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Degree vs. certification: Mid-level cybersecurity consultant

Introduction

Affectionately referred to as the Obi-Wan of the cybersecurity world, this catch-all role within an organization really is a sort of information security hero. Organizations rely on cybersecurity experts when they need highly skilled assistance to solve multi-faceted challenges in information security (sometimes on a contract basis). This unique role has two major avenues to reach it — the degree path and the certification path. 

This article will detail both of these paths, including which degrees and certifications you will want, and will conclude with a solid recommendation for the best path to take.

What is a cybersecurity consultant?

This role is an all-inclusive alloy of cybersecurity skill sets and knowledge than could potentially require anywhere from a near-beginner to advanced level of expertise in cybersecurity. This means that what is demanded of a cybersecurity consultant is often not confined to one area or level of depth. 

Cybersecurity consultants will need to be as well versed as possible in the following cybersecurity sub-disciplines to best serve their organization or clients:

  • Ethical hacking
  • Penetration testing
  • Operating systems
  • Firewall management
  • Intrusion and detection technologies
  • Raw data programming languages
  • Cybersecurity analysis

As you can see, this is an extensive universe of knowledge. And as the list is not exhaustive, you can now imagine just how well-rounded a professional seeking this role must be!

Organizations sometimes hire cybersecurity consultants on a contract basis; other times, they may be added as more of a permanent member of the organization staff. Regardless of their employment status, organizations use this role as the go-to cybersecurity expert that is called upon to solve problems that their resident security team cannot.

This role may be referred to as another name instead of cybersecurity consultant. Some common titles for this role include:

*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from Infosec Resources authored by Greg Belding. Read the original post at: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/infosecResources/~3/S8NDk_XTzes/