A cybersecurity analyst is a trained cyber professional who specializes in network and IT infrastructure security. The cybersecurity analyst thoroughly understands cyberattacks, malware, and the behavior of cybercriminals, and actively seeks to anticipate and prevent these attacks. The analyst usually possesses at least a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity or a related field.

A cybersecurity analyst protects an organization from cyber threats and actively develops protocols used to respond to and quell cyberattacks. Cybersecurity analysts protect organizational infrastructure, such as computer networks and hardware devices, from cybercriminals and hackers seeking to cause damage or steal sensitive information.

Cybersecurity analysts are more entry-level roles in the cybersecurity field. In order to be qualified, you will need a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity and information assurance. This type of degree program will help you learn IT fundamentals as well as critical cybersecurity foundations that will prepare you for the requirements of this job. Scripting and programming, data management, penetration testing, hacking and countermeasures, and more will all be critical elements of your cybersecurity education.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary of a cybersecurity analyst is $103,590 ($49.80 per hour) (2020). The longer you are in this field, the more you can make. However, if you have a Master's and a specialized skill set, you may be able to make more. There will be different pay rates for various titles.

The job of a cybersecurity analyst is a specialized position that requires a unique skill set. Some of the required skills of a cybersecurity analyst are:

• Communication: You may understand the threats to your company's network, but you need to be able to explain them in laymen's terms to others. You will have to communicate with others a lot in this job and work with a team that is responsible for security.
• IT Knowledge: This job requires you to stay up-to-date on trends in the technology world. You need to be aware of the best practices, techniques, and any laws that change.
• Creativity: You may not think a cybersecurity expert needs to be creative, but this is a must! You need to think of creative ways that bad guys can breach your organization's system, then think of creative solutions to prevent them.
• Strong Attention to Detail: This is not something that should be overlooked. You need to be detail-oriented for this job, paying strong attention to the smallest adjustments and changes in your organization's network.
• Reading Comprehension: Reading work-related information.
• Critical Thinking:  Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem.
• Active Listening: Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions.
• Complex Problem Solving: Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it.

Most information security analyst positions require a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field. Employers usually prefer to hire analysts with experience in a related occupation.