A cybersecurity analyst is responsible for the security of a company’s hardware, software, network, and IT infrastructure. They must have a thorough understanding of cyberattacks, malware, and cybercriminal behavior. They constantly look for weaknesses and ways to enhance security and anticipate attacks so they can protect sensitive company data. A cyber security analyst needs to have excellent communication skills, in-depth knowledge of information technology, and a good understanding of the laws, including best practices and techniques. This role also requires staying up-to-date on technology trends.
Cyber security analysts must be creative to stay one step ahead of cyberattacks. Thinking outside the box to come up with clever solutions is important in finding ways to stop breaches to the organization’s network. Strong attention to detail and a detail-oriented mindset are also key skills. Overlooking even the smallest detail can result in a breach of the network. Cyber security analysts are also responsible for configuring tools such as virus software, password protectors, and vulnerability management software. They need good written communication skills to report on the network and evaluate its strength against attack.
Sample job description
Average salary and compensation
The average salary for a cyber security analyst is $113,250 per year in the United States, with a potential for cash bonuses every year. Salary may depend on the level of experience, education, and geographical location.
Location | Salary Low | Salary High |
---|---|---|
Phoenix, Arizona | $119,250 | $145,750 |
Los Angeles, California | $134,500 | $156,900 |
Denver, Colorado | $118,300 | $130,800 |
Washington, DC | $136,500 | $159,300 |
Miami, Florida | $111,600 | $130,200 |
Orlando, Florida | $102,900 | $120,100 |
Tampa, Florida | $103,900 | $121,250 |
Atlanta, Georgia | $109,050 | $127,200 |
Chicago, Illinois | $125,350 | $146,250 |
Boston, Massachusetts | $135,550 | $158,150 |
Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota | $108,000 | $126,000 |
New York City, New York | $142,650 | $166,450 |
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $116,150 | $135,550 |
Dallas, Texas | $113,150 | $131,950 |
Houston, Texas | $112,600 | $131,350 |
Seattle, Washington | $130,450 | $152,200 |
National Average | $101,900 | $124,500 |
Sample interview questions
- What’s the difference between IDS and IPS?
- Can you explain the CIA triad?
- What’s the difference between encryption and hashing?
- What’s the purpose of a firewall?
- What do you consider the main advantages of cybersecurity?
- Would you consider yourself an excellent communicator?
- How would you identify and prevent a brute force attack?
- What is port scanning?
- Can you name the seven layers of the OSI model?
- Can you describe an MITM attack?
- What’s the difference between SSL and TLS?
- What does XSS stand for, and what does it mean?
- What does WAF stand for, and what does it mean?
- What programming languages do you know?
- What are the most common vulnerabilities you see in network security?
- What is the importance of DNS monitoring?