Decoded Security

Decoded Security

Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs Don’t Exist -Here’s Exactly What to Do Instead

Cybersecurity is one of the hardest fields to get into. Whether you are a student or a career switcher, this will help you create a personalized strategy how to get break that entry level barrier.

Erich Winkler's avatar
Erich Winkler
Apr 18, 2026
∙ Paid

Cybersecurity is one of the hardest fields to get into.
And there is one specific reason for it.

Most “entry-level” cybersecurity jobs don’t actually exist.

I know, you don’t believe me right now.

There are many roles, such as Junior SOC Analyst, Entry-Level Security Engineer, and Associate Cybersecurity Specialist

Well, there are. However, there is one crucial misunderstanding.

“Entry-level” doesn’t mean entry into tech, it means entry into security

No experience? Subscribe to Decoded Security and learn how to get experience even without getting a first job!

They’re designed for people who already have:

  • basic IT experience

  • understanding of systems and networks

  • strong theoretical knowledge of cybersecurity

  • some exposure to real-world environments

No one in a different industry would use the term “entry-level”. But that’s the reality of the cybersecurity market.

Does it mean you should give up?

NO!

It only means you need to change your strategy. And I will show you exactly how.

Remember: The stronger the entry-level barrier, the more of a benefit it becomes once you break it!

If you’re a Software Developer, I have created 5 specific steps you can take to break this barrier!

5 Specific Steps For Software Developers To Get a Job in Cybersecurity In 6 Months Without Starting Over

5 Specific Steps For Software Developers To Get a Job in Cybersecurity In 6 Months Without Starting Over

Erich Winkler
·
Jan 7
Read full story

Why You Should Continue Reading

If you’re new to cybersecurity, there’s a hard truth you need to face:

The game is stacked against you at the beginning.

You need experience to get an “entry-level” job.

Which sounds impossible.

But here’s the good news:

Demand for cybersecurity professionals is still growing.

Despite all the talk about AI replacing jobs, companies are struggling to protect their systems.

And without security, their business doesn’t survive.

Which means:

This is still one of the best fields you can enter, if you approach it the right way.

So instead of guessing…

Let me show you exactly what to do instead.

Why You’re Not Getting Hired

If the first answer that comes to your mind is you’re not smart enough..just stop!

It’s not because you’re not smart enough.

It’s not because cybersecurity is “too difficult.”

It’s because you’re competing against people who are already closer to the field than you are.

From an employer’s perspective, the choice is obvious:

Hire someone who can contribute immediately, or someone who still needs months of training.

And cybersecurity is not a field where companies like to take risks.

So how do we help you get closer to the field and convince employers to see what you can bring to the table?

You actually need only one thing: STRATEGY.

More than 1,000 people read Decoded Security every week! Join our community and let us help you achieve your goals!

What People Call “Strategy”

Most people respond to this the wrong way.

They try to “fix” the problem by:

  • collecting more certifications

  • buying and watching more expensive courses

  • waiting until they feel “ready”

How do I know? Because I’ve been there.

And I know spending money and watching videos feels productive.

But it doesn’t move you closer to getting hired.

At least not if you’re doing it without a clear direction.

You need to build an image that you are capable of doing something in the real environment.

Get Direction FIRST

That was enough theory and general fluff.

Let’s answer the most important questions:

  1. What is it you need to do to break that entry-level barrier?

  2. How do you build that image, saying I am useful and suitable for the role?

The first step is this:

Know exactly which role you’re aiming for.

Without that, nothing else works.

Because if you don’t know where you’re going:

  • you learn random things

  • you collect irrelevant certifications

  • you build skills that don’t align with any real job

And from an employer’s perspective?

You look unfocused.

So, before you spend another dollar on courses or certifications, ask yourself:

“Which role am I actually preparing for?”

Because your entire strategy depends on that answer.


If you’re not sure yet, start here:

How to Choose the Right Cybersecurity Role Before You Waste Time and Money on the Wrong Certifications

How to Choose the Right Cybersecurity Role Before You Waste Time and Money on the Wrong Certifications

Erich Winkler
·
Jan 14
Read full story

(This will give you the clarity most people skip and pay for later.)


Question: What is your direction?

If you leave a comment, I will send you free study resources based on your dream role!

Leave a comment

3 Specific Steps You Should Focus On

Great, now you have the direction. And honestly, this is where most people stop.

They understand the problem, but they don’t do anything about it.

In this section, I’ll break down the exact 3-steps you should take to get a job in cybersecurity.

User's avatar

Continue reading this post for free, courtesy of Erich Winkler.

Or purchase a paid subscription.
© 2026 Decoded Security · Privacy ∙ Terms ∙ Collection notice
Start your SubstackGet the app
Substack is the home for great culture