1.5+ YOE Java developer considering cybersecurity as a career switch — is it worth it?

[u/Fearless-Tank-475]

I’m currently working as an SDE at an MNC with around 1.5+ years of experience, primarily working with Java/backend development and AWS.

I graduated in 2025.
Recently, I’ve been thinking seriously about whether I should continue down the traditional backend/SDE path or move towards cybersecurity, particularly areas like:

Cloud Security
Application Security
IAM / Identity Security
DevSecOps
AWS Security
Kubernetes/Container Security

The reason I’m considering the switch is that generic software development seems to be getting increasingly competitive, and AI is also making a lot of routine development work easier to automate. I’m wondering whether specializing in security could provide a better long-term career moat.

At the same time, I don’t want to switch just because cybersecurity sounds safer. I know I’d probably have to start somewhat lower than someone with equivalent years of cybersecurity experience.
For people already working in cybersecurity:

Is cybersecurity actually a good career to enter in 2026, especially in India?

How difficult is it to transition from Java/backend + AWS → Cloud/AppSec/IAM?

[u/Bright-Search-9406]

Is Java developer job is boring? How much demand will Java developers still have by 2030? If a college student wants to start learning now, what skills should they focus on?

I’m willing to learn anything, so I want to choose the skills that will have strong demand and good career opportunities in the future.