In today’s interconnected world cybersecurity is much more about protecting people than protecting computers. The hackers can access personal information and sensitive data including financial details. This can damage people financially and socially making cybersecurity an ultimate way to protect their digital assets. Continuous learning in cybersecurity helps you keep your data secure and protected. Here we will discuss a little more about the importance of continuous learning in cybersecurity.

The Evolving Cybersecurity Landscape:

Cyber security evolved as a distinct field in the 1960s to 1970s but it came across people's knowledge in the 1980’s when the internet was formed. 

Ø  In 1980’s the real malware emerged for the first time and modern tools and techniques were developed that are still in use. 

Ø  The 1990s was the decade of viruses. This was the rise of the anti-malware industry and people started taking cyber security much more seriously.

Ø  2000s was the decade of credit card breaches, hacktivism, and ransomware attacks. In 2010 hackers started to target major corporations and government organizations to steal and damage data or demand ransom.

In the present day computers are so integrated into our lives and any attack on them can disrupt transportation, power, economy, healthcare, communication, and even lives. Therefore need for continuous learning in cyber security comes forward.

Benefits of Continuous Learning :

1.      Continuous learning in the field of cybersecurity keeps you ahead of the common threats as well as advanced threats of the modern era.

2.      Staying updated helps in professional growth. Employers seek professionals with updated skills who can cope with the latest trends and technologies in the industry.

3.      With continuous learning, you can meet the compliance obligations and regulatory requirements and go beyond to achieve effective cyber security.

Methods of Continuous Learning:

We will discuss the two basic methods of education:

Formal Education:

Degree of CEH:

Being a cybersecurity professional you can get a degree CEH ( Certified Ethical Hacker) If you have at least two years of work experience in information security. This will give you hands-on experience in understanding the latest hacking tools and techniques, identifying cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and how to respond to or prevent them.

Degree of CISSP:

On the other hand a degree in CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) requires a minimum of 5 years of paid work experience in 2-8 of its domains. It provides a more thorough understanding of security and broader skills covering a wide range of security topics.

Online Courses:

You can learn from online sources such as Online courses and MOOCs (e.g., edX, Udacity, Station X).  These are reliable and flexible sources of learning as per your needs.

Informal Learning:

You can enhance your skills by attending webinars, conferences, and workshops related to cybersecurity. Reading industry publications and blogs can keep you updated with the latest technology trends and advancements. Participating in cybersecurity communities and forums can be helpful in maintaining your skills.

Role of Online Learning Platforms:

Let’s discuss three major and reliable online learning platforms that can help you through learning in the field of cybersecurity.

edX:

edX is an online learning platform that offers more than 3,500 courses. These courses are offered by the world's top-class universities and organizations. You can enroll in edX and earn credentials from the world's top-class educational organizations.

Courses by edX in the field of cybersecurity:

Here are more than 94 low-cost or free courses offered by edX in the field of cybersecurity. Some of these are:

·       CS50 introduction to cybersecurity (Harvard University)

·       Cybersecurity Basics (IBM)

·       Try It: Ethical Hacking (edX)

Check here for more details and courses

Udacity:

Udacity was originally the outgrowth of free computer science classes offered in 2011 through Stanford University. Udacity partners with industry leaders like Google, IBM, and Amazon to develop its curriculum, ensuring that the content is up-to-date and relevant to current industry needs.

Courses offered by Udacity In the field of Cybersecurity:

There are a number of programs offered by Udacity in the field of cybersecurity, some of the most popular are:

·       Introduction to Cybersecurity (3 months, Beginner)

·       Ethical Hacker (2 months, Advanced)

·       Security Engineer (4 months, Intermediate)

Check here for more details use code BOOST50 to save 50% on a Udacity subscription expires 19 Aug 2024.

If you are interested in Python programming then click here.

Stationx:

StationX is an online learning platform focused on cybersecurity education and training. In Stationx you can get a VIP Membership, which gives subscribers access to a comprehensive library of over 100 courses, covering all aspects of cybersecurity.

Courses offered by Stationx In the field of Cybersecurity:

Here are some of the top courses offered by Stationx:

·       Introduction to Encryption 

·       The Ultimate ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) Course

·       GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)

For more courses and details please click here.

Building a Personal Learning Plan:

Start by setting clear learning goals and objectives and break these down into specific, measurable targets. Identifying resources and courses by researching online platforms and selecting the one that best meets your needs. Then create a study schedule that suits your lifestyle and work-life balance. Tracking your progress is the key to successful learning ensuring you stay on course and motivated.

Overcoming Challenges in Continuous Learning:

Stay motivated and disciplined by setting short-term milestones and rewarding yourself when you achieve them.

Manage time and balance responsibilities by setting aside dedicated time for study along with your routine.

Always rely on quality learning resources such as edx, udacity (use code BOOST50 to save 50% on a Udacity subscription expires 19 Aug 2024), and stationx for online learning to avoid wasting time on subpar materials. This ensures your learning is both efficient and effective.

Conclusion

Continuous learning in constantly evolving fields of cybersecurity is vital for staying ahead of evolving threats, achieving professional growth, and meeting compliance requirements. Formal education like CEH and CISSP, certificates from online platforms such as edX, Udacity, and StationX, or informal education like webinars, conferences help to ensure that cybersecurity professionals remain current and effective. Setting clear goals, utilizing reliable resources, and overcoming learning challenges are essential steps for success in this ever-changing field.