Cyber Security Analysts are professionals responsible for identifying, assessing, and mitigating security threats and vulnerabilities in computer networks and systems. They use a variety of tools and techniques to monitor and analyze system activity and investigate security incidents to help prevent future attacks. Cyber Security Analysts play a critical role in protecting organizations’ digital assets, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards, and mitigating risks.
This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step plan for individuals who aspire to become cybersecurity analyst. It outlines the key skills, tools, and techniques required to succeed in this field and offers practical advice on how to acquire them. Whether you're just starting or looking to advance your career as a cybersecurity analyst, this roadmap will provide valuable insights and direction to help you achieve your goals.
Entry-Level Cybersecurity Analyst Skills:
Mid-Career Cybersecurity Analyst Skills:
Senior Cybersecurity Analyst Skills:
Remember: These skills are a good starting point but employers may prioritize more skills depending on their specific needs.
In computer networking, protocols are rules or standards that govern the communication between network devices. These protocols enable devices to communicate with each other effectively and efficiently. There are various types of network protocols, each designed for a specific purpose.
A set of rules and standards used to communicate between devices on a network. These protocols enable data transfer between devices and allow devices to recognize and communicate with each other. As a Cyber Security Analyst, understanding networking protocols is crucial for analyzing network traffic, detecting potential security threats, and implementing security measures to protect against them. Explore essential resources to support your CySA+ certification journey and strengthen your expertise in cybersecurity.
As an entry-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have following skills:
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Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Introduction to TCP/IP | YONSEI University | 07 Hours |
2. | Cyber Security for Absolute Beginners: Essential Concepts | Udemy | 04 Hours |
3. | The Complete Networking Fundamentals Course. Your CCNA start | Udemy | 80 Hours |
4. | Microsoft Networking Fundamentals | Udemy | 14 Hours |
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have following skills:
Network Architecture: Network architecture refers to the design and layout of a computer network. It includes the physical and logical components of the network, such as hardware, software, protocols, and communication channels, and how they are organized and interconnected. There are different types of network architectures, including:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Cisco – TCP/IP & OSI Network Architecture Models | Udemy | 1.5 Hours |
2. | Fundamentals of Networking Engineering | Udemy | 13 Hours |
3. | Wireshark for Basic Network Security Analysis | Coursera Project Network | 02 Hours |
4. | The Future of Network Security and Defence | Coventry University | 10 Hours |
The physical or logical layout of a computer network, including the devices and connections that make up the network. Different types of network topologies, such as bus, ring, star, mesh, and tree, can affect network performance, security, and management. As a Cyber Security Analyst, understanding network topologies is essential for identifying potential security risks, implementing secure network configurations, and troubleshooting network issues.
As an entry-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
Linux is a free and open-source operating system based on the Unix operating system. It is widely used in the cybersecurity industry because of its robust security features, stability, and flexibility. A Cyber Security Analyst needs to have in-depth knowledge of Linux operating systems to secure them against various threats.
As an entry-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certification:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Complete Linux Training Course to Get Your Dream IT Job 2023 | Udemy | 36 Hours |
2. | Linux Administration Bootcamp: Go from Beginner to Advanced | Udemy | 10 Hours |
3. | Ubuntu Linux for Beginners | SkillShare | 2.5 Hours |
4. | Linux Operating System Essentials | <packt> | 06 Hours |
A high-level programming language used for a wide range of applications, including scripting, web development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. In cybersecurity, Python is often used for scripting, automation, and data analysis.
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Python for Cybersecurity Specialization | Infosec | 20 Hours |
2. | Advanced Python Scripting for Cybersecurity Specialization | Infosec | 08 Hours |
3. | Linux Server Security – Protect system from getting hacked! | Udemy | 06 Hours |
In cybersecurity, C++ is often used for developing security tools and applications, such as antivirus software and intrusion detection systems.
Certifications:
In cybersecurity, Java is often used for developing security applications and tools, such as firewalls and access control systems.
Certifications:
Data security refers to the process of protecting sensitive information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Cyber Security Analysts are responsible for identifying and implementing appropriate data security measures, such as encryption, access control, and backup and recovery systems, to safeguard sensitive data.
