Top 10 Cybersecurity Interview Questions for Freshers

Introduction

Cybersecurity is one of the hottest career domains currently, and businesses are on the lookout for fresh talent. With cyber threats rising, the demand for cybersecurity professionals has only skyrocketed. In fact, the global cybersecurity market is expected to grow from $173.5 billion in 2022 to $266.2 billion by 2027. If you're a fresher aiming for an entry-level job in cybersecurity, preparing for interviews can be daunting. But don’t worry! We’ve compiled some cybersecurity interview questions that you’re likely to face. Whether you’re a self-learner or someone who has completed cybersecurity courses, this guide will help you get interview-ready.

Basic Cybersecurity Interview Questions for Freshers

1. What is Cybersecurity? Why is it important?

Cybersecurity encompasses strategies, tools, and protocols aimed at safeguarding networks, systems, and data from digital threats. It is crucial because cyberattacks can lead to financial losses, data breaches, and even national security risks.

2. What are the different types of Cybersecurity?

This is one of the most common cyber security basic interview questions. There are several types of cybersecurity, including:
• Network Security: Protecting computer networks from intrusions.
• Application Security: Securing software from threats.
• Cloud Security: Ensuring safe cloud data storage and access.
• Information Security: Protecting sensitive data from unauthorised access.
• Operational Security: Safeguarding internal company processes and assets.

3. What are the core differences between - vulnerability, threat, and risk?

• Vulnerability: Vulnerability is a flaw in a system that can be taken advantage of.
• Threat: A potential attack that can harm a system.
• Risk: The probability of a threat taking advantage of a vulnerability and resulting in harm.

4. What is the CIA Triad in Cybersecurity?

The CIA Triad stands for:
• Confidentiality: Ensuring that a particular set of data is accessible only to its authorised users.
• Integrity: Maintaining data accuracy and reliability.
• Availability: Ensuring that the relevant set of data and systems are accessible when needed.

5. What are Firewalls? How do they work?

Firewalls are security tools that regulate and monitor network traffic, both incoming and outgoing. They work as a barrier between trusted and untrusted networks, allowing only safe traffic to pass while blocking malicious activity.

Technical Cyber Security Interview Questions

The interview round will certainly include technical cyber security interview questions. 6. What is the difference between Symmetric and Asymmetric Encryption?

• Symmetric Encryption: Encrypts and decrypts data using the same key (e.g., AES).
• Asymmetric Encryption: Encrypts data with a public key and decrypts it using a private key, ensuring secure communication (e.g., RSA).

7. What are the different types of malware?

Malware (malicious software) includes:
• Virus: Attaches itself to files and spreads.
• Worm: Replicates itself across networks without user action.
• Trojan Horse: Contains malicious code but comes disguised as a legitimate program.
• Ransomware: Locks files through encryption and demands payment for their restoration.
• Spyware: Secretly gathers user data.

8. What is Phishing and how can it be prevented?

This is one of the most-asked cyber security fresher interview questions. Phishing is a social engineering attack where attackers trick users into revealing sensitive information by posing as a trusted entity. Prevention measures include:
• Not clicking on suspicious links.
• Verifying email sender details.
• Using anti-phishing software.
• Educating employees on phishing scams.

9. What is a DDoS attack? How does it work?

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack floods a website or network with excessive traffic, causing it to crash. Attackers use multiple compromised devices (botnets) to overwhelm the target system.

10. What are Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)?

• IDS (Intrusion Detection System): Monitors network traffic and alerts administrators of potential threats.
• IPS (Intrusion Prevention System): Detects and actively blocks threats before they reach the target system.

Popular Cybersecurity Skills for Freshers.

To excel in cybersecurity, freshers should focus on these key skills: 1. Networking Fundamentals

Understanding network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP) and concepts like firewalls, VPNs, and proxies is crucial for cybersecurity roles.

2. Programming Languages

Languages like Python, C, Java, and scripting in Bash are valuable for writing security tools and automating tasks.

3. Security Tools & Technologies

Familiarity with tools like Wireshark, Metasploit, Snort, and Burp Suite helps in vulnerability assessment and penetration testing.

4. Operating Systems & System Security

A strong grasp of Windows, Linux, and macOS security mechanisms, including access controls and file permissions, is essential.

5. Ethical Hacking & Penetration Testing

Learning ethical hacking techniques and cracking global certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification can boost your cybersecurity career.

6. Cloud Security & Virtualisation

With the rise of cloud computing, understanding AWS security, Azure, and virtual environments is an added advantage.

Conclusion

Cracking a cybersecurity interview as a fresher can be challenging, but with the right preparation, you can stand out. Start by mastering the cyber security basic interview questions listed above, and strengthen your technical and problem-solving skills. To further enhance your knowledge, consider enrolling in cybersecurity courses for beginners from a prestigious institute like DataSpace Academy. These certifications can validate your skills and increase your chances of landing a cybersecurity job. Keep your curious mind awake, never stop learning, and good luck with your cybersecurity career!