Ethical Hacker vs Data Scientist: Which is the Best Career Path?

Are you choosing between a data scientist or an ethical hacker job? How do you pick a career path if both options seem like a good fit?

In this article, we’ll compare both careers, and at the end, you’ll see which one is best for you. Stick around as we analyze the two of the most demanded professions of today.

Understanding Data Science and Ethical Hacking

Ethical hacking and data science are two distinct specialties, albeit related. However, there are still some differences between these two:

• Data science is the process of collecting, storing, analyzing, and reporting unstructured data sets or big data. In short, data scientists use algorithms, processes, tools, and techniques to extract insights and apply these across various business scenarios.
• Ethical hacking, on the other hand, is a practice that falls under the umbrella of cybersecurity. This type of cybersecurity professional focuses on testing security networks for weaknesses. These specialists also participate in additional cybersecurity tasks, like designing and implementing security solutions.

Is Data Science Related to Cybersecurity?

Yes, data science is not only related to cybersecurity but necessary for the development of a secure network.

The reason for this is that digital networks have dozens of moving parts, and assessing the security level of each element manually is not feasible.

Data scientists have the skills to collect information from all these different sources, use automation to analyze the data, and assess the safety of each variable.

This allows cybersecurity experts to address glaring weaknesses and build robust networks that are difficult to penetrate.

Which is a Better Industry: Cybersecurity or Data Science?

Data scientists and cybersecurity professionals, like ethical hackers, work in similar conditions.

But which is the best industry? In fact, both of these professions have a huge amount of potential.

To give you an idea, a recent survey revealed that the number of cybersecurity providers can grow up to 10 times its current size and still not saturate the market.

Meanwhile, the data science field is worth just under $100 billion today. That number is expected to reach close to $700 billion by 2030, which also puts data scientists in a great position by the start of the next decade.

The statistics above suggest that professionals in both fields should feel confident about their outlooks.

Data Scientists vs. Ethical Hackers: Who Earns More?

Ethical hackers make close to $106,000 per year in the US.

Data scientists, on the other hand, make just under $125,000 per year in the United States. Now, these numbers may vary from one location to the next.

But, on the whole, it’s safe to assume that data scientists have the potential to earn around 20% more than ethical hackers.

How to Find the Best Professional Opportunities

Now that we understand the specifics of ethical hacking and data science let’s take a moment to review a few steps to help you secure the best professional opportunities.

Choose a Career Path that Makes Sense for You

In addition to the industry’s average wage and growth potential, it’s important to base your career choice on your skills and personal drivers.

This will ensure that your career path makes long-term sense and minimize the chances of having to switch fields later on.

For example, if you like analyzing networks and creating strategies to break the security puzzle, your best career choice is likely cybersecurity.

When It’s Time, Spruce Up Your Resume

Being a qualified professional will undoubtedly increase your chances of success. For that, you need a quality resume that’ll showcase all your talents.

So, take the time to review and spruce up your CV before applying to any jobs. Keep it updated and accurate, which in turn will give you the best chances of success.

Unveil Geo-Locked Professional Opportunities

The best jobs in data science and cybersecurity are usually available in locations with strong digital industries.

If you live in a region that’s limited in this perspective, you may be able to use a VPN to bypass these restrictions and see job openings in regions with higher wages.

There are many reliable VPNs that can help you access job boards in different countries, like PIA and Surfshark.

Both offer distinct advantages, so take the time to compare PIA vs. Surfshark before choosing the best option based on your requirements.

Can Data Scientists Work as Ethical Hackers?

It’s relatively easy for a data scientist to switch fields and become an ethical hacker.

The reason for this is that ethical hackers and data scientists share a lot of similar skills. For instance:

• Mastery of multiple coding languages;
• The ability to work with various databases at once;
• In-depth knowledge of operating systems;
• And statistical as well as mathematical knowledge.

With the above in mind, it’s equally important that data scientists go through the proper training before working as ethical hackers.

Conclusion

Data science and ethical hacking are both superb career choices.

Data science has better-earning potential currently, but the demand for cybersecurity solutions represents long-term stability for ethical hackers.

But, to pick the best specialty, you need to consider your skills, understand what each career entails, and choose the one you’re most passionate about.