Why Training IT Teams in Security is Essential for Every Business

Global spending on cybersecurity products and services is predicted to grow to $1.75 trillion for the five-year period from 2021 to 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures. Despite this, data breaches and cyberattacks are only getting more complex and expensive for organizations. According to a recent report from IBM, the global average cost of a data breach in 2023 was USD 4.45 million, a 15% increase over 3 years.

While it might seem that heavily investing in technology can minimize the chances of falling victim to cyberattacks, it is clear that this is simply not the case. Technology alone can not keep an organization safe. 

Humans are the backbone of any organization, but besides cybersecurity teams and experts, they might not possess the knowledge needed to avoid falling victim to clever tactics employed by cyber attackers. Additionally, with the rise of remote work, employees are no longer physically protected and are more prone to letting their guard down which can lead to a data breach. In fact, reports show that 74% of cybersecurity incidents include some human element.

As cyber threats grow more sophisticated and pervasive, the frontline defenders—IT teams—must be equipped with tools, knowledge, and skills to protect their organizations. Training these teams in cybersecurity is no longer a luxury but a fundamental necessity. 

Here are five key reasons why cybersecurity training for IT teams is vital for any organization looking to thrive in today’s digital landscape:

One of the most immediate benefits of having a trained IT team is the enhanced ability to prevent data breaches. A knowledgeable IT team, trained in cybersecurity, can better support security operations by effectively monitoring systems and ensuring that security configurations are properly maintained. This helps to secure the IT infrastructure against unauthorized access and enhances the organization’s overall security posture.

Cybersecurity training goes beyond technical skills; it fosters a security-first mindset across the organization. When IT teams are trained, they become advocates for security practices, influencing their peers and embedding a strong security ethos throughout the company. This culture shift is crucial as it makes security a fundamental consideration in all business operations and decisions.

Investing in cybersecurity training for IT teams is cost-effective. The cost of managing a data breach can be exorbitant, often involving recovery expenses, fines for non-compliance, and loss of customer trust. Training helps mitigate these risks, potentially saving organizations significant amounts of money. Moreover, security training helps IT teams to better understand the security landscape, which enhances their ability to support and maintain IT infrastructure securely, ensuring systems are less vulnerable to attacks. This understanding allows them to contribute to the security measures effectively, saving both time and resources.

As businesses embrace digital transformation, they encounter new technologies and platforms that can introduce vulnerabilities. Trained IT teams are better equipped to manage these changes, ensuring that security keeps pace with technological advancement. Whether it’s transitioning to cloud services, integrating IoT devices, or adopting new software solutions, a well-trained IT team can navigate these changes securely.

Customers are increasingly aware of cybersecurity issues and often choose to do business with companies they believe are secure. By investing in comprehensive training for IT teams, companies not only strengthen their defenses but also enhance their reputation for security. This boosts customer confidence and can be a significant competitive advantage in industries where trust is paramount.

The SEC-100: CyberCore – Security Essentials course is tailored to build foundational cybersecurity skills within IT teams. This beginner-friendly course is ideal for IT professionals who need to understand and implement basic security principles in their daily operations. Here’s how this course can be beneficial:

• Comprehensive coverage: The course covers essential topics such as networking, system security, and offensive and defensive cybersecurity techniques. This broad approach ensures that IT professionals gain a holistic understanding of the cybersecurity landscape.
• Practical skills development: By focusing on real-world applications, the course equips IT teams with practical skills. This includes scripting for automation and efficiency, which is crucial for managing complex IT environments.
• Certification and credibility: Completing the course and passing the proctored exam grants a certification that adds credibility to the IT team’s skills. This certification enhances the team’s qualifications and boosts their professional growth.
• Enhanced security posture: With the knowledge and skills gained from the course, IT teams can significantly improve their organization’s security posture. This proactive stance on cybersecurity helps prevent data breaches and other security incidents.

By completing the SEC-100 course, IT teams not only gain essential skills but also contribute to a stronger, more resilient organizational security framework.