Once an organization has deployed technology infrastructure that enables visibility into the network (discussed in the first part of this blog), that organization now requires the properly trained security personnel to bring that time to detection (TTD) down to acceptable levels and to respond appropriately to a security breach.

Once detected, a breach must be stopped, and the security team must then coordinate and launch an appropriate response. A CCTV system requires a security guard to review the footage and respond to a suspicious event. A burglar alarm won't be effective without someone to connect it to the key card system, to the sensors attached to doors and windows, and to the local police for emergency response.

Deliver power to the people

Hiring people with absolutely the right security skills is one of the most effective security investments an organization can make. For example, if a company has a security technology with 1,000 features, and if the security staff only knows how to use only one percent of that, then the company is far less effective than it could be.

While some consider humans to be the weakest link in the security-chain, the right people can be one of the strongest points of a security program. Humans with the best training will be those who map the technology to maximize effective protection. No amount of security technology can do that by itself.

Cisco is funding the future of security

Cisco recognizes the need for security staff with these skills, and it has responded by announcing the new Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) certification for Cyber Ops. This certification prepares candidates to begin a career working with associate-level cybersecurity analysts within security operations centers. Those certified with the CCNA Cyber Ops will have the skills necessary to vigilantly monitor and manage security systems, responding to threats and becoming valued protectors of their organizations.

To further help fill this pipeline, we took it a big step further.

Cisco recently announced$10 million in cybersecurity scholarship awards to get more individuals into the cyber security market with the CCNA Cyber Ops certification. Now individuals who want to increase their career options can tap into this unprecedented resource and make huge steps forward in cybersecurity.

We invite you to become involved in the next generation of security evolution. Explore the resources below, and leave your thoughts in the comments section.

• To learn more about the certification, check out https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna-cyber-ops
• To register for the scholarship, visit cisco.com/go/securityscholar
• To discover the wider Cisco Security certification portfolio, click here:
  • Cisco Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Cisco CCNA Security
  • Cisco CCNP Security
  • Cisco CCIE Security