The Security Catalyst

Are you “connected”? Do you have a set of people you can call on when you have a problem or a question?

“Who ya gonna call?”

Ghostbuster’s won’t help you, but a community of like-minded professionals will. I’m talking about others who have been there and done that and who are ready and willing to offer advice. You can’t know everything, so it’s important to be connected to a group who collectively has the knowledge and experience to solve any problem.

Today’s environment requires a security professional/practitioner to be knowledgeable in so many areas extending beyond the twelve areas in ISO 17799. We must protect our organization’s critical assets, which requires us to have answers at our fingertips. You’re not going to get that ability from any degree, certification, or class. You only get it by being a part of a community; a network of similar professionals who are ready and able to offer advice and assistance.

Many cities have a community of security professionals. They are mostly professional groups such as InfraGard, the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA), and the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). In Nebraska, we also have NebraskaCERT who for the past eight years has provided a network of professionals dedicated to two pillars of excellence: the Sharing of Knowledge and Applied Research. Through monthly meetings and annual conferences, they have provided a network of security professionals ready, willing and able to help each other. I really like having a local community to turn to when I have a question or need help. It also provides an excellent networking opportunity, which led to my current position.

The Security Catalyst Community is another example. What makes it unique is that it’s entire virtual. It is an online community that has many of the advantages of a local community. You can ask questions, provide answers, collaborate, and network. Plus you get multiple perspectives from around the world, not just your own backyard. It’s more than a monthly meeting, which is what most local groups provide. It’s a constant collaboration that’s not dependent on a set time schedule, which is perfect in this busy world. The range of topics, questions and answers is unlimited. The collective expertise is second to none. You can grow your knowledge while expanding other people’s knowledge. All from the comfort of your keyboard. [Santa editorial comment: We charge nothing for this benefit. The currency of our community is participation. Everyone is welcome to share ideas and insights – so we’re not about people who “know everything” – but instead a true community helping each other out.]

You can’t know it all. And you don’t have to if your part of a community. Participate in one today either in your local community or on-line. Join in the conversation, don’t just lurk. The key word is to participate and add to the community. Help others and they’ll be there to help you.

Remember, “By helping each other, we all become stronger.”

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