IT Security/Cybersecurity specialist
Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks. As a result, they perform many of the same duties as cybersecurity analysts – and sometimes are called the same thing – but typically focus more on system protection rather than data protection. As a cybersecurity specialist, consequently, you'll be most often tasked with conducting vulnerability scans to uncover and resolve vulnerabilities in data centers, networks, and software systems.
Cybersecurity specialists work with other security professionals, including cybersecurity architects and engineers, to ensure that an organization's actual system remains as secure as possible. In effect, their work ensures the protection of all users within an entire network, whether they be its employees or clients.
Responsibilities
The day-to-day responsibilities of a cybersecurity specialist vary depending on the organization in which they work. However, some common duties you can expect to perform in the position include:
Conducting audits to determine security violations or vulnerabilities
Implementing security controls
Upgrading networks to cohere with industry best practices
Researching, testing, and implementing security technology
Developing firewalls for network infrastructure
Granting privileges to users based on their needs and use cases
Skills
There are a variety of workplace and technical skills that you'll need to possess as a cybersecurity specialist. Some of the most common include:
Creative problem-solving
Teamwork and collaboration
Knowledge of and experience working with network data, logs, and other types of attack artifacts
Comfort working with antivirus and security software