Communication is essential in every field, and the world of cybersecurity is no exception. In the digital realm, communication happens through programming languages. Learning these languages is crucial because they allow you to interact with systems, write code to automate a process, and build tools that detect, prevent, or respond to cyber threats.
Whether you're analyzing malware, writing scripts for penetration testing, or developing secure applications, understanding how to "speak" to machines through code gives you the power to make them work for you, and more importantly, to protect against those who might misuse them.
Programming languages serve as the building blocks of all software. Each one comes with its own advantages and limitations, making certain languages better suited for specific tasks or applications than others.
Unsurprisingly, with so many headlines about cybersecurity, there’s also growing interest in joining the industry. So, what are the best programming languages for cybersecurity? Let’s find out!
Why is learning programming important for cybersecurity?
Programming may seem like a separate entity from cybersecurity. However, understanding programming helps cybersecurity experts examine software and discover security vulnerabilities, detect malicious codes, and execute tasks that involve analytical skills in cybersecurity. Put simply, understanding programming makes cybersecurity professionals better at their jobs.
There are numerous programming languages, and identifying which programming language to learn isn't so straight forward. The language depends on your concentration which could be in computer forensics, security for web applications, information security, malware analysis, or application security.
Although not all cybersecurity positions require a programming background, it’s an important skill to have for mid-level and upper-level cyber positions. A strong understanding of programming languages helps cybersecurity experts stay on top of cyber criminals, and having a good grasp of the architecture of a system makes it easier to defend.
While individuals pursuing a career in cybersecurity should learn a programming language related to their concentration, seasoned professionals may want to differentiate themselves by learning multiple programming languages. Regardless of your experience, upskilling can be a way to increase your value.
Which programming language should I learn for cybersecurity?
There are many prominent computer programming languages used today, with as many as 100 used around the world, According to the TIOBE index, there are as many as 282 computer programming languages used in the world today. In cyber, that number shrinks to around 10-15. Here are the twelve best programming languages most relevant to cybersecurity professionals, so you can set your sights toward starting a new cyber career.
Python
For several years now, Python has been a dominant language in cybersecurity. It is a server-side scripting language, so the resulting script doesn’t need compiling by coders. It’s a general-purpose language that is used in many, if not most, cybersecurity situations.
With Python, you’re able to automate tasks and perform malware analysis. Plus an extensive third-party library of scripts is readily accessible, meaning help is right around the corner. Code readability, clear and easy syntax, and a vast number of libraries are some of the aspects that make it popular.
For cybersecurity experts, Python is a valuable programming language since it can be used in detecting malware, penetration testing, scanning, and analyzing cyber threats. If you understand Python, being a SOC support pro makes a whole lot of sense. You need to build tools and scripts in this role to protect web pages from security threats. To examine the root of the issues, you can also employ data, logs, and artifacts.
Java
Introduced in 1995, Java is considered a general-purpose programming language. Java is one of the first languages to be used in the design of many major operating systems, like Solaris, Linux, macOS, and Microsoft Windows. Since it drives both modern and legacy web servers, it is extensively used in all industries.
In information security, Java has countless applications including:
- Cyber adversaries, for instance, use it to reverse-engineer proprietary software applications to discover and exploit security vulnerabilities.
- Penetration testers frequently use Java to organize high-scaling servers they use in payload delivery.
- Experienced ethical hackers use Java programming to build and develop sophisticated, ethical programs.
- Java is highly dynamic compared to languages like C++.
- Using Java to develop vulnerability testing programs enables ethical hackers to deploy it on multiple platforms.
JavaScript
The most common programming language is JavaScript, a universal language used by 98.9% of internet sites and very common in web development.
- JavaScript is for you if you want to capture cookies, exploit event handlers, and carry out cross-site scripting.
- NodeJS, ReactJS, jQuery — these are all JavaScript libraries.
- This also implies that, due to the widespread use of the language, applications and systems using it are prominent targets.
JavaScript lets programmers use any code while users visit a website, strengthening that site’s functionality. On the other hand, it may produce malicious functionality hidden from the visitor. If the website is compromised, malicious codes may be used to run a program. Learning JavaScript can allow you to identify cross-site scripting attacks, cross-site forgery, and CDN tampering. While other cybersecurity tools can help you identify these attacks, learning JavaScript allows you to ensure that the site is safe or safe enough to function. It is important to remember that JavaScript is frequently used by front-end developers, full-stack developers, back-end developers, and amongst other positions. Taking the time to learn JavaScript as a cybersecurity professional may present you with new opportunities including the ability to find and fix the flawed code leading to attacks.
