process. Continue reading to find out about the education options available for security administrators, industry requirements, and certifications. This section will also discuss possible career opportunities for college students who want to become security administrators.
Security administrators’ education requirements vary depending on the job title and job description. Entry-level jobs as security administrators require that candidates have a bachelor’s degree in information technology. Information security professionals who are interested in management positions will often require a master’s degree, such as an MBA or master’s in information systems.
Information technology, information assurance, and IT management are some of the most common degrees held by cybersecurity professionals. These degrees show potential employers that graduates are knowledgeable about the intricacies and security strategies involved in various cyber threats.
Prior professional experience can help security professionals demonstrate their preparedness. Many security administrators have worked in lower-level IT jobs such as database administration. Graduates can work their way up to senior-level cybersecurity positions as security administrators. Logging work experience can help future security administrators build the soft and hard skills they need.
Although security administrator positions do not require certifications these credentials can help impress hiring managers and landing job offers. Certificates are awarded to graduates that verify their knowledge in particular areas of cybersecurity such as ethical hacking or penetration testing. They can also pursue general certifications. To learn more about cybersecurity certifications, check out this page.
Top Skills Required for Security Administrators
This section focuses on the soft and hard skills that security administrators must have to find work, excel in their daily duties, and be successful long-term in the cybersecurity industry. While college programs can help students acquire some skills, on-the-job experiences build others. Security administrators have the option of obtaining certifications to enhance their skills, as mentioned in the previous section.
Like other IT professionals, security administrators must be able to use their hard skills effectively. Hard skills are the key to a career as a security administrator. Only administrators who have demonstrated technical ability can move up to managerial positions. Security professionals who are interested in pursuing a career as security professionals will need to pass technical skills tests before applying for jobs.
They must be able to understand firewall and router configurations as well as operating systems like Windows and Linux. They should also be familiar with protocols such as TCP, UDP, and SSL. Security administrators need to be able to set up and maintain security programs that prevent and detect intrusions. Security professionals often find it beneficial to have encryption skills and knowledge. Security administrators work together with their teams to prevent, deter and respond to cyberattacks.
Security administrators need to have soft skills in writing and speaking. They must communicate security concerns to other security personnel and company managers.
Salary for Security Administrator
Information technology is one of the most highly-paid careers in the country. According to the BLS, network and computer systems administrators earned a median income of $83,510 per year as of May 2019. BLS data also shows that IT security professionals are paid exceptionally well. According to the bureau, the nation’s information security analysts made a median yearly salary of $99,730 as of 2019.
The top 10% of computer system administrators make more than $132,500 annually, while the bottom 10% earn less than $52,370 per year. These discrepancies can be explained by differences in locations and industries. Some top-paying industries for computer systems administrators include oil and gas extraction, financial services, and specialized design services. Security administrators can expect the highest salaries in Maryland, New Jersey, and California.
Security administration is a highly lucrative career. There should be plenty of jobs available for recent graduates. The BLS projects a 4% increase in job opportunities for network and computer systems administrators from 2019-2029, translating to over 16,000 new jobs.