A cyber security architect devising internet defence services to combat security threats in the digital world.
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Learn cyber security: all about studying and working in cyber security

Last updated: 2 September 2025

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Quick start: cyber security in 5 steps

  • Start with self-learning by exploring free tutorials and resources on cyber security, focusing on computer systems, network security, and cyber threats.

  • Study a degree with cyber security specialisation to gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in areas like protecting sensitive data, managing cyber attacks, and securing networks.

  • Build key skills in computer networks, cryptography, cloud security, and system architecture to develop the technical abilities crucial for the cyber security industry.

  • Get practical experience through internships, challenges, or projects, defending networks and securing digital assets in real-world scenarios.

  • Seek entry-level roles like Cyber Security Analyst or IT Security Administrator, where you can apply your skills and expand your knowledge in the field.

What is cyber security?

Cyber security safeguards systems, networks, and data security from digital threats. It includes a range of methods to prevent unauthorised access, data breaches, malicious code, common cyber threats like phishing, and other forms of cybercrime. Cyber security ensures the safety of digital information and the smooth operation of security systems, whether for individuals, businesses, or governments.

In an ever-evolving digital world, cyber security specialists safeguard against digital attacks using various technologies and practices, including firewalls, operating systems, encryption, multi-factor authentication, and real-time threat monitoring.

Cyber security can be broken down into several key areas, including:

  • Network security: protects the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of a network and its data by preventing unauthorised access or malicious attacks.

  • Application security: focuses on safeguarding computing software and applications from vulnerabilities that cyber criminals could exploit.

  • Information security: protects physical and digital information by ensuring that personal data is safe, confidential, and accessible only to authorised users.

  • Disaster recovery: ensure an organisation can continue operating and recover quickly after data breaches or any other disaster.

Information technology architect working to prevent cyber threats by bolstering network security systems.

What do you do in cyber security?

If you work in cyber security, your primary responsibility is protecting computer systems and data from cyber attackers. Your daily tasks will differ depending on your specific role, but they often include managing risks, securing networks, protecting databases, and responding to security incidents.

You'll also monitor computer security for vulnerabilities and ensure internet services and access controls remain safe from breaches.

  • A Cyber Security Engineer setting up computer security networks to stop cyber criminals from security threats to computing databases.

    Common tasks in cyber security

    • Monitoring networks: continuously tracking network security for vulnerabilities or unusual activity that could signal a potential cyber attack.

    • Implementing security measures: setting up firewalls, strong passwords, encryption networks, and multi-factor authentication to protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorised access.

    • Ethical hacking: proactively identifying and fixing weaknesses before malicious hackers.

    • Incident response: acting quickly to limit the damage and restore security after data breaches.

    • Security auditing: regularly assessing an organisation’s computer security practices to align them with industry standards and are current with the latest threats.

    • Educating staff: cyber security often involves training others in networking and best practices, such as recognising phishing emails or using strong passwords.

    Whether preventing attacks or responding to incidents, a career in cyber security is fast-paced and offers a variety of challenges and learning opportunities.

How to get into cyber security

  • Study a degree

    One of the most effective ways to build a career in cyber security is through a degree. This gives you the chance to explore the foundations of cyber security in a structured way – from understanding how networks are secured to learning how systems are defended in practice.

    At Walbrook, you can specialise in cyber security through our MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security degree – designed for people who want to develop expertise in protecting systems and data in today’s digital world.

  • Gain certifications

    Self-learning is a valuable way to build foundational skills in cyber security. By exploring free online tutorials, resources, and virtual labs, you can deepen your understanding of key areas like cryptography, network security, and risk management at your own pace.

    Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) complement self-study by providing focused expertise and demonstrating your commitment to employers. These qualifications help you stay current with industry trends while developing specialised insight.

  • Practical experience

    Gaining real-world experience is essential in cyber security. Internships, entry-level roles, or freelance projects give you hands-on exposure to industry challenges, helping you apply skills in areas like network security and application security. You'll also develop communication skills by working with teams to protect systems and resolve threats.

    Hackathons, open-source projects, and capture-the-flag events offer opportunities to strengthen your expertise while staying current with the latest technologies. Practical experience enhances your technical expertise and prepares you to tackle evolving internet cyber threats.

