Considering a career as a cyber security analyst? Cyber security analysts play a critical role in defending organisations of all sizes against cyber threats and ensuring data security. It’s a crucial role in digital protection, with a strong employment outlook in 2024 and beyond. Here's how you can start your journey to become a cyber security analyst with online study.
What Does a Cyber Security Analyst Do?
A cyber security analyst works to protect an organisation's computer systems and networks. They monitor these systems to detect any suspicious activity and respond to security breaches. Their goal is to keep data safe from attacks and ensure privacy and integrity.
Cyber Security Analyst vs Cyber Security Architect
The roles might sound similar, but they are different jobs with different skill sets.
Scope of Work
- Analysts focus more on day-to-day security operations, monitoring threats and responding to incidents as they occur.
- Architects work on designing security systems and infrastructure from a holistic viewpoint, considering long-term security strategies and integration across the organisation.
Tactical vs. Strategic
- Analysts are tactical, dealing primarily with the operational aspects of cybersecurity within the framework established by the architects.
- Architects are strategic, involved in high-level planning and the integration of security into the business architecture.
Reactive vs. Proactive
- Analysts often find themselves in reactive positions, addressing and neutralising threats as they appear.
- Architects are typically more proactive in designing systems to mitigate future risks.
Day in the Life of a Cyber Security Analyst
A typical day for a cyber security analyst in Australia might involve:
- Monitoring Networks: Keeping an eye on network and system activities to detect any irregular behaviour.
- Threat Analysis: Identifying and assessing cybersecurity threats that could potentially harm the organisation.
- Incident Response: Responding to security breaches or attacks and conducting post-event analyses to prevent future incidents.
- Reporting: Documenting security breaches and the extent of the damage caused by the attacks.
Cyber Security Analyst Skills
A career as a cyber security analyst involves a blend of soft skills (skills you likely already have) and hard skills (skills you’d learn through an online course in cyber security).
Cyber Security Analyst Soft Skills
- Analytical skills: Strong ability to analyse data and identify trends in threat behaviour.
- Problem-solving skills: Quick and effective response to cybersecurity incidents.
- Communication skills: Clear communication is crucial, especially when explaining technical details to non-technical stakeholders.
Hard Skills for Cyber Security Analyst
By undertaking a Cyber Security Fundamentals course, you’ll equip yourself with the relevant practical skills to kick-start your cyber security analyst career. Here are some of the hard skills you'll learn:
- Understand common social engineering techniques
- Learn to identify and prevent social engineering attacks
- Develop awareness of psychological manipulation tactics
- Assess and secure physical access points
- Implement effective physical security controls
- Understand the importance of environmental security measures
Cyber Security Analyst Salary (2024)
According to Labour Market Insights, a Database & Systems Administrators & ICT Security worker (the umbrella industry a cyber security analyst works in) can earn an annual salary of $121,784.
Cyber Security Analyst Employment Outlook
Jobs & Skills Australia shows the employment outlook for cyber security analysts is expected to grow strongly, with the number of workers likely to reach 104,000 by 2026. This means there’s never been a better time to upskill, or switch careers to become a cyber security analyst.
How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst
If you're eyeing a career as a cyber security analyst in Australia, the entry avenues are more versatile than ever before.
- Online Courses: Platforms like Online Courses Australia offer specialised courses in cybersecurity. These programs cover everything from the fundamentals to more advanced topics like ethical hacking and essential IT skills, designed to fit around your schedule.
- Micro-Credentials: These shorter, focused courses can help you deepen specific areas of expertise or update your skills as new technologies and threats emerge.
Start Your Cyber Security Analyst Course Today
Starting a career as a cyber security analyst with online courses can set you on a path to a challenging and rewarding role that makes a real difference in protecting Australia organisations both big and small.
Why study online?
- Flexibility: Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your schedule, ideal for those balancing other commitments.
- Relevance: Online courses are designed to provide the most current knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the cybersecurity field.
- Accessibility: Study from anywhere with internet access, without the need to commute.
If you're ready to begin an exciting career as a cyber security analyst, download OCA’s cyber security course info pack below.
Cyber Security Fundamentals Info Pack Download
If you have additional questions about our AI, Cyber & Software courses or our full range of courses that cover more than 20 different professional industries:
- Call: 1300 611 404
- Email: [email protected]
- Book a career call
Related Courses & Roles
If you have a genuine passion for the AI, Cyber & Software industry, here are some related courses to check out:
- Career Development
