Essential Cybersecurity Skills for 2024 and Beyond

Did you know that cybersecurity attacks are on the rise? That’s right! From 2021 to 2023, we saw a whopping 78% increase in reported data breaches, and that’s with record-breaking numbers in both cybersecurity spending and awareness.

This troubling situation has resulted in a cybersecurity industry that is desperately in need of talented professionals to swell its ranks and defend us from the cybercriminals lurking on the web. However, thorough knowledge of the latest cybersecurity skills and technologies is needed to fill these positions. After all, if we’re to be kept safe under their watch, cybersecurity professionals must keep up with all the latest threats and developments in their field.

Are you looking to break into cybersecurity in 2024? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ve assembled the top 10 cybersecurity skills most valued by employers. Learn what they are, master them, and help keep the online world free of cybercrime!

1. Scripting and automation

Cybersecurity is a top concern for employers but so is efficiency and productivity. As such, cybersecurity professionals who can write scripts to automate cybersecurity-related tasks like data analysis, system monitoring, or threat detection provide value in more ways than one.

By having the ability to automate specific tasks, employers know a given applicant is proficient in at least one scripting language and can dedicate more time to other critical functions because of this. Moreover, on the plus side, scripting is usually done in Python, a relatively easy language to learn and highly in demand.

2. Intrusion detection

Though preventing breaches is paramount in cybersecurity, determining that one has occurred, also known as intrusion detection, is also essential. With an ever-expanding variety of threats and the rise of remote work leading to higher connectivity (and thus more vulnerability), companies need professionals well-versed in intrusion detection to safeguard their digital assets, determine if they’ve been compromised, and swiftly react.

Intrusion detection entails mastering both hardware and software tools that constantly monitor traffic on a network for suspicious activity and signs of an attack. This includes learning different methodologies and systems, such as security information and event management (SIEM) platforms and intrusion detection systems (IDS).

3. Incident Response

When a cybersecurity professional detects a threat on their network, many potential options are available to them. Knowing what the appropriate response is, how it is related to their given company’s protocols and being able to implement said response is known as incident response, and it’s a major tool in the cybersecurity toolkit.

It’s important to understand that incident response is much more than following a company’s cybersecurity protocol, as it often involves using digital forensics to understand the nature of the threat, as well as a deep knowledge of systems architecture to know how a given system might be compromised. Incident response is, in essence, the ability to apply cybersecurity tools and skills to restore the integrity of a system and to do this in accordance with the proper situational context.

4. Cloud Security

According to tech analysis firm Gartner, 85% of firms will embrace a cloud-first business approach by 2025. And you know what that means, right? There will be an exponential need for cloud-first cybersecurity paradigms.

Besides the foundational systems knowledge required to understand cloud computing environments, cloud security is about applying traditional cybersecurity concepts like identity and access management (IAM) and encryption-based techniques over a cloud-based network. Also, professionals must familiarize themselves with the basic cloud models (shared responsibility, IaaS, SaaS, PaaS, etc.) and learn the idiosyncrasies of their company’s cloud provider.

5. DevSecOps

We’ve all heard of DevOps, but what in the world is DevSecOps?

In simple terms, DevSecOps is the inclusion of security concerns and personnel into the “shared” development approach between development and operational teams pioneered by DevOps. Whereas security matters are traditionally addressed towards the end of a software development loop, DevSecOps seeks to integrate them throughout the entirety of the process.

The DevSecOps approach has many benefits:

• Enhanced security: Early input from cybersecurity teams leads to earlier threat detection and more robust defenses
• Faster time to market: Integrating security checks into the process accelerates development and avoids potential setbacks in the future
• Fosters collaboration: DevSecOps integrates separate teams and encourages a shared mentality over the success of a software product

6. Encryption

Encryption, the scrambling of information into unreadable formats, is the primary way we protect our precious data from prying eyes, and consequently, it’s one of the pillars of cybersecurity.

A working knowledge of basic encryption principles, such as the strengths and weaknesses of the main encryption algorithms, knowing which one is optimal for any given situation, and being able to relate this knowledge clearly and effectively, is an excellent asset for any cybersecurity professional.

