IT Security Specialist Career Guide
How to Become an IT Security Specialist
The more companies have come to rely on technology to run their businesses, the more they’ve had to face down threats that impact emails, data, servers, and entire networks. Even one of these categories being compromised could spell disaster, but with an security specialist on hand, many of these crises can be mitigated, if not outright avoided. The work can be complex and complicated, especially within larger companies. But as nearly every industry becomes more technologically dependent, that means there’s a constant threat to cyber security—which, in turn, means security specialists are in increasingly high demand.
What is an IT Security Specialist?
An IT security specialist is well versed in the world of information security and the challenges that network security brings, including an in-depth understanding of a variety of cyber security threats and any other vulnerabilities that may affect the company they work for. They’re tasked with being the ultimate problem solvers, drawing on a wealth of knowledge to enhance information security and defend their employer and fellow employees from attack, while routinely strengthening those systems to seal off vulnerabilities. The more a security specialist can guard against attacks, the more a business is able to function at full technological throttle.
Cyber security jobs of all sorts are becoming increasingly crucial in the digital age. From a specialist to an analyst to the IT security director, there are many jobs that focus on network security and all of these positions are vital for information security success. It’s not just that more companies are adopting technological advancements to run their businesses—it’s that those advancements are becoming increasingly sophisticated and, in some ways, invite a challenge from hackers looking to breach those systems. As a result, cyber security jobs have only grown in importance and demand—especially with the growth of ransomware attacks and data breaches that expose sensitive information. And while Silicon Valley still wears the crown as a technology business stronghold, businesses and organizations ranging from nonprofits and hospice care, to colleges and universities, to private sector industries and the government need security specialists to help protect their tech networks, too.
What Does a Security Specialist Do?
The actual job description of a security specialist can be hard to pin down, because these specialists may have varying duties based on their actual position. But typically these specialists are expected to install, configure, and maintain security software designed to prevent outside attacks on the company’s internal network. IT security professionals are also be expected to monitor the company network for any breaches or vulnerabilities, devising plans for further safeguarding as needed.
In the worst-case scenario, these specialists are expected to address cyber attacks with analysts and other information system's experts by employing effective countermeasures that protect the company’s most vital and sensitive data. They may also be required to train company employees on security protocols and help them set up their computers, e-mail, firewalls, and other associated tech in compliance with company security measures. Staying up to date on industry standards is key, as is being aware of impending threats that could affect the company network.
Other elements of their job description may include:
- Ensuring security updates are current across all systems
- Running network tests and testing firewalls, creating patches or implementing new protocols as needed
- Monitoring security administrations to ensure best practices
- Liaising with complementary departments to ensure adherence to security protocols
- Analyzing network systems and structures to ensure the most secure approach is being employed
- Ensuring security tools are running properly on company networks and devices
- Researching emerging threats and the safeguards that can provide protection
- Protecting the digital system of a company
- Developing systems for specialized security requirements based on specific company needs
- Optimizing systems to ensure the network is supportive and responsive
- Presenting findings, reports and solutions to upper management
- Studying devices and implementing the best security protocols for everything from cell phones to tablets to laptops
One thing’s for sure—with this job description you'll never be bored! But being a key component of a company's information technology needs can be a rewarding responsibility.
“After I graduated from WGU, I quickly got a much better job and nearly doubled my salary.” Eric Gardner
B.S. Information Technology
What Education Does an IT Security Specialist Need?
As you might expect, IT security specialists require extensive technical skills and knowledge to effectively do their jobs. And while it’s important to have fluency in programming languages and experience with UNIX-, Linux-, and Windows-based systems, it’s even more important to have a bachelor’s degree to be qualified for this job.
IT security specialists can opt for a degree in computer science, cyber security and information assurance, or network operations and security. There’s also the option to go the extra mile and attain a master’s degree in categories such as information technology management. Choosing a reputable online degree program can make earning your bachelor’s or master’s more accessible by granting you freedom and flexibility in managing your course load.
