Challenge number one for many of our clients is simply keeping pace in this ever-changing security industry. The rate of change – both in terms of security technology innovation, threats, vulnerabilities and compliance requirements can be overwhelming. After hearing from our customers, speaking with industry peers, and my 15 years of experience, I've come up with tips to ensure a security team's knowledge base keeps up.
1. Learn from your Peers
IT Security is a learn-on-the-job industry. There are few colleges that have courses in it, and even fewer degree programs. The best way to learn about the latest innovations and best practices is from interacting with others doing the work. At K logix, we provide our clients and those in the industry with several opportunities to engage each other. We have regularly scheduled user groups, custom trainings, and attend numerous security conference and events to connect with peers in the industry.
2. Build Your Expertise, and Rely on Experts for the Rest
Most large security organizations run as many as 40 or 50 technologies. It is impossible for any organization – no matter the team-size, or budget, to keep that many technologies running smoothly. We encourage our clients to build an expertise on 4 or 5 technologies that are most critical, and also complimentary to their existing skill-set. They can rely on experts to optimize and maintain the other technologies. The best way to maintain an expertise on a specific product set is through on-going training on the solution – attend training sessions, user conferences, and other vendor-sponsored events to keep pace with product innovation.
3. Learn how to Best Support Your Own Environment
You may not be able to be an expert in all areas of security, but you can be an expert at running your own security infrastructure. Custom training allows you to gain knowledge and insight into how a solution works in your specific environment.
4. Think Like a Business Executive
Most importantly, security professionals need to increase their knowledge and acumen in business strategy. You do not need to have a MBA to be a successful security executive, but you do need to understand how to align your security program to business objectives. You can find courses and training at seminars, institutes like SANs and other associations to help you up-level your security program beyond tactical solutions and to supporting business goals.
Check out our infographic and see some of the important statistics and numbers associated with keeping pace in the IT security industry.
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