Are you feeling stalled in your tech career, yearning for a more exciting and impactful path? You’re not alone. Many IT professionals and beginners alike feel stuck in tech roles that lack growth or purpose.
Fortunately, the cybersecurity career roadmap offers a way forward. Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in tech – and it’s starving for talent. In fact, there are millions of unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally.
Companies across industries are desperate for skilled defenders to secure their systems, creating a huge opportunity for those ready to pivot into security.
The best part? Cybersecurity roles are not only in high demand, but they’re also well-paid. Entry-level cybersecurity jobs often start around $80,000 per year, and experienced professionals routinely earn six-figure salaries.
Our Salary Guide 2025 breaks down how roles like Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, and Cloud Security Engineer can see significant salary jumps with experience.
If you’ve been wondering how to start a cybersecurity career, this guide will walk you through the steps – from building core cybersecurity skills to obtaining certifications and landing that first job.
Let’s turn that feeling of being stuck into a forward momentum toward an exciting new career in cyber!
Why Cybersecurity? (High Demand and Big Opportunities)
Cybersecurity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a necessity in today’s digital world. Virtually every organization, from startups to governments, needs professionals who can protect data and defend against cyber threats. This overwhelming demand has created a global workforce gap.
Recent studies show roughly 4 million cybersecurity professionals are needed to meet current demand. There is “no better time to pursue a career in cybersecurity” than now, with abundant job openings and diverse roles available.
The job outlook is exceptionally bright: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 33% growth in cybersecurity jobs from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for other fields. What does that mean for you? Essentially, breaking into cybersecurity sets you up for long-term career stability and growth. As new threats emerge (think ransomware, IoT hacks, AI-driven attacks), companies are investing heavily in security talent.
In practical terms, choosing cybersecurity opens doors to a wide variety of career options. You could become a network defender, cloud security specialist, ethical hacker, or even a DevSecOps engineer blending development and security practices. (Fun fact: Professionals from adjacent IT fields often successfully transition to cybersecurity, leveraging their existing IT knowledge in a security context).
With so many paths – and a clear cybersecurity career roadmap to guide you – you can tailor your journey to your interests, whether that’s stopping cyber criminals, securing cloud infrastructure, or analyzing digital forensics.
Finally, let’s talk payoff. Cybersecurity roles offer competitive salaries and rapid advancement. For example, entry-level cybersecurity jobs like Junior Security Analyst might start around $75k-$85k in the US, but within a few years, you could progress to six-figure roles.
Our internal Salary Guide 2025 highlights that mid-level positions (e.g. Security Engineer, Penetration Tester) often range from $100k–$130k, and senior roles can go well beyond $150k annually. Simply put, cybersecurity not only offers meaningful work protecting important systems – it also rewards you handsomely for your expertise.
Laying the Foundation: Essential Cybersecurity Skills and Knowledge
Before you land a job in cybersecurity, you need to build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge. Don’t worry – you don’t need to be a coding prodigy or a math genius to start. But you do need to understand the core concepts of how computers and networks work, and how they can be protected.
Start with IT fundamentals: A solid grasp of general IT is crucial. If you’re new to tech, spend time learning about operating systems (Windows and Linux), computer networks (TCP/IP, routing, switching), and basic programming or scripting. These basics form the bedrock of cybersecurity expertise.
For instance, knowing how data flows through a network and where vulnerabilities can occur will help you later when learning about network security. If you’re coming from a non-IT background, consider taking an introductory course or using free online resources to cover these topics.
Key cybersecurity skills to focus on include:
Network Security: Understanding firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and how to secure network traffic. This skill helps you protect an organization’s connectivity.
Application Security: Knowing common software vulnerabilities (like the OWASP Top 10 web app security risks) and secure coding practices. Even if you’re not a developer, it’s important to know how hackers exploit software flaws.
Threat Analysis and Monitoring: Being able to read logs and monitor systems for signs of breaches. Familiarity with monitoring & logging tools (check out our Monitoring & Logging blog for an overview of tools like ELK stack and Grafana Loki) is valuable for roles in security operations centers (SOC).
Risk and Compliance: Understanding basic principles of risk management, data privacy laws, and compliance frameworks (e.g., ISO 27001, NIST). Cybersecurity isn’t just technical – it’s also about managing risk and aligning with regulations.
Communication and Problem-Solving: Don’t underestimate soft skills. Cyber pros often must communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders and work under pressure to solve problems during incidents.
