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Cyber security analyst
Also called: SOC analyst, Infosec analyst
Watches for attacks, investigates alerts and protects an organisation's systems and data.
What the work is
Cyber security analysts are the first line of defence. In a security operations centre (SOC) they monitor alerts, investigate suspicious activity, contain attacks and help fix weaknesses. Others work on vulnerability management, cloud security or data protection compliance.
Entry roles often start in a SOC at L1 level, with shift work, and grow to L2, L3, threat hunting and security engineering. Certifications and hands-on practice count as much as degrees.
A typical week
- Monitor security alerts in a SIEM tool
- Investigate phishing, malware and suspicious logins
- Escalate and help contain incidents
- Write reports and improve detection rules
It suits people who
- Are curious about how attacks work
- Stay calm under pressure
- Like rules and careful investigation
Your path to get there
School (Class 8-10)
- Learn computer basics and safe online habits; try beginner cyber challenges
Class 11-12
- B.Tech CS or IT, BCA, B.Sc IT or a cyber security degree
College or fresher
- Learn networking, Linux and Windows basics
- Earn CompTIA Security+ or ISC2 CC
- Practise in home labs, TryHackMe and capture-the-flag events
Working or switching
- IT support and network staff move into SOC roles
- Auditors and risk staff move into governance and compliance roles
- Start with a skills refresh of 6 to 12 weeks: one short course and one TalentMeter assessment to show where you stand today.
- Use returnship and second-career programmes; many large employers in India run them for people back after a break.
- Explain the gap in one honest line on your CV and LinkedIn, and list what you did in it (caregiving, freelancing, courses, volunteering).
- Contract, part-time and freelance roles are a common way back in; they turn into full-time offers often.
Exams and certifications
| Name | What it is for | When |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ ↗ | Entry security certification | Any time |
| ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) ↗ | Entry security certification | Any time |
| EC-Council CEH | Ethical hacking basics | After some experience |
Exam names, eligibility and dates change. Always check the official website for this year's notice.
Job market
Job titles to search
Who hires
Where the jobs are
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