How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst in (2024)

5 min readJan 30, 2024

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing sectors globally. With cyber threats becoming increasingly sophisticated, the demand for skilled cybersecurity analysts is skyrocketing. This blog aims to provide aspiring individuals with a roadmap of how to become a cyber security analyst in 2024. We will delve into the responsibilities of a cyber security analyst, the earning potential, top certifications, and available job opportunities. Let’s start with the basics.

What does a Cyber Security Analyst do?

A cybersecurity analyst is a trained professional who protects computer networks and systems from cyberattacks. They are essentially the digital warriors of the modern age, working tirelessly to defend critical infrastructure and sensitive data from malicious actors. The cyber security analyst job description involves a wide range of tasks aimed at identifying, preventing, and mitigating potential security breaches.

Roadmap to become Cyber Security Analyst

i. Education and Training:

Formal Education: A bachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, cybersecurity, or a related field is ideal.
Certifications: While not mandatory, certifications can significantly boost your employability. Consider pursuing globally recognized cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+, CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)
Bootcamps and Online Courses: Intensive bootcamps and online cybersecurity courses offer quicker alternatives to traditional education. Look for reputable providers like Careervira.

ii. Develop Your Skill Set:

Technical Skills: Master essential cybersecurity skills like network security, cryptography, incident response, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing. Familiarity with operating systems, programming languages like Python, and security tools is crucial.
Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential for investigating security incidents and identifying their root causes.
Communication Skills: You need to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

iii. Gain Practical Experience:

Internships: Internships at cybersecurity companies or IT departments provide valuable hands-on experience and help build your network.
Bug Bounty Programs: Participating in bug bounty programs allows you to test your skills in a real-world setting and potentially earn rewards for finding vulnerabilities.
Open Source Projects: Contributing to open-source security projects showcases your technical skills and dedication to the field.

iv. Build Your Network:

Attend industry events and conferences: Connect with other cybersecurity professionals, learn from experts, and explore job opportunities on platforms like LinkedIn.
Join online communities and forums: Participate in discussions, share your knowledge, and stay updated on the latest trends and threats.
Connect with recruiters and hiring managers: Build relationships with people who can help you land your dream job.

v. Stay Updated:

The cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, so continuous learning is crucial. Stay informed about the latest threats, vulnerabilities, and attack techniques by reading industry publications, attending webinars, and taking online courses.

How Much Does A Cyber Security Analyst Make?

The average annual cyber security analyst salary in the USA is around $66,000. However, the salary can vary based on factors such as experience, skills, location, and the industry of employment. As of 2024, the average annual salary for a Cyber Security Analyst ranges from $50,000 to $170,000.

i. As per experience level:

Entry-level analysts’ salary is around $55,000 to $104,000 annually.
Mid-level analysts with 3–6 years of experience can command salaries in the range of $68,000 to $128,000.
Senior Cyber Security Analysts, with more than 6 years of experience, can earn $79,000 to $144,000.
Experienced cybersecurity analysts salary in the US ranges from $83,000 to $166,000.

ii. Industry:

Cyber Security Analysts working in industries such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce may receive higher salaries due to the sensitive nature of the data they protect.

Top 6 Cyber Security Analyst Certification

Here are some of the best courses that have helped hundreds of learners and professionals to improve their salary potential and also helps to gain attention of top employers:

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate by Coursera: IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate is a well-respected name in the cybersecurity industry. This can boost your resume and make you more attractive to potential employers. It covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, including network security, incident response, penetration testing, and more. This makes it a great option for people who are new to the field or want to broaden their knowledge. Moreover, it includes hands-on labs that allow you to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios. This is a great way to solidify your understanding and gain practical experience.
Cybersecurity for Everyone by Coursera: Cybersecurity for Everyone is a well-regarded course for developing a broad understanding of cybersecurity concepts and issues. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic security principles to policy considerations and international threats. This makes it suitable for beginners with no prior cybersecurity knowledge. It is taught by engaging instructor who uses real-world examples and case studies to keep the learning process interesting.
Ethical Hacking / Penetration Testing & Bug Bounty Hunting v2 by StationX: Ethical Hacking / Penetration Testing & Bug Bounty Hunting v2 is a comprehensive and practical introduction to ethical hacking, penetration testing, and bug bounty hunting. It’s well-suited for beginners with no prior knowledge in these areas, but also offers valuable insights for more experienced learners. Further, it includes a dedicated section on bug bounty hunting, teaching you how to find and report vulnerabilities for financial rewards. It covers the latest vulnerabilities and attack vectors, ensuring you’re learning the most relevant skills.
MicroMasters® Program in Cybersecurity by edX: MicroMasters® Program in Cybersecurity is offered in collaboration with three distinguished universities: The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Macquarie University, and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay). This ensures you receive high-quality instruction from recognized cybersecurity experts. It is a highly regarded program designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.
Ethical Hacker Nanodegree Program by Udacity: Ethical Hacker Nanodegree Program is developed in collaboration with industry experts, the program’s curriculum focuses on practical skills and tools used by real-world ethical hackers. The program features extensive hands-on labs and simulations, allowing you to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios and build practical experience. It is taught by experienced cybersecurity professionals who bring their real-world expertise and insights to the classroom.
Advanced Executive Program in Cybersecurity by Edureka: Advanced Executive Program in Cybersecurity course is developed in collaboration with cybersecurity experts, the curriculum reflects current trends and challenges in the field. It is tailored for senior professionals, the program dives deep into strategic cybersecurity leadership, risk management, and compliance, alongside technical expertise. The program enhances your leadership skills and technical knowledge, making you a more competitive candidate for senior cybersecurity roles.

Final Take

Becoming a Cyber Security Analyst in 2024 requires a combination of education, practical experience, and continuous learning. If you want to be a part of this career you can easily take the help of Careervira, where all the best premium cybersecurity courses are available. With this blog, we have tried to help you understand the role of cyber security analyst jobs, salary expectations, and relevant certifications. Aspiring professionals can embark on a rewarding and impactful career in cybersecurity if they follow the roadmap discussed in this blog.