Organizations require well-trained employees to assist them in staying up with their expanding security demands in the ever-changing world of cybersecurity and Network Security architects fill these positions.
When creating and developing a new network for any organization, a network security architect is required to supervise the building of the network and make sure that the system is capable of defending itself from attacks right from the beginning.
Building a network without considering the security measures in the area is just setting the company up for failure.
Security, it is frequently claimed, is the death of efficiency. It is the responsibility of network security architects to guarantee that this does not occur in their networks.
Security measures must be implemented without jeopardizing the entire network’s productivity and efficiency.
Security architects will be in charge of both defensive and aggressive network security solutions. Knowledge of firewalls, penetration testing and incident response are required, but it does not end there.
Because security architects will be aiding in the construction of networks, a thorough understanding of computer networking concepts such as routing and switching will be required.
A job as a security architect may be the ideal match for those who are interested in a unique blend of networking, security, and a little management.
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Who is a Network Security Architect?
Network Security architects are management-level people that handle the network security of a company.
These specialists are required when the network is originally conceived, built, and installed and during the network’s lifespan.
Network Security architects will oversee any changes to the network to ensure that they do not jeopardize the organization’s security.
It is not unusual for network security architects to be in charge of both defensive measures like implementing/configuring firewalls and anti-virus software and offensive testing like performing penetration tests.
What Do Network Security Architects Do?
Network Security architects will play an important role in every organization’s IT projects and efforts.
This is due to the fact that they will be responsible for designing, planning, and maintaining the security structures that will surround these projects or initiatives.
They will endeavor to keep an organization’s security at the best level possible by doing frequent testing, which may involve penetration testing, vulnerability scanning, and risk analysis.
They will keep current on evolving technology and be aware of potential risks in order to execute countermeasures.
They will often manage and supervise an organization’s security staff. Security architects are frequently in charge of driving security awareness campaigns.
Network Security Architect Skills
Each organization’s skill needs for security architects will be unique, and different.
The following are some examples of the abilities that network security architects should have-
- Networking Security architects will play an important role in the design and upkeep of computer networks. As a result, security architects must have a thorough understanding of computer networking concepts.
- It should be the main emphasis for anyone aspiring to work in the field of computer networking.
- Malware investigation General understanding of malware and malware analysis is required to be a competent security architect and defend the network from malware.
- Management abilities Because this is a management position, people interested in a career as a security architect, must manage both a project and a team of personnel.
- Risk management is a significant part of a network security architect’s job, therefore having a solid grasp of risk management basics is essential.
Network Security Architect: Job Description
Despite the fact that each job description will be unique to the employing firm, the skills required and broad criteria will frequently remain the same.
On their job descriptions, security architects might expect to see the following qualities:
- Managing and maintaining current system security measures while also deploying new and better systems
- Make certain that the concept of least privilege is followed by all workers.
- Implement and manage an Identity & Access Management (IAM) security architecture.
- Conduct security audits on third-party software and services.
- In charge of managing and supervising security awareness training programs.
- Continuous security testing, such as vulnerability scanning and risk analysis
5 Essential Steps to Follow In Order To Become A Network Security Architect
1. Prepare yourself thoroughly: In general, the work of a security architect is not for the faint of heart.
According to New Horizons Computer Learning Center, network security architects must have between 5 and 10 years of experience, with at least several of those years dedicated to cybersecurity.
This implies that while pursuing this professional route, individuals must be prepared for a long trip. Professionals should select what sort of degree they want to follow in order to qualify for a job as a network security architect.
Both generalized computer science degrees and specialist cybersecurity degrees can be useful in this industry.
Following that, professionals should consider what sort of steppingstone job would be appropriate for them in order to obtain the necessary experience. All of this should be examined in order to develop a tailored career strategy.
2. Recognize Students interested in pursuing a career as a network security architect should first earn a bachelor’s degree in a related subject. It is up to the person to select a curriculum that will assist them in advancing their profession.
A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, for example, or a bachelor’s degree in computer science, might be an excellent choice.
