Google Security Engineer Coding challenge

Apr 20 9 Comments

Anyone have any insight on what to expect for coding challenge for #google security engineer role? Recruiter told me to expect something more specific to security domain as opposed to normal LC-style DS/algo challenge. As nice as that sounded at first, there’s definitely a wide array of things that could be… (e.g. port scanner, web scraper, subdomain enumerator, log analyzer, packet analyzer, signature scanner, password bruteforcer, etc…). To be honest, none of these are terribly difficult but my ability to hand jam these on the spot is.. well spotty. Appreciate any help!

Any other tips on initial technical screen are also appreciated!

#cybersecurity #interview #security

Obligatory: TC 250k

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TOP 9 Comments
  • I was asked a hashmap and binary tree question during my last 20 mins on a phone screen, so yes they can ask LC. Recruiter said it was unusual to ask straight LC, but there is no set pattern for security engineer interviews.
    Apr 20 3
  • So even though the recruiter specifically called out that it wouldn’t be a DS/algo challenge you think there’s a chance it will be? I almost might prefer that more at this point. Easier to atleast practice prep
    Apr 20 2
    • Google
      kuRp7o

      Go to company page Google

      kuRp7o
      It won't be a straight "find the shortest path between these two points on a weighted graph", but there may be a need to at least understand how basic data structures work and how to manipulate them. Basic array, hashmap kinda stuff.

      edit: only speaking for myself and other coding rounds whose feedback I have seen of course. There well may be someone who asks more direct lc type questions.
      Apr 20
    • Cool TY
      Apr 20
  • Not yet. That was phone screen. On-site is in May.
    3d 0
  • Google
    kuRp7o

    Go to company page Google

    kuRp7o
    Coding portions vary widely based on who is interviewing you, there isn't a sanctioned pool of questions to pull from though people tend to find their favorites and re-use them.

    Being able to do basic ds&algo along with being reasonably familiar with your language of choice should be sufficient. I wouldn't expect something like DP, graph traversals, or knowing the specifics of how something like dijkstras works.
    Apr 20 0