Data Science vs Cyber Security: Key Differences

Due to the growing trends in technology and digitalisation, there is an increase in the volumes of data generated by organisations. Organisations are looking for ways to safeguard and evaluate this data. Here, the role of Cyber Security or Data Science comes into play. According to Statista’s study, in 2022, 52.6% respondents stated enhancing customer data privacy as their organisation's top Cyber Security priority. 

Both Cyber Security and Data Security are incredibly difficult and competitive fields. Therefore, it is crucial for candidates to possess an in-depth understanding of these fields. Both require the ability to communicate using numbers and data effectively. Thus, many people are confused between the two. Read on to learn more about the key differences between Data Science and Cyber Security. 

Table of Contents

1) Introduction to Cyber Security

2) Role of a Cyber Security Analyst - Explained  

3) Career opportunities in Cyber Security  

4) Understanding Data Science  

5) What is the role of a Data Scientist?  

6) Career opportunities in Data Science 

7) Difference between Data Science and Cyber Security  

8) Cyber Security vs Data Science: Career prospects  

9) Conclusion   
 

Introduction to Cyber Security   

Cyber Security includes practices and technologies that safeguard networks and systems against cyberattacks, unauthorised access, and cyber threats. The objective is to prevent third parties from misusing the organisation’s sensitive data.  

Cyber Security is divided into five different fields: 

a) Cloud Security 

b) Critical Infrastructure Security 

c) Application Security 

d) Internet of Things (IoT) security 

e) Network Security  

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Role of a Cyber Security Analyst - Explained
 

A Cybersecurity Analyst ensures that an organisation’s networking and computer systems are secured. Cyber Security Analysts carry out this task by identifying any underlying issue in the organisation's software and technology, focusing on Cyber Security Essentials.

These Analysts also carry out the following responsibilities:  

a) Adding firewalls to existing networking systems  

b) Assessing the access permissions   

c) Improving the security of Information Technology infrastructure  

d) Monitoring cyber-attacks on the organisation’s networking systems  

e) Detection and removal of risks related to potential data breaches  

f) Finding out the source of cyber attacks  

g) Ensuring employees of the organisation are familiar with the security policies   

Career opportunities in Cyber Security 

Organisations want to hire Cyber Security professionals to protect the systems and data against cyber-attacks. A Cyber Security expert helps organisations protect sensitive information revealed during a security breach.    

The demand for Cyber Security experts is growing in each industry. These experts are recruited in sectors such as health, banks, e-commerce businesses, IT companies, and credit card companies. Cyber Security experts are suitable for the following roles:   

a) Computer Forensics Analyst  

b) Incident Responder  

c) Cyber Security Analyst  

d) Malware Analyst  

e) Cyber Security Engineer   

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Understanding Data Science    

Data Science simplifies the task of studying complex and large data sets. Consequently, it helps to extract and analyse meaningful data to make informed decisions in real-time. Data Science includes tools, Machine Learning methods, and instructions. These resources are used together to identify new raw data trends.    

Data Science includes five phases: planning, deploying, explaining, evaluating, and monitoring a data-driven model. Professionals who work in the domain of Data Science are known as Data Scientists.    

Data Scientists have the knowledge required to obtain raw data and convert it into an easy-to-analyse format. Next, this data is entered into models and algorithms to gain actionable insights.    

What is the role of a Data Scientist?    

Data Scientists can collect vast volumes of data, process it, and interpret it for further business use. Next, the Data Scientist will use the information derived by analysing the data to solve the organisation's issues. Most importantly, this data helps in making informed and real-time decisions. Additionally, a Data Scientist has to fulfil the following duties: 

1) Carrying out steps involved in data modelling and designing  

2) Creation of algorithms that are used in Machine Learning  

3) Creation and complete maintenance of the database  

4) Evaluating the quality of data  

5) Cleaning unstructured data  

6) Preparation of reports for the project and executive teams  

7) Offering necessary suggestions to the IT management and executive team  

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Career opportunities in Data Science 

The domain of Data Science promises enticing career opportunities to work professionals and students. Individuals who sign up for the Data Science course can become Data Scientists. Data Scientists help organisations to stay ahead of their competition.  

These professionals help to improve consumer retention and accelerate the process of product development and data mining. Data Science experts are suitable for the following jobs:   

a) Statistician  

b) Product Manager  

c) Data Scientist  

d) Data Engineer  

e) Lead Data Scientist   

Difference between Data Science and Cyber Security   

The difference between Data Science vs Cyber Security is explained in the table below:  
 

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Cyber Security vs data Science: Career prospects  

The choice to opt Cyber Security or Data Science can vary as per an individual's preference.   Individuals can make good decisions once they are familiar with their skills. The decision-making can be based on the field in which individuals want to specialise. The interest level and knowledge also help individuals select a domain.    

To make a better decision, here is some information which might be helpful- 

a) To become a Cyber Security expert, you'll possess a computer science, information security, or computer engineering degree. Besides, certifications such as CISSP, CISA, and CEH are required. The average salary of a Cyber Security professional is £ 95,454.71.    

b) Whereas Data Scientists are responsible for model creation, data analysis, and Machine Learning tools. Data Scientist aspirants should possess a master's and bachelor's degree in the same field. Some job titles in the domain of Data Science are Data Scientists, data architects, data engineers, machine learning engineers, and data architects. The average salary of a Data Scientist is £82,337.00.    

Conclusion

The domain of Cyber Security and Data Science holds lucrative career opportunities. However, choosing one of them as a career is always based on an individual’s interest and level of expertise.  Check out our Cyber Security Training Courses to learn in detail about Cyber Security and its aspects.