Cyber threats and attacks are increasing in both number and complexity. As a result, the demand for professionals with the right cybersecurity skills has surged, creating numerous opportunities for those who possess the necessary expertise. We will provide an overview of the top cybersecurity skills that you should be focusing on and explore various educational pathways to upskill i this area.
Schools and Platforms To Learn Cybersecurity Skills
Cybersecurity Degrees from SNHU
AS in Cybersecurity, BS in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Cybercrime
Cybersecurity Bootcamps from Fullstack Academy
Cybersecurity Analytics Bootcamp
Cybersecurity Certificate Programs from BrainStation
Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
Top Cybersecurity Skills in 2025
There are four main categories of skills that are crucial for a successful career in cybersecurity: technical skills, analytical skills, soft skills, and business skills. Each category plays an essential role in ensuring the proper protection of digital assets and infrastructure.
DevSecOps (Development, Security, and Operations)
Why Focus on It:
Integrating security into the development lifecycle through DevSecOps is becoming a critical aspect of modern cybersecurity. It ensures that security is not just a post-development concern but is embedded throughout the software development process.
Flexible Learning Options:
- DevSecOps Training (Udemy): A comprehensive course on integrating security into the DevOps pipeline.
- Certified DevSecOps Professional (DevSecOps Academy): Focuses on securing the software development lifecycle and automating security processes.
- Security in DevOps (Pluralsight): Learn how to implement security measures during the software development process.
Some examples of system security measures and practices include: User Authentication, Access Control, Operating System Security Updates, Host-Based Firewalls, File and Disk Encryption, Application Whitelisting, and Remote Desktop Security.
Blockchain Security
Why Focus on It:
Blockchain technology, while revolutionary, brings unique security challenges. As cryptocurrencies and decentralized applications (dApps) grow, there is a greater need for professionals who can secure blockchain infrastructures and applications.
Flexible Learning Options:
- Certified Blockchain Security Professional (Blockchain Council): Learn how to secure blockchain networks and prevent attacks like double-spending.
- Blockchain Security Basics (Coursera, offered by the University of California): Learn the fundamentals of blockchain security.
- Blockchain Security Essentials (Udemy): A course on securing decentralized systems, with a focus on Ethereum and Bitcoin.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Cybersecurity
Why Focus on It:
AI and machine learning (ML) are becoming powerful tools for detecting anomalies, automating threat analysis, and improving response times. As cyberattacks evolve, AI can provide more effective and faster defenses than traditional methods.
Flexible Learning Options:
- Artificial Intelligence for Cybersecurity (edX, offered by the University of Maryland): Learn how AI can be leveraged for cybersecurity defenses.
- Machine Learning for Cybersecurity (Coursera, offered by Stanford University): Focus on machine learning algorithms and how they can detect and prevent cyberattacks.
- AI for Cybersecurity (Udemy): Provides hands-on applications of AI in securing networks, systems, and applications.
Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA)
The Zero Trust model assumes that both external and internal networks are untrusted, requiring strict verification of users, devices, and applications. As cybersecurity threats evolve, the need for ZTA is growing, particularly for organizations with remote workforces and mobile-first strategies
Flexible Learning Options:
- Zero Trust Security (Pluralsight): Gain an in-depth understanding of Zero Trust concepts and how to implement them.
- Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: Learn about Zero Trust as part of a broader curriculum on cybersecurity operations.
- Zero Trust Architecture Professional (Coursera, offered by MIT): Learn to design and implement Zero Trust networks.
Cloud Security
Cloud computing is a core part of modern IT infrastructure, and with the widespread adoption of cloud services (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud), ensuring the security of cloud environments has become crucial. Cloud security involves protecting data, applications, and services in cloud environments, and understanding the shared responsibility model for cloud services is essential.
Flexible Learning Options:
- AWS Certified Security Specialty (AWS): Learn cloud-specific security skills focused on AWS environments.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate: Learn to protect Azure cloud resources and data.
- Google Cloud Security Engineer Professional Certificate (Coursera): A comprehensive course that covers Google Cloud security concepts.
Cryptography
Cryptography is the science and practice of securing communication and data by converting plain text into unintelligible ciphertext and vice versa. It involves the use of mathematical algorithms and keys to transform information into a format that is not easily readable by unauthorized individuals or systems. Cryptography plays a crucial role in ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of sensitive data and communications.
Key concepts and components of cryptography include Encryption, Decryption, Cryptographic Algorithms, Symmetric Crypotography, Digital Signatures, Hash Functions, Data at Rest Enycryption, and Public Key Infrastructure.
Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing
Penetration testing and ethical hacking are essential skills for proactively identifying vulnerabilities within systems before attackers exploit them. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated, ethical hackers are increasingly needed to help organizations stay ahead of threats.
Flexible Learning Options:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): A widely recognized certification that covers the latest hacking techniques and penetration testing skills.
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): A practical and hands-on course focused on real-world penetration testing scenarios.
- TryHackMe: A platform offering gamified ethical hacking challenges, learning paths, and labs.
Threat Intelligence & Incident Response
Threat intelligence helps cybersecurity professionals predict and mitigate potential attacks. Incident response, on the other hand, focuses on effectively responding to breaches when they occur. Developing skills in these areas ensures you can both prevent and act swiftly when facing cybersecurity incidents
Flexible Learning Options:
- SANS GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence (GCTI): Provides hands-on training for assessing and responding to cyber threats.
- Certified Incident Handler (EC-Council): Focuses on best practices for handling and responding to cybersecurity incidents.
- Threat Intelligence and Incident Response (Udemy): Online course with modules on threat detection, mitigation, and response protocols.
Advanced Malware Analysis & Reverse Engineering
As malware becomes more complex, understanding how malware operates and how to reverse-engineer it is essential for defending against it. This skill allows cybersecurity professionals to analyze, dissect, and mitigate malware threats effectively.
