[1] After graduation, he worked for the Institute for Defense Analysis where he learned of security risks in computer systems for missile-defense needs.
Paller co-founded the SANS Institute in 1989 with his wife to promote efficient system management and secure operations.
His influence on the industry was recognized through various accolades and appointments, including testifying before the US Senate and House of Representatives and receiving the Azimuth Award in 2005.
[4] In 2012, he was named, along with Jeff Moss, as co-chairs of the Department of Homeland Security task force on cyber skills.
[1] Paller helped establishing of the National Cyber Scholarship Foundation, an organization that hosts hacking challenges aimed at high school and college students, promoting their participation in the field and held the title of president.