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Is cyber security hard?

So is cyber security hard? When exploring or learning cyber security there are aspects of it that can be hard or difficult for a new learner.

However, here are some tips that can help. First, we will begin with why it is hard and then we will get into some new learner tips.

Why is cyber security so hard to learn?

Cyber security is difficult for four reasons. First, it is vast and nebulous so what it means to one person is not what it means to someone else.

Next, any time you secure something you also need to learn about the something. For example, applying cyber security to a car company like Tesla is different than applying it to a technology company like Apple.

Finally, the discipline can be overwhelming. There are over 185 different cyber security certifications and more than 60 different job roles. But there is hope.

Start with big picture

Learn the different domains of cyber security to give you a frame of reference. Domains in cyber security are simply categories that are used to organize the different parts of it. Here are two common examples of security categories for NIST-800-53 and ISC2 CISSP Domains.

Understand the security program

Next, learn about the house of cyber security: the security program. A security program is the team, policy and processes for managing security at an organization.

Understanding both the common domains of security and an overview of a security program should be covered in an effective foundational training on cyber security.

Find trusted sources

Cyber security can be hard if you do not have trusted resources and people that can help guide you. From a human perspective, if you plan on taking a course in cyber security, this can be your teacher.

Go here to view live taught courses at CyberForward Academy. This is also a good reason for taking a course with a live teacher where you can ask on demand questions if this aligns with how you learn. If you want to start out with a basic explainer on cyber security check this out.

Master learning and teaching

In cyber security, you are always securing something, like a business. Because of this, you will always need to learn as a business changes and grows. As a result of this constant change, you will also need to be constantly teaching others to keep them caught up. This article talks about how to master learning and teaching in cyber security.

Master one aspect

While in the beginning it is good to have a big picture context of security, as you develop you will want to specialize. A good way to do this is to look at a specific domain of security and then explore some job roles that exist within it. This can be helpful to build a learning plan or certification roadmap if you would like to become an expert. Even more so if you want to get a job in cyber security earlier in your development.

Learn in phases

Be realistic that navigating your comprehension of security is doable but becoming an expert will take time. Begin with a good frame of reference through learning the common domains. Then specialize in areas of interest. From beginning to expert can take years but is a great career choice.

Conclusion

So is cyber security hard? Cyber security is no harder then anything else if you have the tools. Begin with the big picture to get context, find trusted sources, master how to learn and teach and learn in phases.

If you are looking for a partner in learning or potentially working in the cyber security industry, reach out to us here on our getting started page.