Cybersecurity versus software engineering. These two fields seem to go hand in hand. But which field is better suited to handle cyber threats? And why?
What is cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity is a combination of defense and offence. Just like any other field, it has its own set of tools, techniques and technologies. It is essential to have a thorough knowledge of these tools as well as the proper mindset to deal with cyber threats.
What does a cybersecurity expert do?
Cybersecurity experts have a lot in common with security experts. They play a vital role in the security of any organization and are responsible for the following:
Keeping track of emerging threats and vulnerabilities in the system Protecting the organization from an attack by formulating an effective response plan Mitigating risks by implementing preventive measures Educating employees on cybersecurity best practices
A security expert is also in charge of creating incident response plans, and is responsible for the following:
Planning for a crisis scenario
Checking the effectiveness of security controls
Procuring and implementing new tools and technologies to fight cyber threats
What does a software engineer do?
A software engineer is in charge of developing, testing and implementing software solutions. They also have to keep track of emerging technologies. Additionally, they are responsible for the following:
Designing software solutions based on customer requirements Designing and developing software solutions Implementing designs in code Testing and debugging the software Deploying and supporting the solution over a long period of time
What is the difference between a cybersecurity expert and a software engineer?
Understanding the difference between these two fields can help you understand why they are both important but serve different purposes. The main difference between a cybersecurity expert and a software engineer is their scope of work.
A cybersecurity expert has to focus on security while an engineer has to focus on other factors as well. Cybersecurity experts have to deal with defense while engineers have to ensure that the product works well in a production environment.
Software engineers have to create solutions that not only work well but are secure as well. Both fields are crucial when it comes to cyber security, but each has its own role to play.
Which is better? As we mentioned earlier, both fields are crucial for any organization looking to protect itself from cyber threats. But when it comes down to deciding which field is better suited for this purpose, you need to make an informed decision.
While most organizations hire people with both skills, others may decide only to hire one or the other depending on their requirements.
Here’s how you can make an informed decision:
If you want to work on offensive tasks rather than just defense, then cybersecurity is probably a better fit for you. If you want more control over your work environment, feel free to choose a job in this field. You get more freedom in terms of what you do, who you work with and where you work from compared to working as an IT engineer.
If your organization wants someone who can handle both offense and defense, then it’s better to go with a security expert instead of a software engineer. A great example of this would be working as an ethical hacker!
A cybersecurity expert will be able to handle offensive tasks as well as defensive tasks while a software engineer will only be able to handle defensive tasks at best.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is a combination of offense and defense, while software engineering is all about the product.