How to Become a Security Analyst
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Security Analyst
What does a Security Analyst do?
The Security Analyst ensures programs are effective and identifies the need for additional resources. Coordinates, develops, and evaluates security programs for an organization. Being a Security Analyst typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Requires a bachelor's degree. Working as a Security Analyst typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work.
Security Administrators - ensure that systems are working as designed by making changes, applying patches and setting up new admin users.
Information security analysts focus on three main areas.
This works with improving the security of its computer data and improving network and server efficiency.
Information security analysts often work for consulting firms, financial and business companies, or computer companies.
A information security analyst reviews computer security violations and often time addresses procedures with the violators to prevent repeated offenses.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Security Analyst
Best tips for those who want to become a Security Analyst
Here are some tips to become a Security Analyst.
Improve your underlying IT knowledge.
Study for an industry qualification.
Create your own test environment.
Network with prospective employers.
Obtain relevant work experience.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Security Analyst
Best colleges and universities for Security Analyst
- SUNY College of Technology--Alfred
- Manhattan College
- Pennsylvania College of Technology
- SUNY College of Technology--Delhi
- Vermont Technical College
- Tuskegee University
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Security Analyst
Is being a Security Analyst Worth it?
A security analyst will often work for tech companies, financial firms, or consulting firms.
Instead of just analyzing log data, the analyst can reconstruct the full network down to the packet-level to see who was talking to whom and which protocols were in use.
Security analysts and security engineers both work in the security department, but their roles are very different.
Security analysts often have at least a few years of experience within the industry.
Senior analysts may have decades of experience and may operate strictly as experts and consultants.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Security Analyst
What skills do you need to be a Security Analyst?
There are skills required to succeed in every role, and this one is no different. Strategic knowledge of the follow skills will be required: Access Control. Your ability to stand out from the competition depends on these skills, as well as your resume, interview, and other factors.
Security for Hackers and Developers Get your Skill IQ.
Within a Security Operations Center (SOC), security analysts typically work at one of three levels depending on experience.
Level 2 analysts should be able to attribute suspicious activity to specific threats.
Highly experienced Level 3 analysts undertake detailed analysis and forensic investigation on cyberthreats.
As you trawl through log records, you should be able to quickly identify suspicious or dangerous activity, having mastered the security fundamentals.
Step 6: View average salary for Security Analyst
How much does a Security Analyst make?
The average salary range for a Security Analyst is from $55,500 to $90,200. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Average salary for Security Analyst jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Security Analyst jobs, and apply.
Looking for Security Analyst jobs?
Here are some Security Analyst jobs in the United States.