A cybersecurity consultant identifies and fixes vulnerabilities in computer networks, safeguarding information from internal and external threats. They provide a map of security risks and offer solutions, often through installing security software or reconfiguring networks. Consultants are usually independent contractors with high demand and salaries.
A cybersecurity consultant is a technology professional who focuses their career on identifying and fixing vulnerabilities in computer networks. Almost any computer connected to the Internet is at risk of hacking, virus infection, and surreptitious downloads, among other evils. When computers are networked, as is often the case in corporate settings, the risks increase. Businesses and government organizations hire professionals to help them identify and remediate network risks, often with a focus on preventing data breaches or system crashes. A cyber security consultant is the type of person they usually go to.
The first thing a computer security consultant usually does is take stock of the computers in use. Consultants are primarily information security professionals, which means they are primarily concerned with safeguarding the information on each computer from loss, both internal and external. This often involves as much internal monitoring of employee download habits as it does installing firewalls and other programs that prevent external breaches.
Computer and network security is a real two-way street. Most computer data leaks and breaches come from outside, but a significant number also come from within. Disgruntled employees, dishonest managers, and corrupt financial officials often know how to covertly mine data and drain corporate online accounts in ways that take a long time for non-tech-savvy supervisors to catch. The job of a cyber security consultant is to monitor and control traffic flowing in all directions and look for holes or vulnerabilities in both places.
Most of the time, the information security consultant starts by providing a company with a general map of security risks and perceived areas of weakness in the network. He will then come up with a plan on how to remedy those risks and set a price for his services. Sometimes necessary data protection measures include installing computer security software or antivirus programs. Others require a complete overhaul of how computers are networked or a complete reinstallation and reconfiguration of core operating software.
Most cyber security consulting jobs are contract based, meaning consultants are hired on a one task at a time basis. Many of them set hourly rates for their work, which includes both diagnosing weaknesses and actually hardening systems. Some may be willing to provide advice for a reduced fee and may offer their services on an à la carte type plan that allows clients to choose from a list of services.
A cyber security consultant is most often an independent contractor working for himself. However, consultants often start out in consulting firms. It usually takes a great deal of experience and expertise to be able to branch out on your own and be trusted to handle something as important as a company’s entire network security. Demand for the job is high, and consultants who have outstanding experience and references often command high salaries.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
