Cybersecurity Salary: Is This a Lucrative Profession? Find out!

Cybersecurity professionals are essential for smooth and secure functioning of any enterprise. This is precisely why cybersecurity salary is in the high range. Why? In lieu of an explanation, let’s look at some facts and let them speak for themselves: 

• In 2023, India was the target of 73 million phishing attacks, making it the third most targeted country
• In the first quarter of 2024, India witnessed 2,807 cyber attacks per week, marking a sharp 33% increase compared to the previous year 
• In India, financial loss due to cyber attacks amounted to more than ₹1,750 crores in the first four months of this year
• At the time of writing this article (July 16th, 2024), news broke that WazirX, a prominent Indian cryptocurrency organization, suffered a devastating data breach, resulting in a loss of $234.9 million

These numbers create a harrowing picture of the cybersecurity situation, highlighting the critical importance of security measures. Thus, the role of cybersecurity professionals is more vital than ever. So, what do these jobs entail, and moreover, what’s the range of cybersecurity salary for various job roles? Let’s find out!

Roles and Responsibilities of Cybersecurity Professionals

1. Security Needs Assessment

Cybersecurity professionals start by assessing an organization’s security requirements. Consequently, they identify potential risks and establish best practices and standards to mitigate these risks. For instance, this involves regular audits using tools like Nessus and evaluations with frameworks such as NIST to ensure systems remain secure.

2. Design & Manage Security

Designing and managing security involves creating secure network solutions to protect against cyberattacks. This includes implementing firewalls like Cisco ASA, encryption protocols such as AES, and other protective measures like IDS/IPS systems.

3. Incident Response & Recovery

This process involves identifying the source of the breach, closing security gaps, and implementing measures to prevent future incidents.

4. Vulnerability Management

Vulnerability management involves identifying and addressing weaknesses in the network. This includes regular penetration testing with tools like Metasploit, security scans using Qualys, and stress testing systems to find and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.

5. Breach Investigation Support

In case of breaches, cybersecurity professionals gather and analyze data to understand how the breach happened and what data was compromised.

6. Admin & Communication

Routine administrative tasks include reporting on security status using dashboards and communicating with other departments.

ALSO READ: A Guide to Cybersecurity Concepts: Know Its 10 Key Terms

Skills Required for Cybersecurity Professionals

To excel in cybersecurity, professionals need a diverse set of skills, ranging from technical expertise to a deep understanding of various systems and technologies.

1. Coding

Firstly, for a cybersecurity professional, knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C++, and JavaScript is of vital importance.

2. Operating Systems & Virtual Machines

Professionals must be proficient in multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and MacOS. Additionally, they should understand virtual machines (VMs), which are used for testing and isolating security environments with platforms like VMware and VirtualBox.

3. Networking & System Administration

Understanding networking and system administration is crucial. For instance, this includes knowledge of data transmission, network protocols, and managing servers. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Cisco CCNA are beneficial for demonstrating expertise in these areas.

4. Network Security Control

Cybersecurity professionals must be adept at tasks like configuring and maintaining network security control systems such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and virtual private networks (VPNs).

5. Blockchain Security

Cybersecurity experts need to know how to protect blockchain networks using this technology to enhance overall security. Knowledge of tools like Ethereum and Hyperledger can be useful.

6. Internet of Things (IoT) Security

With the proliferation of IoT devices, securing these devices and the networks they connect to is increasingly important. Professionals should be able to ensure that these devices do not become entry points for cyberattacks, using security platforms like Palo Alto Networks and Symantec.

7. Cloud Security

Securing cloud environments and ensuring that data stored in the cloud is protected from unauthorized access are skills that cybersecurity professionals must have. Here, knowledge of tools like AWS Shield and Azure Security Center can be crucial. 

8. Artificial Intelligence

Like every other field, AI is becoming a significant cybersecurity tool where professionals use AI to detect and respond to threats quickly. Hence, knowledge of AI systems such as Darktrace and Cylance, can be an added boost for a cybersecurity professional’s CV.

ALSO READ: Zero Trust—Strategy or Technology? All You Need to Know

Salary in Various Cybersecurity Job Roles

The field of cybersecurity is vast and entails a diverse range of tasks and responsibilities. So, let’s have a look at what the tasks and responsibilities are in these positions and how much financial compensation these positions come with. 

1. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

A CISO is a senior executive responsible for an organization’s information and data security. In essence, their role is crucial in ensuring that the company’s security strategy functions in tendem with its business goals and addresses emerging threats effectively.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive security policies tailored to the organization’s needs
• Oversee and manage all security operations and initiatives within the company
• Comprehensive management of the security budget, ensuring proper resource allocation

B. Salary

The average annual salary of a CISO comes around ₹73,02,205, making it one of the highest cybersecurity salaries available.

