How to Become Cyber Security Analysts: Career Guide, Courses, After 12th, Jobs, Scope, Salary

What Does a Cyber Security Analyst Do?

Cyber Security Analysts are responsible for analyzing security issues and taking measures to resolve them. Here are some of the responsibilities of a Cyber Security Analyst:

• Encrypting data transmissions and implementing necessary security policy in firewalls to protect confidential information.
• Developing plans and implementing technologies for protecting personal computer data or organization data from unintended modification or destruction by malware or other attack vectors.
• Monitoring computer software and hardware of the organization and avoid using pirated software to protect network and organization information.
• Developing and carrying out regular risk assessments for ensuring best security practices are followed within the organization.
•  Staying abreast of the latest potential threats and attacks, and developing solutions to protect against them.

Also Check: Security Analysts Courses

Steps to Follow to Become a Cyber Security Analyst

Since the profession of a cyber security analyst does not follow the regular pathway of a typical graduate, it is absolutely essential to have a defined goal which should be followed by extensive area of research in this domain, followed by completing relevant certifications and gaining relevant work experience in this domain. Below are some of the steps that can be followed.

Decision Making

• To choose cyber security analyst as a career choice requires taking the right decision during your final years of 10+2 exams.
• Since cyber security is a specialized domain in the field of IT, taking the right decision paves the way for a successful career in this field.

Research

Since cyber security is an emerging domain, willing candidates are advised to do extensive research in this field to know the job opportunities available as a Cyber Security Analyst.

Education

• Most companies look for candidates with bachelors in computer science or mathematics or in relevant disciplines.
• Organizations like military services look for candidates with cyber security certifications and associate degrees to get absorbed in such roles.

Programming Language Knowledge

Candidates should learn programming languages especially scripting languages viz JavaScript, Python, PHP along with basic knowledge of HTML.

Certifications

• Most top MNCs recruit cyber security analysts with relevant experience and certification in this field.
• Some of the popular certifications available for entry-level and mid-career options are EC-Council Certified Security Analyst, Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Information Security Manager, and GIAC Certified Penetration Tester.

Work on real-life projects

Along with having theoretical knowledge candidates must have exposure to working in real-life projects where their technical knowledge and analytical skills are put to use to solve real life challenges

Networking

It is absolutely essential to build a professional network in this field to stay informed about the latest trends and opportunities within the space along with getting expert advice.

Types of Cyber Security Analyst

Based upon preference and choice, candidates willing to pursue a career in the cyber security domain can opt for different certifications and training. Below are listed various types of Cyber Security Analysts in the cyber security domain.

Cyber Security Engineer

• They identify vulnerabilities and threats in digital systems and take appropriate measures using high-tech solutions against malware, spyware, viruses and other cyber security threats. 
• Candidates with bachelors in IT, computer science, forensic computing, Network Engineering and Mathematics, physics or other STEM subjects are ideal candidates for the position of cybersecurity engineer.

Vulnerability Analyst

• They detect vulnerabilities in software and networks and take appropriate action to correct and strengthen security using vulnerability management policies and procedures.
• Candidates with bachelor’s degrees in computer science, programming, and cyber security are ideal candidates for the position of vulnerability analyst.
• Some of the relevant certifications for this position are CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA PenTest+.

Forensic Computer Analyst

• They assist in the investigation of crimes and cyber security incidents using a range of specialized software and other techniques to analyze, secure and retrieve data. 
• Candidates with bachelor’s degree in computer forensics or a post-graduation in Cyber Forensics and possessing certifications namely Certified Forensic Computer Examiner, Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator or Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) Certification are ideal candidates for the position of forensic computer analyst.

Information Security Analyst

• They oversee an organization’s computer networks to protect the network and mission-critical data from potential security breaches. 
• Candidates with bachelor’s degrees in computer science, programming, information assurance or related fields are ideal candidates for the position of information security analyst.
• Many companies prefer candidates with MS in Cyber security.

Chief Information Security Officer

• These are senior-level executives within an organization who oversee the strategic, operational and budgetary aspects of information security of the organization to protect it from both internal and external threats.
• Candidates with bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or related fields with 7-12 years of experience in maintaining a secure IT infrastructure.

How to Become Cyber Security Analyst in India?

Apart from having a bachelor’s degree in related field and relevant certifications, candidates willing to start a career as cyber security analyst must possess analytical skill coupled with technical aptitude, knowledge of security across various platforms and most importantly excellent communication skill and a desire to learn.

