What is a Cyber Security Analyst?
The main duty of a cyber security analyst is to defend a company’s systems and network from online threats. This includes looking into impending IT trends, developing backup plans, analyzing suspicious activity, disclosing security breaches, and training the rest of the organization on security precautions.
Implementing security controls and threat protection measures is another duty of cyber security analysts. To identify any potential weaknesses that might exist within the organization, they might even simulate security attacks.
Cyber security experts must keep up with the numerous advancements in hackers’ digital weapons since they are always utilizing new tactics and technologies.
Cyber Security Analyst Job Description
Cybersecurity experts are increasingly in demand as cyberattacks and threats increase in frequency. A startling 7.9 billion records were exposed by data breaches in the first nine months of 2019, according to Risk-Based Security. There were 112% more records exposed in 2018 as a result of this.
Jobs for cyber security analysts are expected to increase by up to 31% between 2019 and 2029, which is substantially faster than the average for all occupations. For various companies and industries, a cyber security analyst’s job description may vary. But the following characteristics are shared by all of them:
- Set up antivirus programs and consoles, and handle routine tasks and data structures.
- Analyze threats and risks, then offer workable solutions.
- Data gathering and analysis to address risk, performance, and capacity challenges
- Making tools and participating actively in security architecture reviews
- Create and implement security features and protocols.
- Install and integrate security software programs.
- Create security standards and improve new technology services.
What Are Cyber Security Analyst Roles and Responsibilities?
An analyst for cyber security gets ready for and handles cyberattacks. Although this procedure may vary among workplaces, businesses, and industries, the basic premise is the same. Here are some typical functions and duties for a cyber security analyst:
Manage Software
All systems and networks in a business should have software installed, managed, and updated, as well as proper security measures.
Monitor Networks
Keep track of network traffic by monitoring it, spotting malicious behavior in incoming code, and taking appropriate action
Develop Security Plans
Advising staff members and end users on good data security practices.
Reporting
Compile regular safety reports and keep track of security problems and the steps taken to fix them.
Research
Study up-and-coming information technology and security trends, keep abreast of prospective dangers and attacks, and develop preventive measures.
Certifications Required to Become a Cyber Security Analyst
Certified Ethical Hacker Certification
With a Certified Ethical Hacker certification, you can ethically apply your understanding of hacking to enhance an organization’s security. This certification proves that you possess the abilities to scan target systems for flaws and vulnerabilities like a malevolent hacker would, but you do so in a legal and proper way to evaluate the security of businesses.
CISSP Certification
The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC) developed the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, which is a widely recognized information security credential. It certifies your proficiency using internationally recognized information security standards in creating, constructing, and maintaining a secure company environment.
CISA Certification
The Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) grants the title of “Certified Information Systems Auditor,” or “CISA Certification.” This internationally recognized credential attests to your proficiency in information system auditing, control, and security.
Cyber Security Analyst salary and job outlook
A cyber security analyst’s pay is influenced by a number of variables, including experience, education, skills, industries, and geographic areas. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that a cyber security analyst makes an average salary of $99,730. The top 10 percent of earners earn more than $158,860 annually, while the bottom 10 percent make around $57,810.