Responsible for maintaining the integrity of an organization’s data, a network security engineer continuously monitors the network for security breaches, performs scathing attacks to identify vulnerabilities, and develops security protocols to prevent potential threats, which is named as security engineer meaning.
Those who are attracted to becoming network security engineers are well served by developing data protection skills, such as installing firewalls and data encryption programs that protect sensitive information.
Steps to become a network security engineer
Step 1: Get a degree
Most positions in network security require at least a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a computer-related field such as computer science or programming. Through information management systems (MIS) programs, for example, graduates can learn about emerging technologies and other information that can help become a network security engineer.
Degrees in other areas can also serve as springboards for network security careers. For example, through offerings such as online business administration programs, students can study the differences between companies and organizations in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. The fundamental business knowledge gained can enable graduates to apply general knowledge in more specialized fields. Also, understanding different organizational structures can lead to a better understanding of the types of data each generates and how data protection needs differ.
Step 2: Obtain a Masters Degree (optional)
Some employers may prefer candidates to have a master’s degree, which may help prepare graduates for managerial positions. One example is the online master’s degree in software development, which helps graduates learn versatile skills that can be applied to more than one career. Skills covered include the development and development of programming skills; dominate databases and cloud environments; and design and create accessible interfaces. The curriculum is broad and highly specialized.
The 30-hour program, which can be completed online in at least 12 months, includes the following courses:
- Introduction to programming.
- The principles of the database.
- UI design
- Data structures.
- Object-oriented software architecture.
Another degree option – and one that offers career specificity – is Maryville University’s online master’s degree in a cybersecurity program. Students can take advantage of the Maryville Virtual Lab and can train remotely, virtually anywhere in the world, and from any online device. The curriculum is designed to teach techniques that can prepare students to pursue careers as network security engineers.
Online master’s degree courses in cybersecurity include:
- Mobile and forensic hacking.
- Handling incidents and violations.
- Forensic examination and analysis.
- Controls for effective cyber defense.
Step 3: Create work experience
In addition to education, work experience, and the initiative to hone their own skillset helps a lot to stand out from the crowd.
During an interview with Forbes, Sean Tierney, chief information officer at Infoblox Network Security Company, said one of the best ways to become marketable as a network security engineer is to become fluent in other areas of the computer. “For example, you become a master of data network fundamentals,” he said, or an expert in managing different operating systems, or become proficient in various scripting languages, such as Python and Bash. ”
Other steps that can help spur career advancement include:
- Legitimate network security features through certification, such as security certification of certified information systems.
- Introducing the initiative to be aware of trends that affect large amounts of data.
- Obtain a basic level of experience through an internship or similar work experience.
What skills does an engineer need for network security?
The most appropriate talents and skills for network security careers include:
- Analytical skills for a full examination of computer systems and networks and for vulnerability identification.
- Attention to detail that stops cyber theft attacks.
- Resources or ingenuity to anticipate security risks and implement new ways to counteract them.
- Troubleshooting skills for quick discovery and correction of network failures.