Top 10 Options for a Career in Cybersecurity That Are Now in Demand

Did You Know? In 2025, India saw a massive 369 million malware detections across 8.44 million devices, averaging 702 threats every single minute! That’s 11 new threats every second. Talk about the rising need for strong cybersecurity!

Roles like cybersecurity analysts, ethical hackers, incident responders, and security architects are in high demand as businesses face increasing security threats. These positions offer excellent career growth and salaries, with some roles earning INR 40 LPA or more based on experience. This rising demand has made a career in cybersecurity one of the most attractive and high-paying fields in technology. 

This blog will highlight the top 10 career opportunities in cybersecurity, focusing on salary, responsibilities, and preparation tips. 

Career in Cybersecurity: Top 10 Roles

As cyber threats continue to rise, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is stronger than ever. Roles such as Cybersecurity Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Security Architect are increasingly in demand across industries. 

With the growing reliance on advanced security technologies and data protection strategies, the demand for skilled professionals is increasing. These experts are needed in areas such as threat detection, penetration testing, and security automation.

Build your cybersecurity skills, such as threat detection, penetration testing, and network security, with leading software courses. Learn to use industry-standard tools for vulnerability assessments and incident response. 

• Executive Post Graduate Certificate Programme in Data Science & AI
• Executive Diploma in Machine Learning & AI
• Masters in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning - IIITB Program

If you are interested in having a career in cybersecurity, then here are the top 10 options to choose from.  

Role	Average Annual Salary Range	Top Hiring Entities
Cybersecurity Analyst	INR 6L – INR 22L	- Microsoft - IBM - Infosys
Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)	INR 7L – INR 18L	- Deloitte - Accenture - EY
Security Architect	INR 12L – INR 45L	- Amazon - Google - Cisco
Incident Response Specialist	INR 8L – INR 20L	- Wipro - Infosys - Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
Cloud Security Engineer	INR 10L – INR 40L	- Amazon Web Services - Oracle - Microsoft
Security Consultant	INR 9L – INR 35L	- PwC - KPMG - EY
IT Security Manager	INR 10L – INR 30L	- SAP - HCL Technologies - Cognizant
Network Security Engineer	INR 7L – INR 25L	- Airtel - Vodafone - AT&T
Cybersecurity Architect	INR 15L – INR 50L	- Microsoft - Google - IBM
Cybersecurity Researcher	INR 8L – INR 20L	- DRDO - Research Institutes - Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre

(Source: AmbitionBox)

Let us now explore each of these options for a career in cybersecurity in detail. 

1. Cybersecurity Analyst

A Cybersecurity Analyst protects an organization’s systems by monitoring security access, investigating incidents, and implementing protective measures. Responsibilities include threat analysis, incident handling, system hardening, and conducting security audits. They also manage security tools, enforce policies, and train staff on best security practices to maintain data confidentiality and integrity.

Key Skills

• Threat Detection: Monitoring systems for suspicious activities.
• Risk Assessment: Evaluating system vulnerabilities and potential threats.
• Incident Response: Managing and responding to security breaches.
• Security Frameworks: Familiarity with NIST, ISO 27001, and CIS Controls.

Tools

Tool	Use
SIEM	Monitoring systems for suspicious activities
IDS/IPS	Identifying and preventing unauthorized access
Python	Automating tasks and scripting security measures
Bash	Writing scripts for automation and task management

Also Read: Top 15 Cybersecurity Analyst Skills for Success in 2025

2. Ethical Hacker (Penetration Tester)

An Ethical Hacker, or Penetration Tester, simulates cyberattacks to identify and fix vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious hackers. Responsibilities include security testing, vulnerability assessments, and preparing detailed reports with recommended fixes. They also develop tools, collaborate with IT teams, and help organizations meet compliance requirements.

Key Skills

• Penetration Testing: Conducting authorized tests to identify vulnerabilities.
• Reconnaissance: Gathering information through open-source intelligence (OSINT).
• Network Security: In-depth knowledge of TCP/IP, VPNs, firewalls, and protocols.

