The cybersecurity skills gap is widening, leaving businesses vulnerable. Learn what’s missing, the most in-demand skills, and how professionals & companies can bridge the gap.
The cybersecurity industry is facing an urgent workforce crisis. As cyber threats grow in complexity, organizations are struggling to find professionals with the expertise needed to defend against them. The global cybersecurity skills gap is widening, leaving many businesses unprotected and vulnerable to attacks.
With cybercrime expected to cost the world $10.5 trillion annually by 2025, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been higher. Organizations across industries are increasing their cybersecurity budgets and expanding their security teams. However, the supply of qualified talent is not keeping pace. According to (ISC)², the global cybersecurity workforce gap reached 3.4 million professionals in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for skilled workers.
Despite offering competitive salaries and benefits, companies face hiring challenges in cybersecurity. Many organizations struggle to find professionals with the necessary hands-on experience in areas such as cloud security, penetration testing, and threat intelligence. The shortage is further exacerbated by the fast-evolving nature of cyber threats, which require continuous learning and upskilling.
The lack of cybersecurity professionals has real-world consequences. Businesses that cannot fill security roles face increased risks of data breaches, ransomware attacks, and compliance violations. Without skilled cybersecurity personnel, organizations may struggle to implement robust security policies, respond to incidents effectively, and safeguard sensitive data. This talent gap creates a critical vulnerability across industries, making cybersecurity workforce development a global priority.
Cybersecurity professionals with technical expertise and practical experience are in high demand. Companies are particularly looking for specialists in areas that address modern cyber threats.
As businesses migrate to cloud environments, cloud security skills are essential for protecting digital assets. Professionals with experience in AWS Security, Microsoft Azure Security, and Google Cloud Security are highly sought after. Additionally, network defense expertise, including firewalls, VPNs, and zero-trust architecture, remains a key requirement.
Companies need experts who can detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats in real time. Cybersecurity professionals skilled in threat intelligence, digital forensics, and security incident management play a crucial role in mitigating cyberattacks before they cause damage. MITRE ATT&CK is a valuable framework used for threat intelligence analysis.
Security teams require professionals with experience using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, such as Splunk and IBM QRadar, to monitor and analyze security logs. Additionally, penetration testing and malware analysis skills are critical for proactively identifying vulnerabilities and defending against cyber threats.
For those looking to enter or advance in cybersecurity, gaining the right skills and experience is essential. Here are some key steps:
Professionals can enhance their knowledge by enrolling in structured cybersecurity programs. DACTA Academy’s CyberSense Program offers training designed to create a security-first workplace mindset, equipping employees and organizations with essential cybersecurity best practices.**
Bootcamps and specialized training programs provide intensive, hands-on learning experiences in cybersecurity. These programs focus on practical skills such as ethical hacking, cloud security, and threat detection, making them ideal for career changers and aspiring security professionals.
Cybersecurity certifications are valuable credentials that validate expertise and improve job prospects. Some of the most recognized certifications include:
Practical experience is crucial in cybersecurity. Hands-on labs allow professionals to simulate real-world cyberattacks, perform malware analysis, and test security defenses in controlled environments. These experiences help build problem-solving skills and enhance technical expertise.
To bridge the cybersecurity skills gap, organizations must invest in workforce development and rethink hiring strategies.
Companies should provide ongoing training to upskill existing employees and prepare them for cybersecurity roles. Internal training programs, cybersecurity workshops, and sponsored certification courses can help build an in-house security workforce.
Cybersecurity talent can come from non-traditional backgrounds. Many professionals gain expertise through self-study, certifications, and training programs rather than four-year degrees. Employers should recognize the value of specialized training, such as DACTA’s Fundamentals of the Personal Data Protection Act 2020, which provides an understanding of regulatory compliance and data security.**
Many cybersecurity experts develop skills outside of traditional degree programs. Organizations should consider hiring professionals with industry certifications, bootcamp experience, and hands-on cybersecurity training rather than relying solely on four-year degrees.
Businesses can collaborate with cybersecurity academies to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals. For example, DACTA’s WSQ Practitioner Certificate in Personal Data Protection provides advanced knowledge of data protection compliance, an essential skill set for security professionals managing personal data risks.**
Businesses can collaborate with cybersecurity training academies, universities, and industry groups to develop the next generation of security professionals. Partnerships with cybersecurity education providers help create pipelines for skilled talent. DACTA’s cybersecurity academy connects businesses with trained security professionals.
The cybersecurity skills gap poses a major challenge for organizations worldwide. To combat the growing workforce shortage, businesses must invest in training and upskilling initiatives, while professionals must focus on building in-demand cybersecurity skills through training, certifications, and hands-on experience.
DACTA’s cybersecurity training programs play a vital role in equipping professionals with the expertise needed to defend against cyber threats and fill critical security roles. To learn more about how DACTA can help bridge the cybersecurity skills gap, visit DACTA’s cybersecurity training programs today.
If you're experiencing an active security incident and need immediate assistance, contact the DACTA Incident Response Team (IRT) at support@dactaglobal.com.
