How to Become a Malware Expert

Malware experts are knowledgeable about computer and Internet security.

Malware---or malicious software---poses a severe security threat to Internet users, according to "A View on Current Malware Behaviors"; Bayer, Habibi, Balzarotti, Kirda and Kreugel; April 2009. Malware infiltrates a computer without user consent and causes symptoms that can lead to identity theft or severe computer damage. Modern malware programs are complex and require more than simple user-friendly tools to remove. As a result, malware experts commit to training and research, and continually update their knowledge. Malware experts may study online and provide assistance in technical forums or attend traditional programs in the computer security industry.

Instructions

Online Support Malware Expert Training

1. Go to a free malware training website. Several community forums offer free detailed anti-malware training. The GeekPoliceAcademy, GeekUniversity, BleepingComputer's Study Hall, SpywareInfo Bootcamp and the Tech Support Forum Academy each offers training. You can combine intensive study and research with a structured, self-paced learning program.

2. Review the curriculum to assure it meets your needs. Most online training courses offer a curriculum that includes basic malware removal, malware diagnosis and detection tools and training on specific software like ComboFix, HiJackThis or the Avenger. In addition, you will learn about reading software diagnosis log files, which helps identify infected files and programs. Compare your training goals to each curriculum to determine if a program is a good fit.

3. Complete the registration or application process. Anti-malware training courses require the completion of an application. Typically, you must provide basic contact information, your level of computer knowledge, and your reason for applying. You may need to provide additional information about your programming or troubleshooting skills.

4. Submit the application. It may take several days or weeks to receive a response and begin the training program.

5. Work toward completing the training. Training can take anywhere from several weeks to several months. Many online communities require that you work with forum users, under the supervision of an expert, to assist with malware removal.

6. Study, research and continue your education. To become a malware expert, you must stay abreast of the changing technology, coding, behavior and purpose of developing malware programs.

Traditional Malware Security Training

1. Identify a cyber-security training or four-year degree program. Many schools offer Internet security programs that provide the appropriate computer security training. Visit your local community college, four-year university or technical schools to inquire. Select a program that meets your time, budget and quality requirements. These programs typically require a background in computer engineering, computer programming, statistics or mathematics, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, an associate's degree or professional certification may be suitable for some positions.

2. Submit an enrollment application. Complete the application by entering the required information. Review your information and submit the application along with the required fee to the appropriate party.

3. Speak with an enrollment adviser. The enrollment adviser can assist you with transferring existing credits, creating a course schedule and addressing your immediate needs or concerns. Additionally, ask questions about the program prerequisites to ensure you meet the minimum program qualifications.

4. Purchase the required materials and enroll in classes. Attend each class and work diligently to research, study and become familiar with Internet security issues.

5. Continue your education. To become a malware expert, you should continue your education by enrolling in refresher courses and staying up to date with new technologies. Purchase a subscription to current information technology magazines that focus on programming, cyber-security or malicious software.

References

• "A View on Current Malware Behaviors"; Bayer, Habibi, Balzarotti, Kirda and Kreugel; April 2009
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrators
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Computer Specialists, All Other Salaries

Resources

• GeeksToGo: GeekUniversity
• GeekPolice: GeekPolice Academy Teaches You How to Fight Malware
• BleepingComputer: Malware Removal Study Hall Forum Registration
• SpyWareInfoForum: The Boot Camp
• TechSupportForum: The Academy