Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Skills, Traits, and Paths

Curious how to get into cybersecurity—and whether you need to code, pick a specific degree, or follow one best path? In this Unlocked 403 episode (S2E3), ESET Principal Threat Intelligence Researcher Robert Lipovsky cuts through the noise and shares what truly matters for launching a cybersecurity career.

Lipovsky highlights the core skills and personality traits that help newcomers succeed in this fast-evolving field. He addresses common myths, explains why there’s no single route into the industry, and offers clear guidance on building a foundation that stands out to employers.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The most useful skills and traits for entry-level cybersecurity roles
• Whether a college degree is necessary—and how to think strategically about education
• How much coding you really need to know to break in
• Practical ways to choose your path and build experience

For more context, the episode also connects to earlier insights from ESET researchers on getting started in cybersecurity and what the work of a malware researcher looks like.

Listen to Season 2, Episode 3 of the Unlocked 403 cybersecurity podcast for actionable advice and a clearer roadmap into the field. Connect with us on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram to keep learning and stay inspired.

Source: WeLiveSecurity