A cyber security engineer understands the different facets of Information Technology (IT) safety and security. The engineer evaluates system changes and implements security workflows to create improvements in different IT systems. Furthermore, a cyber security engineer should be proficient in various programming languages like Java, C++, Microsoft Powershell, and Python Net.
However, the question that may be on your mind right now is, “What exactly does a cybersecurity engineer do?”
Remains Updated With the IT Industry
The IT industry moves at a fast pace. Therefore, the cyber security engineer needs to be dynamic, flexible, and versatile to keep up. Cybersecurity experts accumulated different expertise from specific learning practices. Companies may require these professionals to learn about particular niches like:
- Network management
- Software development
- Application support
- IT research
Cybersecurity engineers tend to have many similar skills to other IT professionals. However, these specialists have a deeper understanding of the security needed for different IT systems. People considering becoming a cyber security engineer should get a degree first like the course offered by Norwich University.
Selects and Installs Cyber Security Software
Cyber security engineers know more than installing traditional anti-virus software to computer systems. After all, different IT systems call for varying security measures. Hence, one security application may not run on all platforms.
The professional putting in the cyber security software should also know which specific application to install. IT engineers handling this task will gauge if the security program is compatible with the system used by the organization. Random installations may result in catastrophes, like loss of data. Think about the situation as putting a bag of Type B+ blood to a person who needs Type A+ blood.
If the security application doesn’t match the network environment, then it may result in malfunctions. Worse, it may even result in the entire network shutting down. Cyber security engineers are knowledgeable enough to know the specific software to install to avoid these tragedies.
Monitors the Network for Security Breaches
Aside from knowing which cyber security application to install, this distinct IT engineer also monitors the network for any signs of security breaches. Many cyber attackers continue to update their tools to hack into sophisticated systems. Cybersecurity engineers help ensure the integrity of the network environment by blocking hacking attempts before they get worse.
These professionals will also report to their supervisors of any cyber attack incident. For example, if there’s any unusual activity on the company’s website like a Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack, the engineer isolates the problem to the best of his or her ability with the help of available tools. Then, the expert will monitor the situation while sending updates to the organization’s administrative staff to gain extra eyes on the incident.
Continuously Develops Security Standards Fit for the Organization
As cyber attackers continue to hone their craft, so should cyber security engineers. These IT professionals look at possible openings in the network wherein hackers may try to exploit. Securing these “holes” in the system relies on conservative assumptions, planning, and development to minimize threats.
Cyber security engineers look at programming language to find any errors in the system. Hence, aside from cyber attacks, these IT engineers also formulate additional security standards so systems won’t create malfunctions caused by mishandling.
Furthermore, these IT experts develop a step-by-step plan of action for each malfunction to keep workflows organized. Other IT staff members may assist the cyber security engineer when necessary. With the help of the entire team, the engineer may even provide solutions to keep smart gadgets secure.
Enhance Personal Qualities
Aside from technical characteristics, cyber security engineers make it a habit to keep a cool head during stressful encounters. Events that may cause IT experts to fall under pressure may result in thinking with emotions, which possibly results in system failures. Thus, when challenges arise, these IT engineers should constantly practice the following traits:
- Attention to detail
- Critical thinking
- Deductive and inductive reasoning
- Out-of-the-box problem-solving
- Excellent and stable written and verbal communication
Above all, cybersecurity engineers exercise patience under heavy pressure. IT infrastructures may be the lifeblood of specific organizations. Patience provides a clear mind that can support personal and technical aspects of problem-solving. On the other hand, thinking with emotional distress may create several rooms for errors that might cause more cybersecurity mishaps than intended.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity engineers help provide IT solutions to several tasks and requirements within an organization. Interested applicants who wish to pursue this career should have at least a Bachelor’s Degree in the appropriate field. You might even want to pursue a Master’s Degree to gain additional knowledge about maintaining security in IT infrastructures.
