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What skills are most valuable for volunteers in Cyber Security roles?
What skills are most valuable for volunteers in Cyber Security roles?
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14 answers
Updated
Queenie’s Answer
There are many online courses which you can start equipping yourself with the domain knowledge e.g. CompTIA+ network, CompTIA security + or certified ethical hacker. That way, you will hv a structured approach on how to get things started.
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Ismat’s Answer
Important knowledge for cybersecurity volunteers are many. They require knowledge of computer operating systems, networks and network security, vulnerabilities in the software stacks, cloud computing, and some knowledge of programming. It also important for the cyber security volunteers to have analytical skills, critical thinking capabilities and also problem-solving abilities. Lets not forget the soft skills like communication, attention to detail, collaboration etc. are also important for teamwork, clear documentation, and staying current with evolving threats.
Chassica Braynen-Thomas, MBA, ITIL
Lead Tech Business Management & Entrepreneur
9
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Chassica’s Answer
You can definitely make a difference volunteering in cybersecurity. Here are some ways to get started building up those important skills:
1. **Learn Basic Tech Skills**: Get to know operating systems like Windows and Linux. Understand networking basics such as TCP/IP, DNS, and firewalls.
2. **Master Programming and Scripting**: Learn languages like JavaScript, Python, and SQL to help you write and understand security systems.
3. **Identify and Manage Risks**: Practice spotting vulnerabilities and managing risks. Study threats like malware, phishing, and DDoS attacks.
4. **Get Comfortable with Security Tools**: Use tools like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and SIEM solutions to strengthen your skills.
5. **Improve Incident Response Skills**: Learn how to respond to security incidents and build system resilience.
These are starting points. Keep learning and exploring more classes and resources as you find them.
1. **Learn Basic Tech Skills**: Get to know operating systems like Windows and Linux. Understand networking basics such as TCP/IP, DNS, and firewalls.
2. **Master Programming and Scripting**: Learn languages like JavaScript, Python, and SQL to help you write and understand security systems.
3. **Identify and Manage Risks**: Practice spotting vulnerabilities and managing risks. Study threats like malware, phishing, and DDoS attacks.
4. **Get Comfortable with Security Tools**: Use tools like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and SIEM solutions to strengthen your skills.
5. **Improve Incident Response Skills**: Learn how to respond to security incidents and build system resilience.
These are starting points. Keep learning and exploring more classes and resources as you find them.
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Veronica’s Answer
Hi there! I hope you're doing great. I suggest focusing on both technical skills, like network security and operating systems, and soft skills, like problem-solving and communication. It's important to understand information security concepts and know how to use tools and techniques to keep systems and data safe.
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Nandhini’s Answer
Check out this link - https://roadmap.sh/cyber-security to start your journey in learning and building your cybersecurity skills. You'll discover which skills are important to learn, see different roles in the field, and find helpful resources on specific topics. Dive in and boost your skills today!
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Arlandas’s Answer
Integrity and ethical judgment
Attention to detail
Analytical thinking
Problem-solving mindset
Adaptability and willingness to learn
Persistence and resilience
Curiosity and investigative drive
Strong communication skills
Collaboration and teamwork
Accountability and reliability
Attention to detail
Analytical thinking
Problem-solving mindset
Adaptability and willingness to learn
Persistence and resilience
Curiosity and investigative drive
Strong communication skills
Collaboration and teamwork
Accountability and reliability
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Quadesia’s Answer
The most valuable skills for volunteers in cyber security roles include a combination of technical knowledge, analytical thinking, and strong communication abilities.
On the technical side, understanding the basics of networking, security concepts such as encryption and authentication, and familiarity with operating systems like Windows and Linux are highly beneficial. Experience with security tools, such as vulnerability scanners or network analyzers, can also be useful, as is the ability to recognize and respond to security incidents.
Analytical skills, including attention to detail and critical thinking, help volunteers assess risks and identify potential threats effectively. Equally important are soft skills, such as the ability to explain security best practices to non-technical users, document findings clearly, and collaborate with diverse teams.
Ethical conduct and a commitment to confidentiality are essential, given the sensitive nature of cyber security work.
Finally, a willingness to continuously learn and adapt is crucial, as the cyber threat landscape is constantly evolving. These combined skills enable volunteers to make a meaningful impact, whether they are helping organizations secure their systems or educating communities about online safety.
On the technical side, understanding the basics of networking, security concepts such as encryption and authentication, and familiarity with operating systems like Windows and Linux are highly beneficial. Experience with security tools, such as vulnerability scanners or network analyzers, can also be useful, as is the ability to recognize and respond to security incidents.
Analytical skills, including attention to detail and critical thinking, help volunteers assess risks and identify potential threats effectively. Equally important are soft skills, such as the ability to explain security best practices to non-technical users, document findings clearly, and collaborate with diverse teams.
