INE Resources
04/04/2025
INE
Top 5 Cybersecurity Career Paths for New Graduates in 2025
For graduates with the right skills and qualifications, this gap represents an extraordinary opportunity. But with so many potential entry points into cybersecurity, which paths offer the most promising futures? This blog explores the top five cybersecurity career paths for new graduates in 2025, examining the roles, required skills, growth potential, and how to position yourself for success.
04/01/2025
INE
IT Leaders: Break Down Silos and Build Resilience in Three Steps
Despite this interconnected reality, a puzzling contradiction persists: Why are so many organizations clinging to outdated siloed management when their very survival depends on integration?
04/01/2025
INE
Building the Resilient Cybersecurity Resume: Skills for a Volatile Landscape
The cybersecurity field remains a beacon of opportunity amid economic uncertainty, but it demands skilled professionals. INE Security, a leader in cybersecurity training and certifications, is addressing the critical need for skilled operators by equipping them with the tools to not only survive but thrive in a landscape defined by constant evolution and talent shortages."The cybersecurity landscape is relentless, demanding professionals who are not just trained but continuously evolve alongside it," emphasizes Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. "At INE Security, our priority is empowering cybersecurity operators with the skills to build resilient careers and fortify the organizations they defend."The Operator's Arsenal: Essential Skills for SuccessCybersecurity employers are seeking team members who possess a blend of technical prowess and strategic acumen. Key attributes include:Advanced Technical Proficiency: A deep mastery of cybersecurity technologies and methodologies. This goes beyond basic tool usage to encompass a thorough understanding of underlying principles.Problem-Solving Mastery: The ability to dissect complex security challenges, think critically under pressure, and devise effective, adaptable mitigation strategies.Adaptability and Continuous Learning: A proactive mindset geared towards rapid assimilation of new technologies and a commitment to staying ahead of the ever-shifting threat landscape.Clear and Concise Communication: The skill to articulate intricate security risks, vulnerabilities, and protocols to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, fostering collaboration and informed decision-making.Leadership in Action: The capacity to take initiative, guide projects, and lead teams effectively, particularly in high-stakes incident response scenarios.INE Security's training programs are meticulously crafted to cultivate these essential competencies, transforming learners into highly valued and sought-after cybersecurity operators.The Challenge: Navigating a High-Pressure EnvironmentCurrent industry data paints a stark picture of the challenges facing cybersecurity operators:Understaffing and Retention Crisis: 62% of cybersecurity teams are operating with insufficient staff, and 63% struggle to retain qualified professionals (ISACA State of Cybersecurity 2023). This puts immense pressure on existing teams.Skills Gap as a Threat Multiplier: 80% of organizations have experienced security breaches directly attributable to a lack of cybersecurity skills within their workforce (Fortinet 2023 Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report). Operators are often on the front lines of this gap.The Burnout Epidemic: A staggering 64% of security professionals reported burnout in the past year, with 54% considering leaving their roles due to overwhelming workplace stress (Tines State of Mental Health in Cybersecurity 2023, Mimecast 2023). This highlights the urgent need for support and resilience training.INE Security's Solution: Empowering Professional ResilienceINE Security provides a comprehensive framework to foster career resilience and empower high-performing cybersecurity practitioners. INE Security’s training and cybersecurity certifications are strategically designed to address the immediate and long-term needs of these critical professionals:The Continuous Skill Development Cycle: A structured approach that begins with a thorough assessment of current skills, progresses through targeted, intensive training, and culminates in industry-recognized certifications, ensuring operators meet and exceed evolving industry standards.Mastery Through Hands-On Practice: Immersive simulations in state-of-the-art lab environments that replicate real-world security scenarios, enabling operators to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, high-pressure application.Unlimited Access to Knowledge: A subscription model that grants team members unlimited access to a diverse and expanding library of courses, fostering continuous learning and the ability to adapt to new cybersecurity disciplines and emerging threats.Quantifying Growth: Advanced analytics tools that empower team managers to track