Information security experts protect organizations against malware, hackers, employee mistakes, and natural disasters. Many companies are now hiring outside computer security, rather than employing in-house staff. While the companies often save money, this also creates opportunities for IT experts to start successful consulting businesses. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that demand for computer security professionals will grow by 22 percent in the next decade, far above the national average. Breaking into this field requires you to possess hands-on experience, extensive training, and management prowess. But the benefits include job security, adequate pay, and often opportunities for career advancement.
[[Category:Information Technology Careers]]
== Steps ==
=== Getting the Necessary Training and Qualifications ===
#Complete an information technology degree. Most computer security experts are now pursuing a bachelor's degree, although an associate's degree with many years of experience can be substituted. Focus on choosing a high-quality program with the most up-to-date information on computer programming, networking, information systems, penetration testing, and systems analysis.<ref>http://www.cyberdegrees.org/jobs/security-consultant/</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 1.jpg|center]]
#*If you have an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field, it might be worth considering a Master’s degree in computer sciences, IT systems, or even engineering.
#Seek professional certifications. Microsoft (MCSE), Cisco (CCIE) and other companies provide training and certification programs. Any consultant should be able to show a high level of certified training, as it will improve your chances of getting contracts.<ref>https://www.simplilearn.com/becoming-an-it-security-consultant-article</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 3.jpg|center]]
#*Other useful certifications include: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), ITIL, Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), SANS GIAC, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Business Continuity Professional (CBCP), Certified Protection Professional (CPP) and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP).
#Join a professional computer security organization. Chapters of these kinds of professional organizations can help you join study groups, forums, and conferences. They can also help enhance your resume and your expertise.<ref>http://www.cybersecurityeducation.org/careers/become-security-consultant/</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 8.jpg|center]]
#*Two of the biggest organizations in the field are the Information Systems Security Association and the American Society for Industrial Security.
=== Building Up Experience ===
#Seek a computer security internship while you are still in school. You should begin building your work experience as soon as possible. Even graduates with excellent grades are expected to have some experience in the field before employers will hire them. Internships are a great way to do that.<ref>http://www.baesystems.com/en/cybersecurity/careers/our-people/graduates-and-students/undergraduates</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 2.jpg|center]]
#*Most IT schools will have connections to internship programs, or you can find them via online search.
#Apply for an entry-level IT job. A well-trained graduate should be able to break into the field fairly easily. Joining an IT department for approximately two to five years will give you excellent knowledge about security threats and business structure.<ref>http://www.cyberdegrees.org/jobs/security-consultant/</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 5.jpg|center]]
#*You do not need to gain a job in IT security right away. Other jobs, like network administrator, are excellent stepping stones for a computer security career.
#Vet your IT jobs well. Like most computer-based fields, there are a number of fraudulent and short-lived companies. Make sure you do your research to avoid these companies, which could mar your resume to prospective clients.<ref>http://www.myinfosecjob.com/2010/10/startup-guide-to-become-an-information-security-consultant/</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 7.jpg|center]]
#*When gaining experience in the field, try to choose companies with a good reputation in the industry that have been around for several years.
=== Furthering Your Career as a Computer Security Consultant ===
#Seek promotions and different roles as you get your work experience. Learning about database repair client support, networking protocols, programming, and computer maintenance will allow you to take more contracts when you become a consultant.<ref>https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 6.jpg|center]]
#*As you move up the ladder gaining new experiences in your job, you will accumulate a more impressive work history that will eventually allow you to branch out into your own consulting firm.
#Conduct your own research on new security threats and methods. Study IT forensics, software safety, virus protection, firewall management, and other topics whenever possible to prove you are an expert that can deal with a wide variety of problems.[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 4.jpg|center]]
#*Conducting research shows that you are a self-starter, an independent worker, and in tune with the trends in the field of computer security.
#Launch a computer security consulting firm. Write a business plan that will detail the number of employees you will need and the services you will offer. Make sure to spend time setting prices based on your expertise and competitors.<ref>http://learn.org/articles/How_Can_I_Become_a_Cyber_Security_Specialist.html</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 9.jpg|center]]
#*Market your company to businesses and professionals. Start to build up a list of clients. Although this may take some time, you will start to get business based on the relationships you build with companies.
#File your business documents with the Secretary of State. You will need to file a business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.), fictitious name certificate, and employer identification number for tax purposes. You will also need business licenses to start an office in your county/city.<ref>https://transition.fcc.gov/cyber/cyberplanner.pdf</ref>[[Image:Become a Computer Security Consultant Step 10.jpg|center]]
#*Call your Secretary of State and County Clerk offices to inquire about the necessary documents in your area.
== Things You'll Need ==
*Bachelor's degree
*Internship
*Professional certifications
*Entry-level job
*Professional association membership
*Mid/high-level IT jobs
*Business filing
== Related wikiHows ==
*[[Become a Web Developer]]
*[[Become a Microsoft Certified Engineer]]
*[[Become an Information Technology Consultant]]
== Sources and Citations ==
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