How to Become a Computer Security Consultant

Combined factors in modern times have brought about a growing demand for computer security specialists. From identity theft to terrorism threats, businesses, government agencies and individuals require more online security than ever before. Further, with the explosion of online shopping and e-commerce, credit card numbers and other personal information must be protected from persistent hackers and other intruders. Become a computer security consultant and help protect others from online threats. Read on to learn how to become a computer security consultant.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Expect the job outlook and growth for computer security personnel to be better than average for the future. Realize that training programs and schools are now offering specific curriculum, certificates and degrees in computer security.
2. Investigate before registering for computer security courses since many of these programs are new and not yet established. Look for a recognized and reputable school or training facility that has a history of offering exceptional curriculum in information technology (IT), such as systems analysis, computer information systems, programming and networking.
3. Realize that some fly-by-night schools (online and offline) are jumping on the security specialist training band wagon but don't provide legitimate courses so that you can actually get a job in the field after you graduate. Know that some commonly advertised technical schools have recently had legal action taken against them for supplying their students with bogus courses and course work.
4. Understand that security specialists who work for consulting firms analyze vulnerability, manage firewalls and provide intrusion and virus protection for computer users. Become a computer security consultant and create network and software safety; be involved in homeland security operations; track information and people; and help keep people and our country safe.
5. Appreciate that despite the dot com crash during the Web 1.0 era, Internet-related jobs are plentiful in the current Web 2.0 era; however, employers are more picky now and expect applicants to have excellent education and experience. Come prepared. Compare present day hiring trends to those during the digital gold rush period and see that it used to be easier to get your foot in the door for all IT jobs.
6. Get the necessary training and needed experience required to become a computer security consultant. Start by getting certified or degreed to become a computer security specialist. Choose a school or training facility carefully.
7. Follow the "Cisco" Network Security certification path, for instance, and be certified as a Cisco Certified Security Professional or Security expert. Sign up for Cisco courses at any Cisco approved training facility or school. Look into other recognized security certification programs, such as those offered by Microsoft. See that some community colleges and universities offer these courses.
8. Learn to become a computer security consultant online or via a college or university. Check out universities, such as University of New Haven or Cal State Fullerton for programs in Forensic Science/Forensic Computer Investigation/Computer Forensics. Look into local community colleges and technical schools that are also starting up new computer forensics programs within their computer science or IT departments.
9. Gain experience as a computer security professional by first working in school-sponsored IT internships and start with entry-level IT jobs. Persist in your job search to gain experience as a computer security professional as the IT field, in general, is difficult to break into at first.

Tips & Warnings

• Rely on college/university recruiting and placement offices for information on entry-level IT jobs. Start applying for jobs before you graduate, however, to get your foot in the door.