Cybersecurity earlier wasn’t a dedicated field and most of the cybersecurity operations were handled by the professionals from the IT department within the organization. However, as the number of cyberattacks, and sophistication at which attacks were done increased, organizations started realizing the importance of having a separate cybersecurity domain that can handle evolving and emerging cyber threats. Eventually, various cyber security solutions providers also started coming up that offered variety of cybersecurity services like vulnerability management, risk management, digital forensics, etc. day, the cybersecurity solutions market stands at $235 which is expected to reach $352 by 2028 growing at a CAGR of 11% (as projected by market.us). Also, according to the 2024 Cybersecurity Workforce Report, the cybersecurity workforce in the USA stands at 2,423,654 and still, there is a workforce shortage of 567,578 cybersecurity professionals in the US alone.
So, we can imagine the huge cybersecurity job opportunities available, not only in the USA but globally. So, if you are looking to get into this growing and rewarding cybersecurity career path, then here are some of the most important and in-demand IT skills you will need to grow in your career. We will also discuss how you can gain these skills through top cybersecurity certifications and courses. So, read along.
In-Demand IT Skills for A Successful Cybersecurity Career In 2025
1. Programming
Knowledge of programming language is an essential IT skill needed for all types of cybersecurity jobs from software development to designing efficient cybersecurity solutions. Learning the popular programming languages like Python, Ruby, C++, or Powershell can be highly beneficial for your cybersecurity career as it will allow you to automate various tasks, and manage cybersecurity operations effectively.
2. Fundamentals of networking
A solid understanding of the fundamentals of networking is needed among aspiring as well as experienced cybersecurity professionals. This includes knowledge of network protocols like TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, and network devices like routers, switches, firewalls. It is essential to protect organizations against cyber attackers that target vulnerable networks to disrupt the operations of the company. So, learn to analyze network traffic, identify vulnerabilities within the network, and implement security measures as needed.
3. Operating systems
Cybersecurity professionals also need to be proficient with all types of operating systems including Windows, Linux, MacOS, and others so that they can find vulnerabilities, patch the security software on these OSes, and know about best practices required to secure these core operating systems for uninterrupted services.
4. Cryptography
Cryptography is a specialized cybersecurity skill that is used to protect data during storage and transit. Cryptography means converting normal text into cipher text that are unreadable without appropriate encryption keys, even if hackers can unauthorized access to the data. So, as a cybersecurity professional, you need to know about various cryptographic algorithms, encryption techniques, and key management to secure organizational data.
5. Penetration testing
Penetration testing or ethical hacking is another advanced and in-demand cybersecurity skill that helps professionals conduct or simulate cyberattacks on the organization’s security systems in a controlled environment and with proper permission, with the purpose of identifying vulnerabilities and rectifying them before they are exploited by real attackers. Knowledge of ethical hacking can significantly boost your cybersecurity career.
6. Cloud computing
Cloud computing skills refer to the ability to build, deploy, and maintain data and infrastructure over the cloud. Since cloud platforms offer a high level of flexibility, scalability, and high-performance infrastructure at affordable pricing, organizations are actively switching their business to a cloud environment and they are looking for professionals with cloud computing skills to manage their data and resources on the cloud.
7. AI and Machine Learning
AI and machine learning are emerging technologies and have a wide range of applications in the field of cybersecurity. These technologies can be used to automate several repetitive tasks like vulnerability scanning, reporting, documenting, etc. Also, they can assist professionals with anomaly detection, eliminating AI-related cybersecurity risks, and more. So, learn various skills associated with machine learning such as parametric and non parametric algorithms, kernels, clustering, and other deep learning techniques.
Gain IT-Skills for Cybersecurity
Now that you understand the various IT skills needed to excel in the field of cybersecurity, you must consider some of the best cybersecurity certifications and courses to learn the latest in-demand cybersecurity skills and advance in your cybersecurity career.
Here are some of the top cybersecurity certifications both generalized and specialized to learn the latest industry-relevant skills:
- Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™) by USCSI® to master the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity and build strong foundation.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) by EC-Council to learn ethical hacking and penetration testing skills
- Google Cloud Security Engineer can validate your cloud computing skills and knowledge to secure data and infrastructure on Google’s Cloud Platform.
- CompTIA Network+ is great option to learn skills to protect networks and devices.
So, these certifications can help you gain the necessary skills needed to perform regular cybersecurity jobs efficiently.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is now a flourishing domain and growing rapidly. Getting into this path will offer you some of the most rewarding and challenging job roles as well as provide you with opportunities to contribute to making the world a safer place. So, find a suitable program, learn the latest in-demand skills, and take your cybersecurity career further.
