What is a Computer Security Systems Specialist?
Computer security systems specialists evaluate, plan, coordinate, and maintain the security of information that belongs to businesses, organizations, educational institutions, and government organizations. While specific job requirements and duties will vary between occupation and different companies, they generally protect data and information information, monitor networks for security breaches and invasion of privacy, install security software, and educate users about the importance of Internet and computer security.
Computer security systems specialists also respond and resolve cyber attacks, and at times, are responsible for gathering evidence that may be needed to prosecute cyber crimes. They take the necessary steps to ensure that hackers can not access sensitive information by implementing access controls such as password authentication and network control such as firewalls. Computer security systems specialists are also responsible for ensuring that authorized users access the networks and keeping updated lists of authorized users and passwords for protection and security purposes.
How to Become a Computer Security Systems Specialist
Those who are interested in pursuing a career as a computer security systems specialist should have a bachelor degree. Those with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related field should have the best job opportunities, but candidates with job experience or certifications may also be adequate. While some employers require interested candidates to have work related experience in the field, others may offer on the job training for new and inexperienced candidates that meet other requirements.
In addition, Certified Informations Systems Security Professionals, or CISSP, which can be awarded to individuals that pass an exam on computer security, may improve job opportunities in the field. Computer security systems specialists should have knowledge of networking technologies and computer programming. The should also be trained in risk management and be able to communicate technical terms and information well.
Computer Security Systems Specialist Career Outlook & Salary
Those interested in pursuing a career as a computer security systems specialist are in luck, as jobs in this field are expected to grow faster than the average occupation over the next several years. Even though most companies and organizations have great need to secure their networks and computers, the the number of individuals trained to meet those needs falls short. And because technology continues to increase at a fast rate and businesses and organizations continue to need to protect their information and data, the need for highly skilled and trained computer security systems specialists will account for most of the expected growth.
Additionally, as cyber attacks and hacking become more common, complex, and sophisticated, there will be a high demand for these workers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups computer security systems specialists as computer systems administrators, and their median annual salary was $66,310 in May 2008, the most recent information available, according to the Bureau.
