How do I Become a Security Architect?

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In the ever-changing field of cybersecurity, organizations need well-trained staff to help them keep up with their growing security needs, security architects fill these roles.

When a new network is being developed, a security architect is needed to oversee the network build and ensure that defensive measures are put in place right from the get-go. Having a network built without having considered what security measures need to be in place is simply setting the organization up for failure.

It’s often said that security is the death of efficiency. It’s up to security architects to ensure that this is not the case in their networks. Security measures must be put in place without causing a decrease in productivity and efficiently of the overall network.

Security architects will handle both defensive and offensive measures taken on the network. Knowledge of firewalls, penetration testing, and incident response if a must but it doesn’t stop there. Since security architects will be assisting in building networks, comprehensive knowledge of computer networking such as routing and switching will be necessary as well.

For individuals who are interested in a unique combination of networking, security, and a bit of management, pursuing a career as a security architect may the right fit. This article will prove all the information you need to start and excel in your career.

What is an IT Security Architect?
How do I Become a Security Architect in India?
Why do You Need a Security Architect?
What Does an Application Security Architect do?
Security Architect Career Path
Security Architect Salary
Security Architect Jobs
Security Architect Qualifications
Security Architect vs Security Engineer
Security Solutions Architect Salary
Security Architect Salary in India
Cyber Security Architect Requirements
Security Architect Skills
How Long Does it Take to Become a Security Architect?
How Much do Security Architects Make?
What Makes a Good Security Architect?
What Does an IT Security Auditor do?
How do I Become a Security Analyst?
How do You Become an Application Architect?
What do Cryptographers do?
How do I Start a Career in Security Audit?
Is The CISA Exam Difficult?
Does Cryptography Need Math?
Are Cryptographers in Demand?
What is The Best Paying Cyber Security Jobs?
Cyber Security Architect Courses
Cyber Security Architect Salary
How Many Hours Does a Security Architect Work?
Cyber Security Roles

What is an IT Security Architect?

Security architects are management-level individuals who oversee the security of an organization’s network. These professionals are needed when the network is first designed, built, and implemented, as well throughout the entire life of the network. Security architects will oversee any changes that are to be made to the network so that they do not put the organization at risk.

It is not uncommon for security architects to handle both defensive measures such as implementing/configuring firewalls and anti-virus software, as well as handling offensive testing such as running penetration tests.

How do I Become a Security Architect in India?

The following step by step guide will help one kickstart a career in Security Architecture in India and other parts of the world.

1. Preparation

Experience is key in security architecture; one should prepare for a long career path in this field before expecting results. Hence, research regarding personalized career growth is a must before venturing into this field.

2. Learning

Pursuing a degree in computer science or a specialized cybersecurity degree is beneficial and preferred by most employers. As a security architect also plays a management level role, professionals may be required to obtain a master’s degree in cybersecurity or related fields.

3. Gain experience

As mentioned before, the experience is key, and the security architect is not glamorous in the early days. One may have to begin their career as a system administrator and then move on to a more focused role such as that of a security engineer before taking up a niche position like that of a security architect.

4. Pursue certification

Certifications on a security architect’s resume not only helps the professional stand out in a crowd but in fact, remain in the crowd. With specialized courses available in the market, it is necessary to ensure that one is up to date.

Security Architects can earn specialized CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) credentials in architecture or pursue advanced programs such as CASP programs which cover not only architectural domains but also cloud and virtual technology integration and cryptographic techniques.

They can also pursue advanced security qualifications such as SABSA (Sherwood Applied Business Security Architecture).

5. Application

After required exposure, the final steps to pursuing a said career is an actual application for the job that can be done online on portals such as Indeed.com and Glassdoor.com.

6. Continuous learning

A long career path and a dynamic field such as cybersecurity necessitate continuous learning to ensure that one remains updated regarding new and emerging threats and security techniques. Various organizations such as BlackHat and SANs conduct regular training to keep security architects up to date.

Why do You Need a Security Architect?

Security architects assess their organizations’ information technology and computer systems, identifying strengths and weaknesses. They conduct penetration tests, risk analyses, and ethical hacks on local area networks, wide area networks, and virtual private networks. They also assess routers, firewalls, and comparable systems to determine efficacy and efficiency.

Security architects think like hackers. They push existing computer and network security systems to their limits. Once security architects identify vulnerabilities in existing systems, they plan and implement architectural changes to boost security structures.

These professionals often develop and implement entirely new security architectures. They blend knowledge of security hardware and software, organizational needs, and cybersecurity risks with organizational policies and industry standards.

As security architects build and maintain security systems and networks, they prepare budgets, oversee expenses, and allocate personnel resources as needed. Security architects provide guidance to information technology (IT) security team members. They also lead IT analysts, security administrators, and security engineers to coordinate effective security protocols.

