In today’s digital world, protecting data and systems from cyber threats impacts everyone. It could be something as simple as safeguarding your personal information, or as significant as defending an organization’s network. Either way, cybersecurity analysts play a crucial role in keeping our digital spaces safe. 

If you’re considering a career in this exciting and meaningful field, you’re in the right place. This guide will break down what cybersecurity analysts do and show you how you can develop the skills and knowledge needed to start your journey. 

What is a cybersecurity analyst?

A cybersecurity analyst is a professional tasked to protect an organization’s networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. They act as the first line of defense, monitoring for suspicious activity, identifying vulnerabilities, and implementing measures to ensure that digital assets remain secure. 

As businesses increasingly rely on technology, the role of a cybersecurity analyst has become critical in preventing costly breaches and mitigating risks. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to transition into a tech-related career, becoming a cybersecurity analyst offers a flexible and impactful path.

Key roles and responsibilities: What does a cyber security analyst do? 

Cybersecurity analysts play a key role in securing an organization’s digital infrastructure. 

In a smaller company, cybersecurity analysts often wear multiple hats. In this case, you may take on a wide range of tasks to protect the business. For instance, you might find yourself handling everything from monitoring network traffic and conducting vulnerability assessments to managing firewalls. Cybersecurity analysts may even handle employee training on best security practices. This can be advantageous for your career, giving you a dynamic role and broad exposure to various aspects of cybersecurity.

On the other hand, larger organizations typically have dedicated security teams with specialized roles. In such environments, you might focus on a specific area, such as incident response, penetration testing, or maintaining compliance with security regulations.

The responsibilities of a cybersecurity analyst typically include:

• Monitoring Systems and Networks: Serving as the watchful eyes of an organization’s IT environment, cybersecurity analysts utilize advanced tools like SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) platforms. These tools help them continuously monitor network traffic and system activity for signs of unauthorized access or malicious behavior. Alerts generated by these tools are carefully analyzed, with cybersecurity analysts distinguishing between false positives and real threats. They then take swift action to contain potential breaches before they escalate. 

• Conducting Vulnerability Assessments: Regular vulnerability assessments are part of the foundations of an organization’s defense strategy. By conducting vulnerability scans, cybersecurity analysts identify weaknesses in applications, systems, and networks. They assess risks associated with these vulnerabilities, and prioritize them based on their severity. When security gaps are discovered, security analysts recommend actionable mitigation strategies to address these.

• Responding to Security Incidents: Similar to paramedics and emergency medical professionals, cybersecurity analysts are the first responders when a security breach occurs. They follow incident response protocols to investigate the attack, identify its source, and understand how it infiltrated the system. Immediate tasks include analyzing log data, reviewing affected systems, and documenting the details of the incident. Once the issue is contained, they provide recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

• Implementing Security Measures: Cybersecurity analysts don’t just detect and respond to threats; they also take preventive measures by configuring and maintaining essential security tools. This includes setting up firewalls, intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and antivirus software to act as barriers against potential attacks. Additionally, they fine-tune these tools to adapt to new threats, ensuring optimal performance and security. Their work helps create a multi-layered defense system that safeguards sensitive data and resources.

• Employee Training: Human error is one of the leading causes of security breaches. This is why cybersecurity analysts often take on the role of educators. They conduct training sessions and develop resources to teach employees how to identify phishing attempts, use strong passwords, and follow organizational security policies. Cybersecurity analysts empower the workforce to become the first line of defense against cyber threats by promoting a culture of security awareness.

What tools does a cybersecurity analyst use?

In the dynamic field of cybersecurity, analysts rely on a suite of specialized tools to effectively protect organizational assets. Here’s an overview of essential tools and their applications:

Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) Systems

SIEM platforms, such as Splunk, IBM QRadar, and Elastic Security aggregate and analyze log data from various sources within an organization’s network. These tools enable real-time monitoring, detection of suspicious activities, and centralized incident response. Analysts use SIEM systems to identify and address potential security threats promptly.

Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)

IDPS tools, like Snort, Zeek (formerly Bro), and Cisco Secure IPS, monitor network and system activities for malicious actions or policy violations. They detect and, in some cases, prevent intrusions by blocking or alerting on suspicious activities. Analysts deploy IDPS to safeguard against unauthorized access and potential breaches.

Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Tools

EDR solutions, such as CrowdStrike Falcon, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, and VMWare Carbon Black, focus on monitoring and responding to threats at endpoint devices like computers and mobile devices. These tools provide visibility into endpoint activities, detect anomalies, and facilitate swift responses to contain and remediate threats. Analysts utilize EDR tools to protect endpoints such as employees’ laptops and mobile devices from sophisticated attacks.

Vulnerability Assessment Tools

Tools like Nessus, Qualys, and OpenVAS scan systems, networks, and applications to identify security weaknesses. They assess potential vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. Analysts use vulnerability assessment tools to proactively identify and address security gaps before they can be exploited.

