Information Technology
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What Does an Information Security Analyst Do?
Information security analysts play a vital role in keeping an organization’s proprietary and sensitive digital data secure. They monitor computer network systems to stop potential security breaches. They protect systems from unauthorized access by updating software, filtering out suspicious activity and recommending security updates before breaches occur.
If a breach does occur, security analysts often lead the efforts to counter the attack and execute a disaster recovery plan. Information security analysts primarily protect computer networks at companies, nonprofits and government agencies. But with the growing prevalence of hackers, more companies and small businesses need their skills.
Best
Median Salary $
104,000
Jobs Available
4,200+
Information security analysts prevent hackers from stealing critical information or causing problems for computer networks (Credit: LightField Studios/Shutterstock)
Duties + Responsibilities
- Monitor access to the network
- Perform security audits
- Analyze security breaches
- Create and maintain a disaster recovery plan or incident response plan
- Verify the security of third-party vendors
- Develop security standards and best practices for the organization
- Communicate with users to discuss security issues and programming changes
- Install software to help protect the company’s data
Education + Training
Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in a computer science or a related technology field. Information security analysis is a specialized degree that may provide more job opportunities.
Employers often look for experience in a related field, such as network and computer systems administrator. As a result, some workers reach the analyst level through on-the-job training and certifications, which can validate general expertise or specialization in a more narrow area, such systems auditing.
You May Be a Good Fit for This Position If You
- Have excellent listening skills
- Have strong verbal communication skills
- Have knack for finding innovative solutions
- Are detail-oriented
- Have strong analytical skills