What topics does a cyber security degree cover?

A computer science degree with a cyber security specialisation provides a comprehensive understanding of protecting systems and network infrastructure from threats. Here are some of the core topics you’ll cover:

Computer data architect configuring a critical security network to protect databases and eliminate system vulnerabilities.

Core technical topics

  • Network security: prevent an organisation’s network architecture from attacks using tools such as firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems.

  • Incident response and recovery: rapidly respond to cyber attacks and personal data breaches to limit damage and restore security.

  • Operating systems: understand operating systems and gain expertise in Windows and Linux environments, essential for securing a system at its core.

Cyber defence, response, and recovery topics

  • Ethical hacking: or 'penetration testing', is testing a system's security by attempting to hack it. You'll aim to find vulnerable digital assets before cyber criminals can exploit them.

  • Cryptography: use encryption to protect sensitive data, and keep personal information safe in transit and at rest.

  • Digital forensics: investigate how an attack happened. Learn techniques to trace hackers and recover lost or stolen data.

A cybersecurity specialist implementing application security and cryptography protocols to protect personal information technology systems and prevent access attacks across internet services and computers.
A group of cybersecurity experts discussing how to protect data, secure system access, and ensure mobile security across internet services from cyber criminals.

Governance, risk, and security topics

  • Risk management: assess potential threats and vulnerabilities within a system and implement measures to reduce those risks.

  • Security governance and policy: study cyber security's legal and ethical aspects, including developing and implementing security policies that follow industry standards and regulations.

  • Cloud security: Learn to secure cloud platforms, implement encryption, and manage access to cloud-based services.

Is a computer science degree good for a career in cyber security?

If you want a career in cyber security but don’t want to limit your options, a computer science degree with a cyber specialisation could be the ideal route.

Our MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security blends cyber defence topics with broader technical skills. You’ll explore areas like ethical hacking and cryptography, while also building knowledge in programming, cloud computing, and machine learning.

Studying an MSc in Computer Science with Cyber security helps you:

  • Secure and build complex systems

  • Stay ahead of evolving threats

  • Broaden your career options across tech and cyber roles

  • Gain a deeper understanding of how technology works

Explore MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security
Professional woman explain theoretical knowledge and programming behind data analysis.

Understanding cyber security roles

Cybersecurity professional managing risk and cloud space security from a remote location, focusing on incident response to critical cyberspace attacks and threat mitigation.

Cyber security analyst vs cyber security engineer

Though both roles are essential, cyber security analysts and engineers focus on different security aspects. Analysts are reactive, dealing with threats as they happen, running security checks, managing incident responses, and maintaining computer security.

In contrast, engineers take a proactive approach by building and maintaining security systems to protect data. This includes firewalls, encryption, and application security measures to prevent attacks. While analysts handle daily operations, engineers design the infrastructure to withstand ongoing threats.

Information security vs cyber security

Information and cyber security aim to protect data, but their focus differs. Information security covers digital and physical data protection, such as securing documents, controlling access to protected areas, and ensuring personal data remains confidential in all formats.

Cyber security specifically targets digital threats, focusing on protecting networks, systems, and digital information from hacking, malware, and phishing attacks. While these fields overlap, cyber security is strictly focused on safeguarding digital environments.

Two colleagues in an office, eagerly researching cloud computing
A cyber security professional configuring wireless access points to ensure data security and strengthen risk management protocols within the network.

Cyber security vs software engineering

Software engineers create the systems and applications organisations use, while cyber security experts protect those systems. Software engineers focus on writing and maintaining code to ensure systems function properly.

Cyber security experts, on the other hand, safeguard a system from attackers by identifying vulnerabilities and implementing protective measures. Through encryption, firewalls, or other application security strategies, they prevent unauthorised access and attacks. While software engineers build the infrastructure, cyber security experts protect it.

Expected salaries in cyber security

According to the IBM X-Force Threat Intelligence Index 2024, the average data breach cost for UK businesses is £3.4 million, driven by rising threats and evolving cyber risks. This highlights the increasing need for robust cyber security measures and skilled professionals.

