Cybersecurity is more in demand than ever before.
Between the numerous cyber attacks occurring in 2024 and the huge demand for cybersecurity positions, ranging from cybersecurity analysts to threat analysts projected to grow around 33% over the next ten years, cybersecurity is a bigger topic now than it’s ever been.
Ten years ago, many of us wouldn’t have ever even heard the phrase, let alone know what it meant. Now, estimates suggest that there are nearly 4 million vacant cybersecurity jobs.
Unsurprisingly, with so many headlines about cybersecurity, there’s also growing interest in joining the industry. So, what are the best programming languages for cybersecurity? Let’s find out.
Why learning programming is important for cybersecurity
Programming may seem like a separate entity from cybersecurity. However, understanding programming helps cybersecurity experts examine software and discover security vulnerabilities, detect malicious codes, and execute tasks that involve analytical skills in cybersecurity. Put simply, understanding programming makes cybersecurity professionals better at their jobs.
However, there are numerous programming languages, and identifying which programming language to learn is not that simple. The language to learn depends on your concentration, which could be in computer forensics, security for web applications, information security, malware analysis, or application security. Though the importance of any given language varies by role, programming experience offers a higher competitive edge for cybersecurity experts over others.
And although not all cybersecurity positions require a programming background, it’s an important skill to have for mid-level and upper-level cyber positions. A strong understanding of programming languages helps cybersecurity experts stay on top of cyber criminals, and having a good grasp of the architecture of a system means that it is easier to defend it.
While individuals pursuing a career in cybersecurity should learn programming, seasoned professionals may want to differentiate themselves by learning additional programming languages. Regardless of your experience, upskilling can be a way to increase your value. This way, when you begin applying for jobs as a newcomer or seasoned professional, you will understand how programming influences cybersecurity and be ready to fill the demand.
What programming language should I learn for cybersecurity?
There are about 250 prominent computer programming languages used today, with as many as 700 used around the world. In cyber, that number shrinks to around 10-15. Here are the twelve best programming languages to learn for cybersecurity, so you can set your sights toward starting a new cyber career.
Python
For several years now, Python has been a dominant language in cybersecurity. It is a server-side scripting language, so the resulting script doesn’t need compiling by coders. It’s a general-purpose language that is used in many — if not most — cybersecurity situations.
Python is an extremely versatile programming language that plays a critical role in cybersecurity. The ability to automate tasks and perform malware analysis makes Python an essential tool for professionals. Python can also be used for threat hunting, amongst other things. The ease of use, wealth of resources and its popularity, make Python one of the top programming languages pursed by cybersecurity experts.
There are multiple elements that make Python appealing to those working in cybersecurity. The ease of learning Python, code readability, the ability to easily identify syntax errors, and the ability to fix things quickly make Python ideal. Python’s widespread adoption in the field of cybersecurity further solidifies its place as one of the top coding languages cybersecurity professionals should learn.
The ability to detect malware, penetration testing, scanning, and analyzing cyber threats to scanning systems makes Python a powerful tool. Those working or planning to work in a Security Operations Center (SOC) in the future will find that understanding Python is invaluable. The ability to build custom scripts and safeguard web applications from potential threats can easily be accomplished with Python. Additionally, Python can be used to examine the root of the issues, you can also employ data, logs, and artifacts. Hence, learning Python can make your future job in cybersecurity a lot easier.
Java
Introduced in 1995, Java is considered a general-purpose programming language. Java is one of the first languages to be used in the design of many major operating systems, like Solaris, Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows. Since it drives both modern and legacy web servers, it is extensively used in all industries.
In information security, Java has countless applications including:
- Cyber adversaries, for instance, use it to reverse-engineer proprietary software applications to discover and exploit security vulnerabilities.
- Penetration testing is an essential task and understanding Java makes it easier.
- Penetration testers frequently use Java to organize high-scaling servers they use in payload delivery.
- Experienced ethical hackers use Java programming to build and develop sophisticated, ethical programs.
- Java is highly dynamic compared to languages like C++, making it popular among cyber experts.
- Using Java to develop vulnerability testing programs enables ethical hackers to deploy it on multiple platforms.
JavaScript
The most common programming language is JavaScript, a universal language used by 95 percent of internet sites and very popular in web development.
It’s one of the finest programming languages for cybersecurity you can master.
- JavaScript is for you if you want to capture cookies, exploit event handlers, and carry out cross-site scripting.
- NodeJS, ReactJS, jQuery — these are all JavaScript libraries.
- This also implies that, due to the widespread use of the language, applications and systems using it are prominent targets.