2. Network Security Engineer

Network security engineers protect the company’s network from threats and unauthorized access. Their role is vital for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the organization’s data and network infrastructure.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Design and implement robust security systems to safeguard the network
• Monitor network traffic continuously to detect and respond to suspicious activities
• Building and maintenance of firewalls

B. Salary

The average cybersecurity salary for this role is ₹6,61,015 per year. Their additional yearly cash compensation ranges from ₹30,000 – ₹1,07,500.

3. Penetration Tester

Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems to help organizations strengthen their defenses. This role is essential in proactively finding security weaknesses before malicious hackers do.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Conduct regular penetration tests to evaluate the security of systems
• Document and report findings in detail to the relevant stakeholders
• Recommend improvements to enhance security measures

B. Salary

On average, certified professionals in this role can earn around ₹6,57,000 per year. 

4. Cybersecurity Analyst

Cybersecurity analysts play a key role in protecting an organization’s data by identifying and addressing vulnerabilities. Their work ensures that potential threats are mitigated before they cause significant damage.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Implement security measures to protect the organization’s data and systems
• Monitor networks for potential threats and respond swiftly
• Conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify and fix weaknesses

B. Salary

The average cybersecurity salary for this role is ₹6,70,000 per year.

5. Cloud Security Engineer

Cloud security engineers ensure that cloud-based systems are secure and that data is protected from unauthorized access. Their expertise is increasingly important as more organizations migrate to cloud storage and services.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Secure cloud environments using the latest security technologies and practices
• Implement security policies specific to cloud platforms
• Monitor cloud systems for threats and respond promptly to any incidents

B. Salary

The average yearly compensation for this role is approximately ₹9,42,000, making it one of those positions with a lucrative cybersecurity salary.

6. Database Administrator

Database administrators protect an organization’s data stored in databases from cyber threats. They ensure that data integrity and security are maintained at all times.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Maintain database security through regular updates and patches
• Implement data encryption to protect sensitive information
• Monitor database activity to detect and respond to security breaches

B. Salary

This position attracts a yearly average remuneration of ₹8,40,000, which places it in the best cybersecurity salary list. 

ALSO READ: What is Ethical Hacking? The Essential Guide to Legal Hacking Practices

7. Information Security Specialist

Information security specialists are responsible for safeguarding an organization’s information systems and data. Their role ensures that security protocols are up-to-date and effective.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Implement and manage security measures across the organization
• Conduct risk assessments to identify potential security threats
• Ensure compliance with security regulations and standards

B. Salary

The position of an information security specialist comes with one of the best cybersecurity salaries. In this role, professionals earn around ₹10,93,500 annually.

8. cybersecurity Consultant

cybersecurity consultants work with organizations to develop and implement effective security strategies. Their expertise helps companies navigate complex security challenges.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify vulnerabilities
• Recommend tailored security solutions to address specific needs
• Provide ongoing security advice and support to clients

B. Salary

On average, the cybersecurity salary for this position is ₹10,00,000 per year.

9. Cybersecurity Manager

Cybersecurity managers oversee an organization’s security protocols and respond to breaches. Their leadership ensures that the organization’s security measures are both effective and up-to-date.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic security plans
• Manage and lead security teams to ensure cohesive operations
• Respond to security incidents promptly to mitigate damage

B. Salary

The average remuneration for this role is ₹24,35,000 per year, and this makes it one of the most sought-after positions because of such a lucrative cybersecurity salary.  

Ethical Hacker

Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, utilize their expertise to detect and address security vulnerabilities preemptively. Their proactive approach is essential in preventing potential cyber-attacks.

A. Tasks and Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough penetration tests to uncover security weaknesses
• Report security weaknesses clearly and concisely
• Provide detailed recommendations for security improvements

B. Salary

With an average yearly remuneration of ₹26,16,000, ethical hacking figures as a job with one of the best cybersecurity salaries. 

ALSO READ: Fortify Your Network: What is a Firewall and Why You Need it Now?

As the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks increase, the need for cybersecurity professionals becomes ever more critical. Data breaches not only cost organizations an average of ₹17.9 crore—a 28% rise from 2023—but also damage their reputations. Consequently, cybersecurity engineers are essential for public and private organizations, creating a vast job market.

If you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, the demand for skilled professionals is high and growing. To stay ahead, consider joining courses like Emeritus’ online courses on cybersecurity, which provide the training and certification needed to excel in this field.

Write to us at content@emeritus.org