Satendra K Jan 22, 2025

Top 6 In-Demand Cybersecurity Skills

In-demand Cybersecurity skills such as Cloud Security, Penetration Testing, Ethical Hacking, Threat Intelligence, Incident Response, Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC), Cybersecurity Automation and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning skills, are crucial for becoming a sought-after and high-paid professional.

According to the ISC2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, “90% of organizations have skills gaps within their security teams. Over one-third of respondents cited AI as the biggest skills shortfall in the teams, followed by cloud computing (30%), incident response (25%), application security and penetration testing (24%)’. 

A huge opportunity for aspiring cybersecurity professionals!!!

Nonetheless! If your skill set doesn't include in-demand cybersecurity skills, you may be overlooked for valuable job opportunities. So, If you're looking to start or advance a career in cybersecurity, then make sure you have these in-demand cybersecurity skills! 

To give you a competitive edge, here is a list of the top 6 in-demand cybersecurity skills with recommended certifications that will help you get into the field of cybersecurity.

6 Top Trending Cybersecurity Skills

Every sector including banks, tech companies, hospitals, or government agencies needs skilled cyber security professionals to protect their organisation. According to the World Economic Forum, there will be a cybersecurity workforce shortage of more than 85 million workers by 2030, further confirming the future demand for cybersecurity professionals. 

If you wish to become a part of the ever-demanding cybersecurity workforce, then here are the top 6 in-demand cybersecurity skills you need to have;

  • Cloud Security Skills
  • Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking Skills
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity
  • Threat Intelligence and Incident Response Skills
  • Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Skills
  • Cybersecurity Automation Skills

Cybersecurity courses can help you acquire the above-mentioned in-demand cybersecurity skills. These courses equip learners with practical knowledge and hands-on experience to address modern security challenges. 

Now let's take a brief look at these 6 in-demand Cybersecurity skills. 

1. Cloud Security Skills

Cloud Security skills are one of the in-demand cybersecurity skills today. With the rapid adoption of cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud cloud security has become a critical area of focus. Cybersecurity professionals with expertise in cloud security are highly sought after to manage and mitigate risks in these environments.

Key Cloud Security Skills Include:

  • Identity and Access Management (IAM). 
  • Familiarity with major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP)
  • Understanding cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and security tools for each.
  • Knowledge of cloud networking concepts such as Virtual Private Clouds (VPCs), security groups, and network segmentation
  • Data encryption, Data Loss Prevention (DLP), and cloud-specific security best practices
  • Proficiency with SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) tools for monitoring cloud environments.

Certifications to develop Cloud Security Skills

Certifications like CompTIA Cloud+, CISSP, Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) and AWS Certified Security can help you develop cloud security skills. These certifications can help you land jobs like Cloud Security Analyst, Cloud Security Consultant and Cloud Security Engineer.

2. Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking Skills

Penetration testing, also known as ethical hacking, involves simulating cyberattacks to uncover vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them. As cybersecurity threats become more advanced, organisations require skilled ethical hackers to proactively identify weaknesses in their systems.

Key Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking Skills:

  • Networking technology knowledge
  • Programming and scripting skills (e.g., Python, Bash)
  • Familiarity with databases (SQL, NoSQL)
  • Internet of Things (IoT) security skills
  • Understanding cryptography principles
  • Proficiency in tools like Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Nessus
  • Knowledge of penetration testing frameworks and compliance regulations.

Certifications to develop Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking Skills

Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH v13 can help build foundational and advanced skills in ethical hacking. Edoxi also offers the best in class penetration testing courses for you to get started. These certifications can help you kickstart your career as a cybersecurity analyst or cloud security analyst, which often serves as the first line of defence against cybercrime.

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3. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence is a relatively new innovation that has been receiving widespread use over the past few years. AI is perfect for the cybersecurity sector, as it brings reliability and consistency to cybersecurity measures, and it helps security professionals identify suspicious activity and impart a greater understanding of the cyber environment.

AI-driven tools are becoming integral to threat prediction and anomaly detection. Professionals equipped to work with solutions like Darktrace, Cylance, and AI-enhanced SIEM platforms are at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.

According to Satendra Singh Khari, senior corporate trainer at EDOXI

“The biggest advancement in cybersecurity has been the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). These technologies have completely changed how we approach security by enabling real-time threat detection, behavioural analysis, and automation of repetitive tasks. They’ve made it possible to detect unknown threats, reduce false positives, and adapt defences to evolving attacks—all of which are game-changers in staying ahead of cybercriminals”. 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) skills are vital to organisations from new emerging cyber threats.

Key Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) Skills in Cybersecurity:

  • Understanding AI-powered SIEM platforms and anomaly detection tools
  • Familiarity with AI-driven cybersecurity solutions like Darktrace and Cylance
  • Knowledge of AI/ML algorithms for threat prediction and defence adaptation
  • Anomaly Detection skill to identify unusual patterns or behaviours.
  • Predictive Analytics skills to forecast potential security threats before they occur.
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) skills to analyze and interpret human language data.

