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What Is This?

Return on Security is the top source for cybersecurity market insights on the Internet. Highly relevant for cybersecurity practitioners, CISOs, IT leaders, and venture capital investors.

This site is a place for me to write about my original ideas on cybersecurity career advancement, cybersecurity trends in private and public markets, and a deeper look at the business behind what runs the industry.

This site is a culmination of firsthand experiences and deep dives into the cybersecurity world that I've navigated throughout my entire career.

The Mission

The goal of Return on Security is to stand as one of the most distinctive and valuable resources for cybersecurity professionals across the globe.

I am dedicated to offering fresh content that not only engages people but also provides them with situational awareness, in-depth context, and actionable insights about working in or around the cybersecurity field.

Through sharing my journey and the lessons learned along the way, Return on Security delves into the mindset and strategic thinking of a seasoned cybersecurity career operator.

Why "Return on Security"?

The concept of Return on Security is inspired by the financial principle of "Return on Security Investment (ROSI)."

For those new to the term, Return on Security Investment (ROSI) is a critical metric for evaluating the efficacy of cybersecurity initiatives against the investments of time, money, and resources. In the realm of cybersecurity, ROSI helps businesses measure the financial benefits of their security spending.

ROSI serves as a nuanced counterpart to the more widely recognized "Return on Investment" (ROI), focusing on the performance of security investments relative to their costs.

My investment in Return on Security echoes this principle. I channel my time and effort into creating and disseminating valuable contributions to the field through this platform.

What to Expect

  • A pulse on the cybersecurity market and trends worth knowing about. What is happening in cybersecurity, and why? How is the market changing? How is the cybersecurity market different from the rest of the tech market? What does this mean for cybersecurity decision-makers and for those navigating their careers? I cover patterns and trends heard within the cybersecurity community and high-growth startups in the newsletter.

  • Actionable advice for cybersecurity leaders, managers, and practitioners. Topics covered are relevant to those working in or investing in the cybersecurity industry.

  • An independent perspective. While Return on Security is supported by sponsorships to keep the content free for all, it remains committed to providing an independent and unbiased viewpoint.

Going Pro

For paying members on the Pro Membership:

  • No ads. No sponsored content in the weekly newsletter or posts.

  • Suggest topics. Through this form (coming soon!)

  • How much does it cost? $10/month or $100/year (or local currency equivalents)

  • Training Expense. Many subscribers expense this newsletter using their learning, professional development, or training budget.

What Sets Return on Security Apart

Return on Security distinguishes itself by stripping away the fluff and focusing on what truly matters to you as a cybersecurity professional. Through a blend of personal narrative, industry analysis, and actionable insights, the aim is to educate, engage, and empower people.

  • Educate: By keeping you informed about the latest trends and strategies within the cybersecurity field, providing the knowledge you need to stay ahead.

  • Engage: Sharing personal experiences and insights offers a unique perspective that resonates on a personal level, fostering a deeper connection.

  • Empower: With actionable advice and strategic insights, the goal is to equip you to navigate the complexities of the cybersecurity landscape confidently.

Who Are You?

My name is Mike Privette. I've been in the cybersecurity industry my entire career, from engineer to Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to entrepreneur and back again a few times.

My journey has seen me manage tens of millions of dollars in cybersecurity solutions and lead the growth of cybersecurity teams across various organizations. As a result, I have many opinions on the business of the cybersecurity industry and the inner workings of cybersecurity programs. All from a practitioner’s point of view.

I spend all my time living in the cybersecurity world, leading security teams, talking to founders, advising investors, and learning from other cybersecurity practitioners. All the while collecting data and studying trends. My mission is to collect data, observe trends, and share these insights with you.

I'm really excited that you're here, and I can't wait to share more with you!