Information security has become one of the fastest-growing fields with plenty of job opportunities. A hack into an organization’s computer system threatens its ability to work, whether the hack’s intent is to steal information or change the code in a program to disrupt operations.
Protecting proprietary information and customer records is one of the most important tasks an information security analyst performs in their role along with maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of a company’s data.
Both remote work and cyberattacks are more common than ever, and this makes the role of an information security analyst more important than ever as well. These professionals maintain the security of a company’s data and systems whether employees access the company network from the office, from home, from public WiFi networks, or all of the above.
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What does an information security analyst do?
An information security analyst is tasked with protecting an organization’s computer systems and networks, particularly against cyber threats and attacks. They typically work in the information technology department of larger organizations with many employees.
The role requires problem-solving skills to find solutions to computer hacks and ways to prevent cyber attacks from happening in the first place. Information security analysts also help in the formation of a business continuity plan to prepare an organization to respond to and recover from any potential attacks on its computer networks.
Some of the role’s other main responsibilities include monitoring computer networks, installing security measures, performing security audits, and educating employees on security awareness and protocols.
Some refer an information security analyst to a cybersecurity analyst, but a cybersecurity analyst deals exclusively with handling digital data, while an information security analyst may work with physical records and intellectual property as well.
What is the salary for an information security analyst?
The median annual wage for information security analysts was $120,360 in May 2023, according to the BLS. That’s almost double the national average yearly earnings of $62,265 across all professions.
Some companies pay more than others, and an employee’s location can affect their compensation, as pay is typically higher in areas with higher costs of living. JPMorgan Chase (JPM) , for example, offers a compensation range of $101,000 to $150,000, which includes base salary and additional pay, according to jobs reviewer Glassdoor.
In New York City, the salary range is $126,000 to $199,000, with median pay at $157,000, according to employment site Indeed.
Which industries hire the most information security analysts?
Information security analysts work in a diverse range of businesses. In 2022, information security analysts held about 168,900 jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finance, insurance, and information management were the biggest areas of employment.
The BLS predicts that employment for information security analysts will increase by 32% to 222,200 from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. About 16,800 job openings are expected annually over the 10-year period.
The following industries employ the highest portions of the information security analyst labor market:
| Field | Percentage of ISA workforce |
|---|---|
Computer systems design and related services |
25% |
Finance and insurance |
16% |
Information |
10% |
Management of companies and enterprises |
9% |
Management, scientific, and technical consulting services |
6% |
All others |
34% |
What credentials are needed to be an information security analyst?
A background in computer science or a related field can serve as a strong foundation for those who aspire to become an information security analyst. Some organizations may look beyond a lack of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, however, and consider hiring individuals with other relevant experience or security certifications.
As such, information security analysts must stay current with the latest trends in security and technology.
Advanced training or degrees can help an information security analyst move on to other related roles, such as security engineer, networking director, or head of information security.
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What are the disadvantages of working as an information security analyst?
While pay is lucrative in the security analyst field, the responsibilities can be demanding and stressful. In certain cases, an information security analyst may need to be on call 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
They also need to familiarize themselves with the latest trends and emerging technologies to avert potential attacks or to respond appropriately to novel attacks. There’s little room for error, and if an analyst’s organization lacks resources, doing their job properly can be challenging.
What’s the difference between an information security analyst and a cybersecurity analyst?
An information security analyst deals with protecting any and all data an organization handles, including physical records and intellectual property as well as digital systems and data. A cybersecurity analyst, on the other hand, is responsible for protecting only digital data.
In other words, cybersecurity analysis can be viewed as a subset of information security analysis.