Certifications to develop AI& ML Skills

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), AI training or CEH v13 can help you hone your in-demand AI skills. 

PRO TIP

Cybersecurity Threats to Expect in 2025

Cybersecurity professionals should anticipate increasingly complex and targeted cyber threats, including ransomware, AI-driven attacks, and cloud security vulnerabilities. The demand for skilled cybersecurity experts will only continue to rise as these threats evolve.

 

4. Threat Intelligence and Incident Response Skills

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, threat intelligence and incident response skills are increasingly valuable. These skills focus on understanding potential threats, responding to security incidents, and mitigating damage after a breach occurs.

Key Threat Intelligence and Incident Response Skills:

  • Threat Intelligence: Gathering, analyzing, and disseminating data to identify potential threats
  • Incident Response: Investigating security incidents and managing the recovery process
  • Proficiency in tools like Splunk, ThreatConnect, and QRadar
  • Knowledge of frameworks like MITRE ATT&CK
  • Skills in malware analysis, reverse engineering, and digital forensics
  • Ability to monitor system behaviours and conduct threat-hunting

Certifications to develop Threat Intelligence and Incident Response Skills

Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Incident Handling course, Certified Threat Intelligence Analyst (CTIA) and GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) can help build foundational and advanced skills in ethical hacking.

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5. Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Skills

Cybersecurity professionals are not only responsible for protecting data but also ensuring that organisations comply with laws, regulations, and internal policies. GRC skills are crucial for managing risks and ensuring that organisations are aligned with regulatory frameworks like ISO 27001, GDPR, and HIPAA.

Key GRC Skills: 

  • Policy creation and governance implementation
  • Risk assessment and management (identifying, analysing, and mitigating risks)
  • Crisis management and developing response plans
  • Regulatory knowledge: Familiarity with industry standards and legal frameworks
  • Proficiency in audit and compliance processes
  • Ability to analyse and report on GRC metrics.

Certifications to develop Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Skills

Certifications like Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance (CGRC), Certified in Risk Information Systems Control (CRISC), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) can help you develop the Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) Skills. You can also get compliance awareness and become a white hacker through an Ethical Hacking Preparatory Course.

6. Cybersecurity Automation Skills

With the increasing complexity and volume of security data, automation is becoming critical for organisations to stay ahead of cyber threats. Automation skills can help cybersecurity teams scale operations and respond faster to incidents.

Key Cybersecurity Automation Skills:

  • Proficiency in scripting languages like Python and PowerShell
  • Experience with SOAR (Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response) platforms such as Cortex XSOAR
  • Ability to automate repetitive tasks like incident response, threat detection, and vulnerability management.

Certifications to develop Cybersecurity Automation Skills

Certifications like CEH V13, CISSP, OSCP and CYSA can help you develop Cybersecurity Automation Skills.

Top Trending Cybersecurity Tools

Cybersecurity professionals need to be familiar with the latest tools to effectively address today's challenges. Below are some of the most in-demand tools used by cybersecurity experts:

  • SIEM Tools: Splunk, IBM QRadar, and Elastic Security for centralized monitoring and threat detection.
  • EDR/XDR Platforms: CrowdStrike Falcon and SentinelOne for endpoint protection, along with Microsoft Defender for Azure users.
  • Vulnerability Scanners: Nessus, Qualys, and OpenVAS for identifying system vulnerabilities.
  • Penetration Testing Tools: Metasploit, Burp Suite, and Cobalt Strike for offensive security.
  • Threat Intelligence Platforms: ThreatConnect and Recorded Future for actionable defence insights.
  • Cloud Security Tools: AWS Security Hub and Prisma Cloud for managing risks in cloud environments.
  • Automation Tools: Cortex XSOAR and Splunk Phantom for streamlining responses and improving efficiency.

Ready to Take the Path to a Successful Cybersecurity Career?

Cybersecurity is a dynamic and ever-changing field, and mastering the in-demand cybersecurity skills listed above will prepare you for the challenges of tomorrow. The shortage of qualified cybersecurity experts presents an excellent opportunity for those entering or advancing in the field. By joining top courses to upskill in cybersecurity, gaining hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and obtaining certifications, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the most pressing cybersecurity challenges.

If you're committed to taking your cybersecurity career path to the next level, now is the perfect time to take action. The skills you develop today will ensure you're prepared for tomorrow's cyber challenges.

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Chief Technology Officer & Cyber Security Expert Trainer

Satendra K is the Chief Technology Officer at Edoxi Training Institute. A cyber security program leader with more than ten years of experience, he possesses a deep level understanding of state-of-the-art security technologies. His polished communication skills play an influential role in his career as a trainer. As a core member of our cyber security courses team, he oversees the development of cutting-edge curriculum and novel modes of course delivery.

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