Cyber Security Analysts are professionals who are responsible for monitoring computer networks by adopting various technologies and processes, and ensuring that proper systems and safeguards are in place so as to protect the personal and sensitive information and data from cyber criminals. They shield networks, data, programs and websites from various cyber threats such as malware, denial-of-service attacks, hacks and viruses.
The focus of Cyber Security Analysts is a prevention of cyber-attacks more than post-incident response. They serve the purpose of providing immediate response to cyber alerts, derailing breaches before they even occur. Thus, techniques such as penetration testing and ethical hacking are acquired by these professionals to validate the proper functioning of security systems.
Cyber Security Analysis helps prevent attacks, allows systems to work smoothly, prevents the theft of personal and crucial information, and mitigates risks pertaining to the loss of proprietary data.
This analysis is conducted by Cyber Security Analysts using the knowledge and expertise that they possess related to databases, networks, firewalls, hardware and encryption.
Some of the essential skills required by a Cyber Security Analyst include:
To become a Security Analyst, a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Cyber Security or a related field will work just fine.
These days, apart from degrees and experience, employers keenly look for professionals with relevant cyber security certification courses. Some of the popular cyber security certifications that provide expertise in cybersecurity analysis have been listed and briefed below:
No one has ever seen a better time to consider and invest in a cybersecurity career. As more and more crucial and personal information is getting stored online, the more important it has become to increase security.
As per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment opportunities for Information Security Analysts is estimated to grow by 28% from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average taken for all occupations.
Numerous job opportunities for Cyber Security Analysts come across industries and sectors such as banks, retailers and government institutions and organizations.
There are several other similar positions with job titles such as:
Looking at salaries offered to Cyber Security Analysts, you will be highly convinced of the bright career prospects that this profession is capable of offering you. As per PayScale, the average salary of a Cyber Security Analyst is $75,974 per year, which increases tremendously with the increase in experience.
Originally published at blog.koenig-solutions.com on November 22, 2018.