Ethical conduct and a commitment to confidentiality are essential, given the sensitive nature of cyber security work.
Finally, a willingness to continuously learn and adapt is crucial, as the cyber threat landscape is constantly evolving. These combined skills enable volunteers to make a meaningful impact, whether they are helping organizations secure their systems or educating communities about online safety.
Edmond Momartin ☁️
Public Cloud Security & Compliance AT&T | MBA InfoSec | OWASP-LA Board
99
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Edmond’s Answer
If by volunteering you are referring to volunteering at one of the cybersecurity non-profit organizations (OWASP, ISC2, ISSA, ISACA, etc.), you just need to show up and contribute in any way you can. No special skills needed.
If you're referring to internships however, then it all depends - cybersecurity is a very broad field and pretty much any skill set you have can be put to good use. Check the "Explore Cybersecurity Career Options" section of https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/cybersecurity-students - the page provides a great overview of all available areas in cybersecurity.
If you're referring to internships however, then it all depends - cybersecurity is a very broad field and pretty much any skill set you have can be put to good use. Check the "Explore Cybersecurity Career Options" section of https://niccs.cisa.gov/education-training/cybersecurity-students - the page provides a great overview of all available areas in cybersecurity.
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
Volunteers in cybersecurity have a great opportunity to make a difference by learning about common threats, managing risks, and understanding security protocols like SSL/TLS and VPN. Knowing networking basics like TCP/IP and firewalls is important too. Familiarity with security tools such as antivirus software, intrusion detection systems, and vulnerability scanning is beneficial. Helping with incident response and learning to analyze and document security incidents is valuable work. Understanding compliance regulations like GDPR and HIPAA, and running security awareness training and phishing simulations, adds to your skill set.
Beyond technical know-how, having strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills is crucial, especially when collaborating with non-technical teams. Stay curious and keep learning about new threats and technologies. Earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and Cisco CyberOps can enhance your credibility. Gaining hands-on experience through platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and contributing to organizations like OWASP provides great practice. Virtual internships or experiences from places like CyberIntern Academy or online boot camps offer practical knowledge. Structured learning through Cybrary, Udemy, and Coursera, along with staying informed through sources like Krebs on Security, will set you on the path to a successful cybersecurity career.
Beyond technical know-how, having strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills is crucial, especially when collaborating with non-technical teams. Stay curious and keep learning about new threats and technologies. Earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH, and Cisco CyberOps can enhance your credibility. Gaining hands-on experience through platforms like TryHackMe, Hack The Box, and contributing to organizations like OWASP provides great practice. Virtual internships or experiences from places like CyberIntern Academy or online boot camps offer practical knowledge. Structured learning through Cybrary, Udemy, and Coursera, along with staying informed through sources like Krebs on Security, will set you on the path to a successful cybersecurity career.
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John’s Answer
When leading cyber security teams, the main challenge I've faced is their attitude towards users. IT's role is to help the business and support the users. Cyber security experts often struggle to balance keeping things secure and allowing work to get done. When you volunteer, aim to find this balance, learn from the users, and get to know the business. Always keep in mind the trade-off between risk and benefit.
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Val’s Answer
For volunteers in cybersecurity, the most valuable soft skills are curiosity, attention to detail, communication, teamwork, and reliability. Being curious helps you explore and understand systems deeply. Attention to detail allows you to spot unusual patterns or vulnerabilities. Strong communication lets you explain findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences. Teamwork is essential for collaborating effectively, and reliability shows that others can count on you to follow through on tasks. These skills are just as important as technical knowledge and help you make a meaningful impact while learning.
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Xin’s Answer
Hi Arta,
Good Day!
First, understand operating systems (Windows, Linux), networking (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls), and common protocols. Also, knowledge of threats (malware, phishing, DDoS), encryption, authentication, and risk management skills are necessary. Then, you should be familiar with tools like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and SIEM solutions.
You can try some volunteering to gain experience. Volunteering in cybersecurity not only builds skills but also helps protect vulnerable organizations.
Wish you all the best!
Good Day!
First, understand operating systems (Windows, Linux), networking (TCP/IP, DNS, firewalls), and common protocols. Also, knowledge of threats (malware, phishing, DDoS), encryption, authentication, and risk management skills are necessary. Then, you should be familiar with tools like Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit, Burp Suite, and SIEM solutions.
You can try some volunteering to gain experience. Volunteering in cybersecurity not only builds skills but also helps protect vulnerable organizations.
Wish you all the best!
Updated
tech’s Answer
The most important lesson I learned from my professor is about the three key things you need: a degree, experience, and certifications. Having all three can help you succeed.
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DERRICK’s Answer
Hello, you can sign up for UDemy which will allow you to watch some intro to cybersecurity lessons. YouTube is also essential in learning the basic understanding of Cybersecurity.