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Is being a penetration tester a good fit for you?

Tries to break into an organisation's computer systems, with permission, to find weak spots. Uses the same tricks as real hackers.

What the work involves

  • Records the results of security tests.
  • Finds weak spots in security systems by testing them.
  • Writes audit reports explaining technical findings and recommended fixes.
  • Gathers cyber intelligence to find weak spots.

The interests that suit it

People in this work tend to be curious and organising. Here is how much each of the six kinds of interest comes into it.

Hands-onSome. Building, fixing, and working with tools, machines, animals or the outdoors.
CuriousStrong. Finding things out, solving problems, and working with ideas and data.
CreativeLow. Making things: art, writing, music, design and performance.
HelpingLow. Teaching, caring for and supporting people.
PersuadingLow. Leading, selling, and making the calls.
OrganisingStrong. Keeping things in order: records, numbers and systems.

How much training it needs

Degree required. Usually a degree, sometimes more study after. Rules differ from country to country, so check locally before you commit.

Find out if it fits you

Answer quick questions about what you like doing and what keeps you going. We match you with roles from over 900 kinds of work, and you can see if a penetration tester is one of yours.

Free. About 15 minutes. No account.

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