How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst
The potential threat of cyber warfare was apparent to the scholars in the military and academia as they developed the technology that would become the internet as we know it today. These days the daily operations of people's lives, the businesses that drive the economy, and the infrastructure that supports both are increasingly more dependent on the ability to communicate complex information over digital connections.
Malicious individuals steal identities, banking information, and much more; at best inconveniencing you, and at worst, ruining your life. The warriors in the world of tomorrow will fight with knowledge, and you can join them to take part in a challenging and rewarding future as a cyber security analyst. Here's how to do it.
Putting in the Bookwork
Media depictions of cyber security specialists tend to start after they have put in the hundreds of study hours necessary to gain a proper familiarity with networking technology. A high school diploma, GED, or another equivalent is required for enrollment in an IT security program.
Once you are accepted, you will have the option of pursuing an Associate, Bachelor's, or Master's degree, depending on your personal situation. Each degree path contains a mixture of general knowledge courses, computer programming and software, network devices and operating protocols, and cyber security principles.
What Levels of Degrees are Available in Cyber Security?
The Associate degree is the fastest degree option, giving ambitious analysts the direct line they're looking for. Because of the smaller amount of experience from the shorter curriculum, you would be more likely to start in general networking positions before working into more security-focused roles. The war on cyber crime needs more skilled system administrators, so take these early positions as a chance to shine while getting paid to gain experience.
The next option is a Bachelor's degree, a path that will take 2.5 - 4 years of classroom time to complete. All of the course material covered in the Associate degree falls under the Bachelor's, with the inclusion of more courses per category and new courses that take a closer look at important subsections of the field, such as security in a healthcare environment.
Finally, the path to a Master's is a long one, but you will have an expansive and solid knowledge of how digital systems function. Spending several years in school is not for everyone, but those who are finishing their Bachelor's should give serious consideration to whether or not they wish to pursue it. Additionally, those who have been working in the field after earning their degree sometimes wish to return to school for the next step in their education.
Certifying and Qualifying
Because of the way that internet technology developed, Cisco Systems Inc. eventually came to dominate the networking device marketplace. Since their equipment plays such a major role in the operation of the Internet, certifications in Cisco equipment are the de facto standard for network technicians seeking entry into the field.
The first certification you should plan on earning is the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT). Once you have this introductory paper, you can begin taking associate level certifications, including ones that specialize in security. There are three more levels - professional, expert, and architect - that offer increased prestige once you've achieved the appropriate experience and testing prerequisites.
Becoming a Cyber Security Analyst Starts Today
Do you think you have what it takes to protect innocent internet users from hackers and other nefarious individuals? If you think you would make a great cyber security analyst, consider EPCI University to give you the educational background you'll need. Whether you're interested in earning an associate, bachelor's, or master's, ECPI University can help. Contact an admissions advisor today to discuss your options.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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