PowerShell
PowerShell is a more versatile command-line interface that blends the old Command Prompt (CMD) features with an advanced scripting environment that can be used to get access to the inner core of a machine, including Windows APIs access.
- PowerShell is a valuable tool to automate repetitive tasks for administrators, but sadly, its capabilities have also been exploited by malicious actors.
- No longer having to rely on typical malware, Hackers can manipulate PowerShell to find sensitive domain information and load harmful executables.
- While PowerShell can be used by bad actors, it can also be used to harden defenses. PowerShell is versatile enough that it allows businesses to use it based on their individual needs.
SQL
SQL (Structured Query Language) is a domain-specific programming language used to parse data in large databases. With businesses becoming more data-driven, SQL is the most in-demand programming language for database management.
- Most websites use SQL for their data management activities, like Relational Database Management System (RDBS).
- It deals with numerous database systems.
- Consequently, it is also recognized as the most straightforward language for handling a database.
Database Administrators, programmers, and end-users create SQL queries for the retrieval, insertion, modification, and removal of data stored in database tables. While database administrators, programmers and end-users rely on SQL, bad actors also use SQL to attack databases. Attackers often use this language to steal confidential data, compromise data stores, and execute a variety of web-based attacks. In fact, SQL injection attacks are extremely popular and can be easily replicated. To successfully protect information, many cybersecurity professionals will need at least a basic understanding of SQL.
Assembly
An assembly language is any low-level language that helps analyze and understand how malware works. Understanding assembly is relatively straightforward, especially if you already know a high-programming language.
In 2003, Slammer (a malware based on assembly) caused disorder and slowed web traffic by forcing service negligence on many proprietors. There was a protective overflow bug on Microsoft’s SQL server that the program exploited. This incident was not sudden. Several enterprises didn't implement the patch that was shared with them months prior to the attack which allowed the bug to propagate.
Assembly is a programming language cybersecurity experts might use to interpret malware and understand their modes of attack. Cybersecurity professionals defend traditional and contemporary malware continuously, so it’s essential to understand how malware functions.
PHP
PHP is a server-side programming language used to build websites. With 73.9% of websites using PHP, understanding PHP will help you protect against attackers.
- RIPS is a standard tool for PHP applications that performs automated security analysis.
- In an application, RIPS examines data flow from input parameters to critical operations.
- You could use RIPS if you’re a PHP developer working with security vulnerabilities.
- As a PHP security-focused developer, you can write server-side web application logic.
- You can handle back-end resources and data sharing between servers and their consumers using PHP.
- You can also use your PHP knowledge to eliminate any vulnerabilities in code and protect infrastructure.
It’s also worth noting that businesses use PHP on the server-side to work with HTML, helping websites work properly. To make website updates easier, web designers use PHP to connect databases with web pages. As a result, PHP is another language cybersecurity professionals should consider learning.
Golang
Go or Golang is an open-source programming language developed by Google in 2007. Go is a compiled programming language that was designed specifically for efficiency, reliability, and simplicity. Known for its ease of use, Go is frequently used for cloud and networking services, and web application development.
- Most malware aims to get into target systems undiscovered, making Golang perfect for it.
- With Golang, a single source code can be constructed for all major operating systems.
- This language also has vast libraries that make the malware creation process very smooth.
Those interested in learning Go could pursue a career as a Cloud Security Engineer, DevSecOps Engineer, or a Software Security Engineer.
C
- Applying C language in reverse engineering facilitates the development of antivirus programs because cybersecurity teams can disassemble a malware to examine its design, spread, and consequences.
- The C programming language is also needed for developers who QA code integrity.
- Cyber enemies may also use the language to identify exploitable weaknesses in the network before an attack is launched.
Being a low-level programming language with simple syntax, someone can master it with a few months of training. Programmers take further steps to make sure that their code lacks bugs when writing the program.
Lint is a code analysis tool intended for programs that are written in C. Different versions have emerged since its inception. Both cybersecurity experts and hackers may use Lint to identify programming errors and find bugs that risk computer network security.
C++
C++ was adapted from the C coding language but has several distinct features.
- In contrast to C, C++ supports objects and classes.