JavaScript lets programmers use any code while users visit a website, strengthening that site’s functionality. On the other hand, it may produce malicious functionality hidden from the visitor. If the web site is compromised, malicious codes may be used to run a program. Learning JavaScript can allow you to identify cross site scripting attacks, cross site forgery, and CDN tampering. While other cybersecurity tools can help you identify these attacks, learning JavaScript allows you to ensure that the site is safe or safe enough to function. It is important to remember that JavaScript is frequently used by front-end developers, full-stack developers, back-end developers, and amongst other positions. Hence, taking the time to learn JavaScript as a cybersecurity professional may present you with new opportunities including the ability to find and fix the flawed code leading to attacks. As a result, JavaScript is one of the most common programming languages sought out by cybersecurity professionals.
PowerShell
PowerShell is a more versatile command-line interface that blends the old Command Prompt (CMD) features with an advanced scripting environment that can be used to get access to the inner core of a machine, including Windows APIs access.
- PowerShell is a valuable tool to automate repetitive tasks for administrators, but sadly, its capabilities have also been exploited by malicious actors.
- No longer having to rely on typical malware, Hackers can manipulate PowerShell to find sensitive domain information and load harmful executables (also known as fileless malware).
- While PowerShell can be used by bad actors, it can also be used to harden defenses. PowerShell is versatile enough that it allows businesses to use it based on their individual needs.
SQL
SQL (Structured Query Language) is a domain-specific programming language. It is highly popular and is used to parse data in large databases. With businesses becoming more data-driven, SQL is the most demanded database management programming language.
- Most websites use SQL for their data management activities like Relational Database Management System (RDBS).
- It deals with numerous database systems.
- Consequently, it is also recognized as the most straightforward language for handling a database.
Database Administrators, programmers, and end-users create SQL queries for the retrieval, insertion, modification, and removal of data stored in database tables. While database administrators, programmers and end-users rely on SQL, bad actors also use SQL to attack databases. Attackers often use this language to steal confidential data, compromise data stores, and execute a variety of web-based attacks. In fact, SQL injection attacks are extremely popular and can be easily replicated. To successfully protect information, many cybersecurity professionals will need at least a basic understanding of SQL, making this programming language popular amongst professionals.
Assembly
- An assembly language is any low-level language that helps analyze and understand how malware works.
- Understanding assembly is relatively straightforward, especially if you already know a high-programming language.
In 2003, Slammer, a malware based on assembly, caused disorder and slowed web traffic by forcing service negligence on many, many proprietors. There was a protective overflow bug on Microsoft’s SQL server that the program exploited. This incident was not a sudden one — several months before a patch was released — but several enterprises didn’t implement it, opening the door for the bug to propagate.
Assembly is an essential programming language as cybersecurity experts might use it to interpret malware and understand their modes of attack. Cybersecurity professionals defend traditional and contemporary malware continuously, and so it’s essential to understand how malware functions.
PHP
PHP is a server-side programming language used to build websites. With 74.5% of websites using PHP, it is become one of the common and powerful languages to learn. For this reason alone, it’s obvious that understanding PHP will help you protect against attackers.
- RIPS is a standard tool for PHP applications that performs automated security analysis.
- In an application, RIPS examines data flow from input parameters to critical operations.
- You could use RIPS if you’re a PHP developer working with security vulnerabilities.
- As a PHP security-focused developer, you can write server-side web application logic.
- You can handle back-end resources and data sharing between servers and their consumers using PHP
- You can also use your PHP knowledge to eliminate any vulnerabilities in code and protect infrastructure.
It’s also worth noting that PHP is used by businesses as a language on the server-side that works with HTML, helping websites work properly. To make website updates easier, web designers use PHP to connect databases with web pages. As a result, PHP is another language cybersecurity professionals should consider learning.
Golang
Go or Golang is an open-sourced language developed by Google. Go is a compiled programing language that was designed specifically for efficiency, reliability, and simplicity. Known for its ease of use, Go is frequently used for cloud and networking services, and web application development.
- Most malware aims to get into target systems undiscovered, making Golang perfect for it.
- With Golang, a single source code can be constructed for all major operating systems.
- This language also has vast libraries that make the malware creation process very smooth.
Go has become quite popular as a language for security professionals. Those interested in learning Go may pursue a career as a Cloud Security Engineer, DevSecOps Engineer, or a Software Security Engineer.
C
- Applying C language in reverse engineering facilitates the development of antivirus programs because cybersecurity teams can disassemble a malware to examine its design, spread, and consequences.
- The C programming language is also essential for developers who QA code integrity.
- Cyber enemies may also use the language to identify exploitable weaknesses in the network before an attack is launched.
Being a low-level programming language with simple syntax, someone can master it with a few months of training. Programmers take further steps to make sure that their code lacks bugs when writing the program. Hackers can use it to find vulnerabilities, though.
Lint is a code analysis tool intended for programs that are written in C. Different versions have emerged since its inception. Both cybersecurity experts and hackers may use Lint to identify programming errors, and find bugs that risk computer network security.
C++
C++ was adapted from the C coding language but has several distinct features.
- In contrast to C, C++ supports objects and classes.
