Roadmap to Success in Cybersecurity

The world of IT and cybersecurity offers endless opportunities, but with so many pathways available, deciding where to begin, or what comes next, can feel overwhelming. At Dion Training, we understand that every student’s journey is unique, whether you’re just starting in IT, transitioning into cybersecurity, or seeking to advance your career.
 

Together we can help you navigate your options, align your goals, and chart a clear course forward. Let’s explore the foundational certifications, specialized career paths, and resources available to help you succeed in this dynamic and rewarding field.
 

Step 1: Starting Your IT Journey – Where to Begin
Everyone’s starting point is different. The key to success is understanding where you are now and where you want to go.
 

Are You New to IT?
IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) is a great place to start for those with little to no technical background. This entry-level certification introduces foundational concepts like hardware, software, and troubleshooting. ITF+ helps you decide if IT is the right career path for you while building confidence for future learning. While ITF+ isn’t required, it’s an excellent option for anyone transitioning into IT or seeking a solid foundation before tackling more advanced certifications.
 

Already Familiar with the Basics?
If you’re comfortable with foundational IT concepts, you can dive straight into the CompTIA Core certifications: A+, Network+, and Security+. These certifications form the backbone of IT careers and are highly valued across the industry.
 

Step 2: Building a Strong Foundation – The Core Trifecta
That leads us to the CompTIA trifecta, A+, Network+, and Security+, which provide a structured, step-by-step approach to building essential IT and cybersecurity skills.
 

A+: Your Gateway to IT Support
The A+ certification introduces the fundamentals of IT support, including hardware, software,
troubleshooting, and customer service. It prepares you for entry-level roles such as Help Desk
Technician, IT Support Specialist, or Desktop Support Technician, where you’ll gain hands-on
experience solving real-world problems. As the starting point for many IT careers, A+ not only
equips you with practical skills but also provides the confidence and foundational knowledge
necessary for future growth in the IT field.

Network+: Building the Backbone of IT
Network+ takes your skills to the next level by focusing on networking concepts, such as
configuring, managing, and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks. This certification
prepares you for roles like Network Administrator, Network Technician, or Junior Network
Engineer, where maintaining and optimizing critical IT infrastructure is key. Networks form the
backbone of modern IT systems, and Network+ ensures you have the expertise to keep
organizations connected, secure, and operational.
 

Security+: Your Entry into Cybersecurity
Security+ serves as the gateway to the dynamic field of cybersecurity, covering essential
principles like risk management, cryptography, and secure network design. It prepares you for
roles such as Security Analyst, Systems Administrator, or Junior SOC Analyst, where you’ll
protect systems and data from cyber threats. Often considered a cornerstone certification for
entry-level cybersecurity roles, Security+ provides the foundational knowledge needed to
understand and address today’s complex security challenges, setting the stage for more
specialized career paths.
 

Step 3: Advancing Beyond Security+ – Choosing Your Path
Once you’ve completed Security+, it’s time to decide which direction you want to take in cybersecurity. Your choice should align with your interests and long-term goals.
 

Path 1: Offensive Security – Ethical Hacking
For those who enjoy problem-solving, ethical hacking, and thinking like an attacker, the
offensive security path is an exciting choice. As a Penetration Tester, you’ll assess systems for
vulnerabilities by simulating cyberattacks, helping organizations identify and address
weaknesses in their defenses. The next step in this path is earning the PenTest+ certification,
which focuses on penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and ethical hacking
techniques. This path requires creativity, technical expertise, and critical thinking to stay one
step ahead of potential attackers.
 

Path 2: Defensive Security – Protecting Systems
If you prefer analyzing threats, mitigating risks, and safeguarding networks, defensive security
might be your ideal fit. As a SOC (Security Operations Center) Analyst, you’ll monitor systems
for suspicious activity, respond to incidents, and ensure the organization’s infrastructure remains secure. The CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) certification is the natural next step, emphasizing skills in threat detection, incident response, and proactive defense strategies. This path is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who thrive on problem-solving and staying vigilant in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.
 

Path 3: Leadership – Enterprise Security Management
For experienced professionals with aspirations to lead, the enterprise security management
path offers the chance to shape organizational security strategies. Roles like Security Architect
or Enterprise Security Manager involve designing and overseeing large-scale security
frameworks, managing teams, and ensuring that security initiatives align with business goals.

Pursuing the SecurityX (formerly CASP+) certification provides the advanced knowledge
needed for governance, risk management, and technical solutions at the enterprise level. This
path is ideal for those who combine technical expertise with strategic thinking and leadership
skills.

Step 4: Aligning Certifications with Your Goals
Not sure which path is right for you? 

Here’s how to decide:
1. Reflect on Your Interests: Do you enjoy breaking into systems (PenTest+), analyzing
threats (CySA+), or managing large-scale strategies (SecurityX)?
2. Research Career Roles: Explore job descriptions for roles like Penetration Tester, SOC
Analyst, or Security Architect to see what certifications and skills they require.
3. Take One Step at a Time: You don’t have to plan your entire career today. Focus on the
next certification in your journey and let your experiences guide you.
 

Why Choose CompTIA and Dion Training?
The CompTIA certification pathway is globally trusted, offering vendor-neutral certifications that
equip you with versatile, in-demand skills for any industry or technology. At Dion Training, we make your journey straightforward with resources tailored to your success. Our Udemy courses simplify complex concepts into easy-to-follow lessons, while our lab-based training provides hands-on experience to prepare you for real-world challenges.
Explore our offerings:
● Udemy Courses
● Lab-Based Training
 

Cybersecurity is full of opportunities, and with Dion Training by your side, you’ll have the tools to
succeed, one certification at a time.