Data security, IT, Networking

Enhancing Your Knowledge in IT Security

passwordPeople with skills in information technology security are one of the most highly sought-after individuals today. The advent of software technology has made things easier especially for large corporations. Their daily transactions that involve hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars make them a favorite target of hackers, phishers and scammers. The presence of hackers and the possibility of data leakage has made IT security an important part of the business process. If you are interested to get a career in this field, here are a few of the things you should do to enhance your knowledge in Information Technology security:

1. Master the principles of IT networking.

Getting a thorough knowledge of networking will give you a good idea how to secure networks. If you have a good understanding of general networking principles, you will be able to draw a networking diagram. Once you have it at hand, you will be able to see the weak points. Hence, you will be able to determine how to secure it.

You can also experiment by building your own network at home. You can utilize a number of new technologies such as virtual desktops and network simulation applications so that you will be able to secure your own firewall. This will help you to see that your test project is working.

2. Familiarize yourself with the standards and qualifications of IT security.

It’s not necessary for one to be working in the IT security department to be qualified for a position in it. There are a lot of programs that help to get you the qualification and training you need. One of the best and most recognized qualifications you can get in today’s standard is the CISSP qualification. When you are on your way to get one, you must be sure that it covers the following subjects:

  • Telecommunications, network and Internet security
  • Security management practices
  • Security architectures
  • Physical security
  • Operations security
  • Law, investigation and ethics
  • Cryptography
  • Business continuity planning
  • Applications and systems development
  • Access control system

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6p_q_Xp–Rs]

Several roles in IT security emerged because of threats and the need for compliance. This can include the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). It is a proprietary information security standard for organizations that are engaged in handling cardholder information for ATM, credit, debit, prepaid and other major business cards.

3. Be prepared for measures to take when problems arise.

Anyone involved with IT security should be equipped with knowledge and ability to deal with situations when they arise. IT security threats are ever present no matter what security controls are in place. You should familiarize yourself with plans to respond or counter security incidents. Moreover, you should get acquainted with security tools that can help to keep a network secure.

4. Get involved in the IT security Community.

Keeping yourself visible in the IT security community can get you connected to a lot of personalities. This can help you to create a network of talented individuals who you can run to for help when the need arises. One way to interact with these people is to search for blogs of forums about IT security and to interact with the people in the community without pretending to “know it all.” This can help to get you connected to the experts who can fill your need for knowledge and perhaps grant you your dream Information Technology security job.

These are some of the most important things you need to do to attain the necessary skills in IT security. These can help to make you the one that companies are hunting for to get the network security jobs they offer.

If you have any questions, please ask below!