At entry-level, a cybersecurity analyst should have the following skills:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Cyber Security: Data Security, Combat Cyber Threats, ChatGPT | Udemy | 16 Hours |
2. | Data Loss Prevention (DLP) – Security breaches under control | Udemy | 02 Hours |
3. | Cloud Data Security | University of Minnesota | 10 Hours |
4. | Security Data Visualization | Udemy | 04 Hours |
5. | Data Security strategy for organizations | Udemy | 05 Hours |
Security threats and vulnerabilities are weaknesses or flaws in an organization’s security posture that can be exploited by attackers to compromise systems, steal data, or cause damage. Cyber Security Analysts must be knowledgeable about various types of threats and vulnerabilities, such as malware, phishing, social engineering, and denial-of-service attacks, and be able to identify and mitigate them.
As an entry-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
Explore our professional security training programs to take your expertise to the next level.
Malware: Short for malicious software, it is a type of software designed to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. Common types of malware include viruses, worms, trojans, spyware, and adware.
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Cyber Threat Intelligence | IBM | 26 Hours |
2. | Introduction to Vulnerability Management | Udemy | 04 Hours |
3. | Manage the cyber threat for finance professionals | ACCA | 20 Hours |
4. | Cybersecurity Risk Management Frameworks Specialization | University System of Georgia | 48 Hours |
A Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack is a type of cyber attack that is designed to disrupt or temporarily disable the normal operations of a targeted system, network, or website. In a DoS attack, the attacker floods the targeted system with an overwhelming amount of traffic or requests, which can cause the system to slow down, become unresponsive, or even crash.
The goal of a DoS attack is to disrupt the availability of a targeted system, which can cause financial losses, reputational damage, or even pose a threat to public safety, in the case of critical systems such as those used in healthcare or transportation. Defending against DoS attacks requires implementing proper security measures such as firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and traffic filtering.
A type of cyber attack that takes advantage of a previously unknown vulnerability in software or hardware before it can be fixed or patched by the vendor. Zero-day exploits can be very effective for hackers because the target is not aware of the vulnerability and has not taken any steps to mitigate the risk. If you’re looking to fortify your defenses against online intruders, our Protecting Against Hackers: A Course Review provides crucial insights.
A type of attack that is typically carried out by sophisticated, well-funded cybercriminals or nation-states. APTs are designed to be stealthy and persistent, often using a combination of social engineering, malware, and other techniques to gain access to a target’s network and remain undetected for long periods of time.
A type of social engineering attack that involves sending fraudulent emails, text messages, or other electronic communications that appear to come from a legitimate source. The goal is to trick the recipient into providing sensitive information or clicking on a link that installs malware on their computer.
A more targeted and personalized form of phishing attack that is directed at a specific individual or group. Spear-phishing emails are often tailored to the recipient’s interests, job function, or other personal information in order to increase the likelihood of success.
A type of cyber attack where an attacker injects malicious SQL code into a web form input or database query in order to access or modify sensitive information stored in the database. SQL injection attacks can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to confidential information, and system compromise.
A type of cyber attack where an attacker injects malicious code into a website or web application that is then executed by unsuspecting users. This can result in the attacker stealing sensitive information, such as login credentials, or performing unauthorized actions on the user’s behalf.
A type of cyber attack where an attacker tricks a user into unwittingly sending an HTTP request that performs an unauthorized action on a website or web application. This can result in the attacker changing a user’s password, making unauthorized purchases, or performing other actions on the user’s behalf.
A type of attack that uses psychological manipulation to trick individuals into divulging sensitive information that may be harmful to their organization or themselves. Common examples of social engineering include phishing scams, pretexting, and baiting.
A type of malware that encrypts files or locks down a victim’s computer and demands a ransom payment in exchange for restoring access to the data. Ransomware attacks often use encryption algorithms and can cause significant damage to individuals/businesses.
Security tools and techniques refer to various software and hardware solutions used to prevent, detect, and respond to security threats. A Cyber Security Analyst must be familiar with a wide range of security tools and techniques, such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention systems, antivirus software, penetration testing, and incident response.
Here are some skills that an entry-level cybersecurity analyst should have:
Here are some skills that an mid-career cybersecurity analyst should have:
Certifications:
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Analytical and problem-solving skills refer to the ability to analyze complex information, identify patterns, and solve problems effectively. A Cyber Security Analyst must be able to analyze security data, identify potential security risks, and recommend appropriate solutions to mitigate them.
