Cyber Security Vs. Web Development: What’s the Difference?

Posted on

Man with numbers on his face.

The technology field is growing daily, opening new opportunities for those wanting to explore many communications and technical career paths. Fortunately, those looking at technology-related career paths have a lot of options. Two in-demand career choices are Cyber Security and Web development.

Some people have a passion for building and creating new things. Others look forward to a high-paying salary and work/life balance. Making the best choice means exploring each one in detail. This article reviews the two careers, no matter the reasons for exploring cyber security and web development.

Cyber Security Explained

The term Cyber Security covers a broad range of job responsibilities and roles. Choosing this career field means keeping systems secure, creating new protocols to prevent breaches, and implementing security-related policies and procedures.

The critical responsibility of those in Cyber Security roles is shielding the organization’s assets and sensitive information from unauthorized access. These attacks can come from inside or outside of the organization. 

Much of Cyber Security is prevention and awareness, minimizing risks before a problem arises, and implementing training methods to prevent internal vulnerabilities. Another critical aspect of Cyber Security is creating plans to recover data in the event of an issue quickly.

Isn’t it time to finally move toward your career goals? Contact us today for the help you need!

Web Development Explained

Software Development is a career where developers create software and computer programs. In this discipline, workers create, design, and deploy information systems within an organization. Developers could work with varying types of software, from system software to programming and application software. You may also encounter embedded software at some point to control other types of devices.

In this role, your tasks include writing code, conducting tests, and managing software throughout its lifecycle. But, software developers, unlike engineers, focus more on one project. For example, developers may need to work with applications instead of other systems.

Software developers’ main goal is to create and provide support for systems based on a company’s needs.

Related: Learn to Code: A Guide for Aspiring Web Developers

Differences Between Cyber Security and Web Development

The responsibilities, skills, and career paths vary depending on the chosen route. Responsibilities, skills, and opportunities are critical factors in determining the right career. 

Cyber Security Job Responsibilities

Cyber security is the perfect field for those who want to do some good and work in the tech industry. But the responsibilities are broad and encompass many tasks. Here are some of the job responsibilities hiring candidates can expect when applying:

  • Finding hardware and software vulnerabilities
  • Implementing security methods
  • Using firewalls to secure networks
  • Network monitoring
  • Handling threats and risks
  • Educating employees and managers on security protocols
  • Helping others with security issues and threats

One of the biggest threats to a company is the individuals who use the software. Between securing the network and training end-users to beware of threats, cyber security specialists have a lot to do.

Web Development Job Responsibilities

Web development can be a lot of fun. Some developers enjoy the creative aspects of the job, while others enjoy the more technical parts. The responsibilities of web developers vary, but there are some fundamental aspects every developer can expect. Here are the standard duties of web developers:

  • Assessing the company and end user’s needs
  • Creating new software
  • Software testing
  • Identifying areas of opportunity and modifying software
  • Coding
  • Educating and training other employees

Web developers must be ready to work with end-users, which can sometimes be challenging. But overall, the job’s responsibilities are rewarding.

Related: Cyber Security Vs. Web Development: What’s the Difference?

Necessary Skills for Cyber Security

Anyone applying for a job in the cyber security sector will need the proper skills to land the job. Here are some of the skills hiring managers look for in their cyber security team members:

  • Technical and non-technical skills
  • Coding & Programming
  • Strong command of Spreadsheets
  • Reverse Engineering
  • Software design (specifically application design)
  • Problem-solving

Cyber security specialists must foresee and prevent threats. But there are some fun coding and technical skills involved too.

Necessary Skills for Web Development

Web developers get to create new programs and software. Unfortunately, developers can’t reach their goals without the right skills. Here are the skills necessary for web development:

  • Programming and coding
  • Analytical thinking
  • Ability to work with algorithms and databases
  • Project Management
  • Communication

While web developers don’t necessarily need a college education to perform the job duties well, coding, communication, and analytical thinking are all must-have skills.

Cyber Security Career Outlooks

Cybercrime is on the rise globally. There is increasing demand for people who can protect information systems within a company. Companies will pay more for qualified specialists, and a career in this field offers more job security. On average, Cyber Security specialists make $102,000 per year.

Entry-level roles typically pay $80,000 – $90,000 annually, while expert positions pay well over six figures.

The unemployment rate in 2016 for Cyber Security specialists was 0%, with a projected increase of 3.5 million jobs.

Web Development Career Outlooks

Man holding a book at a desk.

Web Development careers have a projected growth rate of 22% before 2029. Companies rely on web developers to keep their front-line employees working with the best technology and meet the company’s technical needs. 

Web developers can feel secure knowing their jobs won’t go anywhere for some time. There are also a lot of growth opportunities.

IT Managers in Web Development roles typically bring in higher wages due to management skills and other vital responsibilities necessary for the job. Those starting out can expect salaries just shy of six figures, while those with higher expertise can see well above the average. Web developers can expect to make around $115,000 annually.

Are you ready to take your web development skills to the next level? Join our Web Development Certification Program today and gain the knowledge and hands-on experience you need to succeed in the industry.

Creating or Securing: Two Vital Roles

Web development and cyber security are equally valuable career paths. Each offers growth opportunities, handsome salaries, and job satisfaction. The only question left is, “which career is the right career?”

The good news is that many skills and responsibilities for each career are interchangeable. Coding, communication, and out-of-the-box thinking will surely make anyone successful in the cyber security or web development fields.