As the world becomes more Internet-driven, networking and cyber security are taking center stage. Without networking, the existence of the web becomes hazy. Also, we need better security protocols to protect the data, resources, and communications held via the Internet. So, networking and cyber security are essential aspects of the modern world.
Another noteworthy transition is that networking and cyber security skills are the most in-demand these days. Thus, getting trained in these domains can be game-changing for your career. You can get into leading companies with the knowledge and bag high-paying jobs in the blink of an eye.
It all starts from consistent preparations. But, wait! Are you wondering how to learn networking and cyber security? You’ve hopped to the best place! Here, you will get the proper knowledge on the ways to understand the two subjects. So, you can begin your preparations to crack any job interview or achieve the prestigious CISSP certification.
Why are we waiting? Let’s dive right into the article!
What Do You Mean By Networking?
An introduction to both terminologies is essential before starting the discussion.
So, what exactly is networking? In layman’s terms, it is the communication between two nodes over a shared medium in a system. To share data between two or more nodes, each of them should follow some protocols for seamless communication regardless of the distances between them.
The networking field is massive and requires understanding numerous concepts like the underlying layers, error detection, and flow and access controls.
You can learn computer networking to build a career as a:
● Networking administrator
● Networking architect
● Networking engineer
● Networking manager
● Pre-sales architect
● Telecommunications specialist
Apart from the handsome job positions, you can make a substantial average income of $75,757 per year by understanding networking concepts.
What Exactly is Cyber Security?
Now that we have been introduced to networking, it’s time to understand the meaning of cyber security.
So, what on earth is cyber security? It refers to protecting data and resources in a network from unlawful stealths and various attacks like viruses, ransomware, DDoS, etc.
With the proper cyber security practices in place, a company can prevent such attacks and safeguard confidential data from getting stolen by hackers.
Are you wondering about various job roles available for a cyber security professional? Here are some of the eye-grabbing ones:
● Network security engineer
● Cyber security analyst
● Cyber security manager
● Security architect
● Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
Another must-know aspect of cyber security is the enormous compensation offered to its professionals. According to Payscale, the average salary of a cyber security expert is approximately $91,000 per year. So, pursuing a career in the domain can be the best decision for you!
Requisites to Learn Networking and Cyber Security
Are you ready to learn networking and cyber security? Or, more precisely, do you fulfill the requisites to understand the concepts of these domains? Let’s check the list of all requirements and find the answer to these questions.
Computer Networking
● Basic knowledge of computer administration helps learn networking.
● It would be helpful to have some hands-on experience in C programming.
● Some knowledge of Operating Systems might help. However, it is not mandatory.
● Having analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for excellence in the networking domain.
Cyber Security
● An advanced understanding of computer administration is a must to excel at cyber security.
● It would be helpful if you had hands-on experience in programming and scripting.
● You can consider having hands-on exposure to different programming languages.
● To ace the cyber security concepts, you need to dive deeper into Operating Systems.
● As cyber security prevents networks from attacks, you should have knowledge of computer networking (especially about different protocols).
How to Learn Networking and Cyber Security?
Enough of drums rolling! Now, let’s get to our mainframe question: how do we learn networking and cyber security? You can get along with any of the following methods to concrete your understanding of the two subjects.
1. Self Learning
The traditional yet unbeaten mode of study is self-learning. You can walk on the path alone if you have enough resources on networking and cyber security. Adding to your delight, you can find numerous materials on the Internet to teach you the various concepts of these two topics. Also, you can get classic books to dive deeper into advanced theories.
However, you might lack motivation after some time if you choose to learn by yourself. Also, you can fall into a dilemma of what to study or how the curriculum appears.
2. Joining an Online Tutorial
Apart from self-learning, you can access various online tutorials to learn cyber security and computer networking. These guided modes help you understand the exact curriculum and omit the risk of missing out on essential concepts.
Since experts develop the tutorials, they are comprehensive and comprise all necessary concepts in a single place. However, these sessions might not entail a course completion certificate for the students. So, you would have nothing to flaunt in your resume.
3. Accessing Bootcamp Courses
The best way to learn cyber security and networking is by enrolling in a relevant bootcamp course. Apart from having a well-curated syllabus, these sessions have experienced instructors and provide additional resources for self-study. Besides, they also let you hold a one-to-one conversation with the guide to clear your doubts as and when needed.
Another fascinating aspect of bootcamp courses in cyber security and networking is that they provide hands-on experience through various projects. As you already know that these domains are practical, and holding relevant exposure will edge you over other applicants in a job.
Finally, let’s discuss the best part! The networking and cyber security bootcamp courses offer certificates for completing the sessions. You can incorporate them in your CV to validate your knowledge in job interviews.
Hopefully, you have understood the different ways to learn cybersecurity and networking. Now, it’s time to consider all factors and make a wise decision. So, what makes you wait? Understand your capabilities and choose the best mode to start your learning journey today!