What skills do you need to assess cybersecurity?

This article is loaded with technical terms, but don't let that intimidate you. To get started, you should first understand the core concepts of how computers operate, how they communicate, how data is protected, how coding works, and how websites are created. The good news is, there are plenty of user-friendly resources both online and in libraries that can guide you through these fundamental ideas.

The terms "computer science" and "engineering" are quite broad and large aspects of these terms might not necessarily be relevant for all kinds of cybersecurity assessment. It would be good to emphasize the need for having at least basic understanding of computer hardware working principles. Consider replacing "encryption" with "cryptography".

Repetitive use of "you should". I would consider rewording the sentences. I would expand the second sentence to elaborate on what "data from various sources and formats" actually mean. Here one might for example imply source code, log entries, architecture designs, schematics or other forms of technical documentation, depending on the system and task at hand. I would argue a key aspect is missing in the last sentence. In order to evaluate impacts and levels of severity one first needs to be able to identify assets of a system. Additionally, in order to recommend solutions and mitigations, the threats to the assets must be identified and understood.

Communication is not a one-way street. In my opinion this section implies that one should argue and persuade people into adopting one's own beliefs. However, it is just as (if arguably not more) important to be able to listen and understand what various stakeholders are saying or writing.

Ethics matter in cybersecurity. Ignoring ethical standards can harm your reputation and lead to legal trouble. Real cases show this: Yahoo Breach (2013-2014): Yahoo's huge breach exposed 3 billion user accounts. Slow disclosure raised ethical concerns. Cambridge Analytica (2018): Unauthorized data collection for politics stressed privacy and consent. Ethical experts prioritize these. Target Breach (2013): Target's breach via a vendor's weak security highlights the need for thorough vendor assessments. Ethical cybersecurity pros respect privacy, report breaches, get consent, and follow rules. Reporting ethical issues maintains professional integrity.

Eduction, awareness and training is one of the key aspects of Cybersecurity, where the common expectation is for people to “know about these things!” Even when most surveys and breaches indicate end-user behaviors as an area we should consider as a top priority, this is the most under funded and less considered area of discussion.

Fundamental Computer Skills. A Desire to Learn. An Understanding of Hacking. Knowledge of Networking and Systems Administration Knowledge of Operating systems Coding Communication. Both written and verbal communication play a key role in cybersecurity. Collaboration. As a cybersecurity analyst, you'll likely work with a larger security team of other cybersecurity professionals. Risk management. Adaptability. Critical thinking Problem-Solving Skills

Apart from technical abilities, cybersecurity experts also require robust soft skills. These abilities play a crucial role in effective communication with stakeholders, teamwork, and creative problem-solving.

Stakeholder Analysis and Engagement is a must in order to understand business requirement to effectively secure solutions. Policy, standards, and regulations are also important skills in order to determine and design effective security controls.