For beginners, a great way to build these skills is through guided learning programs. A structured course like our Cybersecurity & DevSecOps Program can systematically take you from zero knowledge to competent in core areas. This kind of program typically starts with the basics (IT fundamentals, networking) and then introduces security concepts gradually, ensuring you have the context to understand them. It’s beginner-friendly but also comprehensive enough to cover advanced topics as you progress.
Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Even the experts with 10+ years of experience were once absolute beginners. Focus on mastering the fundamentals step by step. As you do, you’ll gain confidence – that “aha” moment when you finally understand how a buffer overflow works, or when you successfully secure a Wi-Fi network with WPA3. Those wins will fuel your motivation to keep learning more on your cybersecurity roadmap.
Certifications and Education: Getting Qualified the Smart Way
When it comes to how to start a cybersecurity career, education and certifications play a huge role. Employers want to see proof that you have the knowledge and dedication required. The good news is there are multiple education paths – and you can mix and match them to suit your needs and background.
Formal Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information security, or a related field can provide a strong foundation. Universities and colleges worldwide now offer specialized cybersecurity programs (or concentrations within IT degrees) due to industry demand. If you’re mid-career and already have a degree (even if it’s not in CS), you don’t necessarily need a second degree; you might opt for a targeted certification or a postgraduate certificate. However, some career-changers pursue a master’s in cybersecurity or information assurance, which can open doors to management roles later.
Bootcamps and Online Courses: For practical skills and faster entry, many prospective cyber pros choose bootcamps or online training. These are typically shorter (a few months) and very hands-on. For example, Refonte Learning’s Cybersecurity & DevSecOps Program is a structured pathway that blends coursework with virtual internship experience. Bootcamps focus on job-ready skills – you’ll set up servers, configure security tools, and perhaps even work on simulated cyber incidents. This path is great if you want intensive training and the ability to network with instructors/peers. There’s also the DevOps Engineering Program for those interested in the DevSecOps angle, bridging software development and security – knowledge that can make you a unique candidate.
Cybersecurity Certifications: Certifications are critical milestones on your cybersecurity roadmap. These are industry-recognized credentials that validate your skills to employers. Here’s a quick roadmap of which cybersecurity certifications to consider at different stages:
Entry-Level Certifications: Start with CompTIA Security+. Security+ is widely regarded as the best first cert for cybersecurity. It covers basic network security, threats/vulnerabilities, and cryptography. It’s vendor-neutral and is often required for junior security roles and Department of Defense jobs. Another beginner cert is Certified Cybersecurity Technician (CCT) by (ISC)² or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Practical if you lean towards pentesting.
Mid-Level Certifications: Once you have some experience, aim for Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). CISSP (by (ISC)²) is like the gold standard for security professionals, covering eight domains of security at a management and architecture level (though it requires 5 years experience to be fully certified). CISM (by ISACA) is focused on security management. There’s also CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) which is great for SOC analyst roles, focusing on threat detection and incident response.
Specialty Certifications: Depending on your interest, you might pursue certs like Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) for cloud security, Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) for hands-on penetration testing, or GIAC certifications (offered by SANS) for niche areas (digital forensics, industrial control systems security, etc.).
Certifications signal employers that you’re serious and have met a certain bar of knowledge. Many job postings list certs as “required” or “preferred.” For example, an entry-level cybersecurity job posting might say “Security+ required” or “CISSP a plus.” Certifications can sometimes even substitute for experience; a hiring manager might be more willing to take a chance on a newcomer who already has Security+ and CEH, because it shows initiative and baseline competence.
Balancing Education vs Experience: Keep in mind, while degrees and certs are valuable, hands-on experience is often even more important (we’ll dive into experience next!). In fact, a 2023 (ISC)² study found that many organizations value experience and skills over forma education. Ideally, pursue your education and certifications in parallel with gaining practical experience. For example, you might study for the Security+ exam while also tinkering in a home lab (setting up a firewall, etc.). Or, if you enroll in a cybersecurity course, be sure it offers labs or projects.
Finally, budget and time are considerations. Certifications have costs (exam fees, training materials) and degrees are expensive. Prioritize what gives you the best ROI. Security+ is relatively low cost and high value – a no-brainer for most beginners. A full degree might be less necessary if you already have a tech background and can instead do a focused bootcamp and cert combo. The right mix depends on your situation, but any solid cybersecurity career roadmap will include some form of continuing education and certification to keep your knowledge current.