their progress, measure skill enhancement, and provide tangible proof of their professional development to current and prospective employers.Investing in the Future of Cybersecurity OperationsThe development of resilient and highly skilled cybersecurity operators is paramount not only for individual career success but for the overall security of our digital world. INE Security provides the essential tools and resources to:Sharpen Skills: Equip operators with the specialized knowledge and skills required to excel in the competitive cybersecurity job market.Accelerate Career Advancement: Provide continuous learning pathways that enable operators to progress rapidly in their chosen career trajectories.Ensure Relevance: Empower operators to adapt to emerging technologies, anticipate evolving threats, and maintain long-term job security.Validate Expertise: Offer industry-recognized certifications that validate operator skills, expertise, and dedication to the field.Equip Your Teams for Success: The INE Security AdvantageINE Security is committed to empowering cybersecurity professionals to build thriving and impactful careers. Take the first step today to enhance skills, unlock career potential, and build a resilient future in cyber security.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
04/01/2025
INE
G2 Names INE 2025 Cybersecurity Training Leader
INE Leads in Cybersecurity Professional Development, Online Course Providers, and Technical Skills Training(Cary, NC) INE, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity training and certifications, is proud to announce it is the recipient of twelve badges in G2’s Spring 2025 Report, including Grid Leader for Cybersecurity Professional Development, Online Course Providers, and Technical Skills Development, which highlight INE’s superior performance relative to competitors. “INE solves the problem of accessible, hands-on security training with structured learning paths and real-world labs,” says SOC Analyst Sai Tharun K. “It helps bridge the gap between theory and practical skills. For me it has been very valuable in refining my penetration testing, cloud security, and threat analysis skills.”G2 calculates rankings using a proprietary algorithm sourced from verified reviews of actual product users and is a trusted review source for thousands of organizations around the world. Its recognition of INE’s strong performance in enterprise, small business, and global impact for technical training showcases the depth and breadth of INE’s online learning library. "We’re incredibly proud to once again be at the forefront of the training industry, recognized by G2 users in a time when cyber threats are escalating in both frequency and complexity,” said Dara Warn, CEO of INE. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing training that not only keeps pace with but anticipates the dynamic intersection of cybersecurity with networking, cloud services, and broader IT disciplines. At INE, we believe deeply in equipping professionals and organizations with the robust, up-to-date skills necessary to navigate and secure today’s rapidly changing digital landscapes. A huge thank you to our dedicated team and learners, who are essential in our mission to transform cybersecurity training to meet the urgent demands of the current environment."INE’s G2 Spring 2025 Report highlights include:Momentum Leader, Cybersecurity Professional DevelopmentMomentum Leader, Online Course ProvidersMomentum Leader, Technical Skills DevelopmentGrid Leader, Cybersecurity Professional DevelopmentGrid Leader, Online Course ProvidersGrid Leader, Technical Skills DevelopmentRegional Leader, Europe Online Course ProvidersRegional Leader, Asia Online Course ProvidersRegional Leader, Asia Pacific Online Course ProvidersGrid Leader, Small-Business Technical Skills DevelopmentGrid Leader, Small-Business Online Course ProvidersHigh Performer, India Online Course Providers“INE’s hands-on labs and real-world scenarios have helped me refine by skills,” said Leonard R.G., a Pentesting Consultant. “INE is solving the hiring issues most HR people have when they are hiring cybersecurity workers,” adds Batuhan A., a Cyber Security Researcher. In 2024, the prestigious SC Awards recognized INE Security, INE’s cybersecurity-specific training, as the Best IT Security-Related Training Program. This designation further underscores INE Security’s role as a frontrunner in cybersecurity training for businesses, providing the tools and knowledge essential for tackling today’s complex cyber threats.INE Security was also presented with 4 awards from Global InfoSec Awards at RSAC 2024, including: Best Product - Cybersecurity Education for EnterprisesMost Innovative - Cybersecurity Education for SMBsPublisher’s Choice - Cybersecurity TrainingCutting Edge - Cybersecurity Training VideosCombined, these accolades highlight INE's leadership in delivering innovative and effective networking and cybersecurity education across various market segments, including enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
