So, you are thinking about a career as an information security analyst.

Well, that’s awesome!

The question is, do you have what it takes?

Keep reading to find out more…

If you are interested in becoming an information security analyst, you are in good company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the workforce is made up of 100,000 information security analysts in the United States.

So, is there any room left for you?

Great question!

And the answer is yes.

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow by 28 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Growth will occur for a number of reasons.

Demand for information security analysts is expected to be very high. Cyberattacks have grown in frequency, and analysts will be needed to come up with innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing critical information or creating problems for computer networks.

Banks and financial institutions, as well as other types of corporations, will need to increase their information security capabilities in the face of growing cybersecurity threats. In addition, as the healthcare industry expands its use of electronic medical records, ensuring patients’ privacy and protecting personal data are becoming more important. More information security analysts are likely to be needed to create the safeguards that will satisfy patients’ concerns.

Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 56 percent in computer systems design and related services from 2016 to 2026. The increasing adoption of cloud services by small and medium-sized businesses and a rise in cybersecurity threats will create demand for managed security services providers in this industry.

Who is becoming an information security analyst?

According to datausa.io, the information security analyst workforce is 79.3% male.

What personal qualities and characteristics make a good information security analyst?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the following qualities are important to have as an information security analyst.

Analytical skills. Information security analysts must carefully study computer systems and networks and assess risks to determine how security policies and protocols can be improved.

Detail oriented. Because cyber attacks can be difficult to detect, information security analysts must pay careful attention to computer systems and watch for minor changes in performance.

Ingenuity. Information security analysts must anticipate information security risks and implement new ways to protect their organizations’ computer systems and networks.

Problem-solving skills. Information security analysts must respond to security alerts and uncover and fix flaws in computer systems and networks.

The bottom line: If becoming an information security analyst is something you feel passionately about, the one word of advice we will give you is: Go for it!