Computer Security Specialist

With more and more of our lives moving online, data security and privacy concerns have become of paramount importance. Computer security specialists plan, coordinate, and maintain an organization’s information security. They guard data and networking systems against viruses, hackers and espionage, and guarantee the privacy of customers’ and clients’ personal and account information.

Computer Security Degrees

Applicants for computer security positions generally need a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, but for some positions, and associates degree and related experience may be sufficient. Bachelor’s degrees in computer science, management information systems (MIS) and much more can be earned online.

Computer Security Specialist Job Description

Computer security specialists do several things. Firstly, they keep the network and the corporation’s data secure by installing software and monitoring the networks for security breaches and attacks. Sometimes, they assist law enforcement by gathering evidence for prosecuting cyber crime.

Secondly, they educate users about computer security, raising everyone’s awareness of the ways in which a security breach may occur, and what safeguards and best practices to follow in order to keep the corporation and its data safe.

Computer Security Specialist Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median annual earnings of computer specialists (including computer security specialists) were $77,010 in May 2009. The middle 50 percent earned between $58,460 and $98,890. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $41,680, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $115,050.