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How to Transition from Computer Networking to Cybersecurity

Many different types of businesses (and industries) rely on the support of trained specialists to ensure that IT and security infrastructure is up to speed. There are a variety of subcategories within the field of IT that require advanced training and expertise.

When it comes to critical operations and processes such as network security, computer networking, and cybersecurity, businesses need to be sure that the right investments are being made. If you’re an IT specialist, it’s possible to transition your skills from a field like a computer networking to cybersecurity with the proper training and preparation.Cyber Security on the Mechanism of Metal Gears.

In this post, we’ll provide a rundown of the differences between computer networking and cybersecurity. We’ll also give you a glimpse at how managed IT services can bridge the gap between different IT needs and expectations.

What is Computer Networking?

According to Amazon AWS, computer networking refers to the interconnected presence of multiple computers or devices that can communicate with one another; this shared virtual system is designed for maximum productivity. 

A computer network typically follows a set of pre-programmed rules that dictate how devices or machines on the network “talk” to one another. While the actual devices are part of a physical framework, the wireless communication aspect is mostly virtual.

Most well-trained computer networking professionals will be able to recommend a specific type of computer network based on the needs of an individual, small business, or enterprise organization. Common computer network examples include:

  • LAN – Local Area Network
  • WAN – Wide Area Network
  • Cloud-based – Network that functions on a cloud server
  • VPN – Virtual Private Network

What is Cybersecurity?

Another important aspect of IT management is cybersecurity. According to the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), cybersecurity is “the art of protecting networks, devices, and data from unauthorized access or criminal use and the practice of ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.”

Although many cybersecurity experts have a certain level of professional training in computer networking, cybersecurity exists as its own specialty. Skilled cybersecurity personnel must know common online risks, threat mitigation practices, and compliance regulations that dictate specific cybersecurity protocols.

 

Network Engineering vs. Cybersecurity

While it may seem like network engineering and cybersecurity are two separate fields of practice, it’s important to recognize how the aspects of IT management often go hand-in-hand in today’s digital economy. 

In fact, it’s very difficult to manage business operations successfully without proficiency in both areas. While a cybersecurity specialist reduces online threats and stays knowledgeable about data protection, a network engineer is tasked with guarding the integrity of a computer network.

Without proper and professional network engineering, cybersecurity standards are difficult to find and achieve. This is because many cybersecurity standards are set up for success based on the stability, quality, and maintenance of a given computer network. 

Network engineers and cybersecurity specialists need one another in order to succeed in managing a computer network at scale.  

 

How Managed IT Services Can Help Manage Your Needs

If you are a small or midsize business, managed IT services can help you eliminate gaps in your computer networking and cybersecurity processes. This is especially valuable if you aren’t able to maintain internal or full-time positions for these crucial responsibilities. 

A managed IT services provider like MicroTech IT of Boise can provide reliable support where you need it most. A qualified managed IT services provider should be able to:

  • Carefully evaluate the IT goals that are most important to your business
  • Suggest the most appropriate computer networking and IT solutions that align with your long-term goals and vision
  • Bridge the gap between different IT specialties in order to provide streamlined, cohesive service and support across all devices and platforms
  • Offer remote monitoring of your network to ensure round-the-clock security and stability of your most valuable IT systems

 

Key Takeaways

Computer networking, network engineering, and cybersecurity all play their own unique roles in keeping a business running. In a time when most business happens online, having a well-constructed and stable IT infrastructure is critical. 

Although this post has laid a foundation for the differences between computer networking and cybersecurity management, there are always many moving pieces for every business. Flexibility and adaptability are key when it comes to weathering changes in the field of IT and staying on top of current trends.

Reach out to MicroTech today to learn more about our five-star managed IT services. You can take a small step towards protecting your business and your computer network today.

 

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