03/31/2025
INE
INE Security Highlights the Critical Importance of Backing Up Cybersecurity Skills in Honor of World Backup Day
In conjunction with World Backup Day, INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, is underscoring the vital need to back up not just data, but also cybersecurity professional skills. Digital threats are increasingly sophisticated, and ensuring that cybersecurity teams are up-to-date and prepared for threat incidents is as crucial as backing up company data.“Just as you wouldn’t leave your company’s data unprotected, leaving your cybersecurity team without a backup plan for their skills is a risk no organization can afford,” said Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. “World Backup Day serves as a perfect reminder of the importance of continuous learning and preparedness in the cybersecurity realm.”INE Security offers several key initiatives to support cybersecurity professionals and cybersecurity training for organizations in backing up their skills:Prevent Knowledge Loss: Access to INE Security’s exclusive, expertly curated content helps prevent skill degradation. The latest insights and practices in cybersecurity support continuous learning, ensuring professionals stay ahead of potential security vulnerabilities.Disaster Recovery Practice: INE Security provides hands-on experience in managing critical incidents through real-world scenarios simulated in virtual machine environments. This risk-free setting allows professionals to practice and perfect their incident response strategies without the real-world consequences of a security breach.Cross-Training Protection: With an extensive selection of labs covering Networking, Cybersecurity, and Cloud disciplines, INE Security encourages a comprehensive skills backup strategy for security professionals and the organizations they work for. This cross-training ensures that teams can handle cyber threats across different platforms and systems, boosting overall security posture.This World Backup Day, INE Security invites organizations and professionals to reflect on their backup strategies, not only for their data but also for their essential cybersecurity skills. Investing in skill backups is investing in the future security and resilience of both individual careers and organizational assets.About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and cybersecurity certifications. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
03/25/2025
INE
Cyber Guardians: INE Security Champions Cybersecurity Training During National Physicians Week 2025
New industry statistics reveal that cyberattacks on hospitals and clinics have reached unprecedented levels in recent years, costing the healthcare sector millions and directly jeopardizing patient safety and trust. In recognition of National Physicians Week 2025, INE Security, a global cybersecurity training and certification provider, is spotlighting the escalating cyber threats facing healthcare institutions and the urgent need for broad-spectrum cybersecurity training to protect patient care. Recent reports show healthcare has endured a record wave of cyber breaches. In 2023 alone, there were 725 hacking-related breaches reported in U.S. healthcare, according to The HIPPA Journal, exposing over 124 million patient records, the worst year on record. Healthcare cybersecurity threats and breaches remain the costliest of any industry with the average data breach in a hospital now costing about $10.93 million per incident. Beyond breaches, ransomware and other cyberattacks wreak havoc on operations: a joint Ponemon Institute and Proofpoint study found 88% of healthcare organizations, with an average cost of nearly $5 million per attack when all factors are accounted for.. These attacks range from theft of sensitive patient data to crippling ransomware outages. U.S. hospitals faced roughly 1,410 attempted cyberattacks per week in 2022, an 86% increase from the prior year.Trends: Ransomware, Phishing, and Third-Party Breaches on the RiseCybercriminals are exploiting healthcare’s reliance on digital records and networked medical devices. According to Health-ISAC’s latest threat brief, the most common attack types targeting healthcare include ransomware deployments, phishing/spear-phishing campaigns, and third-party vendor breaches. Phishing has proven especially pervasive – over 90% of cyberattacks on healthcare begin with phishing scams, tricking staff into divulging credentials or installing malware. Ransomware attacks, in particular, have surged in frequency and severity, often combining data theft with encryption (“double extortion”). The American Hospital Association warns these attacks “are designed to shut down vital systems and cause maximum delay and disruption to patient care,” essentially turning ransomware into “threat-to-life” crimes rather than just IT incidents. A chilling example occurred when a ransomware strike on a major third-party provider, Change Healthcare, impacted nearly every U.S. hospital’s operations earlier last year – delaying treatments and interrupting critical services nationwide.The impact on patient care from such cyber incidents is stark. Nearly two-thirds of breached healthcare organizations report significant disruption to clinical operations. In a survey of recent major attacks (ransomware, cloud, supply chain, and email compromise), 66% of providers experienced care delivery interruptions, and over half saw worse patient outcomes due to delayed procedures. 