Network Traffic Analysis Tools

Network traffic analysis tools, including Wireshark, NetFlow Analyzer, and SolarWinds Deep Packet Inspection, monitor and analyze network communications to detect unusual patterns or potential threats. They help identify malicious activities such as data exfiltration or unauthorized access. Packet sniffers like Wireshark provide detailed insights into network traffic, making them invaluable for troubleshooting and investigating security incidents.

Security Orchestration, Automation, and Response (SOAR) Platforms

SOAR platforms, such as Palo Alto Networks Cortex XSOAR, Splunk Phantom, and Swimlane, integrate various security tools and automate response actions to streamline incident management. They enable analysts to coordinate responses across different systems efficiently, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing response times during security incidents.

Familiarity and proficiency with these tools is crucial for cybersecurity analysts, and can significantly boost your readiness for entry-level roles.

How much does a cybersecurity analyst make? 

One of the most attractive aspects of a career in cybersecurity is the competitive salary. A cybersecurity analyst plays a critical role in an organization, and the salary range for this position reflects the high demand. Keeping in mind that compensation can vary based on factors such as experience level, location, and industry, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Average Cybersecurity Analyst Salaries

How to become a cyber security analyst

Becoming a cybersecurity analyst requires a mix of education, certifications, skills, and hands-on experience. The good news is that there’s no one-size-fits-all path, and there are different paths you can take to get into this profession. The following steps can help guide your journey:

1. Education

Although a formal degree isn’t always required, earning a degree in a related field like cybersecurity, information technology, or computer science can provide a strong foundation. Programs typically cover core topics such as digital forensics, network security design and hardening, cryptography, forensics, cloud security, and more. Though a longer route, the advantage of obtaining a formal degree is that you can study foundational security topics in greater depth within your four years of education.

For those seeking a faster path, an associate degree in cybersecurity can often be completed in one to two years and prepares you for entry-level roles like IT technician or junior security analyst. Alternatively, self-paced learning through online platforms can also provide the education you need if a traditional degree isn’t feasible.

Whether you pursue a degree or opt for self-paced learning, cybersecurity offers multiple entry points for people from diverse backgrounds.

2. Certifications

Certifications validate your expertise and make you stand out in the job market. Here are some essential certifications to consider:

• CompTIA Security+. A great starting point that covers foundational security concepts, CompTIA Security+ is recognized worldwide as a baseline certification for cybersecurity. It validates your knowledge of network security, cryptography, risk management, and incident response. Employers often consider it a must-have for entry-level roles like SOC analyst or IT security technician.
• Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate. Ideal for beginners, this program focuses on practical skills through hands-on labs and real-world scenarios. Offered on Coursera, it teaches the essentials of cybersecurity, including threat detection, incident response, and the use of tools like Linux and SQL.
• ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC). Perfect for those new to the field, this certification requires no prior experience and provides a solid introduction to core cybersecurity principles. It’s a great stepping stone toward advanced certifications like CISSP. Another plus point for this certification is companies value ISC2 credentials for their industry reputation.
• GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC). GSEC is a comprehensive certification covering technical security topics. Unlike purely theoretical certifications, GSEC focuses on practical skills, such as analyzing network vulnerabilities and securing cloud systems. It is a great fit for individuals who are new to information security but are familiar with information systems and networking.

These certifications are only just a starting point. Any of these should help you build confidence and pave the way for more advanced credentials.

3. Relevant Skills

Technical Skills

To succeed as a cybersecurity analyst, you’ll need a solid grasp of technical concepts and tools, including:

• Network Security: Understanding firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems.
• Operating Systems: Proficiency in Linux, Windows, and macOS security features.
• Threat Detection Tools: Experience with SIEM platforms, IPS/IDS tools, vulnerability scanners, and EDR solutions.
• Programming Basics: Familiarity with scripting languages like Python or Bash.

Soft Skills

While technical expertise is crucial, soft skills are just as important in the field of cybersecurity. These include:

• Problem-Solving: Quickly identifying and resolving security issues.
• Communication: Explaining technical risks to non-technical stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: Spotting anomalies in data or logs.
• Collaboration: Working with cross-functional teams to implement security measures.

4. Experience

Experience is vital for building confidence and honing your skills. If you’re starting from scratch, here are ways to gain hands-on experience:

• Entry-Level Roles: Positions like IT support or help desk technician can expose you to network management and basic security practices.
• Internships: Many organizations offer cybersecurity internships for beginners to gain real-world experience.
• Home Labs: Set up your own lab using tools like Kali Linux and Wireshark to practice ethical hacking and network monitoring.
• Capture the Flag (CTF) Challenges: Participate in CTF events to test your skills in areas like cryptography, penetration testing, and web application security.

Secure your future with a cybersecurity analyst career

Becoming a cybersecurity analyst is more achievable than ever, thanks to the variety of pathways available to get started. Whether you choose a formal education, pursue certifications, or dive into self-paced learning and hands-on practice, the opportunities in this field are vast and growing.

The demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, making this an excellent time to step into a career that not only offers competitive salaries and job security but also allows you to make a meaningful impact in protecting organizations and individuals alike.