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Cyber Security (B.Tech or Certification Route) — Step-by-Step Roadmap

Your journey, phase by phase

  1. Phase 1 · Class 11–12 Class 11–12 and eligibility PCM or any stream for certification routes; PCM for B.Tech.
    • For B.Tech Cyber Security or CSE with specialisation, take PCM in Class 11–12.
    • Certification and diploma routes are open to students from other streams, but programming comfort is essential.
    • Start learning Python and basic networking early.
    • Build interest by exploring beginner platforms like TryHackMe.
    B.Tech
    PCM
    Alternate
    BCA / BSc / certifications
  2. Phase 2 · After Class 12 Admission: degree options B.Tech in CSE (Cyber Security), BCA, BSc or direct diploma.
    • Admission to B.Tech through JEE Main or state CETs and university tests.
    • BCA and BSc Cyber Security are available through CUET-UG and merit.
    • Check labs and industry tie-ups before choosing a college.
    • Ensure the programme covers networking, cryptography and ethical hacking.
    Routes
    JEE Main, CET, CUET-UG
  3. Phase 3 · Year 1–4 Core learning path Networking, operating systems, programming and security fundamentals.
    • Learn computer networks, Linux, Windows internals and scripting in Python and Bash.
    • Study cryptography, web security (OWASP Top 10), network security and digital forensics.
    • Practise on labs and Capture-the-Flag (CTF) events.
    • Understand incident response, SOC operations and risk management.
    Skills
    Networking, Linux, Python, web security
  4. Phase 4 · Year 2–4 Certifications and internships Prove skills with recognised certificates.
    • Entry-level certificates: CompTIA Security+, CEH, and vendor-specific cloud security certificates.
    • Later: CISSP, OSCP and cloud security certifications.
    • Intern with SOC teams, security consultancies or start-ups.
    • Bug-bounty programmes build experience and reputation (within legal rules).
    Certs
    Security+, CEH, OSCP, CISSP
  5. Phase 5 · After graduation Jobs and growth SOC, pentesting, GRC and security engineering.
    • Roles: SOC analyst, penetration tester, security engineer, GRC analyst and digital forensics analyst.
    • Employers: IT services, banks, consulting firms, cloud providers and government cyber agencies.
    • Follow Indian laws such as the IT Act and the DPDP Act, and professional ethics.
    • Higher study: M.Tech Cyber Security or MS abroad.
    Roles
    SOC, pentester, security engineer

Verify on the official source

Exam dates, fees, paper patterns and eligibility rules are revised by the regulator from time to time. Treat this roadmap as your map, and confirm the current rules on the official site before you register or pay any fee.

CERT-InJEE Main (NTA)CUET-UG (NTA) Full Cyber Security career guide