23% reported increased patient mortality rates associated with attack-induced care delays. These statistics underscore the fact that cybersecurity is directly tied to patient safety. When systems go down, or data is held hostage, ambulances get diverted, appointments are canceled, and doctors are left unable to access crucial health records – a situation that can literally be life-threatening.Protecting Patients and Trust Through Training and EducationDefending against these evolving threats requires more than just technology – it demands well-trained personnel at all levels. Experts note that human error remains a leading cause of breaches in healthcare, yet a significant portion of staff lack adequate cybersecurity awareness. Nearly one-third of healthcare employees have received no cybersecurity training from their employer, even though human mistakes contributed to roughly 33% of healthcare cyber incidents. Healthcare leaders are urged to treat ongoing cyber education as mandatory continuing education, akin to medical training, to ingrain a culture of security mindfulness. “Every member of a healthcare team – from physicians to IT personnel – plays a role in cybersecurity,” said Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security.. “Continuous training ensures that protecting patient data and systems becomes as second-nature as protecting patients’ physical health.”Importantly, robust cybersecurity isn’t just about technical prevention—it’s also about preserving patient trust. Patients expect their sensitive health information to be guarded with the same care as their medical treatment. Breaches undermine that confidence: about 66% of patients say they would switch healthcare providers if a breach compromised their personal data due to poor security practices. Ongoing training and certification of healthcare cybersecurity teams help maintain that trust by demonstrating a visible commitment to data protection and privacy. When providers proactively train staff and tighten defenses, patients can feel safer knowing their hospital is staying ahead of threats.Industry-Leading Certifications Validate Critical SkillsOne way healthcare organizations are bolstering their security posture is by having their IT and security staff earn industry-recognized cybersecurity certifications. Certifications serve as a benchmark for broad and deep knowledge, assuring that professionals can effectively prevent, detect, and respond to attacks. Some of the leading cybersecurity certifications being pursued in the healthcare sector include:CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) – a globally respected credential covering security architecture, risk management, and governance.CompTIA Security+ – an entry-to-intermediate level certification establishing core security skills and knowledge, often a baseline for IT staff.eWPTX - a highly respected certification that is 100% practical and validates the advanced skills necessary to conduct in-depth penetration tests on modern web applications.eJPT - a hands-on, entry-level Red Team certification that simulates skills utilized during real-world engagements.By investing in certification training, healthcare IT teams ensure they stay current on best practices and emerging threat tactics. Broad-spectrum training – covering everything from network defense and encryption to cloud security and secure medical device management – prepares these professionals to handle the diverse range of threats targeting healthcare. The most effective training approaches combine coursework with hands-on exercises and simulations of real-world attack scenarios. This practical skills development is essential: in the high-stakes hospital environment, cyber teams must be battle-tested and ready to counter ransomware in the middle of the night or to quickly secure a breached database containing patient records.INE Security’s Training Programs Empower Healthcare HeroesINE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training, certifications, and certification preparation, is at the forefront of helping healthcare organizations fortify their cyber defenses through education. INE Security’s comprehensive cybersecurity training platform offers on-demand courses, interactive labs, and instructor-led trainings that cover the full spectrum of security domains – from fundamental cyber hygiene for general staff to advanced incident response and penetration testing for IT professionals. These programs are aligned with the requirements of top industry certifications, enabling