Cyber security consultants specialise in protecting IT systems against digital threats. They assess vulnerabilities, develop tailor-made security strategies and intervene rapidly in the event of cyber-attacks to restore and secure data.
Working with in-house technical teams, they optimise security practices and train and educate staff in secure working methods. Versatile and methodical, consultants play a key role in preventing risks and managing IT security crises.
As experts in Windows, Linux and MacOS operating systems, cybersecurity consultants are familiar with their vulnerabilities. They have networking skills and are familiar with protocols, architectures and technologies such as VPNs and firewalls. His knowledge of cryptography covers encryption, SSL/TLS certificates and key management. They are skilled in programming languages such as Python, C and Java for developing security tools and automating tasks.
Cybersecurity consultants specialise in digital forensic analysis, a method of detecting malicious activity. As an expert in risk management and compliance with standards such as the RGPD, they are comfortable simplifying and communicating complex technical concepts to different audiences.
A cybersecurity consultant must have a strong capacity for analysis and synthesis to understand and deal with problems quickly. They have an acute sense of confidentiality, good communication skills to translate technical complexities into understandable terms, and an ability to anticipate threats. Their adaptability, interpersonal skills and team spirit enable them to work together in constantly changing environments.
To become a cybersecurity consultant, you need to have completed 5 years of higher education.
The career of a cybersecurity consultant begins with a Bachelor's degree in computer science, 2 years of foundation studies and 1 year of specialisation, with options such as cybersecurity or AI & Data. The typical career path continues with a 2-year Master's degree in cybersecurity in systems and network security.
In the field of cybersecurity, there are a number of specialist careers based around the protection of information systems. The Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) directs the overall security strategy after several years' experience. Penetration test experts simulate attacks to identify vulnerabilities, while security project managers supervise major projects and coordinate teams.
Security intelligence analysts and security architects work on threat anticipation and the design of secure infrastructures, respectively. Incident response specialists and governance and compliance consultants ensure responsiveness to attacks and compliance with legal standards.