Demand for cyber security talent continues to soar, compounding the rising cost of damages. In 2025, there will be 3.5 million unfulfilled cybersecurity jobs globally, underscoring the critical shortage of qualified professionals in the industry, according to Esentire's 2023 Official Cybersecurity Jobs Report.

That's why cyber security specialists are in such high demand, as organisations struggle to safeguard sensitive data, protect against attackers, and mitigate the financial impacts of breaches.

Professionals in computer security and risk management focusing on protecting internet services and maintaining secure system access. Their conversation highlights the critical skills needed to manage and safeguard sensitive data on their computers.

  • Expected cyber security salaries

    • Security operations manager: £45,446
      Identify, analyse, and mitigate malware threats, developing tools to prevent a future attack from viruses, ransomware, and other harmful software.

    • Cyber security analyst: £47,865
      Monitor a system for threats, run vulnerability tests, and respond to incidents to protect personal data and ensure network security.

    • IT security specialist: £48,019
      Oversee cyber security policies and manage security services, ensuring computers comply with regulations and organisations are prepared for malware threats.

    • Security consultant: £51,770
      Assess an organisation’s cyber security resources, identify weaknesses, and suggest improvements and training to ensure compliance and protection against an attack.

    • Penetration tester: £52,822
      Simulate cyber attacks to identify system vulnerabilities and provide recommendations for strengthening critical defences before a real cyber attack occurs.

    • Cloud engineer: £53,394
      Secures cloud platforms by managing encryption, access control, and digital assets to protect organisations from unauthorised access.

    • Cyber security architect: £80,183
      Design security infrastructures to protect networks and personal data and work with leadership to align security measures with business goals.

    • Chief information security officer (CISO): £162,555
      Leads the organisation’s cyber security strategy, overseeing teams, training and access management to protect computer security services from threats.

    Salary information from uk.indeed.com is accurate as of October 2024.

Cyber security degree entry requirements

The specific entry requirements for cyber security degrees may vary depending on the course level and provider. At Walbrook, we welcome domestic and international students and offer flexible entry options to help you achieve your goals.

Typical entry requirements include:

  • Previous qualifications

    A-levels (or equivalent) in subjects like mathematics, computing, or physics are common for undergraduate degrees. These provide the technical foundation to understand core areas like network and data security. Postgraduate applicants usually require undergraduate studies in a related field, such as IT, computer science, or network security.

  • Previous experience

    Hands-on experience in IT, programming, or network architecture is valuable but only sometimes essential. Experience gained through internships, projects, or entry-level roles demonstrates your implementation skills in real-world cyber security challenges, including securing network infrastructure and solving other security issues.

  • Technical skills

    Familiarity with programming languages like Python, Java, or C++ is highly beneficial. Knowledge of operating systems, network infrastructure, and encryption technologies will give you a personal advantage, as these skills are crucial in tackling cyber security threats and securing access to digital environments.

What similar subjects are there to cyber security?

If you’re interested in cyber security, you may want to explore related fields that complement your skills or offer alternative career paths. Here’s a look at some similar subjects:

  • Computer science

    Computer science covers the study of algorithms, programming, and systems architecture. It provides the technical foundation for cyber security, with expertise in everything from coding to developing secure infrastructure across various technologies.

    Explore computer science

  • Data science

    Data scientists analyse large datasets to detect patterns and anomalies, which can be key to identifying a potential cyber attack. They work with cyber security teams to develop predictive models that detect unusual network activity and prevent cyber attacks.

    Explore data science

  • Artificial intelligence (AI)

    AI plays an important role in automating cybersecurity processes. AI systems help detect vulnerabilities, analyse network traffic, and identify malicious code, providing intelligent, automated solutions to evolving cyber threats.

    Explore artificial intelligence

Take the next step in cyber security with Walbrook Institute London

The world needs more cyber security experts – and your skills could make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to switch careers or take your existing knowledge further, our MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security offers a flexible, future-focused route into the industry.

You’ll build core expertise in programming, data, systems and networks, while developing specialist knowledge in areas like cyber risk, digital forensics, and security architecture. And because it’s designed for non-computing graduates, you don’t need a tech background to get started.

Study online, on your terms – and graduate ready to tackle the threats of tomorrow.

Explore MSc Computer Science with Cyber Security
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