hospital IT teams and security analysts to earn credentials like CISSP, CeJPT,, and others as they build their skill sets.Through INE Security’s hands-on training modules, healthcare professionals learn how to address the exact threats plaguing the sector today. For example, network defense and malware analysis labs show IT engineers how to contain ransomware outbreaks. Governance and compliance lessons ensure administrators understand frameworks like HIPAA and can integrate security into hospital operations. By continuously upskilling their workforce, healthcare providers can significantly reduce the likelihood of a breach and mitigate damage if one occurs. As National Physicians Week 2025 highlights the dedication of doctors to healing patients, INE Security emphasizes that protecting the systems and data those physicians rely on is equally essential to patient well-being. The healthcare industry’s cyber threats are continual and evolving, but with rigorous training, education, and certification of cybersecurity professionals, hospitals and clinics can stay one step ahead. Ongoing cybersecurity training is now fundamental to sustaining patient care and trust in our digitally driven healthcare system. This week and beyond, INE Security is proud to partner with healthcare organizations to ensure that those who save lives are backed by networks and data systems that are safe, secure, and resilient against cyber attacks.<br />About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
03/20/2025
INE
Hands-On Excellence: INE's Skill Dive Accelerates CMMC Readiness Through Practical Cybersecurity Training
When preparing for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), theoretical knowledge alone won't get you across the finish line. The Department of Defense (DoD) expects more than documentation—they expect demonstrable cybersecurity competence. This is where hands-on training becomes not just valuable, but essential. INE's Skill Dive provides the practical experience needed to transform cybersecurity knowledge into CMMC-ready capabilities.
03/18/2025
INE
INE Launches New CompTIA Network+ Certification Training
INE, a global leader in IT training and certification preparation, is announcing the launch of its new CompTIA Network+ Certification Training, designed to meet the growing demand for skilled network professionals and systems administrators in the evolving landscape of information technology and network security.Essential Role of CompTIA Network+ in Networking and CybersecurityCompTIA Network+ serves as a critical entry-level credential that spans essential network technologies, including wireless networks, IP addresses, and storage area networks. It is widely considered one of the best networking certifications to obtain. "The technologies and devices used in the world of computer networking are vast and often complicated. The seemingly endless array of possibilities and variations that are at one’s disposal to create, modify, and troubleshoot networks is often very overwhelming to people just getting started in this field,” said INE Instructor, Keith Bogart. “While many other certifications assume a certain prerequisite level of understanding, the CompTIA Network+ certification starts with no such assumptions other than having basic skills with a computer, making it an ideal certification for those needing to start on the ground floor."The Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights a robust job growth forecast for network-oriented roles, with a particular emphasis on positions that safeguard network security. The CompTIA Network+ certification is recognized globally, streamlining the pathway to becoming a network manager and significantly enhancing career prospects and salary potential.Unlocking Career Opportunities and Elevating EarningsProfessionals armed with the CompTIA Network+ certification are well-positioned for lucrative roles in network administration and security. Data from industry reports reveals that certified individuals command higher salaries, averaging around $90,000 annually, and enjoy better job security. This certification is a gateway to advanced positions and is often a prerequisite for senior roles in IT and cybersecurity.Comprehensive Network+ Certification Training ProgramINE Security's CompTIA Network+ training is designed for individuals at all levels, including those entering the field of network administration. The program covers:Fundamental networking concepts and protocolsBasic IP routing theoryIntroduction to Layer-2 switching and VLANsWi-Fi fundamentals and security conceptsNetwork topology diagrams and operationsCybersecurity awarenessBasic troubleshooting approachesBogart notes, "This training path not only prepares participants for the CompTIA Network+ exam but also instills the hands-on skills needed for real-world challenges, making it one of the most comprehensive computer network training offerings available today."Target AudienceThe Network+ learning path is ideal for entry-level professionals, aspiring systems administrators, and IT students committed to continuing education in network technologies. It offers flexible learning options that accommodate diverse learning paces and schedules.To learn more about INE’s CompTIA Network+ Certification training courses and learning path, read our latest blog. About INE SecurityINE is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers, offering both Red Team training and Blue Team training. INE’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
