How to Become an IT Security Specialist

IT security specialists work with organisations to implement security systems, enforce cyber security procedures, monitor cyber safety, check for security threats and educate staff on keeping digital data safe. 

They are a key part of everyday life for organisations and individuals, as they protect data from hackers, viruses, and malware, which could make important personal and financial information vulnerable.  

As an IT security expert, you will need to stay up to date with the latest cyber security procedures and be aware of current cyber threats and how to protect against them. The daily duties of an IT Security specialist includes:

The average salary for IT security specialists in the UK is between £35,000 and £60,000, depending on experience, according to the National Careers Service. 

You might think that you need a bachelor’s degree in IT, an associate’s degree in computing, or computer forensics for a cybersecurity career. 

Although a bachelor’s in IT or a master’s degree in computer science is very useful, they are not necessary to become an Information security expert. 

Many IT security specialists work in the computing field with GCSE’s and often A Levels in IT, gaining experience working with computers and then gaining extra qualifications whilst getting working experience. However, if you have no previous IT qualifications, then there are still many ways to get into this career. 

Online IT courses are a great way to get a head start in becoming an IT security professional, whether you have a background in IT or not. Beginner courses are ideal for those without a background in IT or knowledge of computer security beyond personal computing skills, and diplomas and university Level 4 and 5 courses are ideal for those with some knowledge or experience but without a cyber security degree. 

There are several courses which can be undertaken in your own time, as they are delivered through distance learning, so you can study when you want. 

If you have experience in IT but want to pivot your career into cyber security, then there are also several specialist Cyber Security courses and Ethical Hacking courses available. 

These certifications offer specialist education in cyber security, including preventing hacking and implementing security procedures and detecting threats. With these courses, you can become further qualified to become a certified ethical hacker, security engineer, or information security analyst.

As well as a passion for helping people to be protected against cyber threats, some of the key qualities of an IT security specialist include:

As well as a passion for helping people to be protected against cyber threats, some of the key qualities of an IT security specialist include:

Whether you need work experience or not will depend heavily on the job you are applying for. Some companies require between 1 and 5 years of work experience for IT security roles, whereas others do not have specific work experience requirements. 

However, gaining as much experience as possible always opens up more job opportunities, even if it is in a seemingly unrelated area. Gaining general working experience in retail, customer service, or administration can help you gain transferable skills such as IT skills, communication, and team working. 

If you cannot get practical IT working experience, then achieving a qualification in IT is even more important. With cybersecurity certifications such as IT Support courses or Digital Skills courses, you can learn practical skills and gain experience working with computer fundamentals during your studies. 

It is also worth exploring current apprenticeships and internships, as this is a great way to gain work experience and undertake industry certifications to progress your career.

There is such a high demand for cybersecurity professionals that you could work in the public or private sector for a variety of clients. You could work for yourself as a self-employed or freelance security expert or for one organisation or business. 

You might have the opportunity to work as an entry-level IT security specialist, you can gain experience and qualifications to work your way up to becoming a certified information security manager, IT project manager, system administrator, or security consultant. 

From there, you can further progress into executive roles such as security officer, security director, or chief information. You can also explore other IT roles and specialise further in areas such as coding with online Coding courses, or advance your skills further and become a senior security expert with Penetration Testing courses. 

Working in IT security is a fantastic way to use your computer skills to protect people against cyber threats and enjoy a rewarding career. 

Through gaining some work experience, studying for IT qualifications such as Software testing courses to develop your IT skills and knowledge, and by developing your soft skills, you can enjoy the freedom of excellent career progression, a choice of different sectors to work in, and an excellent salary.