Gaining Practical Experience: Labs, Projects, and Internships
Hands-on experience is the secret sauce that turns knowledge into job-ready skills. One of the biggest hurdles for newcomers is the classic “can’t get a job without experience, can’t get experience without a job” dilemma. But don’t worry – there are ways to build experience that don’t require already having a cybersecurity job. This section will show you how to get real-world practice, even as a beginner.
Set Up a Home Lab: Start at home. You can create a basic cyber lab on your personal computer using virtualization. For instance, install VirtualBox (free) and set up a small network: one VM running an old Windows server, another running Linux (Ubuntu), maybe a Metasploitable VM (an intentionally vulnerable machine). Now you can practice hacking in a legal, safe environment. Try running attacks with tools like Nmap, Metasploit, or Wireshark to sniff traffic. Practice securing the systems too – configure the firewall, simulate a phishing email and see if your monitoring catches it. This kind of entry-level security project not only teaches you, but you can also mention it on your resume as a “Home Cyber Lab project” where you “implemented a firewall and detected simulated intrusions using open-source tools.”
Contribute to Open-Source and Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions: The cybersecurity community is very active and welcoming. You can gain experience by participating in CTF challenges on platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box. These are gamified hacking challenges that build real skills (and they’re fun!). When you solve challenges, you’re essentially doing the work of a junior penetration tester or analyst. Many people list CTF accomplishments on their resume (for example, “Achieved Hacker rank on Hack The Box” or “Completed 50+ challenges on TryHackMe including Linux privilege escalation and web app exploits”). Similarly, contributing to open-source security projects (like improving an OWASP tool or writing documentation for a security project on GitHub) shows practical engagement in the field.
Cybersecurity Internships: Perhaps the most powerful way to get real experience is through internships. An internship is typically a short-term, supervised work experience – and it’s often the gateway to a full-time job. As a cybersecurity intern, you might assist a security team with tasks like monitoring alerts, configuring security software, or conducting vulnerability scans. Not only do you learn on the job, but you also get mentorship from experienced professionals. If you’re a student or recently graduated, prioritize landing an internship. Even mid-career switchers can sometimes find “internship” or apprenticeship opportunities aimed at reskilling professionals.
How to get internships? Treat it like job hunting: prepare a basic resume (highlighting any labs, certs, or IT experience you have), and apply widely. Look on company websites, LinkedIn, and specialized boards. Leverage any connections – if you know someone in a company’s IT or security department, don’t be shy to ask about intern roles. Also, consider structured programs like Refonte’s training, which often include a virtual internship component built-in. For example, our Cybersecurity & DevSecOps Program pairs you with real-world projects (like simulating a corporate security environment) under the guidance of mentors. That means by the time you finish, you not only have coursework projects but also hands-on cybersecurity experience that you can confidently put on your resume.
Volunteer Projects and Hackathons: If a formal internship isn’t an option, create your own opportunities. Offer to help a local nonprofit or small business with their cybersecurity. You could volunteer to harden their website security or set up backups. Even a short project like this counts as experience. Similarly, join hackathons or security competitions. There are often weekend hackathons focused on security innovations or “build secure app” challenges. Winning or even just participating will expose you to practical scenarios and team collaboration.
Why experience matters: Employers love to see that you’ve applied your skills to real problems. A LinkedIn study found that interns (those with practical experience) are almost 25% more likely to land a full-time role within 6 months of graduation. Experience shows you can translate theory into action. It also provides concrete stories you can share in interviews (“During my internship, I helped reduce phishing click rates by implementing an email filter…”). These stories and accomplishments make you stand out from other candidates who only have textbook knowledge.
In short, don’t wait for someone to “give” you experience – go out and get it through labs, projects, and internships. Every hour you spend tinkering or interning is an investment in your career capital. Over time, your portfolio of experiences will speak volumes to employers and smooth the path to landing that first cybersecurity job.
Advancing and Transitioning: Navigating Your Cybersecurity Career Path
Breaking into cybersecurity is a huge first step – but your journey doesn’t end at landing an entry role. This field offers endless learning and advancement, which is great for someone who never wants to feel “stuck” again. In this section, we’ll discuss how to progress in your cyber career and how to transition to cybersecurity if you’re coming from another tech domain mid-career.
