Switching Gears: My Rewarding Journey from Network Security to DevOps

Author: Jonathan Gordon

Venturing from Network Security to DevOps, my career shift was more than just a change in job titles. Join me as I reflect on the challenges and learnings that shaped this rewarding journey, blending security expertise with the dynamic world of DevOps.

Introduction 

Several years ago, I made the leap from being a Network Security Engineer to a DevOps Engineer. I know both positions have the word engineer in the title, but trust me, they are extremely different.  Think of it like switching from being a goalie in hockey to playing forward. Different position, different skills, but still helping the team. And let me tell you, it was not just a change, it was a very rewarding challenge. 

What’s the Difference? 

Before diving into the challenges, it's important to understand the fundamental differences between the two roles.  In network security, the main objective is to make sure you don’t take down the entire network with one simple change.  In all seriousness, a network security engineer focuses primarily on protecting an organization’s network from threats, ensuring data integrity, and managing network-related security tasks. On the other hand, a DevOps engineer works towards unifying software development and software operation, emphasizing a culture of collaboration and automation in the software development lifecycle. 

Challenge 1: Shapeshifting Your Mindset 

From Specialization to Integration: One of the biggest challenges in this transition is the shift in mindset from a specialized focus to a broader view that encompasses the entire software development and deployment process.  You are jumping several layers in the OSI model, and it can get confusing, FAST.   

Collaboration Overdrive: Your interaction with your teammates is also very different. DevOps is deeply rooted in collaboration and communication.  You need to brace yourself for daily stand-ups where the coffee is strong, but opinions are even stronger. 

Challenge 2: Skill Set Evolution 

Broadening Technical Expertise: The leap from network security to DevOps involves embracing a wider array of technologies – from mastering tools like GitLab and Docker to getting a grip on cloud services and Infrastructure as Code. 

Developing a Coding Acumen:  You don’t need to be a coding prodigy, but understanding the basics goes a long way in bridging gaps between teams.  There are so many great resources available online that makes this process much easier than I’m sure it was in the past. 

Challenge 3: Fast-Paced and Exciting 

Keeping Up with Changes: In DevOps, the only constant is change, but that keeps things exciting. It’s like playing a video game on the hardest level – you may throw your controller at the TV, but when you beat the game, you pretend that you didn’t have to buy a new TV.   

Agility and Flexibility: The ability to adapt quickly to new tools, environments, and workflows is essential. It’s a balancing act between maintaining stability and embracing innovation. 

Challenge 4: Integrating Security in a DevOps World 

Shifting from Gatekeeper to Integrator: The challenge lies in integrating robust security practices within the DevOps pipeline without compromising on speed and efficiency.  If your applications work but are insecure, you are setting yourself up for major issues in the future.  If your applications are secure but don’t work…. you get the point. 

Proactive Security Measures: As a former network security engineer, leveraging my background to proactively embed security into the development lifecycle has been a game-changer.  You would be surprised how often basic security practices aren’t followed correctly. 

Conclusion: A Change Worth Making 

Making the move from network security to DevOps has been one of the best decisions I've made. It's not just about changing jobs; it’s about stepping into a larger, more dynamic world. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. If you’re considering a similar shift, know that it’s more than a career change – it's an opportunity to join a team sport where the action never stops, and the rewards keep coming.