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Network Security Intern information

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$26

How much do network security intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for network security intern in California is $20.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a network security intern do?

A Network Security Intern assists with the protection and monitoring of an organization's computer networks and systems. Their tasks often include helping to configure firewalls, monitoring network traffic for suspicious activity, assisting with vulnerability assessments, and supporting the IT team with security-related projects. Interns also learn about security protocols, incident response, and best practices in cybersecurity. This role provides hands-on experience and exposure to the tools and techniques used to safeguard digital assets.

What are some common challenges faced by network security interns during their internships?

Network Security Interns often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving cyber threats, learning new security tools and protocols quickly, and understanding the organization's unique network architecture. Balancing hands-on technical tasks with documentation and compliance requirements can also be demanding. Additionally, interns typically collaborate closely with senior security analysts and IT teams, which requires effective communication and a willingness to learn from feedback in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a network security intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Network Security Intern, you need foundational knowledge of networking concepts, cybersecurity principles, and coursework in computer science or information technology. Familiarity with network monitoring tools, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNA is often valuable. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help you investigate threats and collaborate with security teams. These skills and qualities are essential for identifying vulnerabilities, supporting incident response, and maintaining a secure network environment.

What is the difference between Network Security Intern vs Cybersecurity Intern?

AspectNetwork Security InternCybersecurity Intern
Required CredentialsBasic knowledge of networking, certifications like CompTIA Network+Fundamental cybersecurity knowledge, certifications like CompTIA Security+
Work EnvironmentHands-on with network devices, security tools, and monitoring systemsBroader security tasks including threat analysis and vulnerability assessments
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, network-focused roles in various industriesSecurity teams across industries, broader cybersecurity focus
Search & Comparison IntentPeople interested in network-specific security rolesIndividuals exploring general cybersecurity internships

The main difference between a Network Security Intern and a Cybersecurity Intern lies in their focus areas. Network Security Interns primarily work on securing network infrastructure and devices, while Cybersecurity Interns have a broader scope that includes various security aspects beyond networks. Both roles require foundational security knowledge and certifications, but Network Security Interns tend to focus more on network-specific tools and environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Network Security jobs in California?

The most popular types of Network Security jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Network Security Intern jobs in California?

For Network Security Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Network Security Intern jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Network Security Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Network Security Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Network Security Intern job openings:

Network Security Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Network Security Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,750 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Intern - Security Researcher - PhD Pipline

Palo Alto Networks

Encino, CA • On-site

$129K - $208K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Security Researcher Intern

At Palo Alto Networks®, we're united by a shared mission—to protect our digital way of life. We thrive at the intersection of innovation and impact, solving real-world problems with cutting-edge technology and bold thinking. Here, everyone has a voice, and every idea counts. If you're ready to do the most meaningful work of your career alongside people who are just as passionate as you are, you're in the right place.

In order to be the cybersecurity partner of choice, we must trailblaze the path and shape the future of our industry. This is something our employees work at each day and is defined by our values: Disruption, Collaboration, Execution, Integrity, and Inclusion. We weave AI into the fabric of everything we do and use it to augment the impact every individual can have. If you are passionate about solving real-world problems and ideating beside the best and the brightest, we invite you to join us!

We believe collaboration thrives in person. That's why most of our teams work from the office full time, with flexibility when it's needed. This model supports real-time problem-solving, stronger relationships, and the kind of precision that drives great outcomes.

Job Summary

We are looking for a passionate and self-driven Security Researcher Intern to join our Cloud-Delivered Security Services team. As a Security Researcher you will play a critical role in developing and refining security content that powers our next-generation products. You'll work on building and optimizing automation systems to gather and process real-time data, supporting the detection and prevention of malware and other digital threats. Collaborating with experienced security researchers, you'll analyze emerging threats and contribute to robust security solutions. Our Internship Program Our program provides mentorship, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects. You'll connect with other interns, recent graduates, and seasoned professionals, thriving in an environment that values curiosity, collaboration, and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop an understanding of next-generation firewalls and their application in modern network security.
  • Build and enhance automation systems for efficient data collection and real-time processing to support threat analysis.
  • Apply AI/ML techniques to analyze live network traffic for the detection, analysis, and mitigation of emerging security threats.
  • Research and propose effective network security countermeasures to identify and neutralize various cyber-attack vectors.
  • Proactively collaborate with senior security researchers to analyze adversarial tactics and contribute to the implementation of proactive security protections.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications Currently pursuing a 2-year Master's degree or Doctorate in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with a planned return to school post-internship. Must be authorized to work in the United States. Available for a May or June 2025 start date.

Preferred Qualifications Currently pursuing a Doctorate (PhD) degree. Experience with ML/GenAI techniques (e.g., anomaly detection, deep learning, NLP) and tools (e.g., TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-Learn). Exposure to malware analysis and participation in Capture-the-Flag (CTF) exercises. Hands-on experience with traffic analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, tcpdump) or reverse engineering tools. Basic understanding of malware types (e.g., Spyware, Ransomware, Exploits) and common vulnerabilities (e.g., command injection, buffer overflow). Familiarity with key network protocols such as HTTP, SMTP, and FTP. Proficiency in at least one programming language, such as Python or Go.

Compensation Disclosure The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non-sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/com-missioned roles) is expected to be the annual range listed below. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here.

$129,100.00 - $208,825.00/yr

We're trailblazers that dream big, take risks, and challenge cybersecurity's status quo. It's simple: we can't accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at accommodations@paloaltonetworks.com.

Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Is role eligible for Immigration Sponsorship? No. Please note that we will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

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