Holding a position that focuses on a potentially volatile area of a business's operations requires information security analysts to have a broad set of skills that extend beyond technical knowledge and awareness of security protocols. Being a strong multitasker with the ability to manage time effectively and pay close attention to detail are traits that may come into play when dealing with a security breach. Because cyberattacks can be difficult to detect, professionals in this role need to thoroughly monitor computer systems, often checking for minor changes in performance, no matter what other activities they may be working on.
Once they identify issues, proficiency in problem-solving will help information security analysts respond quickly to alerts, while strong analytical skills can help establish security protocols and policies to prevent breaches from recurring.
If pursuing this career, professionals must understand that employers often prefer that candidates applying to information security analyst positions have a considerable amount of related work experience. Additionally, certain certificates that validate an applicant’s technical knowledge may prove useful. Such credentials can range from general information security certificates to those with a more narrow focus, like penetration testing or systems auditing.
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional is one credential employers often want candidates to hold. This certification is the most globally recognized standard of achievement in the information systems security industry. A qualification like this, paired with an advanced degree in a computer-related field, can give candidates a strong competitive edge in the job market.
Learn more about your potential career as an information security analyst
Playing such an important role in a company means information security analysts should possess strong IT skills and expertise. To best manage the security of information systems, these analysts must be familiar with the asset frameworks that they protect. This understanding of networks systems, which can be obtained from a fully-rounded master’s degree in IT, can help them identify where vulnerabilities may arise.
With the ASU Online Master of Science in Information Technology, students can advance their technical proficiencies to help organizations combat current and emerging cyber threats. The program aims to prepare graduates to obtain IT positions in almost any industry. With a combination of advanced courses in information security and security analysis as well as theoretical classes on cybersecurity ethics, the online MS in Information Technology is just one way an aspiring professional can become an authority on cyber vulnerabilities, threat remediation and risk management to succeed in a career as an information security analyst.
Sources:
CNBC – 9 Most In-Demand Jobs of 2017
O*Net OnLine – Information Security Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Information Security Analysts
(ISC)² – CISSP – The World's Premier Cybersecurity Certification
PayScale – Information Security Analyst Salary
ASU Online – Master of Science in Information Technology