I'm really interested in studying security, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. I'd like some advice on how I can enhance my coding implementation skills. What are the best methods available for learning security? Also, how crucial is having coding experience in this field?
3 Answers
Security is a pretty broad area, like saying you want to buy a vehicle but not specifying what kind! If you’re leaning towards cybersecurity, just know it’s not really entry-level; you need some foundational knowledge first. To improve your coding skills, the best advice is to practice regularly. You can use books, online courses, jobs, tutorials, and participate in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions. Coding skills can be really handy, but not all roles in security require deep programming knowledge.
To get started in security, focus on understanding the basics like networking, operating systems, and common vulnerabilities. Coding in languages like Python, JavaScript, or C is really useful because it helps in understanding exploits and in developing your own scripts or tools. Try hands-on labs and platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box for practical experience. It’s wise to start with the fundamentals and then decide where to specialize.
Security can feel overwhelming since it's such a vast field. Think about whether you're interested in web app security, network security, or maybe even hardware security. While not every area demands heavy coding, having a basic grasp of programming is still super beneficial. Start with some research on the subject, pick an area to focus on, and then dive into courses, CTFs, or tutorials.
Good point about coding being important! I’d argue that for most cybersecurity roles, especially offensive security, having solid coding skills is essential. Even in security operations centers (SOCs), programming knowledge is a huge advantage.