Cybersecurity professionals use a variety of coding languages, with Python being essential for scripting/automation, C/C++ for low-level system/malware analysis, JavaScript for web security, and SQL for database protection; other key languages include PowerShell, Bash, Java, and Assembly, depending on the specific security role (offensive, defensive, application, etc.).
One of the oldest programming languages, C is also among the most popular and versatile programming languages used by cybersecurity professionals. Often prized for their speed, C and C++, which is an extension of C but with greater capabilities, are typically used to maintain and defend computer systems and networks.
NASA employs a diverse array of programming languages, including C, C++, Python, Fortran, MATLAB, and Java. This variety underscores the agency's commitment to precision and innovation in space exploration.
10 Best Programming Languages for Cybersecurity
C and C++ are good for systems security but for application security, Java is second to absolutely nothing.
Yes, you absolutely can make $200,000 or more in cybersecurity, especially in senior, specialized, or high-demand roles like CISO, Senior Security Engineer, Cloud Security Engineer, or Security Consultant, with compensation increasing significantly with experience, certifications, and location (especially in tech hubs). While entry-level roles start lower, experienced professionals can reach $200k+ through strategic career growth and skill development in areas like cloud security, application security, and executive leadership.
I dove into the latest reports, safety guidance, and C++26 updates so you don't have to. According to the January TIOBE Index, C++ is currently the fourth most popular programming language after C and Python. C++ is the main programming language used in many critical systems, including hospitals, cars, and airplanes.
Cybersecurity professionals are focused on risk evaluation, high-level security monitoring, and strategic planning. None of that requires coding knowledge. Naturally, it helps to have a technical background, but it's not a prerequisite for a fulfilling career in this space.
SQL enables users to query databases, inserting, updating, and deleting records, and managing database schemas. In cybersecurity, SQL is often used to interact with expansive databases that store security-related information, such as logs, user data, and access records.
January Headline: C# is programming language of the year 2025. For the second time in three years, C# has been named Programming Language of the Year by the TIOBE Index. C# earned this distinction by achieving the largest year-over-year increase in ranking. Over the years, the language has undergone fundamental changes ...
At age ten, he developed an interest in computing and video games, teaching himself how to program from the VIC-20 user manual. At age twelve, Elon sold his BASIC-based game Blastar to PC and Office Technology magazine for approximately $500 (equivalent to $1,600 in 2024).
Every millisecond counts, as rapid perception & decision-making enables swift responses to dynamic conditions. This is where our Foundations team comes in — we combine low-level software techniques with modern C++ code to optimize the latency, throughput, and memory of our onboard camera & vision stack.
Yes, Elon Musk was a self-taught programmer from a young age, learning BASIC at 10 and selling his first video game, Blastar, at 12, using early coding skills to build his first companies like Zip2 and PayPal. He's consistently emphasized software as a core skill, even managing the programming aspects of his companies, though he doesn't code daily now, focusing more on high-level strategy and management.
The most common malicious code examples out there include computer viruses, Trojan horses, worms, bots, spyware, ransomware, and logic bombs.
Applying the Pareto Principle
In an ever-growing mix of hundreds of potential cybersecurity concerns and even more proposed solutions, CIS applies the Pareto Principle – the concept that for many activities, roughly 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes2 – to help prioritize cybersecurity actions.
The four main types of securities are Equity (ownership like stocks), Debt (loans like bonds), Derivative (contracts based on underlying assets like options), and Hybrid (a mix of debt and equity, like convertible bonds). These categories allow companies to raise capital and investors to participate in financial markets, offering different risk and return profiles.
Cybersecurity analysts must have strong technical skills, including knowledge of programming languages, operating systems, and network protocols. They must also have strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and address potential security issues.
If you're wondering, "Can I learn SQL in 7 days?"—the answer depends on your goals. While becoming an advanced SQL expert takes time, you can certainly grasp core concepts and start writing basic queries within a week.
The Seven Layers Of Cybersecurity
Good security standards follow the “90 / 10” rule. 90% of security safeguards rely on YOU to maintain good computing practices. 10% of security safeguards are technical.
While there is concern that automation may lead to job displacement, the reality is more nuanced. Experts expect AI to augment cybersecurity roles instead of replacing them. Accurate interpretation of AI findings and informed decision-making based on those insights require human oversight.
People expect just to take a course or watch programming videos and learn automatically. Without motivation and context, this passive learning style is the main reason many people quit early. Most people learn programming because of the great salaries. However, to master it, you need interest, passion, and a context.
The message is clear and direct, just like your feelings.
For CPU-intensive tasks like image processing, video editing, or gaming, C++ is the better choice. Its code runs closer to the hardware, providing greater control and optimization. Python is better suited for general-purpose programming where execution speed is not critical.