How to Become an Information Security Analyst?

 

Information security analyst salary and job outlooks

Information security analysts received a median salary of $102,600 in May 2021, reports the BLS. The hourly equivalent is about $49.33 per hour [1].

Job prospects in the information security field are expected to grow rapidly in the next decade. The BLS estimates that information security analyst positions will grow by 35 percent from 2021 to 2031. That’s much faster than the average for all occupations.

What does an information security analyst do, exactly?

An information security analyst protects an organization's computer networks, systems, and databases from cyberattacks and data breaches. 

An information security analyst’s job description might specifically include:

• Detecting, monitoring, and mediating various aspects of security—including physical security, software security, and network security

• Performing compliance control testing

• Developing recommendations and training programs to minimize security risk in the company

• Being aware of evolving threats in cybersecurity space by communicating with external sources

• Collaborating with other teams and management within a company to implement best security practices

Information security analysts are needed in companies that keep sensitive data and information. This can include almost any field—including business, governance, technology, finance, energy, and many more.

How to become an information security analyst

You can take several paths to become an information security analyst. Ultimately, you’ll need to have certain skills. These include: 

• Computer security basics: This includes knowledge of firewalls, routers, and other security infrastructure, as well as an understanding of risk management frameworks. Some information security jobs might ask for ethical hacking or penetration testing experience.

• Familiarity with privacy laws: Information security analyst positions can call for a familiarity with data privacy laws in your region. Working in specific sectors, like health care or finance, might also call for an understanding of those sector’s privacy laws.

• Communication and teamwork: Knowing where and how security threats happen, and responding to them once they do, means you’ll be communicating frequently with your team and other players. 

Resources: S Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Information Security Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm." Accessed October 18, 2022.

2. 

Zippia. "Information security analyst education requirements, https://www.zippia.com/information-security-analyst-jobs/education/." Accessed October 18, 2022.