Security architects also respond to security breaches. When incidents arise, security architects assess causes, damages, and data recovery, preparing thorough reports for their colleagues, managers, and executives. They also implement appropriate changes, updates, and upgrades in response to vulnerabilities and incursions.

What Does an Application Security Architect do?

Application security architects work with development and computer architecture teams to build computer security applications. Their job tasks might include testing programs for security weaknesses, performing vulnerability scans, and providing security guidance to software development teams.

Software developers, including application security architects, work at least 40 hours a week if not more. Depending on their specific job duties, developers may work as part of a team, independently, or through telecommunication. Such individuals work in an office setting, with few physical demands associated with the career.

Security Architect Career Path

Many security architects boast hacker experience. With experience penetrating existing computer and network security systems, former hackers know what to look for when it comes to weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

Security architects also gain knowledge of hacking during undergraduate programs in information technology, computer science, or related disciplines. Most employers prefer security architects to hold at least a bachelor’s degree.

Bachelor’s degrees prepare students to enter the IT profession as security, network, or systems administrators. Security administrators install, administer, and monitor organizations’ security solutions. Network and systems administrators manage organizational information technology infrastructures.

Entry-level experience can lead to mid-level roles as security analysts, engineers, and consultants. Security analysts detect and prevent data incursions, while security engineers design information technology security solutions. The skills developed in entry- and mid-level information technology security positions help professionals move into security architect roles.

Experience remains key in security architecture, but information technology security professionals can earn cybersecurity certifications, as well. Certifications further hone skills, build knowledge, and keep aspiring and practicing security architects current in the field.

(ISC)², a leader in the cybersecurity community, offers an information systems security professional certification. Security architects can earn a specialized CISSP credential in architecture. The program integrates technology, leadership, and analytical content to advance field-specific expertise.

CompTIA offers an advanced security practitioner (CASP+) program, as well. Professionals with CASP+ credentials demonstrate expertise in security domain architectural concepts requirements, plus knowledge of cloud and virtualization technology integration and cryptographic techniques.

Graduate degrees in information technology security, cybersecurity, and comparable areas further enhance security architecture careers. Curricula vary by program, but core classes explore advanced incident handling, ethical hacking, and information security governance. Individuals working in specific industries such as healthcare, finance, or government may further concentrate their degrees.

Security Architect Salary

The BLS projects a 12% growth in computer and IT occupations from 2018-2028. Information technology security professionals can anticipate an added 500,000 new positions in the field. Computer network architects may see 8,400 new positions in coming years.

PayScale reports security architects earn a median annual salary of $122,676. Entry-level security architects take home roughly $77,000 annually, while their mid-level counterparts reported salaries just under $118,000. With 20 or more years in the position, security analysts earn more than $133,000 annually.

Top industries for computer network architects include computer systems design and telecommunications. Per PayScale, security architects indicated that the global defense and security technology company Lockheed Martin Corporation paid the profession’s highest salaries. Information technology consulting companies Booz Allen Hamilton and American Airlines offer some of the lowest salaries.

Washington, D.C. offers the fifth-highest annual mean wage to computer network architects. This corresponds to PayScale’s claim that security architects in Washington, D.C. earned more than 19% more than the national median annual salary.

Security Architect Jobs

A cybersecurity architect specializes in computer system analysis and network security for online products, such as cloud computing architecture and information systems. As a cybersecurity architect, your job duties involve assessing a company or organization’s current security capabilities through security testing and analysis.

You then develop methods to improve security. You also work with other experts to develop and implement organization-wide policies and protocols, such as emergency security measures and security training for all employees.

Below are some security jobs available as at the time of this writing.

Security Architect Qualifications

The security architect has a thorough understanding of an organization’s IT systems to anticipate possible security risks, identify areas of weakness, and respond effectively to possible security breaches.

A bachelor’s or associate’s degree in IT, computer science, or related field.
Advanced IT security certifications may be advantageous.
5-10 years’ experience in information security and IT risk management.
A strong working knowledge of current IT risks, security implementations, and computer operating and software programs.
The ability to interact with a wide range of people from different backgrounds and races.
Excellent teaching, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Security Architect vs Security Engineer

The system security architect works at a high level and creates a blueprint for how all corporate applications will function.

The system security engineer takes those plans and applies them to individual applications by using development tools to create the final product. In order for an application to run successfully, each individual needs to understand their own role as well as what their co-workers provide.

Let’s take a look at what each of these roles entails, and why they are valuable to organizations.

What Does a Security Architect Do?

A security architect works at a high level. They design frameworks that ward the bad guys off at every possible entry point. They examine all of the system elements and make sure that they work together to prevent intrusions.

Security architects create policies, standards, procedures, and documentation designed to work across all departments and for all applications. In essence, they design the entire building.

As a result, they need to have working knowledge about many different system components: information security programs, IT operations, and identity and access management. They also are responsible for organizations’ security training and awareness, IT general compliance controls and reports, incident response, disaster recovery, data privacy, and and system risk.

The reality is that company information is under constant attack. A hacker probes a system somewhere every 39 seconds, according to a study at the University of Maryland. So, security frameworks need to not only put checks in place to ward off hackers, but also create procedures that determine how well those checks are working.

Security architects develop business processes that constantly investigate potential problems, find the root cause of security events, and mitigate the potential damage if a breach occurs.

What Does a Security Engineer Do?

Security engineers implement the plans. In essence, they are the builders. They work with the applications and development tools, link all of the various components, and get companys’ business applications running. Their experience with security products must be deep — and they are paid accordingly.

The bulk of their days are spent working on individual application deployment and troubleshooting issues. Their responsibilities typically includes working with a wide range of solutions and having practical, hands-on experience in many areas:

Operating systems like Linux and Microsoft Windows
Cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform
Programming and scripting languages such as Java, Python, Perl
Security tools like Kali, Nessus, Netsparker, openVAS, BurpSuite, and Metaspolit.
Mobile systems like Apple iPhone and Google Android, as well mobile secure design principles such as Open Web Application Security Project (OWASP)
Compliance is a major concern nowadays, especially as governments become more proactive in ensuring that individuals’ personal information is not compromised. Security engineers need familiarity with technology risk management related frameworks, such as RMF, NIST 800-53, ISA/IEC 62443, UL CAP, ISO 27001, GDPR, CSL, CSA, SOC 2.

Security engineers cannot ignore the big picture. They must understand the data protection basics, including securing cloud services, especially Amazon Web Services data security, and network and system infrastructure design principles.

They analyze cybersecurity, intelligence and information technology policies and search for gaps. Also, they must know how to conduct penetration testing and reverse engineer software when necessary.

Facing a widening threat footpoint, corporations are investing more than ever in cybersecurity. Security architects provide the big-picture framework needed to ward off intruders. Security engineers work at the various entry points making sure that they only admit authorized individuals.

To qualify for these jobs, IT professionals need a broad understanding about the enterprise security landscape as well as deep knowledge about various security solutions. Together, these two roles create an infrastructure that protects confidential corporate and customer information.

Security Solutions Architect Salary

The average annual pay for a Security Solutions Architect in the United States is $128,030 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $61.55 an hour. This is the equivalent of $2,462/week or $10,669/month.

While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $199,000 and as low as $23,000, the majority of Security Solutions Architect salaries currently range between $104,000 (25th percentile) to $156,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $185,000 annually across the United States.

The average pay range for a Security Solutions Architect varies greatly (by as much as $52,500), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience.

Security Architect Salary in India

Employees as Security Architect earn an average of ₹25lakhs, mostly ranging from ₹6lakhs to ₹50lakhs based on 69 profiles.

Employees as Security Architect earn an average of ₹25lakhs, mostly ranging from ₹6lakhs per year to ₹50lakhs per year based on 69 profiles. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹40lakhs per year.

Highest reported salary offered as Security Architect is ₹50lakhs. The top 10% of employees earn more than ₹40lakhs per year. The top 1% earn more than a whopping ₹50lakhs per year.

Cyber Security Architect Requirements

First of all, you need some academic acumen. Conventional wisdom says you need a degree (Bachelor’s or Masters) in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, or some other related major. If you don’t have this kind of educational background, you may be able to squeak by taking some classes that focus on IT.

Moving away from academia to actual work experience, most businesses and organizations look for candidates with five to 10 years of IT experience in the workplace, including some work with systems analysis, application development, and business planning. Three to five of those years of IT experience should focus on security matters.

So, if you have your education and work experience squared away, you’re ready to go.

Not exactly.

It takes a particular set of skills to excel at cybersecurity architecture. In the realm of “soft” skills, the ideal candidate is an excellent communicator, a capable leader, and enjoys solving problems. A cybersecurity architect needs to be able to oversee projects, direct teams, and be able to talk with non-technical people in the organization, relaying concepts that may be difficult for them to grasp.

