Cybersecurity Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

    The daily duties of an entry-level cybersecurity analyst can vary based on the employing organization. However, typical day-to-day tasks may consist of:

• Monitoring a SIEM tool for any anomalies.
• Responding to alerts and, when necessary, escalating issues.
• Verifying the correct configuration of firewalls.
• Conducting basic penetration testing.
• Compiling reports on security incidents.
• Conducting research into emerging threats and attack techniques.
• Automating repetitive security tasks.

Is Cybersecurity Analytics Challenging?

Cybersecurity demands a range of technical skills, and the dynamic nature of the field can present challenges. Nevertheless, acquiring the necessary knowledge and skill set is entirely feasible with dedication and time.

Allocate some time each day to your cybersecurity learning journey, and consider establishing your virtual environment for hands-on practice.

Work Hours in Cybersecurity Roles

While most cybersecurity analysts work full-time, the conventional 9-to-5 schedule isn't always the norm. Given the unpredictable nature of cyberattacks, many organizations and security firms maintain on-call schedules for security analysts outside of standard business hours. If you seek a role with flexibility, allowing for evening or weekend work, a career in cybersecurity may align well with your preferences.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst?

    Information security analysts earn a median salary of $102,600 annually, which translates to approximately $49.33 per hour. The job prospects in the information security field are highly promising for the next decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), information security analyst positions are anticipated to grow by 35 percent from 2020 to 2030, significantly surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations.

Roles and Responsibilities of an Information Security Analyst

An information security analyst is responsible for safeguarding an organization's computer networks, systems, and databases against cyberattacks and data breaches. Their specific duties may include:

• Detection, monitoring, and resolution of various security aspects, including physical security, software security, and network security.
• Conducting compliance control testing.
• Formulating recommendations and implementing training programs to minimize security risks within the company.
• Staying updated on evolving cybersecurity threats by engaging with external sources.
• Collaborating with other teams and management to implement optimal security practices.

Information security analysts are indispensable in companies dealing with sensitive data across diverse sectors such as business, governance, technology, finance, and energy, among others.

Pathways to Become an Information Security Analyst

There are multiple routes to becoming an information security analyst, each requiring specific skill sets:

• Mastery of Computer Security Fundamentals: This encompasses knowledge of firewalls, routers, and other security infrastructure, along with an understanding of risk management frameworks. Some information security roles may demand expertise in ethical hacking or penetration testing.
• Understanding Privacy Laws: Information security analyst positions often necessitate familiarity with data privacy laws in your region. Specialized sectors like healthcare or finance might require knowledge of sector-specific privacy regulations.
• Effective Communication and Teamwork: Recognizing the origins and nature of security threats and responding promptly entails frequent communication with your team and other stakeholders. Strong communication and teamwork skills are crucial for success in this role.

How to get into cloud security?

1. Developing Technical Proficiency:

Prior to diving into cloud security, it's crucial to establish a solid foundation in IT and computer science skills. While a formal degree is not always necessary in the cybersecurity field, completing a degree program, online course, or bootcamp provides a robust grounding for future success. Certain certifications might even exempt you from part of the work experience requirement if you hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field.

Even without a degree, you can start honing job-ready skills in IT or cybersecurity through Professional Certificates available on platforms like Coursera. Industry-leading programs such as the Google IT Support Professional Certificate or the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate can provide invaluable insights.

2. Commence with an Entry-Level IT Position:

Many security professionals embark on their careers with entry-level IT positions before transitioning into security roles. Engaging in roles such as IT support specialist, systems administrator, or cybersecurity analyst can offer hands-on experience within cloud environments.

3. Obtain an Entry-Level IT or Cloud Certification:

After accumulating some IT experience, consider pursuing your initial certification in IT. A variety of entry-level IT certifications exist that can expand your knowledge, bolster your resume, and potentially open doors to new opportunities.

4. Enhance Cloud and Security Expertise:

As you accumulate on-the-job experience, seize opportunities to enhance your cloud and security skills. Vital skills for cloud security engineers encompass proficiency with cloud service providers, expertise in information security, familiarity with DevOps practices, and programming skills in languages such as Python and Ruby. Additionally, a strong grasp of network and application security is essential.

What Is the CompTIA A+ Certification?

    The CompTIA A+ certification serves as an introductory qualification within the information technology (IT) industry. Administered by the IT association CompTIA, this certification is widely acknowledged as an industry standard, often utilized as the stepping stone for an IT career. 

The CompTIA A+ consists of two exams in the Core Series—namely, the 220-1101 and 220-1102. As of November 2022, each exam costs $246 in the US, totaling $492. These exams assess your knowledge in operating systems, mobile devices, security, networking, hardware, as well as virtualization and cloud computing. Various training programs are available to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams, including the Google IT Support Professional Certificate and the CompTIA CertMaster Learn for A+ Core 1.

Jobs roles with CompTIA A+ Certification

The CompTIA A+ certification is widely regarded as the fundamental certification for entry-level positions in IT. Here are a few such roles, along with their average US base salaries (as per November 2022 data from Glassdoor):

• Help desk analyst: $49,307
• IT technician: $46,083
• Help desk specialist: $48,473
• Technical support specialist: $50,130
• Desktop support administrator: $50,422
• System support specialist: $58,567
• Associate network engineer: $71,713

It's important to note that these figures can fluctuate based on your location; larger cities might offer higher salaries to compensate for the cost of living. Other factors, such as your education level and prior experience, can also influence your salary.

CompTIA A+ Exam Overview

The exam for this certification combines multiple-choice questions with performance-based questions. It broadly evaluates your understanding of various IT fundamentals in categories including hardware, software, networking, operating systems, and security. Expect questions to encompass the following domains:

Domains for exam 220-1101:

• Mobile devices: Installation and configuration of laptops and mobile devices
• Networking: Various types of networks and connections (TCP/IP, wifi, SOHO, etc.)
• Hardware: Identification, usage, and connection of devices and hardware components
• Virtualization and cloud computing: Comparison of cloud concepts and setup of client-side virtualization
• Hardware and network troubleshooting: Resolution of issues with devices and networks

Domains for exam 220-1102:

• Operating systems: Installation and configuration of Windows OS, understanding of Mac OS, Linux, and mobile OS
• Security: Identification and protection against vulnerabilities in both devices and networks
• Software troubleshooting: Resolution of issues with applications on PCs and mobile devices, including security support
• Operational procedures: Best practices for safety, sustainability, communication, and professionalism

How to Obtain CompTIA A+ Certification

There are several avenues for preparing for the CompTIA A+ exam:

• Online, instructor-led courses can prepare you thoroughly.
• Local community colleges might offer preparatory courses.
• Self-study—learning through online videos or books without an instructor—can also be effective.

Regardless of the method chosen, CompTIA recommends gaining nine to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field and dedicating 120 hours to exam preparation.