Software building is similar to building a house. To conceptualize and deliver the application, it takes people with different skills. The system security architect is a high-ranking individual who creates a blueprint of how all corporate applications will work.
The system security engineer uses development tools to create the final product. These plans are then applied to individual applications. Each individual must understand their role and that of their co-workers in order to make an application run smoothly.
Let’s take a look into what each role entails, their similarities and differences, as well as why they are so valuable for organizations.
Cybersecurity Attack Surface Expands
Security was centered around the network perimeter in the past. Enterprises used anti-virus and firewall solutions to protect themselves from intruders.
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Training is a good idea. Hackers have found ways to bypass network checkpoints. Attacks are now possible at all levels of the seven-layer application model, from the network portion to the top, up to the application layer.
There are many holes. According to Juniper Research, cybercrime cost businesses more than $2 trillion in 2019. To protect corporate information, enterprises need to have multiple checks. This requires cybersecurity pros.
Security Architecture Touchpoints
Designing enterprise security solutions has become extremely complicated due to the increasing number of entry points. Large enterprises often have between one and two dozen security products. Outsiders will look for weak points in the security chain so products must work together and comprehensively.
To close all possible holes, it takes thought and foresight. Security frameworks are blueprints that outline the potential security breaches at each entry point. Then, they create tools to protect the potential gateway.
For example, corporations used to leave unencrypted data in their data center storage systems. Hackers could gain access to corporate jewels and all its confidential information if they bypassed security checks. Organizations now have tools that can encrypt information even while it is still at rest.
Security engineers and security architects are needed by organizations to have a broad range of skills. Security architect and security engineer are highly sought after jobs. Indeed.com lists approximately 21,000 positions in the U.S.A for the former and 78,000 to the latter.
Here’s what each position entails. These positions typically require at least half a dozen years of experience and often more.
What does a Security Architect do?
Security architects work at a high-level. They create security frameworks that prevent bad guys from entering at all possible points. They inspect all system components and ensure that they are in sync to prevent intrusions. Security architects design policies, procedures, guidelines, and documentation that can be used across all departments and all applications. They design the whole building.
They must have a working knowledge of many system components, including information security programs, IT operations, identity and access management. They are also responsible for security training and awareness, IT general compliance controls, reports, incident response and disaster recovery, data privacy and system risk.
The truth is that company information is constantly under attack. According to a University of Maryland study, a hacker can probe a system every 39 seconds. Secu.