A good cybersecurity architect needs many of the following hard skills:

Knowledge of Windows, UNIX, and Linux
Understanding of ISO 27001/27002, ITIL, and COBIT frameworks
A grasp of perimeter security controls such as firewalls, IDS/IPS, network access controls, and network segmentation
Network security architecture development and definition
Experience with the various aspects of wireless security such as routers, switches, and VLAN security
Knowledge of security concepts related to DNS, including routing, authentication, VPN, proxy services, and DDOS mitigation technology
An understanding of third party auditing and cloud risk assessment methodology

Now, as if all of that isn’t enough, it’s also important to have certification in various subjects crucial to cybersecurity architecture. But with the right training, certification is within your reach.

Security Architect Skills

In terms of the required skills and competencies needed to work in this role, CSOonline provides an excellent rundown in a story that dissects the job description of an information security architect. Key requirements include:

Experience

Utilizing emerging technologies to design and implement security solutions; monitoring and improving those solutions while working with an information security team
Consulting and engineering in the design and development of security best practices; implementation of security measures to meet business goals, customer needs and regulatory requirements
Security considerations of cloud computing, including data breaches, hacking, account hijacking, malicious insiders, third parties, authentication, APTs, data loss and DoS attacks
Identity and access management; tracking and creating/enforcing policies that govern access sensitive technology resources and information assets

General skills

Outstanding communication skills; strong critical thinking and analytical skills
Strong leadership, project and team-building skills, including the ability to lead teams and drive initiatives in multiple departments
Demonstrated ability to identify risks associated with business processes, operations, technology projects and information security programs
Ability to function as an enterprise security subject matter expert who can explain complex topics to those without a technical background

Technical skills and knowledge:

Windows, UNIX and Linux operating systems
VB.NET, Java/J2EE, ColdFusion, API/web services, scripting languages and a relational database management system (RDBMS) such as MS SQL Server or Oracle
Thorough understanding of relevant industry security standards and protocols including ISO27001 and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST); Control Objectives for Information and Related Technologies (COBIT); Committee of Sponsoring Organizations (COSO) of the Treadway Commission, a joint initiative to combat corporate fraud
The ISO 27001 specifications for an information security management system
Router, switch and VLAN security; wireless security
Risk assessment procedures, policy formation, role-based authorization methodologies, authentication technologies and security attack pathologies

How Long Does it Take to Become a Security Architect?

In the United States, the average salary for this position is $118,681. Security architects are expected to have 5-10 years of relevant experience, with 3-5 of those years dedicated to security.

To become a security architect, you might follow a career path similar to this:

Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity or a related field. Or, gain equivalent experience with relevant industry certifications.
Enter the IT field as a security administrator, systems administrator or network administrator.
Get promoted to a mid-level role as a security engineer or analyst.
Enter a security architect role.

How Much do Security Architects Make?

Top industries for computer network architects include computer systems design and telecommunications. Per PayScale, security architects indicated that the global defense and security technology company Lockheed Martin Corporation paid the profession’s highest salaries. Information technology consulting company Booz Allen Hamilton and American Airlines offer some of the lowest salaries.

What Makes a Good Security Architect?

A security architect is responsible for designing security structures to thwart malware and hacker intrusions to an organization’s computer system. Once these structures are in place, the security architect will test for any weaknesses and audit the entire system.

To fully test the system, an outside ethical hacker may need to be brought in to run a thorough penetration test in order to ensure that the system is secure from outside attacks.

A security architect needs to have a thorough understanding of an organization’s systems in order to learn who has access and where the vulnerable points may be. After making a thorough assessment, recommendations are made to update and improve the security system through software and hardware.

User policies and protocols are then set, as well as monitored and enforced. Last but not least, countermeasures are set up that will protect the computer system when an unauthorized user attempts to gain access.

Security architects are required to:

Understand a company’s technology and information systems
Plan, research and design security architectures
Perform vulnerability testing and security assessments
Research security systems and authentication protocols
Develop requirements for local, wide, and virtual private networks
Develop requirements for routers, firewalls, and related network devices
Design public key infrastructures
Prepare cost estimates
Identify integration issues
Review and approve installation of firewall, VPN, routers, and servers
Test final security structures
Provide technical supervision to a security team
Implement and maintain security policies and procedures
Oversee security awareness programs
Respond immediately to security-related incidents
Provide a thorough post-event analysis
Update and upgrade security systems

What Does an IT Security Auditor do?

Security auditors create and execute audits based on organizational policies and governmental regulations. To inspect and assess security controls and practices, security auditors work closely with IT professionals, managers, and executives. Security auditors develop tests of IT systems to identify risks and inadequacies. Security auditors evaluate firewalls, encryption protocols, and related security measures, which requires expertise in computer security techniques and methods.

Through interviews and cooperation with executives, managers, and IT professionals, systems auditors develop plans to improve security compliance, reduce risk, and manage potential security threats.