Tools

Tool	Use
Metasploit	Exploiting vulnerabilities during penetration testing
Burp Suite	Testing web applications for security issues like SQL injection
Wireshark (firewalls)	Analyzing network traffic for vulnerabilities
Ruby	Writing scripts for security exploits

Build a strong programming base with Python, one of the most used languages in cybersecurity. upGrad’s free Programming with Python: Introduction for Beginners course will help you get started with scripting, automation, and basic security tools. 

Also Read: Best Ethical Hacking Courses in India (2025): Eligibility, Syllabus, Entrance Exams, Careers & Salary

3. Security Architect

A Security Architect designs secure IT infrastructures to protect systems against threats while supporting business needs. Responsibilities include architecture planning, security reviews, and collaborating with developers to build secure solutions. They also select security tools, create policies, model threats, and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Key Skills

• Security Design: Creating secure network and system architectures.
• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential threats during the planning stage.
• Cloud Security: Designing secure cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Encryption Standards: Applying cryptographic protocols for data protection.

Tools

Tool	Use
AWS	Designing and securing cloud environments
Azure	Building and managing secure cloud solutions
TOGAF	Framework for developing enterprise architectures
SABSA	Security architecture modeling and frameworks

Also Read: What is Cyber Security? Types, Career & Salary [2025]

4. Incident Response Specialist

An Incident Response Specialist detects, analyzes, and responds to security breaches to minimize damage and restore systems. Responsibilities include threat detection, triage, and containment of incidents. They also investigate attacks, support recovery, document findings, and collaborate with teams to improve future security measures.

Key Skills

• Incident Handling: Managing all stages of an incident from detection to recovery.
• SIEM Tools: Using platforms like Splunk, QRadar, and ArcSight.
• Log Analysis: Investigating events through logs and system behavior.
• Malware Forensics: Analyzing and mitigating malware infections.

Tools

Tool	Use
Splunk	Analyzing and monitoring logs and security events
QRadar	Using SIEM for threat detection and incident management
ArcSight	Security information and event management platform

Also Read: Top 45+ Incident Management Interview Questions to Prepare for in 2025

5. Cloud Security Engineer

A Cloud Security Engineer safeguards cloud-based systems by managing configurations, monitoring environments, and implementing security controls. Responsibilities include securing cloud architectures, controlling access, and automating compliance tasks. They also collaborate with DevOps teams, support incident response, and continually improve security practices based on emerging risks.

Key Skills

• Cloud Platforms: Strong expertise in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Identity and Access Management: Managing permissions and roles securely.
• Security Automation: Using tools like Terraform, AWS CloudFormation, and Python.
• Compliance Standards: Familiar with SOC 2 and GDPR in cloud contexts.

Tools

Tool	Use
Terraform	Automating cloud infrastructure provisioning
Kubernetes	Securing containerized applications and orchestration
Docker	Containerization platform and securing containers

 

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Also Read: 60+ Essential Terraform Interview Questions and Answers for Beginners and Professionals in 2025

6. Security Consultant

A Security Consultant helps organizations enhance their IT security by assessing risks and recommending solutions. Responsibilities include reviewing client infrastructures, offering tailored security advice, and assisting in implementing new measures. They also provide training, ensure compliance, and offer ongoing evaluation to improve security strategies.

Key Skills

• Risk Assessment: Identifying vulnerabilities and potential security gaps.
• Security Audits: Conducting assessments of systems and policies.
• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of frameworks like ISO 27001, NIST, GDPR.
• Penetration Testing: Evaluating system defenses through ethical hacking.

