r/SecurityCareerAdvice • u/Low_Bet_4614 • 1d ago

Does this cybersecurity career roadmap make sense?

I am a curious 14-year-old Indian guy interested in cybersecurity, mainly defensive cybersecurity. I am currently interested in becoming a Network Security Engineer or Firewall Engineer in the future.

I have decided to focus mainly on building skills during 11th and 12th. I am planning to choose the Commerce stream and later pursue a BCA degree. Right now, I am learning Python and have completed the basics. Since 10th grade is here, I plan to slow down and focus on my studies while completing intermediate-level Python.

After 10th, my rough roadmap is:

  • Complete Python and learn networking-related Python projects.
  • Learn computer networking in depth (TCP/IP, routing, switching, DNS, etc.).
  • Learn Linux and become comfortable using it.
  • Learn about firewalls, network security, and defensive security concepts.
  • Build small projects and home labs to gain practical experience.
  • Explore certifications and advanced topics later when I have a stronger foundation.

I understand that cybersecurity is a very broad field, and I know my interests may change as I learn more. However, network security and firewall engineering currently seem the most interesting to me.

I would appreciate advice from people already working in cybersecurity, networking, SOC, cloud security, or related fields.

  • Is this roadmap realistic, especially considering that I plan to take Commerce and then pursue a BCA?
  • What skills should I prioritize at my age?
  • Are there any mistakes or gaps in my plan?
  • What would you recommend learning before college?

Thank you for your time and advice.

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u/AddendumWorking9756 23h ago

That roadmap's solid for your age honestly. I'd just not wait until networking and Linux are basically done to touch real security, messing with the free stuff on CyberDefenders in parallel keeps it concrete and a lot more fun than pure theory.

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u/my_peen_is_clean 23h ago

roadmap’s solid at your age, honestly just double down on networking, linux and basic programming, don’t overthink certs yet, just lab stuff and break things at home, job hunting later is the real pain because finding any security role now is insanely hard