Entry-Level to Mid-Level: Typically, many start as a Security Analyst (monitoring systems, responding to low-level incidents) or as a Junior Penetration Tester. To move up, continue building on-the-job skills and earning more advanced certifications as appropriate. For example, after a year or two of experience, you might pursue the CISSP or a specialized cert like GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) to position yourself for roles like Security Engineer or Penetration Tester II. Take initiative at work – volunteer for projects outside your comfort zone, such as leading a small security audit, or taking charge of a new security tool deployment. This not only builds your resume but also shows leadership.
Never stop learning: Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and so must your knowledge. Dedicate time each week to learning something new. It could be reading cybersecurity blogs, following threat reports, or practicing in a sandbox environment. Join professional communities (the ISSA, local OWASP chapters, or online forums). Networking with peers can expose you to new opportunities and insights. Also consider joining professional associations like (ISC)² or ISACA; they often have local meetups and mentorship programs.
Transitioning into Cybersecurity Mid-Career: If you already have a tech career (say in software development, IT support, or network engineering) and want to jump into security, you have a head start in many ways. Identify how your current skills overlap with cybersecurity needs. For instance, a software developer can leverage their coding skills in application security or secure DevOps (DevSecOps). A network engineer already understands network traffic – learning how to secure it is a logical next step. To transition, you might start by taking on security-related tasks in your current job (e.g., volunteering to help with security testing or compliance) to gain experience. Simultaneously, pursue a certification to formalize your security credentials. Many mid-career switchers in IT choose Security+ or CISSP as a way to validate their knowledge and signal their commitment to the new field.
It’s also worth considering structured reskilling programs. Some employers offer internal training for IT staff to move into security roles (since demand is so high). Or you can enroll in a focused program like Refonte’s DevOps Engineering Program if your aim is to blend cloud, DevOps, and security skills – a combination increasingly sought after as companies implement DevSecOps practices. Our own Refonte blog on cybersecurity careers features success stories of people who made the leap from roles like system admin or QA tester into cybersecurity by leveraging their transferable skills and filling gaps with targeted learning.
Climbing to Leadership: As you accumulate experience, you may aim for senior and leadership positions – think Security Manager, Director of Information Security, or even CISO (Chief Information Security Officer). Here, understanding the business side of security becomes crucial. In these roles, you’ll be making decisions about security strategy, budget, and policies. Gaining some knowledge in governance, risk management, and business communication will help. Certifications like CISM or CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) can be beneficial. Additionally, at higher levels, mentoring others and having a broad perspective of the entire security landscape (not just one niche) will set you apart.
The importance of continuous learning and adaptation: The field of cybersecurity can change on a dime. Five years ago, hardly anyone talked about securing containers or Kubernetes – now Container Security is a hot skill. AI and machine learning are now being used both for attacks and defense, so in a few years “AI security analyst” might be a role. Stay adaptable. Embrace new challenges, whether it’s learning a new programming language for a project, or taking a course on cloud security because your company is migrating to AWS. This flexibility ensures you remain relevant and never hit a career plateau.
In summary, your cybersecurity career is a journey, not a destination. Transition to cybersecurity is absolutely achievable for mid-career pros – and advancement is there for the taking if you put in the effort to continually grow. With each new skill acquired or certification earned, you’re essentially adding rocket fuel to your career trajectory. The roadmap you follow now will lead you to ever more fulfilling roles where you can make a difference and keep growing both professionally and personally.
Quick Action Plan: Jumpstart Your Cybersecurity Career
Assess Your Starting Point: Write down your current skills (IT knowledge, soft skills) and identify gaps related to cybersecurity. This will help target your learning.
Gain a Certification Early: Aim to pass an entry cert like CompTIA Security+ within the next 3-6 months. A certification gives you credibility and a structured learning path.
Build a Home Lab: Set up a small cybersecurity lab environment this month. Start practicing with free tools (Nmap, Wireshark) and document what you learn in each experiment.
Apply for Internships or Volunteer: Don’t wait until you “feel ready.” Apply for at least 3 cybersecurity internships or volunteer projects. The experience gained is invaluable.
Network in the Industry: Join a cybersecurity forum or local meetup. LinkedIn groups or Discord communities (try r/cybersecurity on Reddit or similar) are great for advice, job leads, and support as you transition.
Conclusion
Feeling stuck can be discouraging, but with a clear roadmap and determined steps, you can transform your tech career through cybersecurity.
