What’s the difference between cyber security and digital forensics?

Explore the distinctions between cyber security and digital forensics, their overlapping aspects, and the career opportunities they offer. 

Cyber security vs digital forensics 

Working in cyber security and digital forensics is like playing in attack and defence roles for the same football team. Both disciplines work to safeguard information, networks, programs and other digital assets. But while cyber security is proactive, digital forensics is reactive. 

Definition and key areas of cyber security 

Cyber security is developing, implementing and auditing security mechanisms that protect information. Working in the field involves predicting and detecting vulnerabilities to prevent cyberattacks before they happen.

Professionals working in this area design secure systems using programming, encryption and security tools. Creating security policies and governance and delivering relevant staff training are common non-digital based elements of cyber security.  

What is digital forensics? 

Digital forensics is the gathering, analysing and retrieving of electronic data, assets, and evidence. The goal is often to identify the individuals behind and mechanisms used for hacking or malware and sources of data breaches. 

Digital forensics can also be used to retrieve other evidence of crime. During evidence gathering, legal protocols and regulations must be observed. Digital forensics investigators can write reports and appear as expert witnesses in court. The field includes detection across different types of digital devices and systems including computer forensics, mobile forensics, database forensics, malware and incident response. 

Where do cyber security and digital forensics overlap? 

Cyber security and digital forensics are complementary elements of information security. Both involve identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses. However, the scope of the roles is different and most simply defined as prevention versus response. After a data breach, digital forensic detective work can inform improvements to safeguard information. Cyber security and digital forensic roles may come into conflict if a digital forensics investigator identifies security system failings.  

Careers and opportunities in cybersecurity and digital forensics 

Studying digital forensics alongside cyber security gives broader knowledge of information security issues. Students gain a deeper understanding of how the disciplines overlap and work together and are able to pursue cybersecurity or digital forensics specialisms. Graduates may also opt to move into overarching or related roles within information technology. 

Is cyber security or digital forensics a good career? 

If you're exploring how to become a digital investigator or forensic analyst, you should know these are roles in a high-growth sector. Knowledge of these areas is valued and in demand. In an increasingly digitised and connected world, there are opportunities across sectors. Information security is a concern for private corporations, non-profit organisations or government bodies.  

Cyber security and digital forensic job titles and careers  

Job titles and careers in this sector, include: 

• Cloud support engineer 

• Technical support engineer 

• Cyber security engineer 

• IT support 

• Cyber forensic analyst 

• Fraud investigator 

• Data recovery specialist 

• Cyber security architect 

• Senior information security specialist 

• Service desk analyst 

• Web, software or database developer 

• Head of information technology 

• Cyber security consultant 

• Digital forensics investigator 

• Digital forensics analyst 

How an MSc in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics can help you succeed in the field 

Studying to be a Master of Science in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics at the University of Portsmouth will prepare you to help lead the fight against cybercrime. And by studying both disciplines you can opt to do this in a protective, reactive or related role. You could also progress on to further study in PhD research or teaching.  

Your studies will give a clear understanding of cyber security and digital forensic concepts. Skills development will focus on practical skills like data evaluation, alongside fundamental soft skills for effective communication.

You'll also learn how to gather evidence ethically and report on forensic investigations. With remote access to Forensic IT and Cyber Security labs, you'll become familiar with industry-standard tools. There's also the chance to take part in a virtual courtroom session and explore areas such as ethical hacking. 

How to start your career in cyber security or digital forensics 

Is it time to investigate a future in cyber security or digital forensics? The University of Portsmouth's MSc in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics course is 100% online, so you have the flexibility to learn any time, anywhere. Prepare for a career in a high-growth sector and study in a way that's convenient for you: