Being a PC/IT Security Professional

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the requirements and pathways to becoming a PC/IT security professional, including time commitments, necessary training, and the distinctions between roles such as ethical hackers and security professionals. It encompasses conceptual inquiries and personal experiences related to the field.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the time required to become a PC security professional, suggesting it varies based on employer expectations and specific job roles.
  • There is a debate on whether one can become a PC/IT security professional solely by watching training videos, with a general consensus leaning towards the idea that practical experience is necessary.
  • Participants discuss the educational background typically required for security professionals, noting that many have degrees in computer science, networking, or information systems.
  • The distinction between white-hat hackers and security professionals is questioned, with some arguing that different titles imply different roles, while others suggest they share similar skill sets.
  • One participant mentions the necessity of ongoing training and certification, highlighting the commitment required to maintain qualifications in the field.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the time commitment and training necessary to enter the field, as well as the equivalence of roles within IT security. No consensus is reached on these points.

Contextual Notes

Participants' responses indicate a range of experiences and expectations, with some emphasizing the importance of practical skills over theoretical knowledge gained from videos. The discussion reflects varying interpretations of job titles and roles in the security profession.

mech-eng
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How much time does being a PC security professional require in general or at least? Is it possible to be a PC/IT security professional by only watching training videos? We learn maths via solving examples on paper how can a security professional student his or her topics? Are white-hat hackers and security professionals exactly the same?

Thank you.
 
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mech-eng said:
How much time does being a PC security professional require in general or at least?

It's like any other job and determined by the employer.

mech-eng said:
Is it possible to be a PC/IT security professional by only watching training videos?

Getting a job and being qualified for it are two different things. In general your answer is no.

mech-eng said:
We learn maths via solving examples on paper how can a security professional student his or her topics?

Most have backgrounds in computer science, networking and information systems.

mech-eng said:
Are white-hat hackers and security professionals exactly the same?

How can they be exactly the same when they have different titles? :wink:
 
Greg Bernhardt said:
It's like any other job and determined by the employer.

I did not ask about how much they earn I ask about how many years or how much time does it require to become one of them from almost zero level?
Greg Bernhardt said:
Getting a job and being qualified for it are two different things. In general your answer is no.

Would explain the difference basically?
Greg Bernhardt said:
How can they be exactly the same when they have different titles? :wink:
Ethical hacker or white hat hacker might have been a kind of IT/PC security professional how doctor and physician exactly the same even the names are different.

Thank you.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
mech-eng said:
I did not ask about how much they earn I ask about how many years or how much time does it require to become one of them from almost zero level?

There are some 2 year programs that may allow you to get hired in an entry level position. You question doesn't have a concrete answer. It all depends on the specific job you want. Look at job listings and find out the requirements.

mech-eng said:
Would explain the difference basically?

What? I wouldn't hire anyone who only watched training videos. Would you?

mech-eng said:
Ethical hacker or white hat hacker might have been a kind of IT/PC security professional how doctor and physician exactly the same even the names are different.

What? Hackers and security professionals would have some similar skill sets. I don't know what else to say.
 
It's like any other profession I think. It takes lots of instruction and it also requires maintenance time. Right now, I'm in the middle of 50 hours of refresher training for my Security + recertification that's required every 3 years.
 
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mech-eng said:
doctor and physician exactly the same even the names are different
I am a doctor. I am not a physician.
 
Dale said:
I am a doctor. I am not a physician.
LOL. Like he doesn't already have enough trouble understanding stuff... :wink:
 

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