It is anticipated that the number of open cybersecurity positions would skyrocket by a factor of 350 between the years 2013 and 2021; hence, the demand for cybersecurity analysts is not likely to diminish in the near future.
A cybersecurity analyst is responsible for guarding a company against potential cyberattacks and actively developing methods that can be utilised to respond to and thwart such assaults. Cybersecurity analysts defend the infrastructure of a business from cybercriminals and hackers who are attempting to inflict damage or steal valuable information. This infrastructure includes things like computer networks and physical devices.
What Is a Cybersecurity Analyst?
A cybersecurity analyst is a qualified cyberprofessional who specialises in the protection of computer networks and other types of information technology infrastructure. The cybersecurity analyst has a comprehensive understanding of cyberattacks, malware, and the actions taken by cybercriminals, and they work actively to anticipate and avoid these types of attacks. The analyst will typically hold a degree of at least a bachelor’s in cybersecurity or an area that is closely related to it.
What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do?
A cybersecurity analyst is responsible for guarding a company’s networks, hardware, and software against attack by hackers. The major responsibility of the analyst is to have a thorough understanding of the IT infrastructure of the organisation, to constantly monitor that infrastructure, and to evaluate any vulnerabilities that may pose a risk to the network. The cybersecurity analyst is always looking for new ways to improve the company’s network security and safeguard its critical data.
The cybersecurity analyst is also responsible for:
- Configuring tools: This may come in the form of virus software, password protectors, and vulnerability management software. They will evaluate what the company needs and use these tools to protect its information.
- Reporting: The analyst will detail what is currently going on in the network and evaluate its strengths. One of the skills needed is learning to read these reports. They will show what is well-protected and indicate if there is any unusual activity in the network.
- Evaluate weaknesses: No network is fully secure, but the goal is to make it as secure as possible. Part of the job is to continuously test all company networks and find weaknesses before bad actors or external threats can compromise them.
What Education Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Need?
In the world of cybersecurity, analysts are typically considered to be more entry-level positions. You will need a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and information assurance in order to meet the requirements for this position. You will be more prepared for the requirements of this work if you enrol in the kind of degree programme that teaches you the fundamentals of both information technology and crucial foundations of cybersecurity. Your education in cybersecurity should include not just scripting and programming, but also data management, penetration testing, hacking, and countermeasures, as well as other topics.