Internet Security Specialists
Overview
Introduction
Internet security specialists protect a companys computer and data network, which can be accessed through the Internet, from intrusion by hackers. Large-profile companies, such as Sony, have reported alarming Internet security breaches in which personal and financial information of customers were stolen. Hackers accessing a persons social security number and credit card information can steal a persons identify or use the credit card for his or her own purchases. For this reason, most companies that have a significant online retail p...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
The field of Internet security is a lucrative business and the salary potential is growing. The U.S. Department of Labor reports the median salary for information security analysts was $120,360 per year in May 2023. The lowest paid professionals in the field earned less than $69,210 per year and the highest paid earned $182,370 or more per year.
North American–based information security ...
Work Environment
Because Internet security specialists work with computers and computers require a controlled atmosphere, the work environment is typically indoors in a well-lit, climate-controlled office. Security specialists can expect many hours of sitting in front of a computer screen using a keyboard or touchscreen. Work is generally done alone, although a consultant might train an in-house person on how t...
Outlook
Employment for Internet security specialists will increase by 33 percent (much faster than the average for all occupations) through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The number of companies with a presence on the Internet is growing rapidly on a worldwide basis. As these companies connect their private networks to the public Internet, they will need to protect their confide...