7. Security awareness training

Cybersecurity training is about more than just hard skills. In fact, the ability to clearly and articulately communicate a company’s cybersecurity policies and the importance behind them is equally as important. After all, a company will only be secure if its employees understand and follow their policies.

Influential cybersecurity professionals excel in technical expertise and possess the necessary soft skills to convey the intricacies of their work. Clear communication ensures that cybersecurity policies are understood and adhered to across the organization, fostering a proactive security culture. This ability to articulate the significance of their role builds trust and collaboration and is essential for safeguarding digital assets in today’s interconnected world.

8. Regulatory guidelines

The ever-evolving legal landscape requires cybersecurity professionals to stay abreast of shifting regulations and compliance standards across several industries. This involves understanding frameworks like HIPAA, PCI DSS, and GDPR, which dictate how data must be handled and secured across various sectors.

A cybersecurity professional with a strong grasp of regulatory compliance can ensure their company adheres to these frameworks, minimizing legal and financial repercussions from data breaches. This skill also allows them to advise leadership on necessary security protocols to achieve compliance and build trust with clients and partners who entrust them with sensitive data.

9. EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response)

With the rise of remote work and the proliferation of personal devices accessing company networks, endpoints (laptops, desktops, mobile devices) have become a prime target for cyberattacks. Endpoint detection and response (EDR) is a technology and skillset focused on monitoring endpoints for suspicious activity, detecting threats, investigating incidents, and containing outbreaks.

EDR specialists are adept at deploying and managing EDR solutions that collect data from endpoints, analyze it for anomalies, and provide real-time insights into potential threats. They also possess the expertise to investigate security incidents, determine their origin, and engage the appropriate response to remediate the issue and prevent future occurrences.

10. DLP (Data Loss Prevention)

Data is an organization’s most valuable asset, and data loss prevention (DLP) safeguards this critical information. DLP involves strategies, technologies, and processes to identify, protect, and prevent sensitive data leaks.

DLP specialists understand the different types of sensitive data (financial records, intellectual property, personally identifiable information) and can configure DLP solutions to detect and block unauthorized data transfers. This may involve setting up content filtering rules, monitoring network traffic, and encrypting sensitive data at rest and in transit. DLP specialists also play a crucial role in educating company employees regarding data best practices and company policies to minimize the risk of human error leading to data loss.

Top Cybersecurity Certifications

While mastering the essential cybersecurity skills listed above is crucial, showcasing your proficiency to potential employers can be further enhanced by obtaining relevant cybersecurity certifications. These certifications validate your knowledge and expertise through rigorous exams, demonstrating your commitment to continuous learning in this ever-evolving field.

Here are three of the most sought-after certifications in 2024:

• CompTIA Security+: This vendor-neutral certification is a foundational credential for any aspiring cybersecurity professional. It validates your understanding of core security concepts, including network security, cryptography, risk management, and incident response. Earning your Security+ demonstrates a strong base for launching a cybersecurity career.
• (ISC) Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A widely recognized certification that caters to experienced security professionals with at least five years of experience. The CISSP covers a broad range of security domains, including security architecture and engineering, security operations, security assessment and testing, identity and access management (IAM), communication, and network security. Earning your CISSP signifies your ability to design, implement, and oversee an organization’s overall security arrangement.
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): This certification, issued by the EC-Council, focuses on penetration testing and ethical hacking methodologies. CEH holders possess the skills to identify vulnerabilities in an organization’s network infrastructure and applications, mimicking the tactics employed by malicious attackers. This skill set is invaluable for organizations seeking to actively identify and address weaknesses before cybercriminals can exploit them.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, cybersecurity is a dynamic field that demands continuous learning and skill development. However, a promising career in this sector is available to anyone willing to master the essential skills described above and acquire the relevant certifications. What’s more, as cyberattacks become more varied and prevalent, cybersecurity professionals will only grow in relevance. So, how about it? Are you ready to join the frontlines of this ever-growing battle?