Jobs in computer security run the gamut from building and maintaining secure networks to highly-specialized work building theoretical models of networks or analyzing and predicting potential threats. The most basic work in the field involves monitoring computers and networks, maintaining appropriate security, and managing malware outbreaks. A large number of men and women design antivirus systems and security procedures. Some specialists are employed in more esoteric fields, tracking cybercrime and determing which data has been compromised.
Basic jobs in computer security focus on establishing and defending secure computer networks. Workers in this field focus on keeping software patched to provide maximum protection against malware and making networks as secure as possible while still allowing information to flow as needed. These workers may be responsible for monitoring antivirus and other security on individual computers. In the event of a malware outbreak or security breach, they are responsible for containing the damage and for making temporary changes to networks and security protocols to minimize risk and damage. Workers in this area are also often responsible for educating users about computer safety and security and for producing plans and standards to promote safety.
A second category of jobs in computer security creates the tools that keep computer systems safe and secure. Programmers and analysts are employed to monitor emerging trends in malware and to develop anti-virus programs and other computer security software. Other professionals work to make electronic commerce safer and more efficient.
Some jobs in computer security involve actively simulating attacks in order to test the efficacy of security measures. Many former hackers are employed to test the security of computer networks. Other specialists work to detect flaws in specific networks, hoping to locate such vulnerabilities before they are spotted by people with more malicious intent.
No security system is perfect, and some jobs in computer security focus primarily on fixing damage done by successful security breaches and on locating those responsible. Governments keep security specialists on staff to aid in police investigations into cybercrime. These analysts attempt to track down stolen data and to locate the hackers responsible for security breaches. In some cases, it may be sufficient to learn, with some degree of certainty, which information has been compromised so that passwords can be changed to minimize future risks.
