As cyber attacks become increasingly complex and take a variety of different forms, it is even more vital to have a well-rounded, multifaceted cyber defence in place. This includes building secure system architectures from the outset, checking systems for weaknesses through penetration testing and, of course, keeping a vigilant watch with strong defences should the worst really happen.

When it comes to Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection in the blue team, we are not playing around. An intrusion may happen at any time – requiring rapid detection and management. The threat is real, the attack is real and the defence is in your hands.

Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection is the tracking and observation of system activity to identify both unauthorised actions from within and potential intrusion by an external attacker. The role involves monitoring security alert queues, investigating and triaging events based on criticality and taking actions to mitigate these threats. The blue team also acts as an escalation point for Network Security technical issues so blues must also be comfortable juggling multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

When not faced with an attack or unauthorised activity, the day to day in the blue team includes managing and troubleshooting network defence tools, auditing systems, identifying problematic areas and implementing strategic solutions. Basically, ensuring your system’s defence is ready to spring into action at any given time.

Maintaining key relationships with security partners, other internal departments and external parties such as security vendors is another key aspect of a role in the blue team, making this field of cyber appealing to those with great people skills, a cool head and a logical approach suited to remaining calm in the face of a high-pressure situation.

Depending on the size of the organisation, Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection may work with other teams, such as the Security Engineering team and the Cyber Threat Intelligence team. Whatever the structure of the organisation, this role involves continuous learning to ensure that skills and knowledge are up to date. Full entry route information can be found here, with core knowledge areas based on knowledge areas within CyBOK, which cover Network Security, Security Operations and Incident Management and Malware and Attack Technologies.

In terms of progressing from a role in Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection, professionals might move into a role in Security Testing, Cyber Threat Intelligence or Digital Forensics to name just some of the options available to people building on the vital skills gained as part of the blue team.

If you think you’d be a great fit for a role in Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection and would like to learn more about securing a future in the blue team, you can find more info about life in Network Monitoring and Intrusion Detection here.