ICT Security Specialist Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Establishes, manages and administers an organisation's ICT security policy and procedures to ensure preventive and recovery strategies are in place, and minimise the risk of internal and external security threats.
What does a ICT Security Specialist do?
An ICT Security Specialist protects an organisation’s computers, networks, systems and information from internal and external threats. The work includes establishing security policies, managing protective controls, preparing recovery measures and reducing the impact of security incidents. Depending on the role, specialists may focus on security administration, database security, security architecture, internet security or information technology security management.
Specialisations
How to become a ICT Security Specialist in South Africa
- Build a foundation in information technology, computer systems and organisational security practices.
- Consider the Higher Certificate in Information Technology in Information Systems (SAQA ID 83746, NQF Level 5, 120 credits) as a relevant training pathway.
- Develop practical ability in security policy, threat prevention, recovery planning and security administration.
- Explore a specialisation such as database security, security architecture, internet security or security management.
- Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider before enrolling.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
The listed Higher Certificate is a relevant pathway into this field, but it should not be treated as the only possible route unless an employer or institution specifically requires it. Strengthen your understanding of how organisations prevent, manage and recover from ICT security threats. Check current study and provider details with SAQA or an accredited institution, and clarify any role-specific expectations with employers.
Useful school subjects
- Mathematics
- Computer Applications Technology
- Information Technology
- English
Skills that may help
- ICT security policy development
- Security administration
- Threat prevention and risk reduction
- Recovery planning
- Information systems knowledge
- Database security awareness
- Security architecture
- Internet security analysis and consulting