Cyber Security Engineer - Interview Handbook

Cyber ​​Security Engineer - Interview Handbook

job overview

Network security and penetration testing engineers are responsible for ensuring the security of corporate network systems and applications. They simulate hacking attacks to discover and fix potential security gaps, and are also responsible for developing and implementing network security policies. This position requires extensive network security knowledge, as well as proficient penetration testing skills.

Common job descriptions

1. Assess and fix network security vulnerabilities to improve the security of network systems and applications.
2. Perform penetration testing, simulating hacking attacks, to find and fix security gaps.
3. Monitor network traffic, analyze abnormal behavior, and prevent potential network attacks.
4. Formulate and implement network security policies to ensure corporate information security.
5. Collaborate with other teams to improve overall cybersecurity.

core knowledge and skills

1. Familiar with the basic knowledge of network security, such as encryption algorithm, identity authentication and access control, etc.
2. Master penetration testing tools and techniques, such as Nmap, Metasploit, and Burp Suite, etc.
3. Familiarity with network protocols and operating system security.
4. Ability to write and analyze cybersecurity reports.
5. Have good teamwork and communication skills.

Generic Chat Template

1. Self introduction and personal background.
2. Tell me about a time when you successfully found and fixed a security vulnerability.
3. How do you keep your cybersecurity knowledge and skills updated?
4. What would you do if you discovered a critical security vulnerability during penetration testing?
5. Talk about your views on the future development trend of network security.

A common actual dialogue scenario is given below

Interviewer: Hello, please introduce yourself briefly.

Candidate: Hello, my name is Li Hua, and I graduated from Peking University majoring in computer science. I am very interested in network security and penetration testing. I have participated in many network security competitions and achieved excellent results during my school days. In addition, I also have an internship experience in a well-known Internet company, responsible for the discovery and repair of network security vulnerabilities.

Interviewer: Tell me about your experience finding and fixing security vulnerabilities during your internship.

Candidate: During my internship, I discovered a SQL injection vulnerability. Using penetration testing tools and techniques, I identified the vulnerabilities and submitted detailed remediation recommendations to the company. In the end, the company took my advice and successfully fixed the security hole.

Interviewer: Got it. So how do you keep your cybersecurity knowledge and skills updated?

Candidate: I will follow some public accounts and blogs in the field of network security to learn about industry trends and the latest security technologies. In addition, I also participated in some cyber security training courses to continuously improve my skill level.

Interviewer: What would you do if you discovered a serious security vulnerability during penetration testing?

Candidate: First, I will document the security vulnerabilities I find and related information. Then, I will immediately report the problem to my superior or team member so that steps can be taken to fix it as soon as possible. During this process, I will maintain an active communication and cooperation attitude to seek the best solution together.

Interviewer: Finally, please talk about your views on the future development trend of network security.

Candidate: I think cybersecurity will face more challenges as technology develops. For example, with the popularization of IoT and 5G technologies, the network attack surface will be further expanded. And with the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology, cyber attacks may also become more intelligent. Therefore, we need to continuously improve network security awareness and strengthen skills training to deal with new types of network threats that may arise in the future.

Summarize

Network security and penetration testing engineers are an important IT job, and they ensure the security of corporate networks and applications. When preparing for an interview, make sure you have core knowledge and skills and are able to articulate your experiences and opinions. By referring to this interview guide, you will be better prepared to interview for this role. Good luck!