What do employers look when hiring an information security administrator? And what can you expect in pursuing this role? Well, read on to learn more.
About The Information Security Administrator
What tasks often Infosec administrators do? Well, their role is crucial in the IT field.
They handle all security protocols, policies, and procedures. Thus, keeping the computer networks and systems remain secure.
They also work with network administrators. The purpose is to track down security weaknesses. Why do you think it’s important?
Well, this ensures that such weaknesses are not neglected.
Additionally, they continue to work on security measures and applications. Which they designed to lessen the risk of malicious intrusion into the network. They also create and present reports based on the risk analysis.
How To Become An Information Security Administrator?
Are you an aspiring information security administrator? What do you think are the steps to become one?
Well, you should prepare for the lengthy process. You need to consider your education options.
Think about the experience requirements. And the industry certifications as well.
Education
For education, you need to hold a bachelor’s degree. That’s because most employers need it. Besides, management positions often need master’s degrees, such as an MBA.
These degrees show employers that you know. Especially about cyber threats and security strategies.
The Needed Experience
Experience is a need. Some got it from low-level information technology jobs.
Others work up through junior-level cybersecurity jobs. So, by putting experience, you build up the skills every employer desire.
Certifications
This position doesn’t need certifications. But having them impresses hiring managers. That even help land job offers faster.
You may choose the following:
- Entry-level certifications – meant to ground you in the basics.
- Intermediate and expert-lever certifications – presume that you have extensive job experience. This also includes a detailed grasp of the subject matter.
Top Skills Needed
Aspiring applicants need to hone their hard and soft skills. Why do skills matter? Well, this will give you the advantage.
You need skills to land a job. Skills are also important to excel in day-to-day duties. Moreover, it helps you achieve long-term success in the IT field.
Your hard skills set the foundation for success. And note, those with measurable technological abilities move on to management roles.
So, hard skills include the following:
- Understand router and firewall configurations
- Understand operating systems like Windows and Linux.
- Need to know the protocols (TCP, UDP, SSL, and DNS).
- Know how to configure and put in place security programs.
- Know how to prevent and detect intrusions.
- Encryption knowledge also.
Soft skills, on the other hand, includes:
- Good written as well as oral communication.
- Good teaching and interpersonal skills.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Critical thinking as well as problem-solving skills.
The Salary
Information technology ranks among the highest-paid career. According to BLS, computer systems administrators earned a median income of $83,510 per year.
Additionally, information security analysts made a median of $99,730 yearly as of 2019.
Moreover, the top 10% of them earn over $132,500 per year. While the bottom 10% make less than $52,370 annually.
