Member Avatar for Rhuck

I will be starting school this upcoming week and I am wondering which way to go in the IT field.(Security or Networking) I know that graduation is long down the road but I want to make a sound decision that leads to future possiblities. Any recommendations?

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Short, practical roadmap for that builds on ’s point but gives concrete first steps. Begin by treating your first year as an exploration window: take one networking class, one intro security class (or a security lab), and a programming course (Python). Those choices teach skills you can use whether you eventually focus on deep networking or move into security.

Look at the labor-market picture when weighing long-term demand. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong growth and higher median pay for information security analysts (2024 median pay $124,910; job growth ~29% for 2024–34). By contrast, network and systems administrator roles show a smaller market (2024 median pay $96,800) and a projected modest decline over the same decade. (bls.gov)

Make a practical, low-risk plan you can execute while in school. Semester 1: Intro to Networking, Intro to Programming, Linux basics; Semester 2: Intro to Cybersecurity, a systems course, and a small lab project. Pursue vendor-neutral certs when you have hands-on experience — CompTIA Network+ teaches core networking fundamentals and Cloud/virtualization basics; CompTIA Security+ validates entry-level security skills and lists Network+ and ~2 years’ related experience as recommended background. Use certs to prove knowledge, but prioritize real labs and internships. (comptia.org)

Finally, get hands-on fast. Build a small home lab with virtualization, practice packet captures and simple hardening, and use guided platforms to learn attack/defense workflows — TryHackMe is a beginner-friendly place for hands-on, role-based paths. Combine club projects, part-time internships, and CTF-style practice; these experiences move you into paid roles faster than theory alone. If undecided, start with networking fundamentals and layer security labs on top — that keeps doors open. ()

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Member Avatar for AndreRet

I suppose it all boils down to personal preference.

Security will always be needed by the industry, but so is networking, especially seeing that almost everything nowadays goes to the cloud. I am sure that there is vast opportunities in both fields. Maybe talk to some people near you on what there requirements might be and follow that.:)

Member Avatar for Rhuck

Thanks AndreRet.

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