- C++ is faster and performs better than the C language.
- Despite being useful, less than 0.1% of all websites use it.
- A C++ developer develops desktop and mobile apps, whereas coding specialists identify and eliminate any vulnerability and bugs.
Cybersecurity experts benefit learning C++ because they can detect vulnerabilities and security weaknesses easily. A scanning tool like Flawfinder that scans C++ lets cyber experts easily recognize security flaws in code. These tools describe existing vulnerabilities, their severity, and their effects on an application by using an integrated database that includes the language function’s possible risks.
Ruby
Ruby is a general-purpose high-level language created and developed by Yukihiro Matsumoto in Japan. Known for its simplicity, the ability to maintain clean and scalable code, and the ease of debugging, Ruby is one of the most popular programming languages in the world.
- Ruby’s syntax is essentially identical to Perl and Python.
- Its ease of use and inherent ability to manage massive code projects make it popular among coders.
- Ruby has extensive software libraries.
- Ruby has been widely used for sites including Airbnb, Hulu, Kickstarter, and Github.
- Ruby manages much of a machine’s complex information, making programs easier to develop and with less code.
Shell scripting
Shell scripting incorporates several of the same commands that you may already use in your operating system’s terminal sessions and lets developers create automated scripts for various routine activities. For example, do you need to provision accounts quickly and facilitate sufficient access? Do you want to automate the system configuration security lockdown quickly? This is where shell scripting comes into play.
You’ll want to master some Linux script languages like Bash if you’re using Linux or macOS. If you’re a Windows pro, immerse yourself in PowerShell. Regardless of your preferences, shell scripting is extremely important in cybersecurity.
What’s the first cybersecurity language I should learn?
We recommend starting with Python. The syntax is straightforward and there are countless libraries that make your coding life much easier. Additionally, Python’s significant libraries make it an ideal language for beginners.
In cybersecurity, Python is used to conduct many cybersecurity tasks like scanning and analyzing malware. Python is a helpful step towards more sophisticated programming languages, too. It offers a high level of web readability and is used by tech’s largest companies, including Google, Reddit, and NASA. Once you have mastered Python, you can move on to high-level programming languages.
What are the best ways to learn these cyber languages?
Like with any type of coding language, there are lots of ways to get started learning. It really depends on how much time you have, how much money you want to commit, and how you want to learn the language. If you want to learn casually or dabble in coding before committing, we suggest starting with a free introductory course. However, if you know you’re ready to pursue a career in cybersecurity, then a full-time bootcamp is your best bet.
Introductory cybersecurity courses and Bootcampsa
Coursera’s Introduction to Cybersecurity. Built to help learning understand modern technology and strategies for information and system security.
Evolve Security. Evolve Security is an interactive and hands-on cybersecurity training program for 20 weeks. Students spend roughly 20 hours a week on cybersecurity bootcamp training, including in-class and individual study.
Fullstack Academy. Fullstack Academy is designed to take you from a cybersecurity beginner to an in-demand cybersecurity expert in only 17 weeks of full-time training.
Flatiron School’s cybersecurity bootcamp. This course is intended to teach you everything you need to know to start a career as a level 1+ threat analyst, compliance analyst, security consultant, or SOC specialist.
Brainstation. Through this cybersecurity course, you can gain a better understanding of the technologies developed every day and how security attacks leverage vulnerabilities and evolve within cybersecurity.
Level Effect. This course focuses on security and is paired with practical applications and use cases. Develop the skills needed to secure cybersecurity job roles or advance your career with new strategies, techniques, and processes.
What other skills do you need for a cybersecurity career?
Specops Software examined 843 cybersecurity job listings on the recruiting website, indeed, to classify the essential soft skills for cybersecurity positions in the job market and which programming languages and certifications are most valuable.
Soft skills you need
- Technical ability and mindset are by far the most important skills to have
- Second is responsibility
- And third is clear written and verbal communication
Languages
- As far as languages go, Python is the most in-depth
- PowerShell, even if it’s just an understanding of scripting to help automate tasks.
- JavaScript is also increasingly popular and widely used in certain aspects of cybersecurity.
Certifications
- System Security Professional certification, or CISSP, is the most in-demand professional certification
- The second most crucial professional certification is the Certified Information Security Manager certification (CISM)
- CISA certification is the third most sought-after professional qualification for cybersecurity positions.
Keep in mind: each language has its own objective and serves it accordingly. The more languages you know, the better it looks on your resume and the further ahead you are than the rest of the pack.
Although many entry-level cybersecurity roles don’t require programming knowledge, programming is a key skill for mid-level and upper-level cybersecurity roles. You can succeed in your profession and move towards long-term success in the industry with a certain knowledge of at least one programming language.
If you’re seriously considering a career in cyber, consider Flatiron School’s flagship Cybersecurity Bootcamp to help you get there.
