The fast pace of cyber-security is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it is constantly changing — with all of the novel technology breaches and constant updates occurring every day. On the other hand, this consistent change of technology (old and new) means that there will always be work revolving around IT defense systems to safeguard valuable and confidential information. A cybersecurity analyst’s job is constantly evolving and never finished. It’s a perfect fit for those looking for a challenge.
That being said, there are many details to know about when considering a job as a cybersecurity analyst. Though this career checks most of the important boxes, there are nuances that deserve attention beyond the high-level aspects of the job.
- Who is a cybersecurity analyst?
- How to become a Cybersecurity Analyst?
- Who qualifies as a Cybersecurity Analyst?
- What are the technical skills required to be a cybersecurity analyst?
- Analyze Own Cybersecurity Potential
Who is a cybersecurity analyst? A cybersecurity analyst or information security analyst carries out security measures needed for a network system. It is the duty of a cybersecurity analyst to keep tabs on any potential threats or breaches in the network. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Cybersecurity Analysts are those who:
- Protect confidential or sensitive information from being compromised by installing firewalls, encryptions programs, and other security programs
- Pentest all the existing networks and identify and possible security vulnerabilities before being exploited
- Implement best-practiced programs for company-wide security
How to become a Cybersecurity Analyst?
This specialized area of information technology is not relatively new but, is constantly changing and evolving and so one will always have to learn and implement new ideas and solutions. Additionally, Cybersecurity analysts will need a strong background and an understanding of the design and operations of various computer networks. Security analysts should also hold a bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity or a related field. Aspiring cybersecurity analysts should be aware of various important information security certifications that would further boost one’s credibility to potential employers. That being said, mentioned below are some of the certification programs that anyone aspiring to have a career in cybersecurity can peruse:
- Certified Information Security Professional
- Certified Information System Auditor
- Certified Information Security Manager
- Certified Ethical Hacker
- Certified Information Privacy Professional
- Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
- CompTIA Security+
- Computer Hacking Forensics Investigator
Who qualifies as a cybersecurity Analyst? Having the right education along with hands-on experience will be enough to become a cybersecurity analyst. However, cybersecurity is a round-the-clock job and one mishap can jeopardize an organization’s sensitive information and reputation. Hence, along with the aforesaid criteria for eligibility, it is equally important to be:
- Adaptive: The work of a security analyst is never done completely. Thus, an analyst should always be on the quest of improving security programs whilst learning about new threats.
- Analytical: A cybersecurity analyst should spend a significant amount of time evaluating and assessing any security breaches in the network and should be constantly improving outcomes
- Problem solvers: It goes without saying that cybersecurity analysts should be able to solve any threat or problem at any time of the day. The solutions to these problems should be highly effective and prompt; which means they have to be quick on their toes.
What are the technical skills required to be a cybersecurity analyst? Cybersecurity analysts require a healthy blend of both soft and hard skills to be incomparable. These are few essential technical skills cybersecurity analysts should possess.
- Designing Applications: As mentioned earlier, the duty of a cybersecurity analyst is not just to identify the threat but, to also eliminate it and prevent any future threats. For the same reason, security analysts must be able to design secure interfaces or architectures within applications and test them along with the software development lifecycle.
- Reverse Engineering: Cybersecurity analysts should be able to disassemble codes and evaluate the software so that they can patch bugs and analyze malware. To do this, they must possess profound knowledge about operating system architectures such as Windows, iOS, and Linus. To be able to perform reverse engineering, security analysts should also show proficiency in programming with Java, C++, Python, Shell, and more.
- Administrating Firewalls: Cybersecurity analysts must be skilled in maintaining and installing firewalls to traffic and regulate access to networks. To be able to do this, cybersecurity analysts must be an expert and should have in-depth knowledge of software and hardware of firewall infrastructures and its mechanisms.
Analyze Own Cybersecurity Potential
There is no need to explain why there is a dire need for cybersecurity analysts in today’s digital world. If delving into the nuts and bolts of cybersecurity is something that you picture yourself doing then this might be the right choice for you. Making a career in cybersecurity requires determination, persistence, and a passion for the field. If you think you have what it takes, go ahead and dive in.
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About the Company:
Peterson Technology Partners (PTP) has partnered with some of the biggest Fortune brands to offer excellence of service and best-in-class team building for the last 25 years.
PTP’s diverse and global team of recruiting, consulting, and project development experts specialize in a variety of IT competencies which include:
Peterson Technology Partners is an equal opportunities employer. As an industry leader in IT consulting and recruitment, specializing in diversity hiring, we aim to help our clients build equitable workplaces.
