You’re new to cybersecurity. How can you gain experience and become a pro?

As a newcomer to cybersecurity, gaining experience and becoming proficient involves a combination of education, practical experience, and networking. Start by building a strong foundation through formal education or online courses. Then, seek internships or entry-level positions to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios. Participate in cybersecurity communities and forums to stay updated on the latest trends and threats. Work on personal projects or contribute to open-source initiatives to demonstrate your skills. Finally, consider certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) to validate your expertise and commitment to the field.

To gain experience in cybersecurity, start by learning foundational concepts through online courses or books. Next, practice hands-on skills by participating in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions and working on personal projects. Finally, seek mentorship or join cybersecurity communities to learn from experienced professionals and stay updated on industry trends.

To gain experience in cybersecurity, start with foundational knowledge through online courses and certifications. Engage in hands-on practice through capture-the-flag competitions or cybersecurity labs. Join cybersecurity communities for networking and learning opportunities. And remember, in the cyber learning journey, even the most experienced pros were once beginners trying to hack their way through! Embrace the learning process with curiosity and persistence to become a proficient cybersecurity professional.

To excel in cybersecurity as a beginner, pursue self-education through online courses and tutorials, focusing on fundamental concepts. Set up a lab environment to gain hands-on experience with tools and techniques. Obtain certifications like CompTIA Security+ for validation. Engage in online communities for knowledge sharing and contribute to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub. Attend industry events to network and stay updated. Continuously enhance your skills through ongoing learning and experimentation to evolve into a proficient cybersecurity professional.

- Learn basics: Understand cybersecurity fundamentals, networking, and operating systems. - Practice actively: Use virtual labs, CTF competitions, and open-source projects. - Get certified: Aim for entry-level certifications like eJPTv2 ,CompTIA Security+ and CEH. - Engage with community: Join forums, attend conferences, and connect with professionals. - Seek mentorship: Find experienced mentors to guide and support your growth in the field.

Specificity is key. The cybersecurity industry is so broad and there are so many skills which can be learned inside of it. For example, a person can specialize into network security which include network architecture, pentesting, etc. Therefore, there are so many topics which needs to be covered and it gives the opportunity for an individual to become the expert into a field and offer this service to an organization.

Choosing a specialization according to your talent is very important; then work on this specific area. Do not follow the crowds based on their popularity. Your talent and background must be the deciding factors.

The key to gaining good experience in cybersecurity is hands-on practice. Utilize platforms like LetsDefend, TryHackMe, etc. But keep in mind that a lab is not real life. A real internship is a must.

Hands-on, Hands-on and Hands-on. I think that’s the only way to gain some good experience whilst starting your career. If you feel passion for cybersecurity then it will be a breeze for you or else you might get stuck with it. There are some great platforms available like THM, HTB, VulnHub etc. Better if you build labs and play out as this will make you stand out from other candidates. It will help you understand some of intricacies of system engineering and how all these things work together.

Experiential learning is 100% the key to gaining the confidence needed to take on a job in cybersecurity. It is one thing to read the books or listen to lectures, but actual hands-on experience, much like the U.S. Cyber Range of Virginia Tech, allow users of the platform that has them talking like a veteran in the field. Hands-on learning allows users to go beyond talking lingo and actually sharing real-life experience with Kali Linux, cracking authentications using Hydra, Hashcat and John the Ripper.

Keep yourself informed about the most recent trends, technologies, and threats in cybersecurity by actively engaging in continuous learning. Participate in online courses, webinars, conferences, and industry publications to broaden your knowledge and remain up-to-date in a field that is constantly evolving.

Here are some steps you can take: To gain practical experience in cybersecurity, you can try setting up a home lab environment or participating in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions and cybersecurity challenges. Another helpful tip is to join cybersecurity communities and forums. This will allow you to connect with other professionals, ask questions, and share knowledge and experiences. Participating in online discussions, attending local meetups, and networking with industry experts can also help you expand your understanding and stay updated on emerging trends and threats. Lastly, finding experienced mentors in the cybersecurity field can provide guidance, advice, and support as you navigate your career path.

The path to becoming a successful professional extends beyond acquiring basic knowledge and specializing in a specific area.The key lies in a proactive attitude and a constant quest for opportunities to learn and grow. In addition to the mentioned courses and practice platforms, I suggest immersing yourself in open-source projects and contributing to the cybersecurity community. This will not only provide invaluable hands-on experience but also allow you to establish your personal brand and expand your network of contacts. Additionally, consider seeking mentorship programs where you can receive guidance from established experts in the field. Maintain a mindset of continuous learning and adapt your approach as threats and technologies evolve

Also, consider how cybersecurity is related to new technologies (AI/ML, Data Science, Quantum tech, Nano tech, Bio tech, etc), different fields (supply chain, third party, etc) and look for any kind of Opportunities.