security analyst working

What does a Security Analyst do?

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An information security analyst protects a company’s systems and networks by planning and carrying out measures of security. They create innovative solutions to prevent critical information from being stolen, damaged, or compromised. Their primary responsibility is to keep a business or organizations data, clients, employees, and any virtual stored information safe from cyberattacks or hacking of any sort.

Watch a video to learn what a security analyst does:

How to Become a Security Analyst

A bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field is required. Experience is generally not necessary to gain an entry-level job. Computer science, information technology, and programming are common degree tracks for this industry. These degrees usually take 4 years and can be earned at state and private colleges or universities. Some employers prefer applicants who have a Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems. Programs offering an MBA in information systems generally require 2 additional years of study after earning your bachelors degree.

It addition, it’s key to continue to learn and keep up to date on the latest technology and best practices in information secretary as one works in this career field. One must also have the ability to anticipate, analyze, problem-solve, and be in tune with details to be successful in this career field.

Job Description of a Security Analyst

Information security analysts often work for consulting firms, financial and business companies, or computer companies. They develop plans to protect computer files against unauthorized people, possible thefts, or destruction. They build or install firewalls and encrypt data transmissions to secure confidential information as it is being received or transmitted.

An information security analyst reviews computer security violations and often time addresses procedures with the violators to prevent repeat offenses. They remain current on reports of computer viruses and decide if updated protection is needed and share this information with the company or customers they work for. An information software analyst maintains or modifies computer security files by adding or incorporating new software, changing a person’s access status, and correcting errors.

They promote security awareness to the company employee or help implement company policy regarding cybersecurity. They assist in the security of computer data, improve networks, and help with server efficiencies. The document tests, security, emergency policies, and procedures. A software developer should be able to solve complex problems in real-world settings and have the social skills to work well with people.

Most security analysts work full time but oftentimes work more than 40 hours, especially when there is a breach in security at their company. With the increase of technology use there is faster than average growth in this occupational field especially for those wanting to work in medical and government agencies.

Security Analyst Career Video Transcript

As persistently as computer hackers work to infiltrate secure networks, information security analysts work that much harder to keep prying eyes out. Information security analysts design and implement security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. Their creativity and innovation continually expand as the number and complexity of cyberattacks increases. In this field, it’s essential to keep up with new technology and preventive methods.

Information security analysts install and operate firewalls, data encryption programs, and other software, monitor their organization for security breaches, and even simulate attacks to look for vulnerabilities in their system. Their work is the opposite of hacking— and security analysts need to know how to break a system’s defenses… just as well as they know how to build them. Information security analysts work for computer companies, consulting firms, or business and financial companies.

Most work standard full-time hours but may need to be on call in case of an emergency. Information security analysts typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or a related field, though some employers prefer applicants with a Master’s of Business Administration in Information Systems. As the field of information security quickly evolves, new specialized education and training programs are emerging, but having an ingenious streak will continue to be a vital quality for these professionals.

Article Citations

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Information Security Analysts.

National Center for O*NET Development. 15-1122.00. O*NET OnLine.

The career video is in the public domain from the U. S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration.

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