May 10th, 2022

What Does an Information Security Analyst Do?

Information Security Analyst

Did you know that the job of Information Security Analysts ranks #1 on U.S. News and World Report? Among the top 100, it ranked #1 overall, #1 for best STEM jobs, and #1 for best technology jobs. If you’re tech-minded and want a job with great benefits, security, and career growth opportunities, consider the role of an Information Security Analyst. These well-trained and knowledgeable professionals are the bodyguards of an organization’s computer systems and networks. But instead of brute power and force, they use the power of their intellect and technical savvy to keep watch for security threats and prevent attacks.

Information Security Analyst Job Duties

Your main focus as an information security analyst is to protect your organization’s data from hackers and cybercriminals who might steal, compromise, or destroy it. That data could include the personal information of customers or employees, credit card numbers, passwords, health records, and other sensitive information. To keep that information safe, you monitor your organization’s systems and networks for potential security threats and take action to prevent those possible threats from turning into actual attacks. Some other duties you might have include:

  • Install and maintain security software
  • Employ firewalls and data encryption to protect databases
  • Test security measures and identify weaknesses
  • Create and implement new security protocols
  • Train personnel on security measures
  • Prepare reports on security breaches and hacking attempts
  • Investigate the origins of a breach when it occurs
  • Make recommendations to improve cyber defense plans
  • Create and implement a disaster recovery plan with your IT team

It’s also important to keep up with the latest cybersecurity trends and industry best practices. This helps you stay ahead of potential threats and enables you to make sound recommendations to improve your organization’s data protection plan.

Where Information Security Analysts Work

As an information security analyst, you can work across industries. For example, you could work for a regional healthcare system and help it keep patient information safe. Or you could work for a retail chain to protect customer information, including credit card numbers. You could also find work in the banking and financial industry, where you’d safeguard data on financial transactions and accounts.

3 Benefits of an Information Security Analyst Career

As an Information Security Analyst, you have a lot of responsibility. But that responsibility comes with some great rewards. Here are just a few benefits of this career:

Demand For Information Security Analysts

The protection of data and IT infrastructures is critical to any organization that uses a computer. And what company doesn’t? But hackers are everywhere! In 2018, more than 812 million malware infections were reported, and cybercrime increased by 600% during the pandemic. The knowledge and skills you possess as an Information Security Analyst are in high demand with employment of information security analysts expected to grow by 33% by the end of the decade—much faster than the average. 

Competitive Salaries

Where you live and work will determine the salary you might earn, but according to the BLS, the median salary for an information security analyst is $102,600. Remote work opportunities may also allow you to earn in a high-paying geo, while you live in one that is more affordable.

Potential for Advancement

A great career will allow you to move up the ladder over time. With experience as an Information Security Analyst, you could advance to an information systems manager or a chief security analyst. According to U.S. News and World Report, current information security analysts ranked upward mobility in their careers as above average.

How to Become an Information Security Analyst

To become an information security analyst, you should be tech savvy, analytical, a great problem solver, and have an eye for detail. You should also have the right education. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology is necessary to work in the field, and you may also need industry certifications to be competitive in the job market. These certifications include Security+, CompTIA Network+, and AWS.

If you’re ready to take the first step toward your career as an Information Security Analyst, contact Limestone University today. We offer a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science-Computer and Information Systems Security that can prepare you for a dynamic and rewarding career in one of the top technology and STEM careers. Click the button to learn more.