Businesses typically believe that IT departments are entirely responsible for dealing with information security and cybersecurity issues. That, of course, is not the case. Information technology and security are not the same thing, although many people think so. There are certain fundamental misunderstandings about information security that may have a significant influence on your organization’s security strategy and even your security posture.
A Specific Set of Skills Is Necessary for Successful Information Security Management
The field of information security demands a unique collection of skills, frameworks, and concepts. There is no shortage of information security expertise or a global skills gap if information technology is the same as security.
I’ve seen a lot in my 12 years as an information security professional. I’ve always been awed by the sheer amount of innovation and attention put into threat actors. I frequently wonder how much better our world would be if they put their talents to good use. This is compounded by the reality that many firms are ill-equipped to deal with a cybersecurity assault, from the top down. In my opinion, the only approach to fix this problem is to keep studying, training, and obtaining certifications. An informed and sustainable network of technical specialists may assist firms absorb sound information from the knowledge gathered.
Developing IT Professionals to Fill That Role
Training and education of our personnel is necessary since many corporations’ regard IT and security as a single team. (Small businesses, on the other hand, are unable to afford a specialised information security team). With no dedicated team in place, this approach is in the best interest of the company.
The IT certifications I’ve taken have helped me demonstrate my ability to comprehend a particular topic, both theoretically and practically. Contextual knowledge aids in decision-making. The more experience you have, the more powerful your judgments will be, in terms of operational, tactical and strategic ones.
How Certifications Verify Knowledge in the IT Industry
Everyone should grasp the purpose of IT certifications, not just the ask. It’s not the qualification that matters, but rather the information you learn.
To prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam, I used the following materials.
An official study guide, several books, and a self-paced online class were all things I utilised to study for my CompTIA Security+ certification test in preparation for this one. Always keep in mind that no single source can provide all of the information you need. A wide range of sources ensures that the exam objectives are covered from a number of perspectives and that any gaps are filled.
You should start by looking at the test objectives to gain an idea of what the certification exam covers. The CompTIA website offers them for free download.
Remember that your cybersecurity expertise doesn’t end with this certification. When it comes to learning about cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+ is the best place to start. In order for you to succeed, you must continue to grow as a learner or an emerging security professional, even after passing the test. The test is merely the beginning of a much larger process of learning and mastery.
Six Steps to Getting Ready for IT Certifications
Having a strategy can help you achieve your goals. As a general guideline, here’s how I typically prepare:
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Set a date right away.
In other words, if you wait for the ideal moment to begin mentally preparing, that moment will never come. Identify a date and stick to it.
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The exam will be in roughly six weeks.
Depending on the complexity of the issue, you will have to decide whether or not to extend this further. However, six weeks is an excellent place to begin.
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Go out and get what you need.
Here, you have a few possibilities by Sprintzeal. A book or two, a live instructor-led course, or a prerecorded self-paced course are all options. Practice examinations can also be purchased as part of a course or a book. It’s never a bad idea to practise more.
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Spend some time each day (much more on weekends) preparing for class.
I’m hoping to devote 2-3 hours a day to my workouts (self-paced class or book). My goal is to finish a book or class in two weeks or less. The time required to complete live or self-paced online training, as well as any necessary review using a reference book, should be around two weeks.
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Go through your notes one last time.
Notes from class or from a book are often used to underline important points. Index cards are a great way to keep track of areas that need development.
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Keep practising, keep practising.
For 1-2 weeks, study the notes and take practise examinations until you are able to understand the ideas and score at least 85% on the practise exams.
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