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What is information security?
Written byKellye Fox
Reviewed byKathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP,Dean, College of Business and IT
Businesses and organizations that rely on digital data and live under the threat of data breaches, need information security to ensure confidentiality, integrity and availability of their digital assets. Let’s look at this area of IT.
Introduction to information security
What is information security exactly? Sometimes known as “infosec,” it falls under the broaderinformation technology(IT) fieldand focuses on protecting data, checking for vulnerabilities in network systems, blocking unauthorized access. Professionals in this field oversee computer networks and promptlyinvestigate data breaches. They use protective software, like firewalls and data encryption programs, to guard sensitive information. They also stay updated on IT security trends and advise on security protocols and enhancements.
Challenges and opportunities of information security
As data, infosec professionals are challenged to develop more sophisticated techniques to thwart malicious or negligent acts. Technologies like artificial intelligence also introducenew security challenges, including difficulty detecting ransomware and phishing schemes.
As a result, there’sgrowing demandin this field for skilled professionals across various industries. like risk management, incident response, encryption andcryptography, for example. Protecting digital assets, in other words, can take many forms, so embracing acontinuous learning mindsetcan position professionals to thrive in this ever-changing field.
Information security vs. cybersecurity
While some people use the terms interchangeably,information security and cybersecurityare separate fields and have different functions. (The National Institute of Standards and Technology classifies these areas as different fields and lists them separately in itsglossary of terms.)
Cybersecurity is actually asubset of the infosed fieldthat focuses on the protection of digital systems and cyber threats, likemalware, phishing, ransomware, spyware and hacking.
Information security, meanwhile, encompassesphysical, digital and intellectual formats.
The two fields occasionally overlap when it comes to managing digital files. Infosec and cybersecurity alsoshare some of the same minimum education requirements, career paths and
Job outlook and salary potential
As of May 2024, information security analysts earned between , with a median wage of $124,910, according tothe U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some of thehighest-paying industriesfor these analysts are information, finance and insurance, and computer systems design.
Employment of information security analysts is , much faster than the average for all occupations. About 17,300 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade.
Thisfaster-than-average employmentincrease is partially due to businesses’ need for experts who can manage and solve problems like fraud prevention and data risks, according to BLS.
Salary ranges and BLS Occupational Employment Projections are not specific to students or graduates of ۴ý. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. ۴ý does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.
BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2023-2033 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to ۴ý students or graduates.
Skills and certifications
Prospective students can enhance their employability by gaining in-demand skills andobtaining certifications. While not required, employers prefer candidates with a certification, according to BLS.
Earning those certifications (with such organizations asEC-CouncilandCompTIA) can be its own process.
BLS outlines that information security professionals should have, such as:
- Analytical abilities: On a basic level, information security analysts need to know how to examine computer systems and networks, evaluatevulnerabilities, and identify ways to improve security protocols and policies.
- Effective communication: Being able to convey information to both technical and non-technical audiences is crucial when potential threats need to be resolved quickly and withconfidentiality.
- Innovative aptitude: Another key responsibility for infosec is anticipating potential security risks and devising new methods to protect computer systems and networks.
- Attention to detail: There’s a wealth of information to pay attention to when there are cyberattacks, so security analysts in this field must meticulously observe even minor performance fluctuations.
- Problem-solving expertise: Working under pressure is especially needed when it’s time to uncover and promptly address security alerts.
Education for careers in information security
According to BLS, many information security positions require a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology or a related field.
While there isn’t a specificinformation security programavailable at ۴ý, several undergraduate and graduateonline programs include information security in their curriculum for fundamental and advanced knowledge:
- Online associate of science in cybersecurity
- Online bachelor's in cybersecurity
- Online cybersecurity master's
- Information Assurance and Security Certificate
Contact ۴ý for more information.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kellye is a versatile writer with more than 10 years of print and digital experience. She’s passionate about explaining complex topics, educating readers and sharing useful tips. When Kellye’s not attached to her computer, she enjoys cooking, gardening, reading and watching movies with her husband and two children.
ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Currently Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology,Kathryn Uhles has served ۴ý in a variety of roles since 2006. Prior to joining ۴ý, Kathryn taught fifth grade to underprivileged youth in ۴ý.
This article has been vetted by ۴ý's editorial advisory committee.
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