Computer Security Specialist Career
How to Become a Computer Security Specialist
With cyber attacks on the rise, creating and implementing an organization's information security plan is a critically important responsibility. Computer security specialists install security software, monitor networks, and teach users about security measures.
All organizations need to be prepared well before any threats to the information systems of their companies or government agencies takes place. Computer security specialists design and implement strategies to protect information systems from disruption, modification, unauthorized access, and violation of confidentiality. To minimize damage in crisis situations, they also create incidence response and disaster recovery plans.
Degree Programs and Training for the Computer Security Specialist Career
Computer Security Specialist Career Certification and Licensing
No particular certification is required for this field. However, software vendors, hardware vendors, and professional organizations offer training and certification programs through which computer specialists can keep their skills current.
Computer Security Specialists' Earnings
The Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies computer security specialists with computer systems administrators. The middle 50% of computer systems administrators earned between $49,000 and $79,000 in 2006.
Computer Security Specialists' Employment Outlook
Employment is growing for computer security specialists as businesses and government agencies continue to invest in cyber security. College graduates have the best job prospects.