Best Bachelor's Degrees For IT Security:
Data Management/Data Analytics – B.S.
Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:...
Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge...
Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:
- Employer approval: 69% of graduates finish within 24 months.
- Tuition and fees: $3,920 per 6-month term.
- Certifications: CIW and CompTIA certs, all included.
Unique to WGU's program is the incorporation of a Udacity Nanodegree—a highly recognized credential designed to prepare you for a career in data science.
Certified Internet Web certification included:
- CIW Data Analyst
CompTIA certifications included:
- CompTIA A+ (Parts 1 and 2)
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
College of I.T.
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree....
Protect your career and earning potential with...
Protect your career and earning potential with this degree.
- Employer approval: 74% of graduates finish within 18 months.
- Tuition and fees: $4,245 per 6-month term.
Some careers and jobs this degree will prepare you for:
- Cyber crimes investigator
- Director of cybersecurity
- Chief of cyber counterintelligence
- Cybersecurity engineer
- Cyber operations planner
Certifications included in this program at no extra cost include:
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
- ITIL® Foundation Certification
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional
- CompTIA Network Security Professional
- CompTIA PenTest+
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Security Analytics Professional
College of I.T.
Information Technology – B.S.
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this...
Award-winning coursework and value-add...
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online program a top choice.
- Time: 71% of graduates finish within 30 months.
- Tuition and fees: $3,920 per 6-month term.
- Certifications: Includes CIW, ITIL, LPI and CompTIA.
The CIW User Interface Designer, LPI Linux Essentials and ITIL® Foundation Certification are central to this program. Included CompTIA certifications are A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+.
College of I.T.
Our online university degree programs start on the first of every month, all year long.
No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!
Top Certifications For IT Security Specialists
Certifications combined with a degree can make you even more qualified for IT security roles. Certifications demonstrate to your employer that you have top-industry skills that will directly be applicable to your daily work. The online degree program at WGU offers these top industry certifications along with your degree at no extra cost. This helps you boost your résumé before you even graduate. Some of the best certification options for IT security professionals include:
What skills does a computer programmer need?
Education is only part of the equation that makes up the wealth of knowledge an IT security specialist needs to bring to the table. Your tech skill set will need to be top notch and always evolving with this job. Some of the most important skills employers look for in an IT security specialist include:
- Problem-solving capabilities in high pressure environments
- Understanding of programming languages such as C++, PHP, Java, and more
- Knowledge of software, including anti-virus, anti-malware, and other protection programs
- Critical thinking and a troubleshooting mindset
- Experience with Linux-, Windows-, and UNIX-based systems
- Knowledge of authentication methods and security administration
- Interpersonal skills to work cross-functionally between necessary departments
- Strong ethics and an unshakable moral compass
- Understanding of ethical hacking techniques and threat modeling
- Interpersonal skills to support other staffers in adapting security measures
- Knowledge of authentication methods
- Ability to perform penetration and vulnerability testing
- Strong communication skills with ability to present key findings to management
How Much Does an IT Security Specialist Make?
$69,123
According to Glassdoor.com, the national average salary for an IT security specialist is $69,123, based on a scale that checks in at $45,000 per year on the low end and up to $102,000 per year at the high end. The pay rate can depend on the industry—for example, companies such as Target pay as much as $155,892 per year for an IT security specialist, while Boeing offers an annual salary of $119,450. The U.S. Army also offers $4,244 per month for their IT security specialist roles.
What is the Job Outlook for IT Security Specialists?
31%
The good news is, the job outlook for IT security specialists is exceptionally strong—and only getting better. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment in this sector is projected to grow 31% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Plus, demand for this role continues to be exceptionally high with no signs of slowing.
Do I Need Certifications For IT Security?
Yes
In addition to an encyclopedic knowledge of computers, network infrastructures, and breaches (which you’ll learn about while earning your IT degree), certifications can also help set you apart from other IT security specialists. Cisco, CompTIA, CISSP, and CEH are some of the certs that may be required by your employer to be qualified for a role.