Here are some skills that a mid-career cybersecurity analyst should have:
Certifications:
Network segmentation refers to the process of dividing a network into smaller subnetworks, called segments, to improve security and performance. A Cyber Security Analyst must have a deep understanding of network segmentation principles and techniques to design and implement secure network architectures.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Subnetting Made Easy | Udemy | 01 Hour |
Access control refers to the process of limiting access to resources, such as systems, applications, and data, based on a user’s identity and permissions. A Cyber Security Analyst must be knowledgeable about various access control methods, such as role-based access control and attribute-based access control, and be able to implement and manage them effectively.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Access Control Concepts | ISC | 04 Hours |
2. | Penetration Testing, Incident Response and Forensics | IBM | 15 Hours |
Vulnerability assessments refer to the process of identifying and evaluating security vulnerabilities in an organization’s systems and applications. A Cyber Security Analyst must be proficient in vulnerability assessment tools and techniques, such as vulnerability scanners and penetration testing, and be able to identify and prioritize vulnerabilities for remediation.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
Vulnerability Assessment Methodologies: A process of identifying and evaluating vulnerabilities in a system or application. Common methodologies include network vulnerability assessments, web application vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing.
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Network Security & Database Vulnerabilities | IBM | 14 Hours |
Penetration testing refers to the process of simulating a real-world attack on an organization’s systems and applications to identify security weaknesses and assess the effectiveness of existing security controls. A Cyber Security Analyst must be skilled in conducting and managing penetration testing activities, including planning, executing, and reporting.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Website Hacking / Penetration Testing | Udemy | 10 Hours |
2. | Web Security & Bug Bounty: Learn Penetration Testing in 2023 | Udemy | 11 Hours |
3. | Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing with Kali Linux | Udemy | 22 Hours |
Incident response refers to the process of responding to and managing security incidents, such as data breaches, malware infections, and system compromises. A Cyber Security Analyst must be able to develop and implement incident response plans, conduct forensic investigations, and communicate effectively with stakeholders during and after an incident.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certificates:
The ability to effectively convey information and ideas to others through various communication channels, such as verbal, written, and visual. In cybersecurity, communication skills are essential for collaborating with other team members, communicating technical information to non-technical stakeholders, and presenting findings to senior management.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Effective Communication: Writing, Design, and Presentation Specialization | University of Colorado | 80 Hours |
The ability to inspire and motivate a team to achieve its goals and objectives. In cybersecurity, leadership skills are essential for managing and leading a team of cybersecurity professionals, developing and implementing security strategies, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
As a mid-career cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Strategic Leadership and Management Specialization | University of Illinois | 96 Hours |
2. | Leadership: Practical Leadership Skills | Udemy | 03 Hours |
Security policies and procedures refer to a set of rules, guidelines, and best practices that an organization follows to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of its systems and data. A Cyber Security Analyst must have a deep understanding of security policies and procedures and be able to develop and enforce them effectively.
As a senior-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Security Frameworks: A structured approach to managing and improving an organization’s security posture. Common security frameworks include the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO/IEC 27001, and CIS Controls.
Security Policies: A set of guidelines and procedures that dictate how an organization’s information technology resources should be used and protected. Security policies typically cover areas such as access control, data classification and handling, incident response, and risk management.
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Master in Cyber Security Law and Policy | Udemy | 01 Hour |
Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and mitigating security risks in an organization’s systems and applications. A Cybersecurity Analyst must be able to perform risk assessments, develop risk mitigation strategies, and communicate risk.
As a senior-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Risk Management Frameworks and Methodologies: A structured approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization’s information technology resources. Common risk management frameworks include the NIST Risk Management Framework and ISO/IEC 31000.
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Risk Management Specialization | NY Institute of Finance | 48 Hours |
2. | Modeling Risk and Realities | University of Pennsylvania | 07 Hours |
As a senior-level cybersecurity analyst, you should have the following skills:
Certifications:
# | Course Name | Provider | Duration |
1. | Risk Management for Cybersecurity and IT Manager | Udemy | 03 Hours |
2. | Learn Risk Analysis, Evaluation & Assessment – from A to Z | Udemy | 01 Hour |
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