Tools

Tool	Use
Endpoint Protection	Securing endpoints against threats and vulnerabilities
NIST	Implementing cybersecurity frameworks for compliance
ISO 27001	Developing and maintaining information security management systems

Also Read: How to Become a Cyber Security Consultant: Overview and Career Path

7. IT Security Manager

An IT Security Manager leads an organization's information security strategy, ensuring systems are protected from threats. Responsibilities include overseeing the security team, setting strategy, and enforcing policies. They also monitor risks, ensure compliance, and communicate with stakeholders to continually improve security operations.
Key Skills

• Leadership: Managing security teams and aligning efforts with company goals.
• Security Strategy: Developing long-term plans for IT security.
• Policy and Compliance: Ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory standards.
• Incident Management: Leading responses to cyber threats and breaches.

Tools

Tool	Use
Antivirus	Protecting systems from malware and other malicious software
DLP (Data Loss Prevention)	Preventing unauthorized access to sensitive data
Reporting Tools	Communicating risk, incidents, and performance to leadership

Also Read: Network Security Courses

8. Network Security Engineer

A Network Security Engineer protects an organization’s network infrastructure from threats and unauthorized access. Responsibilities include designing secure network architectures, managing configurations, and monitoring traffic for suspicious activity. They also assist in incident response, conduct security audits, and collaborate with IT teams to address vulnerabilities and ensure business continuity.

Key Skills

• Firewall Management: Configuring and managing firewalls (Palo Alto, Fortinet, Cisco ASA).
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Deploying and tuning IDS/IPS systems like Snort, Suricata.
• Network Protocols: Deep understanding of TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP, VPN, and BGP.
• Security Monitoring: Using tools like Wireshark, SolarWinds, and Nagios for real-time monitoring.

Tools

Tool	Use
Palo Alto	Configuring advanced firewall security defenses
Snort	Intrusion detection and prevention system
Nagios	Monitoring network infrastructure and system status

Learn how cyber threats work, how to protect systems, and what roles exist in the security field. upGrad’s Fundamentals of Cybersecurity course gives you a structured introduction to core topics like threat detection and network security. 

Also Read: Is Cyber Security Easy to Learn?: Tips to Become A Cybersecurity Expert

9. Cybersecurity Architect

A Cybersecurity Architect designs and maintains the security structure of an organization’s IT systems, ensuring robust defenses against emerging threats. Responsibilities include developing security frameworks, evaluating new technologies, and defining long-term security strategies. They also collaborate with IT and executive teams, create security policies, and ensure continuous improvement of the security architecture.

Key Skills

• Security Architecture Design: Creating end-to-end frameworks for secure systems.
• Enterprise Security Models: Deep understanding of models like SABSA, TOGAF, and Zero Trust.
• Cloud Security: Architecting secure solutions in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud environments.
• Security Governance: Establishing risk management protocols and policy frameworks.

Tools

Tool	Use
EDR	Endpoint detection and response systems
SOAR	Orchestrating security operations and automation
Google Cloud	Securing and architecting solutions on GCP

Also Read: Cybersecurity Frameworks: Types, Benefits, and Best Practices

10. Cybersecurity Researcher

A Cybersecurity Researcher studies cyber threats to understand attacks and develop defenses. Responsibilities include researching malware, testing vulnerabilities, and creating tools for detection. They also collaborate with security teams, investigate incidents, share knowledge through publications, and recommend improvements to enhance security measures.

Key Skills

• Malware Analysis: Understanding how malicious software operates and spreads.
• Reverse Engineering: Deconstructing code to study threat behavior and system impact.
• Threat Intelligence: Gathering and interpreting information on attack methods and actor profiles.
• Vulnerability Research: Identifying security flaws in software, hardware, and protocols.

Tools

Tool	Use
IDA Pro	Analyzing and disassembling malware code
Ghidra	Reverse engineering software for threat analysis
Wireshark	Capturing and analyzing network traffic
C	Writing and understanding low-level code for exploits
Python	Scripting and tool creation for research
Assembly	Understanding low-level system operations

Also Read: Top 15 Highest Paying Cyber Security Jobs in India [A Complete Report]

These top ten cybersecurity career opportunities are just the beginning, with many more paths waiting to be explored. Now that you have an overview of the roles available, let's dive into some practical tips that will help you secure a job in this fast-growing industry.

