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A day in the life: Cyber Security Analyst

A day in the life: Cyber Security Analyst

Want to know more about the role of a Cyber Security Analyst?

Then let’s find out what a role in cyber security analysis looks like and discover how to get there!

Cyber Security Analysis is just one of many cyber security roles available in the industry. If you’re curious about how to become a Cyber Security Analyst, you may like to know more about what the job entails.

When considering a potential career path in cyber security, it’s always a smart idea to research the role. That way, you’ll be able to understand what’s expected of someone working in that position.

Keep reading to uncover everything you need to know about a Cyber Security Analyst role and whether it’s the right job for you!

What is a Cyber Security Analyst?

A Cyber Security Analyst configures and monitors digital infrastructure like computer systems and networks to help detect and prevent cyber breaches.

The role of a Cyber Security Analyst is broad and diverse. You can expect your own set of daily maintenance duties plus plenty of defensive cyber security tasks. Daily jobs of a Cyber Security Analyst may include:

  • Firewall maintenance
  • Carrying out system updates
  • Pen testing to uncover security weaknesses
  • Threat research and analysis
  • Improving cyber security software

A Cyber Security Analyst configures and monitors digital infrastructure like computer systems and networks to help detect and prevent cyber breaches.

Due to the diversity of a Cyber Security Analyst role, you may see this job under various other titles. Keep an eye out for roles like those below, as they could have virtually the same responsibilities as a Cyber Security Analyst.

  • Cyber Security Specialist
  • IT Security Analyst
  • Information Security Analyst

What skills does a Cyber Security Analyst need?

You know what a Cyber Security Analyst career looks like, so how do you get there?

Since this role is so diverse, you’ll need a broad range of skills.

Hard Skills

  • Skills in red team offensive tactics to ethically hack and test software vulnerabilities.
  • Knowledge of blue team defensive tactics to ensure your security software is effective and compliant with industry standards.

Soft Skills

  • Attention to detail – to approach challenges and uncover vulnerabilities with precision and accuracy.
  • Proactive – to stay ahead of cyber criminal by researching new tactics, anticipating attacks and ethically hacking systems to uncover weaknesses.
  • Adaptable and flexible – to work on various tasks and wear many hats within the role.

How to become a Cyber Security Analyst

There are many routes into the cyber security industry, each with pros and cons. While a university bachelor’s degree is the route people often think of, graduates may leave university without transferable career skills.

While a university bachelor’s degree is the route people often think of, graduates may leave university without transferable career skills.

The perfect way to bridge this skills gap is with CyberStart Game. Here you’ll learn real-world skills like programming, forensics and ethical hacking through fun and hands-on challenges. Become an agent at the Cyber Protection Agency and solve digital crimes while developing your knowledge - without a textbook in sight!

CyberStart also offers routes to gain desirable certifications in the industry through the world-class cyber security training course, SANS Foundations. You’ll learn the basics of computers, technology and cyber security that employers are looking for. Work at your own pace while hours of practical labs, quizzes and video tutorials produced by industry experts help you gain the knowledge required for a successful career!

If you’re based in the US, multiple free programs can offer you access to CyberStart Game and SANS Foundations. Check out CyberStart America and Cyber FastTrack for more details!

Today, many companies will regard a Cyber Security Analyst as crucial in safeguarding their systems. There’s a current global shortage of qualified cyber security experts and a growing need for this type of specialist. So, now’s the perfect time to start learning cyber security skills and become employable in the field!

Sound like the career for you? Start learning the skills to succeed as a Cyber Security Analyst or any other cyber security role by playing CyberStart Game!

All of these programmes are entirely free, and feature CyberStart!

CyberStart America

What is it?

A fun programme developed to help you discover your talent, advance your skills and win scholarships in cyber security.

Who's it for?

13-18 year old high school students in the US only.

Awesome! How can I find out more?
www.cyberstartamerica.org

Cyber FastTrack

What is it?

The fastest and most cost-effective route to a career in cyber security via free training and exclusive scholarship opportunities.

Who's it for?

College students in the US only.

Great! How can I find out more?
www.cyber-fasttrack.org

CyberStart Canada

What is it?

A free programme teaching cyber security to high school students in Canada through CyberStart's immersive learning platform.

Who's it for?

Students between the ages of 13-18 in Ontario, Alberta or British Columbia.

Nice! How can I find out more?
www.cyberstartcanada.com