However, because a security architect is a management-level position, professionals will almost certainly be needed to have a master’s degree in cybersecurity or a related subject.
Experience in similar disciplines can occasionally be substituted for a master’s degree.
3. Acquire Experience A network security architect is not an entry-level position, as previously stated. Network Security Architects can begin their careers in big technology companies that spend billions of dollars on the network security of their organization.
Because it is a management position, professionals usually begin with an entry-level position, progress to a more intermediate position, and then to the post of security architect.
For example, a person may begin their career as a system administrator, then progress to a more security-focused job as a security engineer, and eventually to the post of a network security architect.
Security administrator, network administrator, security expert, security analyst, and security consultant are all jobs that might lead to a security architect post.
4. Apply: There is nothing left to do except applying after researching the world of network security architects, obtaining the appropriate degrees and certifications, and accumulating 5-10 years of experience in a similar sector.
Jobs may be discovered online, just like any other career in cybersecurity, by searching for keywords like “security architect” on sites like Indeed.com, Glassdoor.com, LinkedIn, and others.
6. Continue to learn. A security architect’s education is never-ending. Because this is a management position and security is always evolving, security architects must keep current on new and emerging threats and security approaches on a frequent basis.
Network Security Architect: Job Description
Despite the fact that each job description will be unique to the employing company, the skills required and broad criteria will frequently remain the same.
On their job descriptions, security architects might expect to see the following criteria:
(1)Managing and maintaining current system security measures, as well as putting in new and better ones.
(2)Ascertain that all employees are subjected to the principle of least privilege.
(3)Execute and maintain a security architecture for Identity & Access Management (IAM).
(4)Examine the security of third-party applications and services.
(5)Initiatives for security awareness training are managed and overseen.
(6)Continuous security testing, such as vulnerability scanning and risk assessment
Network Security Architect: Salary & Career Potential in the US
Computer security, including security and network architects, has a strong need for competent management.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, your years of hard work and service will pay off with a typical salary of $112,690 per year, and job growth for the sector is anticipated at 5% through 2028, which is substantially faster than the national average.
According to Payscale, the average network security architect income is USD 122,634. Of course, this varies depending on your region, years of experience, and the type of your relevant talent.
A cybersecurity architect also receives substantial health benefits and may be eligible for incentives and profit-sharing, according to Payscale.
Indeed’s blog offers some good news for those who are concerned about demand. Given that cybersecurity is the top worry of CEOs in the United States, it’s no surprise that the demand for network security architects is increasing.
Fears about cybercrime have grown in recent years as a result of many high-profile cybersecurity breaches.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, cybersecurity employment is expected to expand at a 37 percent annual pace between 2012 and 2022.
Also, as baby boomers retire and millennials fail to replace them at a commensurate rate, there looks to be a widening skills gap in the industry.
All of this, along with the fact that we live in a culture where business and leisure activities are increasingly conducted online, speaks to the strong demand for cybersecurity architects.
You can input this field and write your ticket if you have the necessary abilities and training.
Computer security, including security and network architects, has a strong need for competent management.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, your years of hard work and service will pay off with a typical salary of $112,680 per year, and job growth for the sector is anticipated at 5% through 2028, which is substantially faster than the national average.
Certifications for the ought-to-be Network Security Analysts
Certifications may be a useful tool for demonstrating to employers that you are knowledgeable in your field. Not all certificates, however, are made equal.
We’ve prepared a list of the most prevalent security architect certificates. Obtaining these credentials will not only offer you an advantage in the employment market, but they will also enhance your total worth.
1. Architecture Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
A candidate for the CISSP-ISSAP must have two years of professional experience in the field of architecture, and it is a good fit for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who operate as independent consultants or in comparable roles.
The architect is a crucial member of the information security department, with duties that fall in between the C-suite and top management, as well as the security program’s execution.
In general, the applicant would create, construct, or assess the entire security plan. Even though this job is frequently associated with technology, it may be essentially closer to the information security consulting and analytical process.
2. Information Security Manager Certification (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM®) certification program is created for industry-experienced information security managers and enthusiasts working in core information security management teams.
The CISM certification is for anybody responsible for managing, designing, overseeing, and/or assessing an organization’s information security (IS).
The CISM certification supports worldwide norms and ensures that people who acquire the credential have the necessary expertise and knowledge to deliver effective security management and advisory services to executives.
Individuals who achieve the CISM certification join a select group of peers and get a one-of-a-kind credential.
The CISM job practice also establishes a global job description for information security management as well as a technique for evaluating current employees and evaluating potential new recruits.
3. Information Systems Security Professional Certification (CISSP)
The CISSP has firmly established itself as the gold standard for security professionals. In fact, more than 70% of information security jobs on a prominent job website needed CISSP certification, according to an informal poll.
Corporations are looking for experienced information security experts that have the necessary qualifications to secure their data and assets.
Our course has been meticulously developed to give the most comprehensive examination of CISSP knowledge, testing methodologies, and preparatory resources available in the market.
While other CISSP course providers need considerable reading and practice test preparation between finishing the class and taking the exam, the students of this premier institute have found that the excellent quality of the course and in-class practice test results in a little amount of extra time spent studying for the exam.
4. Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The CISA credential is a worldwide recognized certification for information security audit, control, and assurance professionals.
Being CISA-certified indicates that you have audit expertise, skills, and knowledge, as well as the ability to manage vulnerabilities, assure compliance, and implement controls inside an organization.
5. Foundations of IT Information Library Certification (ITIL)
All IT service and support personnel should take the ITIL Foundations Certification course.
You will obtain a foundational knowledge of how IT service and support may be effectively structured to align IT with business objectives, enhance service quality, and decrease long-term costs, whether you are just implementing ITIL or working on continuous service improvement.
Advantages of the Course: 1) Learn about the ITIL framework and how it relates to the ten basic processes and the Service Desk role. 2) Understand how ITIL methods can be used in any size business, and 3) Promote a shared vision and language among the IT infrastructural community.
6. Certification in Security5
Anyone interested in studying computer networking and security principles should start with the Security5 Certification. The Security5 curriculum teaches people the fundamentals of networking literacy so they can start high-end IT programs.
7. Information Assurance Certification on a Global Scale (GIAC)
GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification) was created in 1999 by the SANS Institute in response to the requirement to certify the abilities of security experts.
The main objective of GIAC is to ensure that a well-trained and certified individual has the required knowledge and skills to be an effective practitioner in critical areas of network and information security.
SANS Security Essentials was recognized as fully compatible with NSTISSI’s 4013 training criteria in 2002.
Network Security Architect: Outlook
Security architects, like other cybersecurity jobs, have a bright future. Because threats to computer systems and networks cannot be entirely eradicated, the demand for competent security personnel is increasing.
However, there are fewer job openings because a security architect is a higher-level cybersecurity position than, say, a security analyst.
Hardware and software expertise is combined with programming skills, research abilities, and policy formulation in security architecture. Security architects foresee dangers and create methods to counteract them.
Security architects develop, build, and monitor computer and network security solutions as senior information technology experts.
Network Security architects generally have bachelor’s degrees in computer science or a related subject and years of expertise in the security industry. They are well trained to handle computer and network systems, cybersecurity, and risk management.
Additional knowledge in security strategies, techniques, and architecture is available through industry certifications, continuing education programs, and graduate degrees.
Network Security architects along with their core responsibilities are additionally required to be efficient in seamless communication with other members of the team to tackle the situations of a security breach.
Security architects are frequently entrusted with managing teams of information technology experts and are responsible for articulating and disseminating computer security policies and procedures within a company.
The Key Takeaways
We can see that the discipline of Security Architecture & Design has a bright future. A security architect’s function is more sophisticated than those of other cybersecurity professionals such as security analysts.
However, it is important to realize that a career in security architecture requires a lot of hard work before it pays off. Before getting a successful and profitable career, it is important to have the appropriate education and experience.
