From the individual level to the wider scale, cybersecurity continues to be a significant challenge. In recent years, we have seen disruptions to supply chains and bank fraud. And these are compounded by a skills gap for end-users and a shortage of cybersecurity specialists.

Understanding Microsoft Security Courses, roles and how to close the cybersecurity skills gap -Skills gap


If you are aiming to gain advanced security training and certifications, we share insights on specific courses and the roles they are suited for.

The global cybersecurity skills gap in 2021 and beyond

A leading researcher and publisher on the global cyber economy, Cybersecurity Ventures shared a report that forecasted 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs to be open globally or a 350% increase over eight years.

SCI Infographics ENG

Microsoft's research on the cybersecurity skills gap found disparities in terms of the number of cybersecurity professionals compared to the demand and in terms of the lack of diversity. You can view the data on this Power BI.

In Australia, the growth in demand for cybersecurity professionals increased by 26% in 2021. In New Zealand, this number is 22%. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, Raymund E. Liboro who heads the country's National Privacy Commission noted that while there is a strong demand for cybersecurity expertise and data protection and privacy expertise, the country is not producing enough specialists as information security is not so widely taught in schools.

Diving deeper, there is a need to support traditionally excluded sectors, including women, with opportunities to advance their skills and find a place in the cybersecurity workforce. In Australia and New Zealand, only 19% and 18% of all security professionals are female.

Gender-Disparity-1024x688

Microsoft Security training paths for distinct roles

Advancing your career, earning recognition, and validating your technical expertise for current and future industry job roles are within reach with Microsoft Certifications for security, compliance, and identity. Growing your skills through the different role-based certifications below offer the structure and resources you need to empower yourself as you expand your technical skill sets and expand your network in the cyber economy.

Understanding Microsoft Security Courses, roles and how to close the cybersecurity skills gap - Certification

Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals

This certification is targeted at those looking to familiarise themselves with the fundamentals of security, compliance, and identity (SCI) across cloud-based and related Microsoft services. This is for a broad audience that may include business stakeholders, new or existing IT professionals, or students who have an interest in Microsoft security, compliance, and identity solutions.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer

This is suited for professionals who implement security controls and threat protection, manage identity, and access, and protect data, applications and networks in cloud and hybrid environments as part of an end-to-end infrastructure.

Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Security Administrator

Microsoft 365 Security Administrators proactively secure Microsoft 365 enterprise and hybrid environments, implement and manage security and compliance solutions, respond to threats, and enforce data governance. If these tasks are like your day-to-day responsibilities or a role you are aiming for, certification and training in it is a must.

Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate

Do you collaborate with organisational stakeholders to secure information technology systems and reduce risk by rapidly remediating active attacks in the environment? Do you advise on improvements to threat protection practices and refer violations of organisational policies to appropriate stakeholders? Do you investigate, respond to, and hunt for threats using Microsoft Azure Sentinel, Azure Defender, Microsoft 365 Defender, and third-party security products? The Security Operations Analyst certification might be right for you.

Microsoft Certified: Identity and Access Administrator Associate

Do you design, implement, and operate an organisation’s identity and access management systems by using Azure AD? Do you manage tasks such as providing secure authentication and authorisation access to enterprise applications? Do you troubleshoot, monitor, and report the identity and access environment? If so, you are the right person to be taking the new Microsoft Security Identity and Access exam.

Microsoft Certified: Information Protection and Compliance Administrator Associate

The Information Protection and Compliance Administrator plans and implements controls that meet organisational compliance needs. This person is responsible for translating requirements and compliance controls into technical implementation. They assist organisational control owners to become and stay compliant. They work with information technology (IT) personnel, business application owners, human resources and legal stakeholders to implement technology that supports policies and controls necessary to sufficiently address regulatory requirements for their organisation.

Addressing cyber security challenges and opportunities

Whether for your personal career development or for your team, you can access Microsoft Security training courses. Lumify Work has a pool of Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs) ready to help you make the most of your training budget and realise your full potential in the cyber security space.

Understanding Microsoft Security Courses, roles and how to close the cybersecurity skills gap - Addressing the gap

You can map out your plan to upskill as a cybersecurity professional with guidance from our Microsoft Security eBook. These courses are delivered through the Lumify Anywhere platform, helping you train according to your schedule and logistical needs (in person, virtual or hybrid). Get certified for Microsoft under a global IT leader today and enquire about cyber security courses and training paths.



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