Cybersecurity Bootcamps London

The May 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack on the NHS’s computers made the dangers of cybercrime all too apparent to British citizens. Although that event had political repercussions, the attack showed the British public how vulnerable computers are and how relatively unprotected a great deal of sensitive data is.

The WannaCry attack was halted after only a few hours by the discovery of a “kill switch” by a computer security researcher. His efforts alerted the world to the existence of—and need for—cybersecurity measures. Cybersecurity has since become a growing field, as no one can afford to leave their computers unprotected, whether individuals are buying antivirus software or large corporations employ cybersecurity specialists working within their IT departments.

For people seeking to break into the field of cybersecurity, a bootcamp can be an excellent way of acquiring the knowledge needed to start a new career. The difference between a bootcamp and a regular class is that bootcamps are more intensive and targeted in what they teach. They’re designed for people trying to start or change careers and thus focus on teaching skills that are immediately transferable to the job market. Some of the longer ones can even serve as a substitute for a college degree. If your goal is to learn about cybersecurity as quickly and effectively as possible, a bootcamp is a great fit for you.

London Careers for Cybersecurity Bootcamp Graduates

As long as people are using the internet to extort money or simply create malicious havoc, there will be a need for cybersecurity professionals. As these villains become more widespread and more sophisticated, those who combat them will be in even greater demand. Security Engineers (who design cybersecurity systems) and Security Analysts (who monitor systems for threats and keep them clean of malware and viruses) are roles that will remain in constant demand.

Cybersecurity techniques aren't the only skills you need to build a career in the field. The UK has the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), which manages certification and other standards in the field. Anyone interested in a career in cybersecurity should consult the NCSC website for further information.

In London, the average annual salary for Security Engineers is nearly £49,000. Security Analysts, for their part, earn an average of £52,500.

In-Person Cybersecurity Bootcamps in London

There’s a dearth of cybersecurity bootcamps available at London’s computer schools. Anyone interested in the field can turn to a virtual bootcamp for the training they desire. The field is a growing one, so there is every reason to expect that cybersecurity bootcamps will be available in Greater London soon.

Virtual Cybersecurity Bootcamps

An online bootcamp has many advantages, including the convenience and comfort of being able to study in your own home without having to navigate central London, public transport, or rush-hour traffic to get to class. You also get to study without distractions from others in the classroom, while still having the opportunity to ask the teacher questions, as the instructor teaches in real time and is present at the other end of the teaching platform.

Noble Desktop, the creator of this tool, offers its share of live online cybersecurity bootcamps. These include a comprehensive Cybersecurity Bootcamp that, in 210 hours of online instruction, takes beginners with no computer background and prepares them for entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. The course covers identifying, analyzing, and combating threats, along with related topics such as Python programming, computer networking, and cloud computing. Included in the tuition is a free retake option and one-to-one mentoring.

Other virtual providers of cybersecurity bootcamps include the Flatiron School, which teaches an online Cybersecurity Analytics class. It runs full-time for four months and prepares students for careers as cybersecurity analysts and engineers. Career coaching and job support are included, and the course may also be taken part-time.

Cybersecurity Classes in London

Not everyone needs to—or even can—invest the time and money required to attend a bootcamp. For these individuals—whether they require only a basic understanding of the subject or are interested in testing the cybersecurity waters before enrolling in a bootcamp—cybersecurity classes may be a good solution. Examples of such classes include Noble Desktop’s online Introduction to Cybersecurity Networks and Digital Forensics. Each runs for 24 hours and covers its respective subject matter in depth. These classes may even be useful for managers and executives seeking to understand cybersecurity better so they can collaborate more effectively with their companies’ cybersecurity teams.

Choosing a Cybersecurity Bootcamp

Have you decided to attend a cybersecurity bootcamp, but aren’t sure which one to choose? There are a lot of factors to consider, and you should proceed through them methodically to receive the education you need. First, research the subject itself so that you have a clear understanding of what there is to learn. Then, consult the syllabi of various bootcamps and match them to what you’ve determined you wish to study. Only online bootcamps are available in Greater London, so conduct research into the schools, their reputations, and which unique features they offer.

You’ll also have to consider practical matters such as scheduling and financing: some bootcamps can cost as much as a year’s rent, so you want to ensure you're investing wisely and not overburdening yourself with a payment plan you can’t afford. It’s also worth evaluating features such as retake options, one-to-one mentoring, and job search assistance. It may seem overwhelming—and it is a lot to think about—but careful reflection should always precede major life decisions. Choosing a bootcamp should be no exception.