In this post, we’ll look at how much cybersecurity analysts make, what their key responsibilities are, and what schooling you’ll need to become one. We also look at the work environment, required abilities, and employment forecast for cybersecurity analysts so you can decide if this is the perfect career for you.
Average Salary of a Cybersecurity Analyst
The national average compensation for a cybersecurity analyst is $86,951 per year, while Indeed periodically updates salary statistics for cybersecurity analysts. Depending on expertise, sector, and geographic area, salaries range from $25,000 to $183,000 per year.
What is the Role of a Cybersecurity Analyst?
A cybersecurity analyst’s job include studying and assessing any vulnerabilities in a company’s IT infrastructure—networks, hardware, and software—as well as reporting any hacking attempts in order to improve security protocols. They carry out ongoing security management tasks as well as threat control and mitigation. Cybersecurity experts can not only protect against potential assaults, but they may also identify ways to make systems more secure. Many cybersecurity experts offer advisory services to businesses to assist them in protecting their data from threats. They can also determine the extent of harm caused by a security breach. Among their key responsibilities are:
Computer networks are being monitored for prospective security issues. Investigating security breaches or other cybersecurity issues Protecting systems and information infrastructure by installing software and performing additional procedures Working with security teams to run tests and detect potential vulnerabilities in a computer network. Keeping updated with the latest best practises, trends, and news Investigating potential security enhancements to suggest to management
Work Environment for Cybersecurity Analysts
The majority of cybersecurity analysts are full-time employees, however some are self-employed and consult for various businesses. In the case of a security breach or other emergency, cybersecurity analysts are frequently required to remain on call outside of usual work hours. It’s possible that some analysts will be expected to work more than 40 hours per week.
How to Become a Cybersecurity Analyst
The following are the essential steps to become a cybersecurity analyst:
Obtain a bachelor’s degree
While the process to becoming a cybersecurity analyst varies depending on the needs of specific businesses, all aspiring analysts must have a bachelor’s degree. Computer science and management information systems are two degrees that are recommended for this job. Opportunities in cybersecurity might also be found in related subjects such as math or engineering.
Pursue an internship
An internship can be a fantastic opportunity to acquire on-the-job training because many businesses want some amount of experience. Internships are frequently incorporated into a student’s official education. They can give budding analysts hands-on experience and allow them to form ties with IT professionals who may be able to assist them in their job search after graduation.
Obtain a certification
In the world of cybersecurity, certifications are very crucial because they verify an applicant’s credentials and abilities. Most businesses consider credentials to be industry standards. Professional associations, software and hardware businesses, and other organisations offer certifications. For example, the CompTIA CSA+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that focuses on using behavioural analytics to improve overall security.
Consider an advanced degree
While a master’s degree isn’t required to work as a cybersecurity analyst, some employers prefer applicants with a more advanced formal education, such as a Master of Engineering in Cybersecurity Policy, as well as real-world, on-the-job experience.
Common skills of a Cybersecurity Analyst
The following are the most important skills that good cybersecurity analysts possess:
Analytical: In order to examine computer systems, assess hazards, and establish a feasible solution, cybersecurity analysts must have good analytical capabilities. Cybersecurity analysts must be able to explain complex facts in a simple and straightforward manner in order to educate consumers who are less technologically aware. They must also have excellent active listening skills in order to understand and respond appropriately to coworker, management, and executive queries and concerns. To foresee cyber risks before they occur, cybersecurity experts must be imaginative and forward-thinking. Because threats to an organization’s security can be difficult to identify, cybersecurity analysts must be able to notice even minute changes and anticipate future problems, no matter how insignificant they may be. Technical knowledge: Cybersecurity analysts must have a thorough understanding of information technology, which they must keep up to date and use to build their problem-solving tactics.
Job Outlook for Cybersecurity Analysts
From 2018 to 2028, cybersecurity analysts are predicted to increase at a rate of 32%, substantially greater than the 5% average for all occupations. As the frequency of cyber attacks has increased, demand for these individuals is projected to be exceedingly high. Cybersecurity analysts are also required to develop new and innovative methods to prevent hackers from entering into computer networks, stealing sensitive data, and causing difficulties. Finance and banking are likely to have the highest demand for cybersecurity analysts. The healthcare industry is also projected to be in high demand as it extends its usage of electronic medical records and wants to preserve patients’ privacy. In addition, due to the rising usage of cloud services by small and medium-sized organisations, employment for cybersecurity analysts is predicted to grow by 55 percent in computer systems design and related services.