03/14/2025
INE
INE Security Alert: Using AI-Driven Cybersecurity Training to Counter Emerging Threats
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered cyber threats surge, organizations must rethink cybersecurity training and workforce development to stay ahead. INE Security, a global leader in cybersecurity training and certification, warns that AI is reshaping both the threat landscape and the way cybersecurity professionals must be trained. While AI can significantly improve cyber defense, organizations must ensure their teams are trained to use it effectively without becoming overly reliant on automation.“The rise of AI in cybersecurity isn’t just a challenge—it’s an opportunity,” said Dara Warn, CEO of INE Security. “By training cybersecurity professionals properly, AI can be leveraged to filter noise, reduce burnout, and increase efficiency. However, if we don’t train people to understand the ‘why’ behind AI-driven decisions, we risk a future where cybersecurity professionals are blindly following AI without the expertise to think critically beyond it.”AI as a Force Multiplier: Improving SOC Efficiency and Threat DetectionAI-driven security tools are improving the signal-to-noise ratio, making Security Operations Centers (SOCs) more efficient by reducing false positive alerts—an area cybersecurity tools have been refining for over a decade. AI can prioritize critical threats, allowing analysts to focus on real dangers rather than wasting time investigating false alarms.“AI is making threat detection smarter, but it’s not foolproof,” said Tracy Wallace, Director of Content at INE Security. “Security professionals need to be trained to work alongside AI, not just follow its outputs. AI is great at reducing alert fatigue, but analysts still need the expertise to investigate, interpret, and respond to threats accurately.”Generative AI: A Double-Edged Sword for Cybersecurity TalentOne of the most promising yet complex aspects of AI’s rise is its impact on the cybersecurity workforce. On one hand, generative AI will lower the barrier to entry, allowing more professionals to enter the cybersecurity field and reducing the global labor shortage. However, this shift also presents risks. “The concern isn’t that AI is making cybersecurity easier,” said Wallace. “The concern is that if professionals become too dependent on AI outputs, they won’t develop the critical-thinking skills necessary to work beyond what the AI gives them. Organizations must ensure that cybersecurity training teaches professionals not just how to use AI but how to work independently of it when needed.”The Data Privacy Dilemma: AI and LLM Security RisksAnother concern in AI-driven cybersecurity is data privacy and security risks with large language models (LLMs). While concerns over data leakage with cloud-based AI models are growing, this isn’t a new challenge—it’s an evolution of longstanding security principles. Organizations must ensure AI-powered security solutions do not require external data sharing.“As AI becomes more deeply integrated into cybersecurity operations, privacy-first security architectures are crucial,” said Wallace. “Organizations need AI models that can operate securely without exposing sensitive data to external systems.”The Future of AI Security Training: Agentic Architectures and AI-Driven AutomationLooking ahead, Agentic AI architectures are becoming a hot topic in cybersecurity. While some view it as buzzword hype, there is real potential for AI-driven security agents that autonomously investigate threats, adjust defenses in real-time, and improve security workflows with minimal human intervention.However, automation must be carefully balanced. “Agentic AI might be the future, but we can’t let it replace hands-on expertise and human decision-making,” said Warn. “Security professionals must be trained to interpret AI-driven insights, make judgment calls, and recognize when AI is wrong.”Training as the Solution: INE Security’s AI-Powered Cybersecurity CurriculumTo close the cybersecurity skills gap and help professionals work effectively with AI, INE Security is working to expand its AI-driven training programs. These programs will focus on:<br /> ✅ AI-Driven Threat Analysis – Training security teams to interpret AI-generated threat intelligence and reduce false positives.<br /> ✅ Machine Learning for Cyber Defense – Teaching professionals how AI-powered security models work and how attackers exploit AI vulnerabilities.