Security As a Career Software engineering & Cyber Security

Software engineering is all about designing software and complex systems from simple software to complex operating systems for corporations. While Cyber Security is all about protecting sensitive information from malicious online attacks (cyber crimes) which can result in data being stolen, duplicated or destroyed. It is also involved in designing software and keeping it secure. Both of these disciplines require a strong background in math, computer science, software engineering and other software related fields. It can be quite challenging to find employment in this field and some areas are just off limits.

So what is the difference between software engineer and cyber security specialist? Is one more qualified then the other? Can one perform the job better than the other? These are only some of the questions which need to be answered to understand the differences between the two career choices.

 

The main difference between the two career choices is actually more than just the title. In fact, both are required to perform the same functions and have to have the same training. What makes them distinct, however, is their line of work and the responsibilities they have. Software engineering degrees, particularly those obtained online, are more general in nature. While a chief technology officer is expected to be technically proficient, he or she is also highly educated in all aspects of information systems.

 

Whereas software engineers have to be more specific in their work. This means that they must have a higher level of knowledge in specific areas such as web security, network security, database security, software configuration management, and software architecture. They may also have to conduct on-site security testing and may be expected to build, test and deploy their own networks and software. Chief technology officers, on the other hand, are expected to be highly detail oriented and have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, security, or related technical field. He or she must, however, have extensive experience in the areas of information systems, network security, or risk management.

 

Many cyber security professionals work as software engineering engineers while performing a variety of other duties. Some may work for larger companies where their work will focus on network security and may not have any access to actual code. Others may work for smaller companies and only have to write the code required by their employers. Regardless of how they choose to perform their job, they do it in an extremely technical field and must be able to work independently and creatively in a fast paced environment.

 

There is a huge demand for information security software developers. The most popular businesses in the information security field include governmental agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. military, banks, insurance companies, accounting firms, hospitals, and law enforcement. Large corporations such as Apple and Microsoft also employ many cyber security software developers. While software developers may not actually write the code for these applications themselves, they are still vitally important because they write the procedures and processes required by their employers in order to keep their systems secure. A qualified software engineer is essential to keeping these companies running efficiently and effectively.

 

While the position of software engineer is quite popular, securing a job can be challenging in the information security field. There are currently no specific qualifications required for this position. Most software developers get their jobs through a combination of personal recommendation, networking, and interview. Individuals who have worked in the cyber realm and then made a career out of information security are highly skilled and in demand. As such, there is a severe shortage of qualified professionals in the United States.

 

If you’re interested in working in the information security field, there are a number of options for you. You can work in a number of different capacities within the private sector or go straight to work for a major software company. Many large corporations hire from within as well. For example, chip manufacturers hire from among the ranks of individuals that have performed significant software engineering jobs. In fact, chip makers rely upon outside eyes to check their products over again before they are shipped to customers. The United States Department of Defense actively encourages software engineering professionals to go after lucrative positions because of the security benefits that are enjoyed by the nation.