Information technology supports almost all modern businesses to one degree or another. Even small businesses often run a few servers to support their online stores and inventory management.
As information technology becomes more complex, it becomes difficult for non-experts to manage it. That’s a real problem in a time when so many businesses hold sensitive customer data or face compliance issues.
They need someone who can help them sort through all the physical technology, networking demands, and compliance nuances. That person is an IT auditor.
It still begs the question of what exactly an IT auditor is and, if it sounds like an interesting job, how you become one. Keep reading and we’ll walk you through the essential info.
What is an IT Auditor?
In essence, IT auditors evaluate an organization’s entire IT infrastructure for problems. This can include everything from an internal network to VoIP systems and software. The auditor’s main role is identifying these problems and offering solutions for them.
Auditors with the right skills also play a role in creating the audit procedures themselves. As technology evolves, old procedures for evaluating threats or deciding when a product has reached end-of-life become outdated. The auditor periodically reviews the procedures and updates them to reflect current standards.
What Areas of IT Do Auditors Focus On?
One of the primary areas auditors focus on is cybersecurity. The global shortfall of cybersecurity pros means most businesses have security weaknesses.
Where applicable, auditors also review regulatory compliance. Healthcare organizations must comply with HIPAA and the HITECH ACT. Financial organizations must comply with PCI DSS and Sarbanes-Oxley.
Other areas commonly reviewed by auditors include data backup procedures and equipment health.
Becoming an IT Auditor
IT auditors need a broad cross-section of IT knowledge, such as:
- Cybersecurity
- Networking
- Data Analysis
- Security testing
- Risk management
You can acquire some of the entry-level skills through industry-standard certifications, such as:
- Network+
- Security+
- CysA+
CompTIA offers these certifications. You can also get auditor-specific certifications through the ISACA. Two common certifications include Certified Information Systems Auditor and Certified Information Security Manager.
You should hone your communication skills as well. IT auditors don’t just deal with the technology. They must also discuss their findings with clients who may or may not have technical backgrounds.
Once you lock in your certifications, you must apply at companies that offer IT audits, such as Sagacent Technologies.
Parting Thoughts on What an IT Auditor Is and How to Become One
An IT auditor is someone with training in a broad cross-section of IT technology and compliance. They conduct reviews of your IT infrastructure, look for problems, and suggest solutions. Most audits focus on core areas such as cybersecurity, compliance, and equipment health.
Becoming an auditor usually starts with lower-level certification in specific areas of IT. You then move on to higher-level, auditor-specific certifications. After that, it’s all a matter of applying for jobs.
Sagacent Technologies offers information technology services for SMBs. Looking for other ways to shore up your IT infrastructure? Check out our blog and services page.
