Launch your
Cybersecurity career

Find out what it takes to get hired, what you can earn, how to grow your skills with courses, programs, and certifications, and how to transition into leadership roles in the cybersecurity field.

What is Cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity is a practice protecting computers, networks, programs, and data from digital attacks, damage, or unauthorized access. It uses a range of techniques and tools to secure the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of IT systems and data.

With more connected devices than people worldwide, the defense landscape is vast. Cybersecurity professionals who can protect and defend organizations are in high demand.

What does a cybersecurity analyst do?

Cybersecurity is never a one-person job. As a cybersecurity analyst, you'll be part of the information technology (IT) team that protects and defends an organization from cyberattacks and digital threats. You'll be on the front lines, monitoring systems and networks to detect unusual activity, investigate incidents, assess impact, and identify root causes. You'll contribute to response efforts and document incidents and remediation in detailed reports for future reference.

This role requires sharp attention to detail, quick decision-making, and proficiency in cybersecurity tools. You'll also need strong communication and collaboration skills to work with teams across the organization, including executives.

Programs that can prepare you for a Cybersecurity role

Networking and Technical Support LEA.CL Profile: Cyber Security

8 Months

Starts: Jun 12, 2026

View Program

Master Certificate in Cyber Security

6 months

Start Anytime

View Program

What do you need to learn to work as a cybersecurity analyst?

Employers may prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in:

Computer science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, Information assurance, IT, Math

That said, it's entirely possible to break into the field through a combination of an associate degree or community college coursework, relevant industry experience, and professional certifications.

Essential technical skills

Threat monitoring and detection (Security Information and Event Management tools)

Incident response
Vulnerability scanning and management
Firewall and antivirus configuration
Basic networking, scripting, and system administration skills

Soft skills

Critical thinking and fast decision-making under pressure

Written and verbal communication to explain complex security issues to stakeholders
Team collaboration with IT, compliance, and leadership
Flexibility to adapt to evolving threats and tools
Curiosity and willingness to learn

Cybersecurity industry insights

1. A High-Growth, High-Income Seller’s Market Cybersecurity is the 5th fastest-growing occupation in the U.S., with a projected 29% growth rate through 2034. It is a candidate-driven market where demand far outstrips supply. This scarcity drives high earning potential: as of 2024, median wages in top sectors like finance and tech range from $120,050 to $136,390.

Key takeaways

4 Million unfilled roles worldwide.

54% of companies hit by recent attacks.
97% of organizations lack mature defenses.

Cybersecurity analyst career track

Here's how a common cybersecurity analyst can progress in their career, from entry-level roles to Senior:

Early career roles
(0–2 years)

Security analyst
Junior security engineer

Mid-career roles
(2–5 years)

Cybersecurity analyst

Vulnerability analyst
Security engineer

Senior career roles
(5–10 years)

Senior security analyst
Senior architect
Incident response manager

Entry level Career Roles

Junior Cybersecurity Analyst

Experience level:

0-1 years

Support and participate in cybersecurity-related activities, including vulnerability assessment, incident handling, and security reporting and documentation. As an entry-level position, they are not yet ready to take lead roles but have a broad range of knowledge and skills to participate in and assist with tasks performed by seasoned cybersecurity professionals.

Desired Certification:

Diploma or Master Certificate in Advanced Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Defense

Aliases:

Junior Cybersecurity Technician
Cybersecurity Support
Cybersecurity Specialist
IT Technician with Security Focus
Tier 1 Help Desk Support

Skills:

Understand core security concepts
Assist with network security and data analysis
Assist with systems and software security, including malware, cloud and endpoint security, and identity management
Assist in applying risk management principles and processes
Assist in incident response and disaster recovery