As external auditors, security auditors offer an objective perspective on an organization’s security practices. Companies and businesses bring in security auditors at regular intervals to check their own effectiveness and ensure their systems adhere to industry standards.

Security auditors also introduce new practices and technologies to companies and organizations. By advising companies or organizations to make changes based on their current practices and emerging trends and issues in the field, security auditors facilitate proactiveness.

They bear significant responsibility and enjoy opportunities to develop creative security solutions. These professionals travel extensively, offering their services as needed.

How do I Become a Security Analyst?

Pursuing a career as an information security analyst may be attractive to anyone who has always had an intense interest in learning how things work, to the point of taking gizmos and computers apart and putting them back together.

While this could be the spark that eventually ignites an interest in a technology career, the typical journey to becoming an information security analyst is one that’s built on a combination of focused education and experience.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Most positions for information security analysts require a bachelor’s degree in a computer- or technology-related field. These undergraduate degrees can stem from generalized programs such as computer science or programming, or they can be linked to programs pointed toward the security elements of the computer world, such as a Bachelor’s of Science in Cybersecurity.

Those who wish to take a deeper dive into computer-based security on an undergraduate level may want to pursue a degree like a Bachelor’s of Science in Management Information Systems.

This type of education can help students apply their developing computer security skills in a business management context — a role that goes beyond the realm of spotting a bug or virus or learning the latest computer security techniques.

A Bachelor’s of Science in Management Information Systems is intended to prepare students to properly design, develop, implement, and oversee a company’s computer security system, all within the confines of a typical modern business.

The curriculum typically provides up-to-date knowledge about various IT-related systems and trends, exposing students to knowledge that is used by professionals who are already working in the industry.

The knowledge and skill set honed by attaining a Bachelor’s of Science in Management Information Systems degree can also prepare students to handle other critical computer-related issues.

For instance, the degree program can help teach an information security analyst the basics of how to create, analyze, and execute a data disaster recovery plan. The tasks involved can include transferring data to an off-site venue, restarting an entire IT system, and restoring its integrity in the aftermath of a catastrophe.

Step 2: Gain On-the-Job Experience

While a degree may help students stand out in the job market, it is recommended that potential candidates add experience to their résumé. Typically, an intermediate-level security analyst position requires several years of experience in information security, although some employers may accept experience gained in a computer-related field.

This type of on-the-job experience demonstrates to potential employers that candidates know how to apply their knowledge in real-world situations, which makes hiring the candidate more viable.

As is the case with most careers in the technology industry, a key element of on-the-job experience is focused on staying abreast of newly emerging technologies and methods in cybersecurity.

These advances can range from state-of-the-art firewall systems, to new strategies built around incident responses. Being cognizant of these advances can enable information security analysts to gain practical experience in staying one step ahead of potential cyber breaches.

Step 3: Attain Certifications and Training (Optional)

In addition to keeping current with cyber safety issues, it’s equally important to keep abreast of the latest developments on the other side of the equation, i.e., the cyber attack side.

Malevolent attempts to penetrate computer networks and systems, such as malware implementation and denial of service (DoS) attacks, are constantly taking on new appearances. It’s up to information security analysts to be up to the task for taking on these new versions and variants.

One of the best ways for information system analysts to keep up with the constantly changing face of cybersecurity is to pursue certifications. Some employers require that job candidates — and even current employees — possess specialized technology certifications, as these provide further validation of a candidate’s skillset and core competencies.

Some credentials, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), reflect knowledge in general information security. However, there are other specialized certifications that indicate that a professional has deeper knowledge of a specific aspect of cybersecurity.

For instance, a Certified Reverse Engineering Analyst certification emphasizes skills related to malware analysis, while a Certified Ethical Hacker credential demonstrates the capacity to lawfully hack into a network’s security system to expose flaws.

Some of the credentials graduates may be interested in pursuing feature prerequisites. To be eligible to apply for CISSP certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience in two or more of CISSP’s eight domains, such as asset security, identity and access management (IAM), or communication and network security.

To apply for an initial Certified Ethical Hacker certification, candidates must either have at least two years experience in an information security domain or have attended an officially sanctioned training course.

Step 4: Pursue an MS in Cybersecurity for Advancement (Optional)

Although it does take years of on-the-job experience to work up to becoming an information security analyst, it may be faster with an advanced degree like a Master’s in Cybersecurity. A program such as this typically merges academic coursework with practical work experience in a business environment.

This experience component not only helps refine skills associated with cybersecurity but also helps to gain insight into the business side of the profession. Exposure may include real-world case studies and analysis of the legal ramifications of the profession.

An advanced curriculum in cybersecurity also usually helps strengthen skills relevant to adjacent subject areas, such as computer engineering and business. This can provide a more well-rounded and holistic approach to the information security analyst position, which, along with relevant work experience, may help graduates be considered for higher level positions or advancement.

