Is Cyber Security a Lucrative Career Choice in India?

Introduction

DSCI has predicted that the cybersecurity market will employ around 10 lakh people by 2025.

Demand for cyber security professionals in India is only skyrocketing and for all the right reasons. With the surge in digitalization and the increasing frequency of cyber threats, individuals are increasingly turning towards careers in cyber security in India. The blog below explores the burgeoning field of cyber security career in India, addressing common queries and shedding light on the opportunities it presents.

Growth Opportunities for Cyber Security in India

The digital landscape in India is evolving rapidly, creating a multitude of opportunities for cyber security professionals. According to recent statistics, the demand for skilled cybersecurity experts is at an all-time high – organizations across various sectors are seeking to fortify their defences against cyber threats. The average pay package for cyber security professionals could cross 20 LPA, making it an attractive career choice for many.

Career Opportunities in Cybersecurity

According to a survey conducted by a leading job portal, the salary of cybersecurity professionals could reach up to 24 LPA INR. The realm of cyber security offers diverse career paths, ranging from ethical hacking and penetration testing to security analysis and incident response. Professionals can find employment in a wide array of sectors, including finance, healthcare, and government agencies. And, the ever-expanding threat landscape ensures that cyber security experts are continually in demand, making it a dynamic and rewarding field.

Here is an overview of the average pay packages of cybersecurity professionals in India according to their experience level in the industry.

Entry-level

Cybersecurity Analyst

Salary range: 4.5 LPA – 23.34 LPA

Companies Hiring: TCS, EY, Schneider

Junior Pentester

Salary range: 3.5 LPA – 10.0 LPA

Companies hiring: Dell, Accenture, Infosys

Mid-level

Penetration Tester

Salary range: 3.0 LPA – 18.0 LPA

Companies hiring: Deloitte, Accenture, Cognizant

Security Engineer

Salary range: 6.0LPA – 20.0 LPA

Companies hiring: IBM, Oracle, Infosys

Cyber Forensics Analyst

Salary range: 2.0 LPA – 13.0 LPA

Companies hiring: Cisco Systems, Vodafone, GE Healthcare

Senior-Level

Cybersecurity Architect

Salary range: 15.0 LPA – 49.6 LPA

Companies hiring: Cognizant, TCS, IBM

Skill-Requirement for a Career in Cyber Security

To thrive in the world of cyber security, individuals need to cultivate a specific set of both hard and soft skills.

Among the hard skills, you need to develop proficiency in programming languages and a deep understanding of networking concepts. Cybersecurity experts must also be able to analyse complex systems for vulnerabilities.

Soft skills such as communication and problem-solving are equally crucial, as cyber security professionals often collaborate across teams to mitigate threats effectively.

Training and Certifications

Securing a career in cyber security requires the right education and certifications. In other words, recruiters are looking for certified cybersecurity experts. Several courses cater to individuals aspiring to enter the field, such as cyber security training programs from DataSpace Academy. One noteworthy program is the Dataspace Academy’s Master Program in Cybersecurity, known for its comprehensive curriculum and practical approach to preparing individuals for the challenges of the cybersecurity landscape.

Global certification in cybersecurity is accredited by two esteemed organisations, EC-Council and CompTIA.

EC-Council Certifications

• CEHv12
• C|PENT
• C|HFI
• C|ND
• C|SA
• C|CSE

CompTIA Certifications

• CompTIA Security+
• CySA+
• CompTIA Pen Test+

All the certifications carry a specific validity period, you need to renew the certification after every 3-4 years.

Career Transition

For those considering a career transition into cybersecurity, the journey may seem daunting. However, with the right guidance and commitment to learning, individuals from various backgrounds can successfully make the switch. Below is a list of professionals from other backgrounds who can leverage their existing skills to embark on a fulfilling career in cyber security.

• Network & System Administrators
• Web Developers
• Software Developers
• Software Architects
• Database Administrators

Conclusion

In conclusion, cyber security has emerged as a promising and lucrative career choice in India. The increasing digitization of processes and the escalating threat landscape underscore the importance of skilled professionals in safeguarding digital assets. With the right cyber security training, certifications, and a commitment to continuous learning, individuals can not only enter but thrive in this dynamic field. As we navigate the digital frontier, securing our digital future becomes not just a career but a mission critical to the well-being of society.