Cybersecurity: Why Algeria is emerging as a strategic and technological hub

Algeria is rapidly becoming a key player in cybersecurity across the MENA region and beyond, thanks to a unique combination of highly skilled talent, strong academic foundations, and exceptional cost competitiveness. As cyber threats grow, more and more European companies, especially in France are turning to Algerian experts to strengthen their digital defenses, saving up to 70% compared to local rates without compromising on quality.

Academic excellence powering the next generation of cyber experts

Algeria is heavily investing in education to make cybersecurity a strategic pillar. Universities like ESST (École Supérieure en Sciences et Technologies) with its Bachelor’s in Security & System/Network Administration, and INSIM Oran with its MSc in Information Security, offer comprehensive programs. These cover the fundamentals (networking, operating systems, algorithms) and provide hands-on experience through workshops, CTF competitions, hackathons, and certification programs.

In 2024, the Algerian government took a major step forward by announcing the creation of the National School of Cybersecurity in Sidi Abdellah. This institution, 100% focused on cybersecurity, will deliver in-depth programs to train top-tier experts.

Internationally recognized cyber talents

The Algerian cybersecurity ecosystem is supported by both public and private initiatives. One standout example is the Algeria Cyber Forum (last held in February 2023), a major event connecting local and global cybersecurity professionals.

Algerian engineers regularly shine at local and international hackathons, and many now work remotely for foreign companies while based in Algeria. According to The State of Algerian Software Engineering 2024, about 22% of Algerian cybersecurity professionals work remotely for international employers.

A strong legal and institutional framework

Algeria has established a strong legal and institutional framework to support its cybersecurity landscape:

• Law 04-15: Protects the integrity and confidentiality of data.

• Law 18-07: Regulates personal data protection.

• CNSSI: The National Information Systems Security Council, which has overseen the national cybersecurity strategy since 2020.

• DZ-CERT: The national Computer Emergency Response Team.

• Algeria is an active member of AfricaCERT, FIRST, and CAMP, ensuring its integration into the international cybersecurity community.

Up to 70% cost savings compared to european averages

One of the most compelling reasons to source cybersecurity services from Algeria is the significant cost advantage. While a cybersecurity specialist in France or Germany may charge around €900 per day, a highly qualified Algerian engineer (bilingual, certified, experienced) offers comparable services for just €250 per day—a savings of nearly 70%.

This competitiveness is driven by:

• A lower cost of living;

• High-quality education and training available locally;

• A multilingual talent pool (English, French, Arabic).

Certifications: A guarantee of quality and rigor

A mature cybersecurity ecosystem requires certified professionals. Algeria’s cyber workforce is increasingly earning internationally recognized certifications such as:

• CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

• CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)

• ISO 27001 Lead Implementer / Auditor

• OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)

• CompTIA Security+

These certified skills enable Algerian professionals to meet the rigorous standards of European clients in areas like compliance, application security, IT governance, vulnerability audits, and penetration testing.

Systelium: Over 60 cybersecurity experts, based in Algeria

Systelium offers access to more than 60 certified cybersecurity professionals based in Algeria. We combine the proximity of North Africa, the expertise volume of Asia, and the cost-efficiency of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Our talent pool covers key cybersecurity roles, including:

• SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center)

• Network Security Engineer

• Systems and Security Administrator

• Incident Responder (Blue Team)

• Compliance Officer / Deputy CISO

• CISO (Chief Information Security Officer)

• Cybersecurity Consultant

• Pentester (Ethical Hacker)

• Red Teamer

• DevSecOps Engineer

• Security Software Engineer

• Cybersecurity Trainer

• White Hat Hacker

Two engagement models tailored to your business

1. Daily rate: We provide trained profiles starting from €170/day.

2. Managed cybersecurity package: We deliver full cybersecurity management covering over 10 skill areas starting at $5,000/month, adapted to your company size and needs.

Contact us or book a call with our team to explore how we can help you strengthen your digital security at a competitive price.