How do You Become an Application Architect?

An applications architect must have specific technical skills to become a practitioner in the field. Read below to learn some of the most important steps you need to become an applications architect.

Get an education

The first step to becoming an applications architect is to develop your technical skills. You can do that by earning a bachelor’s degree or attending one of the best data science boot camps.

Get an entry-level job

Because applications architecture is a higher-level job, you should start with an entry-level position. This can help you get experience in the field and learn more about data science and application development.

Obtain a certification

Although there aren’t many application architect certifications, Salesforce offers a Data Architecture and Management Designer credential. This can validate your application’s architecture skills and help you advance your career.

Network

Networking is one of the best ways to find higher-level jobs. To secure a spot in the tech industry, you should attend tech-related events and meetups to get to know people that could open doors for you.

Apply for applications architect jobs

Once that you have the skills and experience, you can start building and submitting your technical resume. Include personal projects, work experience, and any other relevant information.

What do Cryptographers do?

Cryptographers secure computer and information technology systems by creating algorithms and ciphers to encrypt data. They often also carry out the duties of a cryptanalyst, deciphering algorithms and cipher text to decrypt information. Cryptographers also analyze existing encryption systems to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

They develop and test cryptology theories and techniques, implementing new or revamped encryption solutions. By working with organizations and institutions, cryptographers incorporate security needs with industry standards, ensuring highly secure data transmission.

As cryptanalysts, cryptology professionals decrypt data, breaking down algorithms and ciphers to access information. By decrypting messages and coding systems, cryptanalysts better understand how to avoid gaps in security.

These professionals possess knowledge and skills in industries requiring high levels of confidentiality. By encrypting and decrypting data, cryptographers and cryptanalysts protect individuals, groups, businesses, and organizations alike.

Cryptographers work for the government, especially to secure military data and protect national security. They maintain the integrity of electronic medical records and personal health information for healthcare companies and organizations. They also encrypt financial data like bank records, e-commerce activity, and credit and debit card information.

How do I Start a Career in Security Audit?

Security auditors possess undergraduate degrees in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Associate degrees may suffice, but most employers prefer bachelor’s degrees. Through classes in computer software and hardware, programming, and cybersecurity issues, aspiring security auditors establish a solid foundation for their goal.

Coursework in an undergraduate degree builds fundamental knowledge, which learners can apply in entry-level positions as security, network, or systems administrators. Administrator roles train individuals to test systems and networks for vulnerabilities, establish security requirements, and conduct basic audits.

Mid-level positions on the path to security auditing include security specialist, security engineer, and security consultant. Security specialists oversee the design, implementation, and monitoring of security systems. Security engineers build and maintain IT security solutions, while security consultants offer advice on improvements to existing security policies and practices.

Prospective security auditors can consolidate the knowledge and skills developed in entry- and mid-level IT security positions to achieve their career goals. To become security auditors, individuals need 3-5 years’ experience in general information technology or information technology security. Senior security auditors have more than five years of field experience.

Security auditors benefit from industry certifications and continue on to graduate degrees in the field. A master’s degree in cybersecurity, information assurance, or information systems auditing enhances field knowledge and skills.

Cybersecurity certifications demonstrate expertise in security auditing. The information systems auditor certification, provided through ISACA, focuses on information systems controls, vulnerability detection, and compliance documentation. DRI International, a nonprofit dedicated to preparing for and recovering from data disasters, offers two certified business continuity auditor programs, as well.

Is The CISA Exam Difficult?

The CISA-designation or Certified Information Systems Auditor is one of the most globally recognized certifications in the field of information security and systems. This, plus strict requirements and a difficult-to-pass exam make it an in-demand certification.

In fact, in the U.S., since the Sarbanes-Oxley act of 2002, it is often required for openings in the information’s security fields including auditing, control, and security. As of 2014, more than 115,000 professionals have earned the CISA certification.

In 2015, Certification Magazine listed CISA as one of the top three highest-paying certifications, and a 2015 IT Skills and Salary Survey listed it as one of the top five highest-paying certifications for the second year.

The CISA exam is notoriously difficult with only an average of 50% of test-takers passing, and even lower numbers for first-time participants. For that reason, it is important to study and learn for the test before taking it.

A CISA Review Manual offers everything you need for self-study with practice questions, information, question and answer breakdown, and course information. Most also include at least one preparatory exam.

Does Cryptography Need Math?

Cryptography professionals need to have a strong understanding of mathematical principles, such as linear algebra, number theory, and combinatorics. Professionals apply these principles when they are designing and deciphering strong encryption systems.

