information security analyst job

information security analyst job

 

What's it like to be an Information Security Analyst?

As an Information Security Analyst you will analyse, assess and investigate vulnerabilities in an organisation’s IT infrastructure (software, hardware, networks, and systems) and help protect information and systems against any cyber-related threats in order to develop a stronger, secure and resilient IT infrastructure.

Information Security Analyst

Tasks and duties

Researching new security technology to decide what will most effectively protect your organisation.

Attending cybersecurity conferences to hear firsthand accounts of other professionals who have experienced new types of cyberattacks.

Reporting directly to upper management and working with the organisation’s computer and information systems manager or Chief Information Technology Officer (CIO) to design security or disaster recovery systems.

Monitoring an organisation’s networks for security breaches and investigating violations.

Installing software, such as firewalls and data encryption programs, to protect sensitive information.

Researching the latest information technology (IT) security trends.

Recommending security enhancements to management or senior IT staff.

Helping computer users when they need to install or learn about new security products and procedures.

How to become an Information Security Analyst

To become an Information Security Analyst you normally require a combination of education and experience.

Complete a bachelor degree in computer science, programming, or a related field.

Consider completing a relevant industry certification, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). A bootcamp or short course may also help you develop and refine relevant skills.

Gain a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems. Employers of information Security Analysts sometimes prefer applicants who have an MBA in information systems. Programs offering the MBA in information systems generally require 2 years of study beyond the undergraduate level and include both business and computer-related courses.

Gain work experience in a related field. Information Security Analysts generally need to have experience working in an information technology department, often working as a network, systems or database administrator. Alternatively, you may initially work as a Computer Systems Analyst.