A network security specialist is trained to monitor a computer network to ensure that unauthorized personnel may not gain access to the network for the purpose of modifying or misusing confidential information. The specialist monitors the network to make sure that only authorized personnel may have access to specific data.
Where Network Security Specialists Are Needed
Network security is monitored by an administrator who decides who may have access to certain data. Authorized users have an ID assigned to them, or choose their user ID and password. Depending on the level of security within the network, the administrator may require additional authenticating information for each user. Specialists in network security may have jobs in the following areas:
- Government agencies
- Business
- Finance
- Private organizations
Network Security Specialist Job Description
As a specialist in network security, you must be able to provide technical advice regarding personnel who have direct access to the network. You must be up-to-date on the latest models for security and how to handle disaster recovery. Security awareness is an ongoing part of the job. You must be responsible for the implementation, monitoring, and troubleshooting of the organization's information technology security. You must be responsible for the safeguards of the organization's data.
You will have to perform regular scans of the network in order to assess any areas that may be vulnerable and take measures to correct any problem areas. You must determine what security measures must be in place for local networks and those that span an extensive area. Sites that are within the network such as vendors must be monitored on a regular basis to determine if any further security measures must be put into place.
Network Security Specialist Average Salaries
According to statistics, the average salary of a network security specialist in the United States is $64,349 annually. Specialists who earn this salary are usually employed handling security risk management or working with Linux. Specialist's salaries can vary considerably depending on the employer and location. For example, a security specialist working in a science and engineering research laboratory run by the government in Chicago may earn around $100,000 per year.
A specialist who maintains network security for a major wireless communications company may earn anywhere from $73,000 to $92,000 annually. A specialist who works for one of the major computer manufacturing companies may earn approximately $89,000 per year. Network security specialists who work in the hospitality industry earn salaries on the lower end of the scale.
Education and Training for a Network Security Specialist
The education you get for a network security career depends on the area you choose to focus on. Among the programs available are:
- Associate’s degree in network systems administration
- Bachelor’s degree in information systems security
- Bachelor’s degree in systems analysis and integration
- Master’s degree in information systems management
If you want a career as a specialist in cyber security and technology, consider training as a network security specialist. You will be able to install security software to prevent security breaches.
