The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
IT Helpdesk / Technical Support Specialist
1-2 yearsSkills to master
- Customer service, basic troubleshooting, ticket management, understanding user behaviour and common IT issues, a foundational grasp of operating systems and networks.
You're ready to move on when
- You're consistently solving user problems and closing tickets efficiently.
- You've started identifying security-related issues in your daily support work.
- You're curious about 'why' security incidents happen, not just 'how to fix' them.
- You've perhaps taken a CompTIA A+ or Network+ certification.
- 2
Self-Taught / Bootcamp Graduate
6-12 months intensive studySkills to master
- Fundamental cyber security concepts, basic networking, scripting (e.g., Python), penetration testing basics (ethical hacking labs), incident response theory.
You're ready to move on when
- You've completed a recognised cyber security bootcamp or comprehensive online course.
- You can demonstrate practical skills through personal projects, a lab environment, or CTF challenges.
- You've obtained a foundational certification like CompTIA Security+.
- You can articulate core security principles clearly.
- 3
University Graduate (Cyber Security/Computer Science)
0-1 year (post-graduation)Skills to master
- Theoretical understanding of cryptography, network security, operating system security, programming, and data structures. Applying academic knowledge to real-world scenarios.
You're ready to move on when
- You have a strong academic record in a relevant degree.
- You've completed relevant internships or final-year projects in cyber security.
- You understand the theoretical underpinnings of security concepts.
- You're eager to apply your knowledge in a practical, operational setting.