- C++ is faster and performs better than the C language.
- Despite being useful, less than 0.1% of all websites use it.
- A C++ developer develops desktop and mobile apps.
Cybersecurity experts benefit from learning C++ because they can detect vulnerabilities and security weaknesses easily. A scanning tool like Flawfinder that scans C++ lets cyber experts easily recognize security flaws in code. These tools describe existing vulnerabilities, their severity, and their effects on an application by using an integrated database that includes the language function’s possible risks.
Ruby
Ruby is a general-purpose high-level language created and developed by Yukihiro Matsumoto in Japan. Known for its simplicity, the ability to maintain clean and scalable code, and the ease of debugging, Ruby on Rails (Ruby’s web framework) is one of the most popular web development frameworks in any language.
- Ruby’s syntax is essentially identical to Perl and Python.
- Ruby is liked for its ease of use and inherent ability to manage massive code projects.
- Ruby has extensive software libraries.
- Ruby has been widely used for sites including Airbnb, Hulu, Kickstarter, and Github.
- Ruby manages much of a machine’s complex information, making programs easier to develop and with less code.
Shell scripting
Shell scripting incorporates several of the same commands that you may already use in your operating system’s terminal sessions and lets developers create automated scripts for various routine activities. For example, do you need to provision accounts quickly and facilitate sufficient access? Do you want to automate the system configuration security lockdown quickly? This is where shell scripting comes into play.
You’ll want to master some Linux script languages, like Bash, if you’re using Linux or macOS. If you’re a Windows pro, immerse yourself in PowerShell. Regardless of your preferences, shell scripting is very useful in cybersecurity.
Which cybersecurity language should I learn first?
We recommend starting with Python. The syntax is straightforward, and there are countless libraries that make your coding life much easier as a beginner.
In cybersecurity, Python is used to conduct many cybersecurity tasks like scanning and analyzing malware. Python is a helpful step towards more sophisticated programming languages, too. It offers a high level of web readability and is used by tech’s largest companies, including Google, Reddit, and NASA. Once you have mastered Python, you can move on to high-level programming languages.
What are the best ways to learn these cyber languages?
As with any programming language or technical skill, there are many ways to start learning cybersecurity. It all depends on your goals, available time, budget, and preferred learning style. If you're ready to take the next step and pursue a career in cybersecurity, a full-time bootcamp can provide the structure and depth you need. SMU x Flatiron Cybersecurity bootcamp is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to launch a successful cybersecurity career. Whether you’re aiming to become a level 1+ threat analyst, compliance analyst, security consultant, or SOC specialist, this comprehensive program prepares you for real-world roles and responsibilities in today’s fast-evolving security landscape.
What other skills do you need for a cybersecurity career?
As complex technologies continue to evolve, cybersecurity experts are required to develop new skills to help them prevent and combat cyberthreats to individuals and businesses.
Soft skills you need
- Attention to detail and growth mindset are by far the most important skills to have.
- Time management can help you succeed in a fast-paced, demanding profession.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are needed to fuel non-stop threat detection, response, and vulnerability management.
Languages
- As far as languages go, Python is the go-to language for cybersecurity scripting due to its readability, extensive library ecosystem, and ease of use.
- PowerShell scripts are widely used for penetration testing and ethical hacking.
- JavaScript is used to incorporate outside elements, track user activity and perform many other web tasks.
Certifications
- System Security Professional certification, or CISSP, is the most in-demand professional certification.
- The second most popular is the Certified Information Security Manager certification (CISM).
- CISA certification is the third most sought-after professional qualification for cybersecurity positions.
Keep in mind that each language has its own objective and serves it accordingly. Some are better suited for automation, others for data analysis, web development, or low-level system interaction. Understanding the objective behind each language helps you choose the right tool for the job.
Although many entry-level cybersecurity roles don’t require programming knowledge, programming is a key skill for mid-level and upper-level cybersecurity roles. The more languages you’re familiar with, the more versatile you become, and the more appealing your resume looks to potential employers. It’s a strong competitive advantage that not only opens doors to new opportunities but also supports long-term success in the cybersecurity industry.
Our bootcamp covers everything from foundational concepts, like computer networking and operating systems, to advanced skills in penetration testing, threat intelligence, and incident response. By the end of the bootcamp, you’ll gain expertise in analyzing networks, developing incident response plans, and conducting comprehensive security assessments.