School Level Preparation

• Since all organizations recruiting cyber security analysts look for candidates with bachelors in computer science, IT or mathematics or physics, fundamentals in mathematics or physics ust be clear.
• Improve your computational skills in mathematics and physics especially the syllabus covering physics and mathematics in 10+2.
• Additionally top IT security companies look for candidates with engineering background in computer science.
• Start preparation for various all India engineering entrances right after completion of your board exam to get admission in elite institutes offering good placement opportunities.

Check: Cyber Security Courses Online

How to Become Cyber Security Analyst after 12th?

In order to Become a Cyber Security Analyst after 12, one must be prepared to pursue undergraduate and/or postgraduate courses. Here is a detailed way to prepare for Cyber Security courses after 12th.

UG Preparation

• It is essential to have thorough knowledge on computer networks, digital electronics, microprocessors and network security from the syllabus offered in graduation. 
• Master not only theoretical knowledge on the mentioned areas but also have hands on training experience to gather sufficient knowledge in this domain. 
• Certifications like Certified Information Security Manager or Certified Hacking Forensic Investigator or Certified Penetration Tester during this time helps to improve knowledge on the specified field and increase chances of employment opportunities.

PG Preparation

• Post graduation studies in computer science or cyber forensics basically put emphasis on in depth knowledge on cyber security domain, network security, cryptography and many more.
• Candidates are advised to work as freelancers in similar domains to get a better understanding of how the industry works and what challenges are experienced by cyber security analysts in their daily work life and find probable solutions.

Check: Cyber Security Courses After 12

Courses to Become Cyber Security Analyst

One can pursue various courses to become a Cyber Security Analyst. The courses available are given below in the following sections.

BSc in Computer Science

• BSc Computer Science is a 3-year full-time course offered by many institutes in India namely St Xavier’s College, Mumbai, Fergusson College, Ethiraj College for Women, The Oxford College of Science to name a few. Check Top BSc Computer Science Colleges
• Admission to this course is either based on merit or performance in the entrance examination.
• Few top Universities viz BHU and Rajasthan Central University offer admission based on scores in entrance examinations conducted by these universities such as NEST, CUCET , BHU UET.
• Application forms are available on the official website of various institutes in the months of May and June.
• Candidates should fill the application form online by filling in essential personal and educational qualifications along with relevant documents and submit the application by paying the application fee.
• Students who have completed their 10+2 in Science stream from a recognized board with a minimum of 50%-60% aggregate marks and have attended an age of 18 years are eligible to apply for such exams.

Entrance Exam

BSc in Computer Forensics

• It is a 3 year full time undergraduate course offered by few institutes in India providing detailed knowledge on cyber law, analysis of digital data, information security and computer forensics investigation etc.
• Few of the institutes offering this course are Indian School of Anti-Hacking, Garden City University, Bangalore.
• Admission to the course is based on merit as well as entrance basis.
• Application forms are available on the official website of various institutes in the months of May and June.
• Candidates should fill the application form online by filling essential personal and educational qualifications along with relevant documents and submit the application by paying application fee.
• Students who have completed their 10+2 with Physics or Mathematics or Computer Science or Chemistry as compulsory from a recognized board with a minimum of 50%-60% aggregate marks can apply for the course.

BTech in Computer Science

• BTech in Computer Science is a 4 year technical course offered by many reputed institutes and private colleges namely IITs, NITs, BHU, Bits Pilani to name a few.
• Admission to this course in most colleges is mostly based on performance in entrance examinations with few colleges offering admission based on merit. 
• Few institutes offering merit based admission are Amity University, Lovely Professional University, Swami Vivekanand Institute of Engineering and Technology etc.
• Some of the popular entrance examinations for admission in this course are JEE Main, JEE Advanced, UPSEE, WBJEE, DASA UG etc.
• Application forms are available on the official website of various institutes in the months of May and June.
• Candidates should fill the application form online by filling in required credentials along with relevant documents and submit the application by paying the application fee.
• Students who have completed their 10+2 in Science stream from a recognized board with a minimum of 50%-60% aggregate marks and have attended an age of 18 years are eligible to apply for such exams.

How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst Abroad?

Most foreign universities look for candidates who have completed their 10+2 for application in such courses. In addition, candidates must have a valid TOEFL/ IELTS score as proof of completion of the English Proficiency Test.

• In countries like the UK, BSc in Cyber Security is a 4 year program where candidates with Diploma and National Extended Diploma are eligible to apply for such courses. 
• Candidates with GCSE are expected to have a minimum of Maths Grade C/4 and English Grade C/4 for admission.
• In addition, candidates are requested to carry two copies of letter of recommendation from some school or university teacher or professor for admission into such courses.

