What Does a Network Security Analyst Do?

Network security analysts are professionals who work in different industries to ensure business information and computer systems are secure. These professionals protect businesses against cyberattacks by monitoring networks and server logs to detect suspicious or hostile activities and determine the best measures, for instance, installing firewalls to protect a business from malicious attacks.

Additionally, network security analysts also find vulnerabilities in computer networks and recommend on how to minimize them. They also investigate security breaches and develop strategies for security issues that emerge, and utilize the help of antivirus software to uphold security.

Other Network Security Analyst Duties and Responsibilities

For network security analysts to accomplish their basic responsibility of protecting computer and information systems, they have to perform several tasks. Some of these tasks include:

Monitoring Networks

Network security analysts perform periodic network monitoring followed by intrusion detection analysis to help them determine if the systems have been attacked. They also analyze network traffic to detect any anomalies before testing telecommunication controls for weaknesses.

Design and Create Safeguards

Network security analysts also design and implement safeguards that help protect business systems. They work together with other members of the IT department to create safeguards that can be in the form of hardware, software or new operating procedures.

Respond to Potential Threats

When network security analysts detect malicious activity in the system, they take mitigating measures to contain them and minimize damage. These professionals also assist in forensic analysis to investigate sources of threats.

Research Emerging Threats

Staying on top of emerging computer and information systems threats and vulnerabilities is necessary for network security analysts. They attend conferences, technical symposia, professional association meetings, and conduct research to keep up with the current information security developments.

Communicate Security Issues

Network security analysts work with all stakeholders at different levels of the organization and communicate the latest state of information security, potential risks, and suggest the best ways to enhance security. For instance, they instruct employees on how to keep their computer information secure and the safest ways to create and store passwords.

Network security analysts often work on a full-time basis, approximately 40 hours a week, but sometimes they can be called in on weekends and at night in case of an emergency or to meet deadlines. To become a network security analyst, you should be prepared to work under pressure.

Tools and Technology Used by Network Security Analysts

Network security analysts make use of different tools and technology when working. Apart from computers, they often use network and protocol analyzers, authentication servers, network security or VPN (virtual private networks), network monitoring, operating equipment, virus protection, and transaction security software.

Importance of Education in this Field

Although the level of education will vary by employer, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or any other related field is often the minimum requirement for most jobs. However, other employers prefer employees with a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) and years of experience. High school students that are interested in joining this career should take mathematics, information technology, computer science, and language arts classes. Other classes that can help you include physical science, business and engineering technology.

Due to the rapid change in technology, new risks emerge every day, which makes it necessary for network security analysts to keep up with the latest security technology and the latest attack methods. Hardware and software vendors, employers, colleges, and universities offer continuing education. Cybersecurity conferences are also another way to keep up with the latest security technology.

Job Outlook

According to the BLS, the demand for information security analysts is high and is expected to increase by 28% by 2026. Analysts will be required to come up with clever solutions that can prevent cyber attackers from tampering with computer networks or stealing vital information.

Additionally, more network security analysts will be needed as the healthcare industry increases its use of electronic medical records. These professionals will help create safeguards that will increase patients’ privacy and protect personal data.

Does this Job Fit Me?

Do you enjoy working on tasks that require you to follow procedures and routines? If yes, then you can join this field. A career as a network security analyst involves using data and details more than ideas. If you value good working conditions and job security, you will enjoy working in this field. You can work as a team or independently.

However, you need to have excellent research, technical and writing skills, and the ability to work on multiple projects. Additionally, you should be able to communicate with technical and non-tech staff. Comprehensive analytics, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail are essential in this field.

Are you interested in the field of cyber and network security? If you want to earn a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Cyber and Network Security, ECPI University offers this degree program at an accelerated rate. For more information, connect with a friendly ECPI University admissions counselor today.

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Gainful Employment Information – Cyber and Network Security - Bachelor’s

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