What is information assurance and security? Today, it is now a growing field. And most of the time, it pays a fat paycheck.
So, let us dig deeper into that in this article.
Information Assurance and Security
Information assurance and security (IAS) is the love child of these two fields:
- Information Assurance. It focuses on making sure of the data’s CIA triad. As well as its non-repudiation, and authentication. Also, it means restoring systems. By protecting, detecting, and giving a fast reaction. In short, it focuses on gathering data.
- Information Security. The focus of this is keeping the data from unauthorized access. As well as use, disclosure, editing, deletion, and more. Thus, ensuring the CIA triad is intact. In short, it focuses on keeping data safe.
While similar, these two are two different. And today, information systems are rising to be crucial.
And that is most true for many fields. Like in banking, commerce, healthcare, national security, and more.
Thus, driving the need for more IAS experts. So, how do you become one?
Becoming an Information Assurance and Security Expert
To be an IAS expert, you need to have a bachelor’s degree in related IT courses. Also, it will be helpful if your major is in information security or cybersecurity.
This will build you up to be an expert in the security field. Then, you need to get some certifications. Join any training and seminars you can find.
Some popular certifications are ISACA’s CISM and (ISC)2’s CISSP. Or you can get the EC-Council’s CCISO to show your passion in the field.
Then, build the skills needed for the job.
You need to grasp well the use of data within an organization. This is so that you can help in designing and installing the right system for them. These may include:
- databases
- networks
- applications
Then, you need to be able to help them solve any security and data issues. And help with making disaster recovery plans. Then execute them in case of emergencies.
This may mean backing up data or installing security measures. Further, you need not only IT skills.
It is also vital to have other skills. Like being detail-oriented, committed to securing data. Or even being aware of security policies.
Then, when starting, there are entry-level jobs you can choose from. Like being a:
- security analyst
- database manager
- information integrity specialist
After a few years, you might find yourself in a higher position like:
- director of information security
- chief information security officer (CISO)
Can You Become One?
Don’t worry. As said, this field is growing. So you can find a lot of openings. This is because IAS is vital to all kinds of sectors.
Especially now that we are in this digital age. Also, there a huge digital skills gap. Meaning, there is more need for experts than there are experts themselves.
So, if you want to pursue being an IAS expert, go ahead and do so. You will find yourself in a field that gives you the challenge and satisfaction you need.