Many professionals start their careers by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field.

Are Cryptographers in Demand?

The demand across all industries for increased computer security is growing, and cryptography is a subcategory within the career field of information security. Cryptologists employ codes to protect private or classified information from unauthorized viewing and use cryptographic knowledge and techniques to decode information that would otherwise remain hidden.

Even though cryptologists now primarily serve under the area of information technology and security, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies these professionals as mathematicians.

According to BLS reports, cryptologists made annual median salaries of $101,360 in 2012, and job growth through 2022 is projected to be at 23 percent which is much faster than the average rate of growth across all job categories.

What is The Best Paying Cyber Security Jobs?

This listing of the highest paying jobs in cybersecurity is compiled from multiple industry sources, including Cybersecurity Ventures, CNBC, CSOonline.com, the InfoSec Institute, Mondo.com, PCmag, Forbes.com and CyberSeek.org.

Bug Bounty Specialist

You may have seen reports that certain freelance hackers can earn a cool $500,000 or more by beating cybercriminals at their own game. So-called “bug bounty” firms now provide a platform for hackers to safely chase security flaws at organizations ranging from Tesla to the Department of Defense.

Casey Ellis, CTO at Bugcrowd, told CNBC that the company’s largest payout for a single exploit was $113,000 for a bug found at a large tech hardware company, and noted that average yearly payouts for the top 50 hackers were around $145,000.

A 19-year-old from Argentina recently became the first person to surpass $1 million in rewards on bug bounty platform HackerOne, according to PCmag.com. However, this does not mean you should quit your day job to chase bug bounties because success in this field requires elite-level skills.

Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

This is the executive chiefly responsible for an organization’s information and data security; and the bigger the organization, the bigger the paycheck. “While a few elite CISO may earn close to $500,000, many make just a little over $100,000,” according to the InfoSec Institute, which lists a median salary of $140,000+. CSOonline.com lists the median salary at $158,939 and the range as $140,000–$300,000.

Forbes.com reports that $420,000 is the upper end of the CISO salary spectrum in San Francisco. A cybersecurity head honcho “working for a mid-sized corporation is probably looking at a $150,000 to $200,000 salary,” according to Cybersecurity Ventures.

Lead Software Security Engineer

This is described as a job for top coders and programmers with leadership skills, “a rare breed,” according to Cybersecurity Ventures, which cites salaries exceeding $225,000, higher than that of even the CISO in some companies. In this case, advanced software expertise plus executive-level “soft skills” can add up to a lucrative senior management opportunity.

Cybersecurity Sales Engineer

Cybersecurity is not just about tech wizards minimizing attack surfaces and fending off hackers, there is also a constant flow of new and innovative technology solutions to be sold. Most coders love coding, but higher pay is prompting some to switch to sales. CSOonline.com reports that top cybersecurity sales engineers are paid annual salaries of between $180,000 and $220,000.

Cybersecurity Architect

An information security or cybersecurity architect earns an average of $140,820, according to the InfoSec Institute, which describes the role as performing senior-level work designing organization-wide network and computer security architecture.

“As more of a ‘big-picture job, the architect may also oversee infosec awareness programs, create and manage policies, respond to and analyze security incidents and conduct risk assessments.” Noting that 27% of employers hiring for this position request a master’s degree, Cyberseek.org lists an average salary of $129,000.

Cybersecurity Manager/Administrator

Also known as information security managers and information systems security managers, the professionals in this role earn salaries of between $125,00 and $215,000, according to Mondo.com. Identifying potential areas of vulnerability, beefing up security to safeguard valuable company data and managing the information systems team are typically key responsibilities in this role.

Penetration Tester

The professionals performing this critical job are often called “ethical hackers.” More and more large organizations are hiring full-time employees or third-party contractors to infiltrate their computer systems to detect and address vulnerabilities that could be exploited by cybercriminals.

Cyberseek.org lists the average salary for penetration and vulnerability testers at $102,000 and reports that 22% of those hiring seek an advanced degree. However, salaries can range up to $130,000, according to Mondo.com, for helping to identify security weaknesses in both systems and policies.

Information Security Analyst

This job is listed as #4 among Best Technology Jobs and #40 overall by U.S. News & World Report, which cites a median salary of $95,510. It describes information security analysts as “the gatekeepers or security guards of information systems” due to their wide scope of responsibilities related to preventing, monitoring and responding to data breaches and cyberattacks.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median pay of $98,350 and cites the job market for this role growing at 32%, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Cyber Security Architect Courses

Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, cyber security or a related field. For those pursuing a management-level security career, considering a master’s degree in IT security or graduate-level certificate in computer security will prove to be immensely helpful.

