{"id":226,"date":"2022-03-02T21:59:45","date_gmt":"2022-03-02T21:59:45","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/he-cyberdegrees-org-sonic.lndo.site\/?p=226"},"modified":"2023-10-18T21:02:38","modified_gmt":"2023-10-18T21:02:38","slug":"how-to-become-a-security-software-developer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/jobs\/security-software-developer\/","title":{"rendered":"Security Software Developer Career Overview"},"content":{"rendered":"

Security software developers create computer applications that protect systems and networks. Specifically, they design, test, implement, and manage programs that safeguard against cyberattacks and other unauthorized breaches.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Some employers use \"security software engineer\" as an alternate term. However, insiders note small but important differences between developers and engineers. Security software developer jobs typically focus on customized or smaller-scale solutions. Meanwhile, security software engineers usually lead projects for larger and more diverse user bases.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Developers typically work with teams in office-based or remote settings. Most hold at least a bachelor's degree. Some use endorsements like the (ISC)2 certified secure software lifecycle professional<\/a> credential to verify their skills.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

This guide explains a security software developer's job description and covers the steps required to enter the career. Explore salary trends, job outlooks, and related computer science specializations.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

History of Security Software Developers<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

The history of security software developers aligns with the emergence of cybersecurity as a computer science discipline<\/a>. In the 1970s, computer researcher Bob Thomas created the first computer worm, known as Creeper. Programmer Ray Tomlinson responded with Reaper, which \"chased\" Creeper and eliminated it from infected machines. Tomlinson's Reaper is now recognized as the first antivirus program in computing history.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Commercial forms of antivirus software first appeared in the 1980s and grew in popularity during the 1990s, when the internet became widely available. Security software became increasingly important during the 2000s as computer threats continued to emerge. The security software developer profession matured during this period, fueling the growth of a global cybersecurity industry<\/a> now valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Popular Online Programs<\/h2>\r\n

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Similar Specializations and Career Paths<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

Several other computer science specializations involve skills and job objectives similar to security software developers. Examples include security software engineers, security administrators, and security auditors.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Security software engineers have the proficiencies of developers but apply them on a broader scale. When creating software, engineers typically occupy senior leadership roles within teams. Their pay rates reflect their elevated standing. According to Payscale data from July 2023, software engineers earn about 20% more<\/a> on average than software developers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Security administrators deploy the tools created by security software engineers and developers. The role involves active network monitoring and security policy development, among other key activities.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Security auditors perform comprehensive assessments of organizations' security needs and policies. The position requires advanced knowledge of software tools<\/a> to protect systems and networks from intrusions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The following table summarizes key details related to these similar career paths:<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Similar Career Paths<\/caption>\r\n
Career<\/th>\r\nDescription<\/th>\r\nRequired Education<\/th>\r\nRequired Experience<\/th>\r\nMedian\/Average Annual Salary<\/th>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/thead>\r\n
Security Software Engineer<\/a><\/span><\/th>\r\n
  • Lead the development, testing, and refinement of security software packages across the lifecycle<\/li>
  • Assess organizational security needs and develop strategies for meeting them<\/li>
  • Manage software development teams and communicate with non-technical managers and executives<\/li><\/ul><\/td>\r\n
  • A specialized bachelor's degree in software development or engineering<\/li>
  • Optional certifications may support career development and advancement<\/li><\/ul><\/td>\r\n
3-5 years, depending on education and the nature of previous professional experience<\/td>\r\n$99,260<\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
Security Administrator<\/a><\/span><\/th>\r\n
  • Manage and oversee day-to-day organizational system or network security needs<\/li>
  • Apply expertise and insights to organizational cybersecurity policy development<\/li><\/ul><\/td>\r\n
  • Bachelor's degree in computer or information science<\/li>
  • Optional certifications may enhance employment and advancement prospects<\/li><\/td>\r\n
3-5 years, depending on education and experience<\/td>\r\n$80,600<\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n
Security Auditor<\/a><\/span><\/th>\r\n
  • Perform comprehensive assessments of organizational security strategies, practices, and tools<\/li>
  • Identify gaps in existing security approaches<\/li>
  • Propose solutions for closing existing security gaps<\/li><\/ul><\/td>\r\n
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science or cybersecurity<\/li>
  • Some employers prefer or require certification<\/li><\/ul><\/td>\r\n
3-5 years, depending on education, certification, and experience<\/td>\r\n$102,600<\/a><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n\r\n
Source: BLS, Payscale<\/figcaption>\r\n\r\n\n
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Popular Online Programs<\/h2>\r\n

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.<\/p>\r\n<\/sonic-editorial-listings>\r\n\n <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

What Does a Security Software Developer Do?<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

These developers use programming, troubleshooting, debugging, and other skills to build security-oriented computer applications. This software may protect desktop systems, mobile devices, or both. Security software plays a crucial role in safeguarding sensitive data and protecting online infrastructure from malicious actors.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Some security software developer jobs<\/a> involve creating general-use programs and applications for consumer markets. Others build custom solutions for clients or employers. In either case, developers typically work in teams headed by senior engineers or lead developers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Candidates must have several soft and hard skills to succeed in security software development. The sections below explore the core proficiencies and competencies these professionals use to perform their job duties.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Key Soft Skills for Security Software Developers<\/h3>\r\n\r\n
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