How to Become an Information Security Analyst

How to become an Information Security Analyst

The Basics of Becoming an Information Security Analyst

Are you the type of person who is a critical thinker, detail oriented, collaborative, and interested in ways that modern technology can protect a company’s assets? If so, you might think about how to become an Information Security Analyst as this might be the career for you! According to O*NET, the job of an information security analyst is to protect a computer network by making sure the appropriate security measures are in place and responding to any computer security breaches or viruses that might occur.

Since the Information Security Analyst is expected to know how to encrypt data transmissions and create firewalls so that computer files are safe from viruses or other threats, it makes sense that the Bureau of Labor Statistics says that an information security analyst needs to have a bachelor’s degree in either computer science or programming. Some employers even prefer candidates with MBAs in information systems.

According to the BLS, some Information Security Analysts also hold certification as information systems security professionals and may have other similar information security certificates. 

What Are The Most Important Decisions Information Security Analysts Make?

Much like the vast majority of people working in the information security industry, the most important – no, the only – decisions I make on a daily basis are based around protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of my customers’ (be they internal or external) information.Click To Tweet!click to tweet

For anyone aspiring but struggling to enter the industry, my own experience tells me two essential skills are required: networking (of the people kind) and unwavering determination.
Lee Munson, Security Researcher
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- Lee Munson, Security Researcher for Comparitech

Advice For Aspiring Information Security Analysts

Understanding the business more than understanding technology will take new entrants a lot further. How do you know what protection to apply if you don't know what's important.Click To Tweet!click to tweet

Natural curiosity and the ability to push back over conformity. Being a yes man won't take you very far.Click To Tweet!click to tweet

See things that others can't, particularly when it comes to vulnerabilities, not just at the technology but also the process and people layers.
Vikas Bhatia, CEO
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- Vikas Bhatia, CEO of Kalki Consulting

An Information Security Analyst's Salary Potential

  • Lowest 10th%
    $57,810
  • Median
    $99,730
  • Highest 90th%
    $158,860

 

States with the Highest Employment Levels

STATES2019 ANNUAL MEAN WAGENUMBER OF JOBS
Virginia$114,76015,010
Texas$108,81010,430
California$114,6209,200
New York$121,7507,120
Florida$91,5806,630
 
 

How Do Your Skills Stack Up?

Day to day life of an Information Security Analyst

As reported by O*NET, these traits are ranked as either extremely or very important to the day to day life of an Information Security Analyst.

What Will You Learn with a BS in Information Systems Security Degree?

A bachelor of science in information systems security will typically cover course work like:

  • Computer Networks
  • Management Information Systems
  • Security Operations
  • Network Security
  • Computer Forensics

Bachelor in information systems security degrees are often designed to help students learn how to identify computer security risks and develop strategies to stop them. In addition to general education requirements, course work may cover topics including applying knowledge of computer and mathematics; designing computer-based systems or programs to meet security needs; using techniques and tools for computing security practice; and developing security/recovery policies. This type of program may also help prepare graduates to take their industry certification exams.

FAQs About How to Become an Information Security Analyst

What is the average salary an Information Security Analyst makes?

According to the BLS, the 2019 median annual salary for an Information Security Analyst was $99,730.

What Skills do Information Security Analysts Possess?

Database Administrators are usually proficient in skills such as critical thinking, active listening, systems analysis and evaluation, coordination and of course programming.

What job titles are similar to or the same as an Information Security Analyst?

If you are looking to become an Information Security Analysts and are searching job boards, you may want to include these types of job titles: Computer Security Specialist, Computer Specialist, Data Security Administrator, Information Security Analyst, Information Security Manager, Information Security Officer, Information Security Specialist, Information Systems Security Analyst, Information Technology Security Analyst, Information Technology Specialist.

What are common types of software I would have to learn as an Information Security Analyst?

Information Security Analysts use a variety of authentication server, network monitoring, and network security software, including Akoura SmartToken, Wireshark, and Snort intrusion detection technology.

What types of personalities are a good fit for becoming an Information Security Analyst?

For purposes of this answer, we are going to reference Carl Jung's 16 personality types as described by PersonalityMax.com. It is very likely that many Database Administrators would fall into the ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) personality type. ISTJs are hard-working, decisive, and dependable. They take their responsibilities very seriously. ISTJs are very precise and organized. They always have a plan and are prepared.
 

Job information sourced from O*NET

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