UK

• University of Birmingham, Lancaster University, University of Southampton, University of Bradford, Middlesex University which deserve special mention and preferred by industry experts. 
• BSc(Hons) Cyber Security, MSCi (Hons) Ethical Hacking and Cyber Security, MSc Information Security, MSc Cyber Security are some of the popular courses in this field.
• Salaries range between INR 61,82,000 - 9,00,000 per year for job roles like Data Security Manager, Information Security Administrator, Platform Security Manager etc. 

Top Colleges

US

• University of Maryland, University of California Berkeley, Cornell University, George Washington University which deserve special mention and preferred by industry experts.
• Since the opportunity for relevant jobs in the US is about to grow by 32%, there is a heavy rush of candidates shifting to the US to study such courses.
• Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security, MS in Cybersecurity and Public Policy, Masters of Engineering in Cybersecurity are some of the popular courses in this field.
• Salaries range between INR 52,35,000 - 78,54,000 per year for job roles like Network Security Systems Manager, Penetration Tester Forensics Expert, Cryptographer etc.

Top Colleges

Canada

• Centennial College, Concordia University, University of Ontario Institute of Technology offering top class cyber security courses.
• Since the opportunity for relevant cyber security jobs in Canada is immense, 85% of businesses in the country have shown huge concern of staying protected from cyber attacks.
• Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security, MASc degrees in Cyber Security, Masters of Engineering in Cyber security are some of the popular courses in this field.
• The salaries range between INR 30,25,000 - 78,68,000 per year for job roles like Cyber Security Architect, Cyber Security Cloud Specialist, Senior Cyber Security Technologist etc.

Top Colleges

Australia

• Pursuing a cyber security course from Australian universities costs around 28,400 AUD to 61,900 AUD. 
• University of Newcastle, Griffith University, Monash University, University of Southern Queensland offers top class cyber security courses.
• Bachelor of Science in Cyber Security, Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security, Master of Cyber Security Analysis, Master of Cybersecurity are some of the popular courses in this field.
• Salaries range between INR 39,23,000 - 78,48,000 per year for job roles like Cross Platform Security Manager, Security Systems Installer, Chief Information Security Officer etc.

Top Colleges

Benefits of Career as a Cyber Security Analyst

Cyber Security is an emerging market in the IT domain. As most companies are shifting their businesses in the digital space, they are continuously being exposed to cyber threats and attacks and their valuable data are at high risk of theft and attacks.

• Companies are either having their own workforce of seasoned cyber security experts handling and maintaining their network security and data management or companies are seeking expert advice and service to protect their data from misuse and breach.
• Thus there is a high demand of cyber security experts who are efficient in maintaining a secured network of an organization along with monitoring and protecting company data from cyber threats and attacks.
• These individuals have specialized knowledge in this field and thus have their salaries ranging between INR 4,04,000- 15,00,000 per annum depending on qualification and experience.
• Job offers are not restricted to a specific location as any organization maintaining their business online is vulnerable to cyber threats. Thus they can work anywhere round the globe.

Skills Required for Cyber Security Analyst

To excel in the field of cyber security, possessing a graduate degree in computer science and few certifications are not enough. Candidates willing to have a successful career in this field must possess the following key skills:

Cyber Security Analyst Scope

After completing a course in Cyber Security, one can opt for job options or go for higher studies in the field. Given below are details of the scope of Cyber Security courses.

Higher Education

• It is a prevalent practice among young professionals in this field to start a job after completing a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering or in a relevant field.
• These professionals then leave their job and pursue higher studies viz. MTech in Cyber Security or MSc in Cyber Security from national or international university as per their choice and convenience.
• It is always beneficial to gather industry experience and afterwards complete further studies for better job position and salary benefits. 
• Many foreign universities in the US, UK offer MS in Cyber Security for a period of one year duration with few universities offering scholarship facilities for candidates with good GRE/ GMAT scores.

Job Opportunities

• Many candidates prefer to start working immediately after completing their graduation in the relevant field.
• Exposure to real life projects and challenges and ways to handle such challenges and resolve them, help in the long run to build a successful career in cyber security as domain demands excessive hands on experience in dealing willing threats, setting firewall policies and many more.
• On average, a fresh cyber security analyst is paid an annual salary of INR 4,04,000 which can reach INR 15,00,000 per annum based on skill and experience.
• On the other hand, many candidates go for internships in cyber security offered by top IT giants like IBM, Netscape, Cisco, etc.
• They get introduced to the latest technology introduced to handle threats, latest viruses and malwares, their nature and functionalities and how different companies are handling such issues in a time bound and efficient manner.