Employers typically require advanced security certifications from accredited organizations. A few certifications to consider are:

CISSP: Certified Information Systems Security Professional from (ISC)²
CISSP-ISSAP: Information Systems Security Architecture Professional from (ISC)²
CISM: Certified Information Security Manager from ISACA
CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker from EC-Council
CSSA: Certified SCADA Security Architect from IACRB
GSEC: GIAC Security Essentials / GCIH: GIAC Certified Incident Handler / GCIA: GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst
CompTIA PenTest+

Infosec offers courses to hone your skills and prepare for certification exams. These include Ethical Hacking Dual Certification Boot Camp – CEH v10 and Pentest+, CompTIA Network+ Training Boot Camp, Certified Penetration Tester (CPT) Training Boot Camp, Mobile and Web Application Penetration Testing, Reverse Engineering Malware Training Boot Camp and Security Architecture Design and Assessment Training. Continuing education throughout your career is a must because cyber threats are ever-changing.

Cyber Security Architect Salary

In order to have access to the best jobs, candidates need to prepare themselves by keeping their knowledge up to date and be able to demonstrate their skills to potential employers. Many cybersecurity architect job openings require certification and, in any case, even when not expressly requested, qualification could be a major deciding factor in who will get the job.

According to CyberSeek, the average salary is $129,000 annually. PayScale also indicates the median salary for a security architect is approximately $122,612. When considering not only the salary but also bonuses, commissions, overtime and other pay, such a career is tempting.

How Many Hours Does a Security Architect Work?

It is important for security architects to stay up to date with all the latest and current developments in both the security end as well as the attacking end. It is important to know how to communicate with staff and how to think of creative solutions and innovation.

Security architects need to be comfortable being a mentor, and working with employees who are experiencing difficulties and need help.

Security architects work at least 40 hours a week if not more. Depending on their specific job duties, developers may work as part of a team, independently, or through telecommunication.

Cyber Security Roles

There are many different roles in cybersecurity, and organizations are in desperate need of skilled personnel, with an estimated 300,000 vacant jobs in the US alone.

But what cybersecurity roles are you most likely to have success in? Here are the most sought after job titles:

1. Security engineer

What they do: Security engineers are responsible for creating and implementing solutions that ensure an organization’s products and systems are secure. They also need to be able to assess an organization’s workflows and anticipate future issues.

As such, they must be adept at incident response and have a strong understanding of computer forensics.

Necessary qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or similar field is essential.

Significant experience in IT security will typically also be necessary.

Salary: According to Indeed, the average annual salary is about $98,000.

2. Network security engineer

What they do: Network security engineers play an essential part in the deployment, configuration, and administration of network- and security-related hardware and software. This includes firewalls, routers, network monitoring tools, and VPNs (virtual private networks).

They are also tasked with performing network security risk assessments, and might be asked to help design network infrastructure.

Necessary qualifications: You will typically need a CISSP® (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) qualification.

Individuals are eligible to sit the CISSP exam if they have at least five years’ experience in two or more of the eight CBK (Common Body of Knowledge) domains.

Salary: According to Indeed, the average annual salary is about $107,000.

3. Application security engineer

What they do: Application security engineers can work in any number of industries to create, implement, and maintain computer applications and software. They spend almost all their time in an office environment, with most of their work involving writing and testing software.

However, some organizations put their engineers in teams, enabling them to collaborate on projects.

Necessary qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in an IT-related subject, such as computer science or computer engineering, is expected.

Knowledge of multiple programming languages, including C, C#, Java, Python, Ruby, and JavaScript, is also essential.

Salary: According to Indeed, the average annual salary is about $130,000.

1. IT security specialist

What they do: IT security specialists analyze an organization’s cybersecurity posture and its past breaches to understand how incidents occur and what needs to be done to prevent them.

Given that IT and cybersecurity are such broad topics, organizations will usually have many IT security specialists, each one focusing on a specific area.

For example, one person might work exclusively on web applications while another works on the organization’s networks.

Necessary qualifications: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field will usually be necessary.

As you move into a specialist area, you will need to pass relevant exams.

Salary: According to Indeed, the average annual salary is about $106,000.

Final Words

Cybersecurity professionals work in nearly every sector and industry – public and private, for-profit and nonprofit – and at businesses and organizations large and small, including:

Technology
Government
Banking and finance
Insurance
Health care
Law enforcement
Telecommunications

“Cybersecurity is an industry-agnostic field,” according to Brandon Champion, an adjunct faculty member at SNHU. “But the industry dictates which risks you have to worry about.”

“There’s a shortage of people in this field, which makes finding qualified cyber talent very difficult,” said Dr. Trebor Evans, a certified CISO and SNHU adjunct faculty member.