How to Become a Cybersecurity Analyst: Your Complete Career Guide

From retail chains to hospitals, nearly every industry has an online footprint. Companies worldwide rely on the internet for everyday transactions and data storage. While online computing offers numerous advantages, it puts organizations at increased risk of data breaches and hacks. Cybersecurity analysts help protect businesses from online threats by monitoring systems and preventing attacks.

There's a tremendous need for cybersecurity analysts in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it's one of the nation's fastest-growing fields.¹ This post explores how to become a cybersecurity analyst through advanced education, certifications and practical experience.

What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do?

Cyber analysts safeguard organizations from digital threats. Their responsibilities typically include the following:

• Assessing organizational networks for security threats and breaches
• Identifying potential network vulnerabilities
• Resolving security breaches 
• Developing organizational cybersecurity standards
• Overseeing security-related software such as firewalls and data encryption systems

To perform their tasks, cybersecurity analysts use tools designed to monitor and detect threats, such as IBM QRadar and Snort. They also use software designed for penetration testing and vulnerability management, such as Metasploit and Qualys.

Why Pursue a Career as a Cybersecurity Analyst?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 33% increase in demand for information security analysts between 2023 and 2033. Even more opportunities may become available as existing cyber security analysts retire or change occupations.¹

The median pay for an information security analyst is $124,910, or $60.05 per hour.¹ High salaries, career stability and advancement opportunities make the occupation highly attractive to prospective analysts.

Key Skills Needed for Cybersecurity Analysts

Becoming a cybersecurity analyst starts with developing your technical skills. Organizations look for candidates who understand how to protect and secure on-site and cloud-based networks. Scripting, which involves using computer code to move text and images, is another key skill. Learning how to work with Security and Information Event Management (SIEM) tools, such as Splunk Enterprise and LogRhythm, may give you a leg up on the competition.

Analysts should also have soft skills, including critical thinking, adaptability and communication. Because perpetrators are always on the lookout for new ways to break into systems, proactive thinking helps you protect the networks for which you're responsible.

Obtaining cybersecurity certifications demonstrates your expertise in the field. Hiring managers look for the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Both designations require you to pass an exam and have relevant cybersecurity experience.

Educational Pathways

High school students considering a cybersecurity career may benefit from taking advanced math and science courses. Upon graduation, pursuing an associate or bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science or engineering prepares you for an entry-level cybersecurity analyst position. Individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree may pursue a master's degree in cybersecurity, which can provide more advancement opportunities in the field.

Some people pursue non-traditional paths to obtain cybersecurity positions, such as cybersecurity bootcamps. These programs teach students fundamental skills but may require full-time dedication to complete.

Gaining Practical Experience

Individuals new to cybersecurity can gain hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships. Many companies advertise such opportunities through colleges, universities and job sites. Participating in Capture the Flag (CTF) competitions allows you to demonstrate problem-solving skills in simulated cyber breach scenarios.

Other ways to build skills include setting up a home lab and volunteering for IT security work. Home labs allow you to test out varied cybersecurity methods, while volunteering provides hands-on experience in a real-world setting.

Entry-Level Job Roles

Cybersecurity analysts often begin their careers as IT support technicians or network administrators. These roles provide an introduction to network maintenance and troubleshooting issues with hardware and software.

Other entry-level roles include junior security operations center (SOC) analyst, who works with cybersecurity teams, and risk and compliance analyst, who assesses network environments for threats. They may conduct internal IT audits and draft an organization's information security policies.

How to Keep Learning in Cybersecurity

Hackers are always looking for new opportunities to exploit and breach a company's security systems. Threats change regularly, so cybersecurity analysts must continuously update their knowledge and skills. Completing a high-quality online master's program teaches you current methods and techniques used to safeguard data and networks. You'll work with the newest technologies and learn industry-leading best practices applicable to your career.

Joining relevant cybersecurity communities and forums is another way to build skills. Bleeping Computer Forum is popular with IT professionals. It's a platform where people can share their current hardware, software and cybersecurity frustrations. Members provide helpful tips to resolve problems.

Malware Tips is another useful community for cybersecurity professionals. Members can engage in thoughtful discussions about timely topics, from cloud security to malware testing. Several major cybersecurity vendors, including Palo Alto Networks and Cisco, offer dedicated forums that analysts can join.

You'll also find a host of blogs and podcasts. The Hacker News is a popular blog that boasts a following of 5.2 million people.² NextGov is essential reading for cybersecurity professionals who work in government or public sector roles. Troy Hunt's Weekly Update provides updates on trending security breach activity. Its host is the owner of Have I Been Pwned, a website that lets consumers check whether they're victims of data breaches.

Take the Next Step: Earn Your Online Master's Degree in Cybersecurity

Becoming a cybersecurity analyst starts with a solid foundation of technical and soft skills. Knowing how networks operate, the methods hackers use, and how to use cybersecurity tools puts you on the path to securing a role in the industry. Earning a degree and obtaining relevant certifications can help you showcase your expertise to future employers.

The Katz School at Yeshiva University offers an online Master of Science in Cybersecurity. Our program prepares you for certifications such as CISSP and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). You'll receive instruction from leading cybersecurity experts in the private and public sectors. All students gain access to our simulated SOC to hone their skills in a realistic enterprise environment.

Enrolling in our online master’s program gives you complete flexibility over your schedule. You can earn your degree from the comfort of your home, with no on-site coursework required. To learn how our program can further your career in the growing cybersecurity industry, speak with an admissions outreach advisor today.