Working in cybersecurity entails safeguarding computer systems, devices, and sensitive data from viruses, illegal access, data loss, and data breaches. According to Global Knowledge, an IT professional development business, cybersecurity is one of two IT professions that will experience the highest demand and the other being cloud computing [CITATION Cou22 \l 1033].

A basic understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals can assist establish a career in this field. Consider gaining experience by obtaining an entry-level certification, such as a certified information system administrator (CISA). There are several tests available based on your function in cyber, such as the CISSP and CISA certifications.

Workplace and technical skills including as scripting, intrusion detection, DevOps, controls & frameworks, incident response, and threat expertise are required for this position. Communication, cooperation, risk management, adaptation, and critical thinking are all important job skills.

The starting income for an entry level cyber security professional varies by state, however in Virginia, it ranges from $24,412 to the national average of $69.381 to the highest of

$137,196 per year. One of the causes for the salary disparity is educational advantage over other cyber security positions [CITATION Zip22 \l 1033].

Advantage when it comes to Cyber, it improves cyberspace security, increases cyber resilience, accelerates business cyber, data, and information protection, secures individual personal information, protects networks and resources, and combats computer hackers and identity theft. Disadvantages: It is expensive; most users cannot afford it; and a normal user cannot use it effectively because it takes ability; it also slows down the system; and repairing a security breach may take hours.

The number of cybersecurity employment is predicted to grow by 33% between 2020 and 2030. After earning a bachelor’s degree in cyber security, you may be required to get up to three years of relevant experience. As you gain expertise in cyber, you may opt to move to a senior position within your firm. It may also need ongoing education to keep current on modern technology. A typical day as a cyber-security professional might entail taking preventative measures, system monitoring, and data analysis. They may also examine network behavior for dangers.

Software developers, also known as software engineers, build computer programs that are used to perform a variety of functions. Examples of software include your internet browser, music streaming service, and online video conferencing app. Software creation may lead to careers in a range of fields, including banking, video game production, and technology Software Developer: Job Description, 2021.

Learning the coding languages used in software development will be essential for getting started and gaining a career in the area. Begin with a popular one, such as Python, Java, or Ruby. This occupation demands mathematical ability, problem solving abilities, programming language, good organizational and time management skills, accuracy, teamwork skills, and self- development skills to stay up with rapidly changing trends.

The starting salary for a software engineer varies by state, but in Virginia it would be $68,945, with a national average of $82,700 and a top salary of $97,984 a year [CITATION EdS \t \l 1033 ]. Earning a master's degree in software engineering raises the average wage much above the figures for a bachelor's degree.

Most software engineers have the option of working strange hours if they so want, or they can stick to a traditional 9-5 schedule. Other job advantages include generous paid vacation time, insurance coverage, profit sharing, and more. Downsides might include balancing an excessive number of tasks, working constant overtime, and working non-traditional business hours such as nights, weekends, and holidays. After accumulating enough experience, software engineers can advance in their careers by becoming project managers, chief information officers, or information system managers. Software engineers spend their days fixing problems in online applications and programs, developing code, attending meetings, and interacting with their peers [CITATION Mil18 \l 1033].

Conclusion

As a result of my research, both Cybersecurity and Software Engineer have similar disadvantages and advantage, but when comparing the two, I noticed that a cyber-security will equip you with far more comprehensive information in dealing with issues like data breaches and hacking, and I tend to lean towards that interest in my life, which is why I am choosing cyber over software engineering.