Be A Maverick: 7 Tips To Get Ahead in Cybersecurity
A Practical Guide to Advancing Your Cybersecurity Career and Standing Out
Introduction
In cybersecurity, knowledge is just the starting point. While degrees and certifications provide a strong foundation, they don’t guarantee success.
The real challenge and opportunity lies in going beyond the basics. To stand out, you need to be a maverick.
Yes, the ‘Top Gun’ kind of Maverick, but in cybersecurity. Sure, you can be both, but I’d be way more impressed and a bit puzzled if you chose flying fighter jets over the undeniably cool field of cybersecurity! 😆
This means approaching security challenges with creativity, passion, and a willingness to challenge traditional methods.
In this article, we’ll explore what it takes to accelerate your career, rise above the rest, and offer practical steps to help you differentiate yourself.
Get Ahead: The Blueprint
The journey to becoming a standout in cybersecurity doesn’t follow a rigid formula.
This blueprint is my recipe, shaped by my own experiences, conversations with industry professionals, and the advice of many seasoned cybersecurity recruiters I have come across.
While it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, it’s a practical guide that can be tailored for those who are willing to go the extra mile. 🚶
1. Build Your Foundation
Mastering the fundamentals is key to a successful cybersecurity career. Start with a strong grasp of core concepts across multiple domains before choosing your specialization or niche.
The key areas that a cybersecurity professional or a student needs to consider their foundations are:
- Operating Systems: Get familiar with Linux, Windows, and OS fundamentals.
- Networking: Learn the OSI Model, TCP/IP, routing & switching, networking devices, and network security fundamentals.
- Programming & Scripting: Learn the basics of one or more of the following languages: Python, Bash, and PowerShell.
- Web Technologies: Learn protocols such as HTTP, HTTPS, and HTS. Learn the basics of web languages(HTML, CSS, and JavaScript), as well as how web servers (Apache, Nginx, IIS) and web proxies work.
- Security Fundamentals: Study information security theory and basics, blue and red teaming. Key areas are Incident Handling & Response, Access Control, Cryptography, Security Frameworks, Data Protection and Privacy.
- Specialization: Consider focusing on your favourite areas like network security, mobile security, web security, cloud security, or IoT security.
Think of these as the building blocks of your career.
The stronger your foundation, the more you’ll progress your career faster with solid foundations and stand out.
Learning Linux
Besides learning the fundamentals of operating systems, I’ve dedicated this section to emphasize the importance of learning Linux early in your career.
I’ve already highlighted its significance in several articles, and it can’t be overstated.
If you’re aiming to become an ethical hacker, Linux will be your go-to tool.
Even for those on the defensive side, Linux is packed with tools that are vital for blue teamers and security researchers, from forensic analysis, and incident response to monitoring and detection.
And the best part? Linux and nearly all of its tools are free and open source.
To understand why Linux is so crucial, check out my article below:
Ready to start or improve your Linux skills? My other article below can help:
2. Build a Home Lab
A home lab is where theory meets practice. It’s your personal playground to experiment, learn, and refine your skills.
Here are a couple of options to set one up:
- Virtualization: Use tools like VMWare or VirtualBox to create virtual machines on your existing laptop or desktop.
- Single-Board Computers: Raspberry Pi or Zimaboard are cheap, portable, and great options for specific projects.
- Cloud Services: Explore cloud instances or VPS from providers like AWS or DigitalOcean.
- Old Hardware: Repurpose an old desktop or laptop.
- Dedicated Servers: Consider investing in a microserver like the HP ProLiant MicroServer Gen8.
Your home lab is where you’ll build the experience to back up your formal education, certification or theoretical knowledge.
When starting out, using VirtualBox and setting up virtual machines on your laptop is a cost-effective option. Just ensure you have plenty of RAM and disk space.
💡 Tip: Don’t overlook the potential of old hardware that you can repurpose.
For those looking to keep projects off their home network while making them publicly accessible (e.g. honeypots), a Linux VPS is a great choice.
For more on why and how I use Linux Virtua Private Server (VPS) or a cloud instance for my cybersecurity projects, check out my article below:
Hands-on and practical experience is what the employer ultimately cares about and will certainly set you apart from other candidates during your interviews and beyond.
3. Hands-On Projects
Practical experience is invaluable. By taking on hands-on projects, you’ll not only apply what you’ve learned but also demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Consider these projects:
- Set Up a Home Firewall
- Create a VPN Server
- Deploy a Honeypot
- Build a SIEM Server
- Simulate a Penetration Test
- Practice Web App Pentesting
Each of these projects offers a valuable opportunity to deepen your understanding and refine your skills.
For instance, deploying a honeypot allows you to work with Linux, threat intelligence & detection, network monitoring, malware analysis, and incident response in a practical setting.
If you’re not yet in a cybersecurity role, these projects can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience, addressing the chicken-and-egg problem of gaining experience before securing a job.
Remember to document your projects and share your work. This practice not only helps solidify your learning but also showcases your proactive approach and problem-solving abilities to potential employers.
Documenting your work on a blog or GitHub builds your portfolio faster and helps others by sharing your journey and knowledge.
For an example hands-on project, check out my Honeypot series below, where I cover how honeypots can significantly enhance your skill set in areas like Linux, threat intelligence, and network analysis.
For a more detailed exploration of practical hands-on projects, including detailed guidance and examples, be sure to read my article below:
These projects will not only hone your skills but also give you tangible achievements to showcase in your portfolio.
