How to become a Ethical Hacker | Job Description

Home Career Options Computer Science and Information Technology Ethical Hacker

Originally, the term 'hacker' referred to a talented programmer who was knowledgeable about machine code and computer operating systems. A 'hacker' is now defined as someone who regularly engages in hacking activities and has adopted hacking as a lifestyle and philosophy of choice. Hacking is the practice of altering the characteristics of a system in order to achieve a goal that is not intended by the designer.

The buzzword 'hacking' carries negative connotations, but only until the job of an ethical hacker is completely understood. Ethical hackers are the "white hat" hackers, the good guys in the cyber industry.

Instead of utilizing their extensive computer expertise for criminal purposes, ethical hackers find gaps in data computer security for businesses and organizations all over the world in order to defend them against hackers with less than honorable intentions.

If you're a professional who enjoys the thrills of the computer world and enjoys a good challenge, a career in ethical hacking may be appealing. You have the option to utilize your expertise to hack into computer systems and get paid well for it. It is not simple to get started in the area, as it is in many others, but if you put in the work first, you will be able to design a highly successful career for yourself. Furthermore, ethical hackers are always on the good side of the law!

Cyber warfare is exceedingly widespread, and many high-profile companies have had big hacking incidents. In this day and age, global spending on IT security is approaching the trillion-dollar barrier. The need for ethical hackers is at an all-time high and is expected to rise further.

Who is a Hacker (Ethical Hacker)?

Ethical hackers are recruited or paid to safeguard computer networks from unlawful breaches by unethical hackers that illegally infiltrate computer systems in order to acquire private and sensitive data. An ethical hacker's profession entails breaking into his company's system in the same way as a hacker does use advanced technology. The goal of an Ethical Hacker is to find any flaws in his employer's system. When a flaw is discovered, it is repaired. The ethical hacker, as a member of the security team, also verifies that the system is firewalled, security procedures are in place, and sensitive files are encrypted.

Hacker (Ethical Hacker) Eligibility

A Bachelor's degree in Information Technology (B.Sc in IT / Computer Engineering, for example) or an advanced certificate in network security is required for an Ethical Hacker.

A certification from a reputable institute increases your chances of being employed by some of the biggest brands in the IT industry. International accreditations include:

Certified Ethical Hacker (EC-Council)
Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator (EC-Council)
GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN) by SAN and GIAC
Certified Intrusion Analyst (GCIA) can further improve job prospects.

Aside from ambition, the applicant must have substantial expertise in network security and a functional understanding of multiple operating systems. Microsoft and Linux servers, Cisco network switches, virtualization, Citrix, and Microsoft Exchange are all areas of competence. A working understanding of the most recent penetration software is required.

How to Become an Ethical Hacker?

If you lack computer science skills, getting a degree is the best method to become an ethical hacker.

STEP 1

After completing a 10+2 class with Math and Physics as the core courses, the aspirant must apply for a degree or diploma study in Computer Science, Information Science, or a similar information technology sector. Many private and public engineering colleges provide this service.
However, certain prestigious colleges with restricted seats, such as Thapar Engineering College, PEC, BITS Pilani, and all IITs, may admit applicants based on their performance in admission exams like the Joint Admission Exam, etc.

STEP 2

In addition, applicants without a formal degree who are interested in this profession can pursue Ethical Hacking Certifications.
One can:

Obtain an IT security certification
Obtain an IT security certification; enroll in a four-year computer science school
Enroll in a two-year program that is especially concentrated on IT analysis and security.

STEP 3

Aspiring professionals can apply for vacancies in various commercial and non-commercial organizations dealing in Computer system security design and related services industry, Internet service providers, and related services firms after completing their graduation/certification and gaining knowledge of information security and system administration.

Ethical Hacker Career Scope

The future of ethical hacking is limitless. Government, business enterprises, health care, entertainment, finance, law enforcement, forensic laboratories, detective firms, CBI, National security agencies, and others are all rapidly developing in this domain.

Thus, people with a Graduate degree in computer science and some form of certification in the subject of hacking or anything similar have a strong chance of finding a lucrative career.

A surge in cybercrime and penetration into large corporations' computer systems has compelled many firms to hire ethical hackers to secure their network security from any potential danger. As a result, Ethical Hacking as a career option is a sure bet in the next few years.

Talented Ethical Hackers can pursue a career with some of the biggest brands in the IT industry, such as Wipro, Dell, Reliance, Google, Accenture, IBM, and Infosys.

An ethical hacker's job titles include security consultant, forensics investigator, security investigator, network security system administrator/manager, web security administrator, and application security executive.

There is no turning back for Ethical Hackers once they are hired. Database administrators may rise to managerial jobs after gaining expertise.

Other Job Roles for Ethical Hackers

Applications Security Executive	The experts who validate the secure design and development of IT applications are known as application security specialists/executives. They work on the cyber security team. They also assist developers in adhering to a secure SDLC procedure.
Data Security Specialists	Data security professionals plan and implement security assessments across computer hardware and software platforms. They safeguard the system from cyber threats.
Security Auditor	The security auditor's job is to evaluate and investigate the organization's financial systems. In addition, they audit and evaluate security measures and processes. They collaborate with the company's IT specialists, managers, and executives.
Security Certified Programmer	A security-certified programmer is an expert who creates computer programs that protect computer systems and data.
Web Security Manager	Web security managers are in charge of developing, implementing, and maintaining security procedures to protect information. To ensure the security of their firm, they must monitor all activities and infrastructure.

Types of Hackers

Cybercriminals	Cybercriminals are persons or groups of people who utilize technology to perform harmful acts on digital systems or networks in order to steal valuable corporate information or personal data and profit.
Ethical Hackers	Ethical hackers, sometimes known as "white hats," are security specialists who do these security audits. Their proactive effort contributes to an organization's security posture.
Hacktivists	Hacktivists are criminal gangs that band together to carry out computer assaults in favor of political objectives. Hacktivists often target whole sectors, but they may also target single businesses that they believe do not share their political beliefs or policies.
Script kiddies	A playscript A kiddie, skiddie, kiddie, or skid is an incompetent person who utilizes scripts or programs written by others for harmful intentions.

Ethical Hacker Salary Prospects

Once you've started working as an ethical hacker, you'll use all of your technical and security knowledge to try to break the network security of the company or organization that hired you. The company will want a full analysis of your results as well as recommendations for improving network security. This effort shields them against the hacking operations of people with nefarious and unlawful intents.

In the current market, an entry-level Ethical Hacker may expect to earn Rs. 5 lacks per year. Candidates with better academic degrees and professional experience, on the other hand, can earn up to Rs. 30 lacks per year, depending on the job function.

Ethical Hacking Top Recruiters

These top recruiters either employ people with excellent compensation packages from colleges or hire a trained ethical hacking specialist for their company.

The following are some of the firms in India that recruit ethical hackers to earn a great income even as freshers: