Data of every nature, whether sensitive or not, is stored and transmitted online daily by everyone, from businesses to government entities and even individuals. Consequently, securing that data is of utmost importance, with hackers innovating more sophisticated tools to attack and corrupt data. The question lies in who can prevent and tackle these incidents. The answer is a cybersecurity analyst.
With the growing frequency of cyber threats and malware attacks, there is a constant rise in demand for cybersecurity professionals. Thus, it is the right time to build a career in cybersecurity. Read on to learn how.
Who is a cybersecurity analyst?
Cybersecurity analysts are specialists that protect the network and systems of a company from possible cyberattacks. They monitor databases, computer infrastructure and systems to identify potential anomalies in various applications, programmes, networks, etc.
Also, cybersecurity analysts take protective measures to prevent malicious activities and external damage. They use the most effective and latest methods to abate any security vulnerability that can impair the company’s normal functioning and cause significant damage.
What are the roles of a cybersecurity analyst?
A cybersecurity analyst has multiple responsibilities. Some of those are:
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Managing software
A cybersecurity analyst needs to install, update and maintain various software on the systems and networks of the company. The aim here is to secure the system from potential threats.
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Monitoring network
Proper monitoring of the network is another principal role of a cybersecurity analyst. Network monitoring is required to nullify any potential threats seeping in.
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Security planning
A cybersecurity analyst also needs to develop a security plan for the organisation. The analyst should consider every cybersecurity detail. They must also keep the organisation’s key members abreast of the security details.
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Reports
A cybersecurity analyst has to compile reports on flaws and vulnerabilities of the system and enlist the possible measures to resolve these issues.
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Ensure compliance
A cybersecurity analyst ensures that the organisation is adhering to various regulatory standards. For example, if an organisation has chosen ISO 27001 as its information security standard, then the analyst ensures that the organisation follows it explicitly.
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Research
Cybersecurity professionals should constantly research ways to improve security and keep themselves updated with every new malware. They need to look for all the latest technologies that can protect the system better.
What are the skills required for a cybersecurity analyst?
There is a range of skills that a cybersecurity analyst need to muster. Some of the more important ones are:
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Programming
Skills in programming languages like C++ and JavaScript help detect encoded threats.
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Hacking
Cybersecurity analysts also work as certified ethical hackers. It enables them to have a better understanding of incoming threats.
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Knowledge of protocols
You should also know various protocols like privacy and access to building a system that is well protected.
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Networking
Proper know-how of the networking elements enables one to understand threats better.
Steps to becoming a Cybersecurity Analyst
A cybersecurity analyst plays a critical role in any organisation. It requires proper knowledge and skills to become a cybersecurity specialist. Here are a few basic steps to becoming a cybersecurity analyst.
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Learning the fundamentals
The first step is to learn the fundamentals of cybersecurity. A clear vision of the current threat to information systems, network architecture, firewalls and much more is required. Mostly, employers prefer a candidate with a degree or diploma in information technology or any related course. These courses provide all the fundamental skills and knowledge required.
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Earning a certificate
A certification means proficiency in a particular skill. And, that is what cybersecurity is about. Organisations often prefer candidates having certification from well-reputed institutes. Both entry-level and mid-career jobs require certification.
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Experience gaining
Gaining experience is another crucial part of becoming a cybersecurity analyst. Some of the lower-level jobs don’t require a lot of experience. So, these jobs are more approachable for beginners. Having experience boosts the chances of landing the desired job. These experiences may include college internships, participation in online cybersecurity training labs, and part-time IT jobs.
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Keeping updated
Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving sphere in IT. Hackers discover new ways to attack systems daily. Hence, constant research and learning about the latest trends and advancements in technology is necessary to keep you in the loop.
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Apply for job
After going through the previous four steps, the first thing is to look for a job that matches the skillset you have acquired. It often helps to land a job in cybersecurity if you have a good network. Having a little real-world experience can act as an added advantage.
Conclusion
If you are interested in cybersecurity, then the job of a cybersecurity analyst is a career you can consider. As the demand for cybersecurity is rising rapidly, you can land lucrative jobs with relevant skills.
Check out the postgraduate programme in cybersecurity brought to you by Imarticus. The course offers lab sessions on real-world problems and assured job placement. Become a certified ethical hacker under the guidance of industry experts.