4. Build a Portfolio
Your portfolio is your professional showcase. It’s where you demonstrate what you can do, rather than just what you know.
A strong portfolio highlights your practical skills and hands-on experience, making it a key tool for standing out in the cybersecurity field and especially during job interviews.
Here are some effective ways to start building your cybersecurity portfolio:
- GitHub: Share the security tools and scripts you’ve developed. Include detailed CTF write-ups and walkthroughs to showcase your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
- Blog: Write about your techniques, share tutorials, and document your personal journey in cybersecurity. This helps others learn from your experiences while demonstrating your knowledge.
- Hands-On Projects: Highlight practical projects such as setting up a firewall, deploying a honeypot, or creating an attack lab. These projects provide tangible evidence of your skills and dedication.
- YouTube: Create videos where you explain your projects, demonstrate techniques, or offer tutorials. This medium can effectively showcase your communication skills and technical expertise.
Choose the platform that best fits your strengths. If you prefer writing, focus on blogging and GitHub.
💡 Tip: You can also mix and match. Blog your insights, share code on GitHub, and create YouTube walkthroughs.
A well-curated portfolio will set you apart and attract the attention of recruiters and employers alike.
5. Self-Development and Training
Continuous learning is non-negotiable in cybersecurity. Stay ahead by balancing theory with hands-on practice.
- Structured Learning: Leverage both paid and free courses on platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube to build and maintain your foundational knowledge.
- Hands-On Practice: Apply what you’ve learned through practical projects. Real-world application is where true mastery happens.
- Certifications: Pursue certifications to structure your learning and validate your skills. They not only enhance your resume but also demonstrate your commitment to professional growth.
- Interactive Learning Platforms: Utilize gamified platforms like TryHackMe and HackTheBox for a more engaging and practical learning experience.
- CTF Challenges: Test and hone your skills by participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions. These challenges provide a real-world feel and cover a wide range of cybersecurity domains.
Ready to dive into CTFs? Check out my article below for beginner-friendly resources to kickstart your CTF journey:
Remember, it’s not just about learning — it’s about applying what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.
6. Resume and LinkedIn
Your resume and LinkedIn profile are your digital first impressions.
A strong portfolio highlights your practical skills and hands-on experience, making it a key tool for standing out in the cybersecurity field. them count.
- LinkedIn as your Resume: Think of LinkedIn as your digital resume. Recruiters and hiring managers actively search for candidates on this platform, so ensure your profile is up-to-date, detailed, and reflects your skills and experience.
- Networking: Leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the cybersecurity field. But don’t stop there; expand your network through blogs, Reddit, conferences, and online communities. Building these connections can lead to opportunities you might not find otherwise.
- Engagement: Actively engage with your network by participating in discussions, sharing valuable insights, and showcasing your work. This not only keeps you visible but also establishes you as a knowledgeable and engaged professional.
In today’s digital age, a strong LinkedIn presence can open doors to new opportunities.
7. Staying Up-to-date
Cybersecurity is a fast-moving field. Staying informed is crucial to staying relevant.
- Cyber News Websites: Regularly follow cybersecurity news websites for up-to-the-minute updates on industry developments, threat reports, and emerging technologies. Examples are The Hacker News, Bleeping Computer, and Dark Reading.
- Blogs: Follow blogs that focus on new techniques, in-depth tutorials, and analysis of emerging threats. These are invaluable for expanding your knowledge base and learning from the experiences of other professionals in the field. Good blogs to follow include: KrebsOnSecurity, Schneier on Security and CrowdStrik Blog
- YouTube Channels: Subscribe to cybersecurity-focused YouTube channels that offer a mix of career guidance, hands-on tutorials, and the latest cyber news. Visual content can often make complex topics more accessible and easier to understand. Good channels to start with are David Bombal and John Hammond’s YouTube channels.
- Podcasts: Make cybersecurity podcasts a regular part of your routine. They’re a convenient way to stay informed about the latest trends, expert opinions, and in-depth discussions on various cybersecurity topics, all while on the go. Darknet Diaries and Security Now are great podcasts to start with.
I’ve put together a detailed list of resources to help you not just keep up, but stay ahead in the cybersecurity game. Be sure to check out the article below:
Being well-informed will help you anticipate trends and stay ahead of the curve.
Conclusion
Becoming a cybersecurity maverick isn’t about sticking to a set path; it’s about creating your own to master the core skills that form the backbone of the field, from operating systems and networking to programming and security fundamentals.
It also means building a portfolio that not only shows what you’ve done but proves that you’re not just talking the talk; you’re walking the walk.
To advance quickly in this field, you need to be proactive. Dive into hands-on projects, get involved in competitions, and stay updated on industry trends and emerging threats.
Engage with the community by networking, blogging, and participating in online forums.
Ultimately, your success will depend not just on what you know but on how you apply that knowledge, connect with others, and position yourself in a field that’s always evolving.
❕ Note: This overview article covers the key steps to get you started. Future articles will dive into each area with more detailed insights and practical guidance.
Until then, stay curious, keep pushing yourself, and most importantly, be a maverick in your approach to cybersecurity!
Further Reading
- Boost Your Cybersecurity Career With These 7 Hands-on Projects
- Capture The Flag (CTF) Resources For Beginners
- Cybersecurity Resources That Help Me Stay Ahead
- 3 Mistakes Every Beginner Ethical Hacker Makes
- My Hands-on Projects: Honeypot Series
- Level Up Your Linux-Fu: Essential Linux Skills For Cybersecurity Newbies