Flexible Learning Options:
- SANS FOR610: Reverse-Engineering Malware: A course focused on reverse-engineering malware and identifying its behavior.
- Malware Analysis and Reverse Engineering (Pluralsight): Learn the basics of malware analysis, including static and dynamic techniques.
- Advanced Malware Analysis (Coursera): Learn to dissect advanced malware and develop mitigation strategies.
Security Automation & Orchestration
As cyber threats grow more complex and frequent, automation in cybersecurity tasks (such as patching, alerting, and response) helps organizations scale their defenses more efficiently. Orchestrating security tools and systems ensures a more coordinated and faster defense
Flexible Learning Options:
- Security Automation and Orchestration (Udemy): Learn how to automate incident response and orchestration using tools like Splunk and Phantom.
- Automation for Cybersecurity (Pluralsight): Focuses on automating security operations using Python, PowerShell, and other scripting languages.
- Red Hat Ansible Automation for Security (Red Hat): Provides training on automating security configurations and compliance using Ansible.
Cybersecurity Compliance & Governance
With increasing regulatory scrutiny (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), understanding compliance frameworks and governance is vital. This skill ensures that organizations meet legal and regulatory requirements and are prepared for audits.
Flexible Learning Options:
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): A globally recognized certification that focuses on auditing, control, and security of information systems.
- Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP): Learn the latest privacy laws and how to ensure compliance with global standards.
- Cybersecurity Compliance (Coursera): A course that explores key cybersecurity regulations and frameworks.
How to Acquire Cybersecurity Skills
While we already listed avenues for which to obtain the specific skills listed above, there are several additional ways to acquire the cybersecurity skills needed to excel in this high-demand field. These include formal education, online courses and bootcamps, on-the-job training and internships, and networking and professional development. Each path offers unique benefits and can be tailored to suit individual preferences and goals.
Formal Education
Pursuing college degrees and certifications in cybersecurity is a common route for gaining the necessary expertise. Obtaining a degree in cybersecurity or certification not only provides a solid foundation in the field but also demonstrates a commitment to professional development. Top cybersecurity certifications include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), among others.
Online Courses and Bootcamps
The growing popularity of online learning has made it easier than ever to acquire cybersecurity skills from the comfort of one’s own home. Online courses and bootcamps offer flexibility, affordability, and access to expert instructors, making them an attractive option for many learners. Top online platforms and bootcamps for learning cybersecurity include Coursera, Udacity, and Cybrary, as well as specialized cybersecurity bootcamps such as those offered at Flatiron School and Full Stack Academy.
On-the-Job Training and Internships
Hands-on experience is invaluable in the cybersecurity field, and on-the-job training and internships provide the perfect opportunity for gaining practical skills. To find internships and training opportunities, individuals can explore company websites, job boards, and networking events. To maximize learning during on-the-job training, it is essential to ask questions, seek feedback, and apply the knowledge gained to real-world scenarios.
Networking and Professional Development
Networking plays a vital role in developing cybersecurity skills, as it allows individuals to connect with industry professionals, learn from their experiences, and stay informed about emerging trends. Opportunities for networking and professional development include attending conferences, participating in online forums, and joining professional associations, such as the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) or the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP). Effective networking in the cybersecurity field involves building genuine relationships, actively participating in conversations, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow.
Benefits of Acquiring Cybersecurity Skills
Acquiring cybersecurity skills offers numerous benefits, including job security and high demand in a rapidly growing field. Professionals with these skills can expect competitive salaries and benefits, reflecting the value of their expertise in protecting sensitive data and systems.
Furthermore, the cybersecurity field offers ample opportunities for career advancement and growth. As you develop your skills and knowledge, you can progress to more specialized and senior roles within the industry.
Lastly, acquiring cybersecurity skills provides personal satisfaction from contributing to a safer digital world. By helping organizations secure their systems and data, you play a crucial role in protecting privacy, safeguarding assets, and ensuring the integrity of our digital infrastructure.
Preparing for a Cybersecurity Career
Aspiring cybersecurity professionals can take several steps to ensure they are well-prepared for a successful career in this high-demand field. These steps include building a strong foundation in IT and networking, continuously updating skills to stay current with industry trends, developing a well-rounded skillset, and gaining practical experience through internships and on-the-job training.
A solid background in information technology and networking is crucial for a cybersecurity career, as it provides the necessary context for understanding and addressing security challenges. This foundation can be established through formal education, certifications, or self-study.
Given the rapidly evolving nature of the cybersecurity landscape, it is essential to continuously update one’s skills and stay informed about the latest threats and technologies. This can be achieved by attending workshops, conferences, and webinars, as well as engaging in self-directed learning and research.
Developing a well-rounded skillset, including technical, analytical, soft, and business skills, is vital for standing out in the job market. By honing these skills through formal education, online courses, and practical experience, aspiring cybersecurity professionals can demonstrate their value to potential employers and increase their chances of securing rewarding job opportunities.
Lastly, gaining practical experience through internships and on-the-job training is indispensable for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. These hands-on experiences not only enhance an individual’s understanding of cybersecurity concepts but also provide valuable networking opportunities and a potential pathway to full-time employment.
Takeways
Acquiring top cybersecurity skills is essential for thriving in today’s job market. With numerous pathways available, from formal education and online courses to on-the-job training and networking, individuals can choose the path that best suits their needs and goals. Take the initiative and advance your cybersecurity career by exploring all of the options available to you.
Cybersecurity Resources
SANS Institute: https://www.sans.org/security-resources/
National Institute of Standards and Technology: https://www.nist.gov/cybersecurity
Department of Homeland Security: https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/cybersecurity-resources