<br /> ✅ Generative AI in Cybersecurity – Helping cybersecurity teams understand the risks and benefits of AI-generated attacks and defenses.<br /> ✅ Hands-On AI Security Labs – Simulating real-world AI-powered attacks and training professionals on how to counter them manually and with AI assistance.“Our end goal is not just to train security professionals how to use AI but to train them how to think critically in an AI-driven world,” said Wallace. The Call to Action: Prepare for AI-Driven Threats NowWith AI transforming cybersecurity threats at an unprecedented pace, INE Security urges companies to:<br /> ✔ Train their cybersecurity teams on AI-driven tools, while ensuring they develop critical problem-solving skills.<br /> ✔ Prioritize AI-powered security solutions that enhance, not replace, human expertise.<br /> ✔ Implement privacy-first AI models that reduce data exposure risks.“The AI revolution in cybersecurity is here,” concluded Warn. “Organizations that act now—by investing in security training, developing cybersecurity talent, and understanding how AI truly impacts the field—will be the ones leading the industry forward. The future of cybersecurity belongs to those who train for it.”About INE SecurityINE Security is the premier provider of online networking and cybersecurity training and certification. Harnessing a powerful hands-on lab platform, cutting-edge technology, a global video distribution network, and world-class instructors, INE Security is the top training choice for Fortune 500 companies worldwide for cybersecurity training in business and for IT professionals looking to advance their careers, offering both Red Team training and Blue Team training. INE Security’s suite of learning paths offers an incomparable depth of expertise across cybersecurity and is committed to delivering advanced technical training while also lowering the barriers worldwide for those looking to enter and excel in an IT career.
03/14/2025
INE
Leveraging Skill Assessments to Meet CMMC Compliance
Organizations will pay an average of more than $5 million for each cybersecurity breach this year, yet a whopping 87% of companies say they have skill gaps and are not fully prepared to handle a breach, according to multiple industry reports. This becomes a critical gap for defense contractors, which are now required to meet stringent new guidelines compliant with the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). As tech leaders scramble to fill vacancies with qualified employees and upskill current ones, four in five organizations are relying on skill assessments to do the heavy lifting. “Identifying and addressing skill gaps is not just about compliance,” points out Dara Warn, the CEO of INE Security, a global provider of cybersecurity training and certifications. “Assessments are really about fortifying an organization’s defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. We developed Skill Sonar as a crucial assessment tool to help CISOs pinpoint skill gaps for targeted upskilling initiatives, ensuring a stronger security posture that aligns with compliance needs.”The Cybersecurity Compliance ConnectionMany compliance frameworks, including CMMC, NIST, CSF, and ISQ 27001, require organizations to demonstrate that they have a skilled and competent cybersecurity team. Skill assessments paired with elite training such as Skill Sonar+INE Security arm organizations with the support needed to proactively identify skill gaps, engage in targeted upskilling, meet compliance requirements, and demonstrate due diligence. Warn notes the impact goes a step further. “Implementing skill assessments can ultimately help technology leads protect the bottom line by reducing compliance costs. By proactively addressing skill gaps, they can avoid costly fines and penalties associated with non-compliance.” How to Identify Skill Gaps Using Skill SonarIdentifying skill gaps requires a multi-pronged approach consisting of technical assessments, evaluations of incident response readiness, and conducting regular research on compliance requirements. Assessment tools like Skill Sonar can help streamline the process to get teams upskilled with minimal investment by:Assessing Current Skills: Use tests and quizzes to evaluate current individual proficiency levels in specific areas including penetration testing, incident response, and security auditing. Analyzing Incident Response: After reviewing past security incidents and breaches, organizations can leverage Skill Sonar for targeted training recommendations based on skill assessment performance. Researching Industry Trends: INE Security provides the cybersecurity community with free and up-to-date resources, including monthly capture-the-flag exercises.INE Security continues to develop and refine methods for businesses to achieve their cybersecurity objectives efficiently. By offering tailored learning paths, INE ensures that employees not only meet but exceed the requirements of their roles, preparing them for future challenges in an ever-evolving landscape.
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