Tips to Secure a Career in Cybersecurity

To build a successful cybersecurity career, focus on mastering skills like network defense, threat detection, and incident response. For instance, securing a corporate network requires hands-on experience with tools like Wireshark, Nessus, and Splunk. Staying updated on threats, security frameworks, and industry standards is crucial. 

Building connections through cybersecurity communities and events can also accelerate your job search and professional growth. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Here are five actionable tips to help you secure a career in cybersecurity:

1. Learn the Basics of Cybersecurity

Start by understanding how systems, networks, and security protocols work. These are the building blocks of cybersecurity. Without this knowledge, it’s hard to identify or prevent threats.

• Learn Cybersecurity Basics:

Focus on topics like operating systems (Windows, Linux), IP addressing, DNS, firewalls, and common attack types such as phishing and malware.

• Example:

Take a free beginner course on platforms like YouTube or upGrad. 

2. Practice in a Home Lab or Online Platform

Cybersecurity involves hands-on problem-solving. Practicing will help you understand how attacks happen and how to defend against them.

• Set Up a Practice Environment:

Use VirtualBox or VMware to install systems like Kali Linux and Windows. Use these to test scanning tools, analyze traffic, or explore how systems respond to different inputs.

• Example:

Try beginner-friendly labs on TryHackMe. Start with modules like “Introduction to Cyber Security” or “Pre-Security Path.” These don’t require a technical background to begin.

Also Read: How To Become A Good Cloud Engineer

3. Learn to Use Common Security Tools

Security work involves using software tools that help you detect, analyze, and respond to threats. Learning how to use these tools will give you practical skills employers look for.

• Explore Common Tools:

Start with Wireshark for network analysis, Nmap for scanning, and Metasploit for testing system weaknesses. These tools are used widely across entry-level and advanced roles.

• Example:

Download Wireshark, connect to your home Wi-Fi, and capture some basic traffic. Try identifying what happens when you visit a website or use a mobile app.

4. Get Certified

Certifications help show that you understand the fundamentals. They're especially helpful when you're starting without prior work experience.

• Start with Entry-Level Certifications:

CompTIA Security+ is a good place to begin. It covers core topics like threat identification, network security, risk management, and cryptography.

• Example:

Study using official Security+ materials or trusted YouTube channels. Once ready, schedule the exam online or at a nearby testing center.

Also Read: Scope of Cybersecurity: Jobs, Skills, and Growth in 2025

5. Join the Cybersecurity Community and Keep Learning

Cybersecurity changes constantly. Being connected to people in the field helps you stay updated and find learning opportunities.

• Stay Active in Online Communities:

Follow experts on LinkedIn, join forums like r/cybersecurity on Reddit, and watch talks from DEF CON or BSides events. These will give you insight into what professionals are working on and talking about.

• Example:

Create a free account on GitHub and follow people sharing security tools or scripts. Comment, ask questions, and build your own small projects when you’re ready.

By focusing on these areas, you can build a strong skillset, making yourself a more attractive candidate for a career in cybersecurity. Let’s now learn more about how upGrad can help you in your cybersecurity career. 

How Can upGrad Help You in Your Cybersecurity Career?

This guide outlined key roles like Security Analyst and Penetration Tester in the field of cybersecurity that can earn you a salary above 40 LPA. Gaining experience with tools like Wireshark and Splunk, and skills such as incident response and threat detection, can help you strengthen your career in cybersecurity. 

However, many aspiring professionals find it difficult to stay current with security trends. This is where upGrad’s courses can help. With structured modules and hands-on labs, these programs are designed to build technical depth and job readiness.

Below are some additional courses you can explore to support your career in cybersecurity:

• Executive Programme in Generative AI for Leaders
• Advanced Generative AI Certification Course
• Professional Certificate Program in Cloud Computing and DevOps

Feeling unsure about where to begin your career in cybersecurity? Connect with upGrad’s expert counselors or visit your nearest upGrad offline centre to explore a learning plan tailored to your goals. Transform your cybersecurity journey today with upGrad!