Dev vs cyber security: Salary & Career Paths

TL;DR

Both .NET/Java development and cyber security offer excellent career prospects and good salaries. Development roles often have more entry-level positions, but cyber security is growing faster due to increasing threats. Cyber security generally pays slightly higher at senior levels. Your choice depends on your interests – do you enjoy building things or breaking them?

1. Understanding the Roles

Let’s break down what each field involves:

• .NET/Java Development: This is about creating software applications, websites, and systems. You’ll write code, test it, fix bugs, and maintain existing programs. Common tasks include designing databases, building user interfaces, and integrating different technologies.
• Cyber security: This focuses on protecting computer systems and networks from attacks. Roles vary widely – you could be a penetration tester (ethical hacker), security analyst, incident responder, or security architect. Tasks include identifying vulnerabilities, responding to breaches, implementing security measures, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

2. Salary Expectations

Salaries depend on experience, location, certifications, and the specific role. Here’s a general overview (UK figures as of late 2023/early 2024):

• Entry-Level (.NET/Java Developer): £25,000 – £40,000
• Mid-Level (.NET/Java Developer): £40,000 – £65,000
• Senior (.NET/Java Developer): £65,000 – £100,000+
• Entry-Level (Cyber security Analyst): £30,000 – £45,000
• Mid-Level (Cyber security Analyst/Engineer): £45,000 – £75,000
• Senior (cyber security Architect/Penetration Tester): £75,000 – £120,000+

Note: Cyber security roles often command a premium due to the high demand and specialised skills required.

3. Career Progression

• Development: Junior Developer → Mid-Level Developer → Senior Developer → Tech Lead/Architect → Development Manager
• Cyber security: Junior Analyst → Security Analyst → Security Engineer → Security Architect → CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)

4. Skills Required

• .NET/Java Development: Programming languages (.NET, Java, Python), databases (SQL Server, MySQL), version control (Git), Agile methodologies, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud). Example code snippet for a simple ‘Hello World’ in Java:

  public class Main {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
      System.out.println("Hello, world!");
    }
  }

• Cyber security: Networking fundamentals, operating systems (Windows, Linux), security tools (Wireshark, Nmap, Metasploit), scripting languages (Python, PowerShell), cloud security, ethical hacking techniques. Example command to scan a network using Nmap:

  nmap -sV 192.168.1.1

5. Future Outlook

• Development: Continues to be in high demand, but competition is strong. Focus on emerging technologies like AI and machine learning can boost your prospects.
• Cyber security: Experiencing rapid growth due to the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks. Demand for skilled professionals far exceeds supply. Cloud security, application security, and incident response are particularly hot areas.

6. Which Path is Right For You?

• Choose Development if: You enjoy problem-solving through coding, building things from scratch, and working on tangible products.
• Choose Cyber security if: You’re fascinated by hacking, protecting systems, investigating incidents, and staying ahead of evolving threats.

7. Getting Started

• Development: Online courses (Udemy, Coursera), bootcamps, university degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Cyber security: CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), SANS Institute certifications, online courses, Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions.