What is a Cybersecurity Analyst?

Who they are, What they do, Where they work, and Why they are paid so well...

A cybersecurity analyst’s job is to protect an organization from cyberthreats. They develop protocols that are used to respond to and mitigate the effects of cyberattacks.

Why Cybersecurity Analyst Jobs are growing at a rate of 30%

In a world where technology is constantly evolving and changing, it becomes increasingly important to have evolved security systems, networks, and infrastructure. In recent years, several high-profile data breaches have made headlines all over the world. There were security threats that exposed millions of Americans’ private information including usernames, passwords, and even credit card numbers. Cybercrimes have cost companies millions of dollars. According to an article by sopa.tulane.edu, data breaches cost business an average of $3.62 million per incident—a number that would put most companies out of business. Threat actors became progressively more efficient and intelligent over the years which has put outdated security systems and unsecured infrastructure at a major risk for attacks. Hackers are growing smarter every day and every day they are finding new ways to access data of all types. Even the largest companies in the world have to remain aware about security vulnerabilities. As hackers advance, so to must our security systems. This is where cyber security comes into attention, specifically, Cybersecurity Analysts.
A cybersecurity analyst’s job is to protect an organization from cyberthreats. They develop protocols that are used to respond to and mitigate the effects of cyberattacks. They protect and organization’s infrastructure such as computer networks, hardware, and software, from cybercriminals. A cyber security analyst typically has three jobs in particular:

data breaches cost business an average of $3.62 million per incident

Cybersecurity Analysts Configure Tools:

Every company or organization has a set of tools they use to protect their systems and their infrastructure. A cybersecurity analyst takes those tools and configures them to meet the company’s needs. These tools can come in the form of virus software, password protectors, and vulnerability management software. It is the job of the analyst to evaluate these tools to protect an organization’s information.

Evaluating and Reporting:

Since no network is fully secure, part of the job is to continuously test company networks for vulnerabilities, look for unusual activity, and to find those weaknesses before threat actors find them first.

One of the skills needed in this profession is the ability to read reports that will detail what is currently going on in the network. They will show what is well-protected and indicate if there is any unusual activity or vulnerabilities in the systems.

Cybersecurity Analysts have a high degree of technical knowledge covering both paid and open source tools and programs.

Why Become a Cybersecurity Analyst?

Cybersecurity jobs are everywhere. They are needed at banks, investment firms, federal government agencies, communication companies, health care providers, IT services, and so much more. Companies are becoming more and more dependent on technology to make their jobs faster and more efficient. With technology, comes vulnerabilities. Hackers target much more than just computers, websites, and servers. Any technology-based code allows them an opportunity to strike. Even something as simple as a car alarm can be hacked.

Businesses need the best online security they can get which is why the demand for Cybersecurity Analysts is increasing so rapidly. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of individuals within this job role is set to grow by 31% between 2021 and 2029.

According to startacybercareer.com, the unemployment rate for cyber security is less than one percent and it has hit zero percent in some areas. This means there are more jobs than people to fill them. In addition, because there are so many types of cybersecurity, there will always be a chance to advance within the industry. This includes earning additional certifications, degrees, or skill sets throughout a career.

What does a Cybersecurity Analyst Earn?

Cybersecurity professionals are generally well paid and Cybersecurity Analysts are in the upper tier of cybersecurity professionals. Most are on a six figure or more salary. Cybersecurity analysts specifically are projected to make over $100,000 a year, and this number is expected to continue increase over the next few years.

Of course, pay will vary by region, but rest assured, if you commit to this line of work, there will be well-paying job opportunities.

Work Anywhere....Seriously, Anywhere

In a fast-moving world as well as a fast-moving society, it can be hard to ensure that your job will be secure if you must suddenly move across country or whatever the case may be. Cybersecurity jobs allow you the opportunity to work anywhere. Whether that’s from home, from another job, or even from the park, you will always be able to work.

Plus, these need for these professionals is international. If you have an itch to work in another country, this is a field you should seriously look at.

Education and Training

Becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst does require a high level of technical skill and knowledge. This usually begins with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and information assurance. This type of degree would teach you IT fundamentals as well as foundations that will help you prepare for the job. In addition to the bachelor’s degree, there are certain certifications and certain skillsets that companies look for when you apply to become a Cybersecurity Analyst. Mile2 Cybersecurity Certifications offers both training and certification for Cybersecurity Analysts. You can read more about the opportunities available on the Cybersecurity Analyst Outline.

Because Cybersecurity Analysts deal with high pressure situations involving team dynamics, some soft skills are required. These include: Active listening

Clear communication

Attention to detail

Creative and technical problem solving

Adaptability

A team mindset

Remaining calm in the middle of a crisis

Some hard skills cybersecurity professionals recommend having are:

The ability to explain technical topics in plain English

Understand computer fundamentals

Become an expert in a subfield

Know at least one programming language

Make high-risk decisions.

A piece of advice from Ian McEntire, a security Analyst from Varonis, “There is so much to learn and know about in the security space, try to pick apart bite sized pieces that you can chew through one at a time.”

What is a Cybersecurity Analyst?

Who they are, What they do, Where they work, and Why they are paid so well...

Why Cybersecurity Analyst Jobs are growing at a rate of 30%

Cybersecurity Analysts Configure Tools:

Evaluating and Reporting:

Why Become a Cybersecurity Analyst?

What does a Cybersecurity Analyst Earn?

Work Anywhere....Seriously, Anywhere

Education and Training

Please Note: