Introduction:
As the saying goes, time flies when you're having fun, and for me, the last six months at my job have been nothing short of exhilarating. Not only have I settled into my role and become an integral part of the team, but I've also achieved significant professional milestones by obtaining both the Security+ and CySA+ certifications.
Security+ Certification:
I was procrastinating on this one, but I finally got it taken care of on October 03, 2023. The Security+ was crucial for me to establish a solid foundation. I'll briefly mention some of the skills I gained and the tools I experienced.
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- Cryptography
- Identity and Access Management (IAM):
- Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities:
- Security Architecture and Design:
- Security Operations:
- Application Security:
- Cloud Security:
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Some of the studying tools I'm employed were Professor Messer's free videos on youtube. The PocketPrep app and James Dion's Course and Practice Questions on Youtube.
CySA+ Certification:
Building on the foundation laid by Security+, I set my sights on the Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification. This advanced certification delves deeper into the realms of threat detection, response, and recovery. Achieving CySA+ has not only broadened my skillset but has also provided me with the tools to analyze and respond to cybersecurity incidents effectively. The certification process challenged me to think critically and strategically, ultimately enhancing my problem-solving abilities. I definitely appreciated the challenege it gave me, as it was a step up in difficulty from the Secuirty+.
The First Six Months:
The initial months at a new job are often filled with excitement, challenges, and learning opportunities. Adjusting to the company culture, understanding team dynamics, and grasping the intricacies of your role can be both rewarding and demanding. In my case, I've had the pleasure of working with a talented and supportive team, making the transition seamless. As I reflect on the past six months, I'm grateful for the opportunities to contribute to projects, collaborate with colleagues, and grow both personally and professionally.
A few of the projects I've been able to work on include:
- Yearly Software Review
-Data Audit inside the company
-Incident Response Scenario Testing
-Yearly Policy Review
The Significance of Continuous Learning: In the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, staying ahead of emerging threats and technologies is paramount. The pursuit of certifications like Security+ and CySA+ is not just a one-time achievement but a commitment to continuous learning. By investing in my professional development, I not only add value to my organization but also position myself as a resourceful and knowledgeable cybersecurity professional.
Looking Ahead: With Security+ and CySA+ under my belt, my journey in cybersecurity is far from over. I am excited about the opportunities to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios and hands-on practice. My next goal is to complete the CDSA offered by Hack the Box. I believe this will push me to the intermediate level as it is a way to test all the knowledge I've gained from CompTIA.
Conclusion: The first six months on the job and the journey to Security+ and CySA+ certifications have been both fulfilling and enlightening. As I mark this milestone, I am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me and excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.