<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Are you excited about starting a career in cybersecurity but feeling unsure where to begin? Cybersecurity offers endless opportunities, but launching your career in this high-demand industry can seem daunting without the right guidance. This detailed blog post will take you step-by-step through the process of building a strong foundation, developing practical skills, and getting real-world experience to successfully kickstart your cybersecurity career.</p>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Whether you’re completely new to IT or already have some technical experience, this guide will set you on the path toward becoming a cybersecurity expert.</p>

<h2 class="font-bold text-h3 leading-[40px] pt-[21px] pb-[2px] [&amp;_a]:underline-offset-[6px] [&amp;_.underline]:underline-offset-[6px]" dir="ltr">Why Choose a Career in Cybersecurity?</h2>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical fields in today’s digital age. With cyber threats increasing in frequency and sophistication, companies are constantly looking for skilled professionals to safeguard their systems. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this field are projected to grow by 35% between 2021-2031.</p>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">If you’re looking for a stable, high-paying career with varied opportunities, venturing into cybersecurity might just be the perfect decision.

</p>

<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">1. General Foundational Skills</h2>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">A solid foundation in IT basics is essential when entering any tech-related career. If you’re starting from scratch, <b><strong class="font-bold">Cisco Networking Academy</strong></b> offers an excellent free training program with 8 courses to develop your foundational understanding.</p>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">These introductory courses are perfect for beginners with zero technical knowledge, as well as individuals looking to refresh their computer and networking basics. Invest time here to establish an essential skill set and get comfortable exploring IT systems. <strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.cisco.com/c/m/en_sg/partners/cisco-networking-academy/index.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Cisco Networking Academy</a></strong></p>

<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">2. First Cyber Focus Course</h2>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Once you’ve covered the basics, it’s time to focus on your first cybersecurity training. Several beginner-friendly courses are available—select the one that works best for your learning style and budget.</p>

<ul class="pt-[9px] pb-[2px] pl-[24px] list-disc [&amp;_ul]:pt-[5px] pt-[5px]">
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="1"><b><strong class="font-bold">CompTIA Security+ </strong></b><strong> <a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.comptia.org/training/by-certification/security" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Preparation Material</a></strong></li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="2">Most recognized in the industry but relatively expensive.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="3">Covers a wide range of topics, but hands-on labs are limited.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="4"><b><strong class="font-bold">Google Cybersecurity Certificate </strong></b><strong> <a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://grow.google/intl/en_ca/certificates/cybersecurity/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Google Cybersecurity Certificate</a></strong></li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="5">Affordable and includes hands-on practice in Linux, MySQL, and Python.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="6">Prepares you for the Security+ exam with a 30% discount included.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="7"><b><strong class="font-bold">Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst </strong></b><strong> <a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/credentials/certifications/security-compliance-and-identity-fundamentals/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst</a></strong></li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="8">Similar to Google’s certification and also budget-friendly.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="9">Prepares you for the SC-900 certification.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="10"><b><strong class="font-bold">ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity</strong></b><strong>  <a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CC" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity</a></strong></li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="11">Completely free and an excellent introductory course for cybersecurity beginners.</li>
</ul>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">For a comprehensive learning experience, we recommend combining the <b><strong class="font-bold">CompTIA Security+</strong></b> with the <b><strong class="font-bold">Google Cybersecurity Certificate</strong></b> to gain both theoretical understanding and practical skills.</p>

<h2 class="font-bold text-h4 leading-[30px] pt-[15px] pb-[2px] [&amp;_a]:underline-offset-[6px] [&amp;_.underline]:underline-offset-[6px]" dir="ltr">3. Discover Your Cybersecurity Path</h2>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Cybersecurity spans multiple specializations such as Cloud Security, Penetration Testing, and Security Analysis. After completing your beginner courses, explore these niches further to determine where your interests lie.</p>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Additionally, focus on crafting an impressive CV that highlights your skills and certifications.</p>

<h2 class="font-bold text-h4 leading-[30px] pt-[15px] pb-[2px] [&amp;_a]:underline-offset-[6px] [&amp;_.underline]:underline-offset-[6px]" dir="ltr">Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience with Projects</h2>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Practical experience is essential for any cybersecurity career. Start building your portfolio with these beginner-friendly projects to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.</p>

