The 4 top Cyber Security Certification Programs for landing a high-paying job

Cyber Security is currently a national industry of high skills demand, as digital technologies continue to make up a significant portion of Australia’s GDP.

With “more action between devices” and the rapid expansion of cloud computing, security has become a greater priority than ever. Both businesses and individual users are constantly warned of the growing sophistication of cybercrime, and thus increasingly encouraged to invest in stronger, up-to-date, and reliable safeguards.

This has led to a surge in talent demand in years; with Australia, in particular, currently working to address a growing skills gap in the sector. As an industry seeking nearly 17,000 more cyber security workers by 2026, and facing swift developments by the year – those looking to enter the field can expect plentiful opportunity and job security.

Below, we explore four of the best cyber security certification programs, and how they can land you a high-paying future career.

Certified Ethical Hacker

Often overlapping (or used interchangeably) with “penetration testing”, the act of ethical hacking involves legally breaking into one’s computer network or system – assessing their architecture for any potential vulnerabilities. This way, a user or business can quickly patch up any cracks in their current security system before malicious hackers get to them first.

Ethical hackers thus use the same tools and techniques as criminal (or “black hat”) hackers; well-equipped with current, effective methods for exploiting a device’s security weaknesses. They are usually employed within an organisation, and are trusted to perform their duties in a legitimate, ethical manner.

According to IT News Australia, entry-level ethical hackers can expect to earn between $45,000 to $75,000 a year. However, enough hard work and experience can provide quick career progression – with some earning between $90,000 to $120,000 within a few years.

Those who wish to pursue ethical hacking can opt for training under a Certified Ethical Hacker course; where individuals can train in the varying attack technologies and hacking methodologies required to thoroughly infiltrate and assess one’s security network. Such training can also build one’s knowledge in the key current issues of the information security industry.

Certified Cyber Security Analyst

Armed with excellent attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to multi-task – cyber security analysts are responsible for detecting (potential) threats or system vulnerabilities, and providing the security solutions required.

Typical duties include research on the latest security trends and developments; collecting data on current system traffic and operations; developing new security strategies; and implementing security principles while adhering to their business’ privacy policies.

According to Payscale, the average cyber security analyst in Australia earns about $82,556 per year.

Those seeking opportunities in this role can undertake a Certified Security Analyst program – a course that trains them in the tools and techniques required to analyse security data and identify potential or evident network vulnerabilities. Through practice in common threat detection and assessment methods, students will learn to craft and provide effective mitigation solutions, as well as identify the source of an attack.

Certified Information Security Manager

Those who have both cyber security expertise and excellent leadership skills may be well suited for a role in information security management.

These professionals supervise and maintain the security systems and policies of their organisations, making changes or improvements as necessary. They typically develop strategies for boosting network or internet security across different projects, and run programs across computer networks to verify the current status of applications. As managers, they also oversee a team of IT professionals, working with them to ensure easy access to data while maintaining high standards of privacy. Regular check-ups of hardware (i.e. servers, switchers, and routers) and software are also a common responsibility.

According to Payscale, Australian security managers earn an average of $128,652 a year.

Certified Information Security Manager programs are available for those looking to get qualified in the field. These courses can build one’s understanding of how effective information security programs are developed and managed; and how they link to the broader goals and objectives of a business.

Certified Cloud Security Professional

With nearly half of Australian businesses () using paid cloud service, security on such platforms has increasingly grown in priority. Cloud security professionals are in greater demand than ever before, with their skills lending to reduced business costs, reduced administration, and improved service reliability among adopters of the technology.

Cloud security measures are established to adhere to regulatory compliance, enhance customer privacy, and set proper rules for authentication. Just as the cloud centralises all applications and data – cloud security allows for the centralisation of protection and all related tools.

Those who specialise in cloud security are knowledgeable in the policies, systems, and protocols that work to secure cloud-based data and infrastructure. They are well-versed in the design, architecture, and implementation of such practices.

According to Payscale, certified cloud security professionals (in Australia) earn an average of $137,455 per year.

Those looking to get qualified in this sector can undertake a Certified Cloud Security Professional course, where they can train in the fundamentals of designing, implementing, and maintaining cloud security – as well as the base concepts and architecture of cloud platforms.

Looking to get qualified for these job roles?

The industry of cyber security is on a rapid incline (both nationally and on a global scale) – with no signs of stopping.

There’s no better time than now to enter the field. Australia currently offers a vast range of opportunities in the sector; with few available skills to meet demand.

Those looking to pursue the above career paths in cyber security can receive the well-rounded, robust training and knowledge they need through the Certified Cyber Security Professional program provided by Lumify Learn.

Encompassing the skills required for a job in cyber security analysis, ethical hacking, and security management; the program equips students in three certifications: CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Security+.

The CompTIA A+ certification qualifies individuals for roles in technical support and IT operations, building their knowledge in system, hardware, and software (including cloud-based) configuration, backup and recovery methods, and management best practices, basic networking, and more. Students can then refine their skills in troubleshooting, configuring, and managing networks (and corresponding security protocols) through the CompTIA Network+ certification – and finally, develop their expertise in core security skills (these including concepts of penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, compliance matters and the use of threat detection tools) through the CompTIA Security+ certification.

The program is an all-in-one starter package for those seeking high-paying career opportunities in the industry – and best of all, its completely delivered online.

Launch your career in cyber security, and enquire with us on the course today.