The journey won’t happen overnight – but every lab you build, every certification you earn, and every internship you complete will move you closer to your goal. The field of cybersecurity is brimming with opportunity for those who prepare and persevere.
Transitioning to a cybersecurity career can lead you to challenging projects, mission-critical work, and the reward of knowing you’re protecting people and data every day. It’s a field where continuous learners thrive and where passion truly pays off (both in job satisfaction and salary!).
Now that you have the roadmap, your next move is to take action. The cybersecurity world is waiting for you – so take that first step, and don’t look back. If you’re ready to accelerate your journey with guided mentorship and real projects, consider Enrollment in a reputable program. Your future in cybersecurity is bright – time to seize it!
FAQs About Cybersecurity Career 2025
Q1: Do I need a computer science degree to start a cybersecurity career?
No, a CS degree is not mandatory. While a degree can help, many cybersecurity professionals enter the field through certifications, bootcamps, or by transitioning from IT roles. Employers value skills and experience – if you can demonstrate those (via certs like Security+ and hands-on projects), you can land an entry-level cybersecurity job without a four-year degree.
Q2: What are the best entry-level cybersecurity jobs to target?
Common entry-level roles include Security Analyst, SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center), IT Auditor (junior level), and Penetration Testing Intern/Junior Pentester. These positions focus on monitoring for threats, analyzing security incidents, or testing systems for vulnerabilities. They provide great learning ground in real-world security operations. Our Refonte blog on cybersecurity careers goes into detail on starting positions and how to get them.
Q3: How can a mid-career IT professional transition to cybersecurity?
Mid-career folks should leverage their existing tech skills. For example, a network engineer can emphasize their network defense skills, and a software developer can move toward application security. Earning a well-regarded certification (like CISSP if you have the required experience, or Security+ for fundamentals) will signal your commitment. Additionally, seek out cross-functional projects at your current job (like helping with a security audit) and consider a structured course or bootcamp to fill specific knowledge gaps. Networking with cybersecurity teams and mentors can also open doors.
Q4: Are certifications really necessary for cybersecurity jobs?
Certifications are highly valuable in cybersecurity, though not absolutely “necessary.” They act as proof of your knowledge. Many job postings list certifications in requirements because HR and managers use them as a screening tool. A cert like Security+ or CISSP can sometimes compensate for limited experience by showing you have a standard level of understanding. Beyond getting hired, the process of studying for certs also expands your skills. In practice, combining certifications with hands-on experience gives you the best chance to land and succeed in a role.
Q5: How long does it take to go from beginner to a cybersecurity professional?
The timeline can vary. With intensive effort, someone starting from scratch could be ready for an entry-level cybersecurity job in as little as 6 to 12 months – especially if they take a full-time bootcamp or dedicate significant hours to self-study and labs daily. For others doing it part-time or alongside a job, it might take 1-2 years to build up the necessary skills, certs, and experience. The key is consistent progress: as you tick off learning milestones (IT fundamentals, first cert, first project, etc.), you’ll move steadily closer to job-readiness.
Q6: What is DevSecOps and should I learn it as a beginner?
DevSecOps stands for Development, Security, and Operations – it’s an approach that integrates security practices into the DevOps process (software development + IT operations). For beginners, the concept might be advanced, but it’s increasingly important. It means thinking about security at every step of software creation and deployment. If you have an interest in software development or DevOps, learning DevSecOps is a smart move. It could involve understanding tools for automating security scans in pipelines or container security. Our Cybersecurity & DevSecOps Program is actually designed to teach even beginners how to blend these skills, so you graduate with a holistic understanding. While you don’t have to master DevSecOps from day one, being aware of it and gradually learning those skills can make you a very attractive candidate in the job market.
Q7: What resources do you recommend for learning cybersecurity basics?
There are many great resources. For structured learning, consider platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Cybrary which have beginner cybersecurity courses. Interactive labs on TryHackMe or Hack The Box are excellent for practicing hacking and defense in a fun way. Don’t forget free resources like YouTube channels (e.g., Professor Messer for Security+ topics, or live hacking streams). Additionally, reading is key – subscribe to cybersecurity news sites (Krebs on Security, Dark Reading) to stay updated on trends and breaches. If you prefer an all-in-one guided path, a comprehensive program (like the one offered by Refonte Learning) can walk you through from fundamentals to advanced topics with mentors to assist you along the way.