<ul class="list-disc pl-8">
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/small-business/resource-center/networking/how-to-build-small-business-network.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Build a Network</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.splunk.com/en_us/blog/learn/siem-tutorial.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Build a SIEM</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://github.com/paralax/awesome-honeypots" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Build a Honeypot</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.malwaretech.com/2017/11/creating-a-simple-free-malware-analysis-environment.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Build a Malware Analysis Lab</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://ctfd.io/whats-a-ctf/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Create a CTF Challenge</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">These projects will allow you to apply what you’ve learned and work on real-world scenarios, boosting your confidence and expertise.</p>

<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">5. SOC Level 1 on TryHackMe</h2>
After creating your initial projects, consider enhancing your skills with the SOC Level 1 course on TryHackMe. This course dives deep into analyzing and responding to security incidents, preparing you for roles such as a Cybersecurity Analyst.<strong>
<a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://tryhackme.com/path/outline/soclevel1" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">TryHackMe SOC Level 1</a></strong>
<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">6. Complete a Virtual Internship</h2>
Gain real-world experience through virtual internship programs offered by major companies:
<ul class="list-disc pl-8">
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.theforage.com/virtual-internships/prototype/Hf4QMESoFeQwXPsiH/Mastercard-Cybersecurity-Virtual-Experience-Program" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Mastercard Cybersecurity Virtual Experience Program</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.theforage.com/virtual-internships/prototype/mADkQGHo4x7kN6kLv/JPMorgan-Chase-Cybersecurity-Virtual-Experience" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. Cybersecurity Virtual Experience</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.theforage.com/virtual-internships/prototype/CfGzTzHzee9zJpNzs/Commonwealth-Bank-Cybersecurity-Virtual-Experience-Program" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Commonwealth Bank Cybersecurity Virtual Experience Program</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://www.theforage.com/virtual-internships/prototype/9GEqq3DpDLBzZAqgM/AIG-Cybersecurity-Virtual-Experience-Program" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">AIG Shields Up: Cybersecurity Virtual Experience Program</a></strong></li>
</ul>
These internships provide valuable insights into the cybersecurity industry and can be added to your CV.
<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">7. Advanced Courses</h2>
To further enhance your knowledge, consider these advanced courses:
<ul class="list-disc pl-8">
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://tryhackme.com/path/outline/soclevel2" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">TryHackMe SOC Level 2</a></strong></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://securityblue.team/why-btl1/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Blue Team Level 1</a></strong></li>
 	<li><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://letsdefend.io/soc-analyst-path.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"><strong>Let's Defend SOC Analyst Path</strong></a></li>
 	<li><strong><a class="break-word hover:text-super hover:decoration-super dark:hover:text-superDark dark:hover:decoration-superDark underline decoration-from-font underline-offset-1 transition-all duration-300" href="https://cyberdefenders.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Cyber Defenders</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<h2 class="mb-2 mt-6 text-lg first:mt-3">8. Applying for Jobs</h2>
Throughout your learning journey, continuously update your CV and apply for jobs. Create a LinkedIn profile and search for opportunities in your area. Apply to as many relevant positions as possible to increase your chances of landing your first cybersecurity role. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful career in cybersecurity. Remember, persistence and continuous learning are key in this rapidly evolving field.

Good luck on your cybersecurity journey!
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">Keep your CV updated throughout your learning process. Create a LinkedIn profile showcasing your certifications, projects, and internships. Use your network and online job portals to discover opportunities and apply for as many relevant positions as possible.</p>
<p class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] pt-[9px] pb-[2px]" dir="ltr">By taking this proactive approach, you’ll increase your chances of landing your first role in cybersecurity.</p>

<h2 class="font-bold text-h3 leading-[40px] pt-[21px] pb-[2px] [&amp;_a]:underline-offset-[6px] [&amp;_.underline]:underline-offset-[6px]" dir="ltr">Final Tips for Launching Your Cybersecurity Career</h2>
<ul class="pt-[9px] pb-[2px] pl-[24px] list-disc [&amp;_ul]:pt-[5px] pt-[5px]">
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="1"><b><strong class="font-bold">Persistence is key</strong></b>. The cybersecurity job market is competitive, but regular skill updates and active job applications can help you secure the right position.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="2"><b><strong class="font-bold">Stay informed</strong></b>. Cyber threats are constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date by following cybersecurity news and trends.</li>
 	<li class="text-body font-regular leading-[24px] my-[5px] [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ol]:!pb-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pt-0 [&amp;&gt;ul]:!pb-0" value="3"><b><strong class="font-bold">Continuous Learning</strong></b>. Certifications, training, and workshops will keep you ahead of the curve and boost your long-term career growth.</li>
</ul>