Breaking into cybersecurity: Your path to an entry-level career

Can you break into the world of cybersecurity with little to no experience? How can someone start an entry-level career or pivot into cybersecurity?

These are questions I’m frequently asked, and constantly searched according to Google Trends, reflecting the growing interest in cybersecurity careers.

The good news is, it is achievable, at least to some degree. With the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals increasing, the opportunities for breaking into this field are real and accessible.

Pathways to a cybersecurity career

There’s no single path to cybersecurity. Whether you’re transitioning from a different industry, pivoting from another IT field, or starting fresh as a recent graduate, various options can lead you into cybersecurity. Many professionals transition from non-IT backgrounds.

In fact, a 2023 ISC2 (one of the largest organisations of IT security professionals) workforce study found that 39% of new cybersecurity professionals came from non-IT roles. The lack of direct experience should not be a major cause for worry as transferrable skills, such as problem-solving, communication and analytical thinking, are valuable assets.

A background in networking, system administration, or IT support provides a solid foundation, while familiarity with cloud or IT infrastructure is a significant advantage. Pivoting to cybersecurity from these domains usually comes with less difficulty.

For those starting fresh, a computer science, cybersecurity or related degree is a good starting point, while academic knowledge should be supplemented with practical skills and entry-level certifications. Through certifications and training, even those without prior experience can build a foundation for success.

Soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and attention to detail are vital. Cybersecurity involves analyzing data, reporting issues, risk assessment, auditing and collaborating with others, so communicating complex information clearly and working effectively under pressure are invaluable traits.

The role of mentorship and gaining experience

Starting a career in cybersecurity can be challenging, but having the right guidance can ease the journey. Look for a mentor who can provide insights, offer career advice, interview tips, recommendations and share real-world experience. Networking with industry professionals – whether through LinkedIn or local meetups – can open doors to valuable internships, projects, and opportunities. Securing hands-on experience, even in small ways, is invaluable. Internships, part-time roles, and volunteering in security-related tasks can offer practical insights and help you apply the concepts you’ve learned.

2024 Global Cybersecurity Workforce Gap (source: ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2024).

Conclusion

Breaking into cybersecurity is achievable for those with the right combination of skills, dedication, and curiosity. The path may require resilience, but the industry’s demand for skilled professionals is immense and growing. By focusing on foundational knowledge, practical skills, and continuous learning, you can successfully launch your cybersecurity career.

• Abiodun Adegbola is a Security Engineer at Systal Technology Solutions, a UK-based managed services provider. He is certified across various technologies and holds a BTech in Computer Engineering from LAUTECH, Nigeria and MSc in Advanced Security & Digital Forensics from Edinburgh Napier University, UK.

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