Cybersecurity Data Analyst: What They Do + How to Become One

Cybersecurity data analysts use their knowledge of data analytics to help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity efforts. As the threat of cyberattacks grows, so too does the need for cybersecurity professionals capable of stopping them.

In 2023, the cybersecurity industry was valued at $172.32 billion, and over the next decade, it's expected to reach as high as $562.72 billion [1]. During this period, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts job openings for cybersecurity data analysts will grow by a whopping 32 percent, indicating much faster than average job growth [2]. Yet, research by ISC2 reveals a significant gap between the number of skilled cybersecurity professionals and their demand in the US and abroad [3].

In an industry so in demand, salary and career progression are excellent if you have the skills, experience, and education you need to work as a cybersecurity data analyst. Below, you'll learn more about the role of a cybersecurity data analyst, their salary, and the steps you can take to start your career in cybersecurity analytics. 

What is a cybersecurity data analyst?

A cybersecurity data analyst, also known as an information security analyst, protects organizations from cyberattacks and security breaches by analyzing data to assess vulnerabilities in infrastructure and computer networks. 

Cybersecurity data analysts apply their skills in data analytics to the field of cybersecurity, interpreting data related to cybersecurity attacks and threats to protect an organization's digital assets. Knowing what to look for and developing familiarity with bad actors' tactics allows cybersecurity data analysts to implement more robust security measures for their employers.

Read more: Information Security Analyst: Salary and Job Outlook

Duties and responsibilities 

The typical tasks you'll perform as a cybersecurity data analyst are similar to those of a general data analyst. However, in this role, you'll analyze and interpret data specifically relevant to cybersecurity and the safety of a company. Duties and responsibilities include:

• Analyzing and assessing security systems and infrastructure

• Monitoring website traffic and potential threats as they happen

• Using encryption and firewalls for protection and restricting access

• Undertaking risk analysis

• Conducting penetration tests

• Writing reports and incident logs

• Strengthening security vulnerabilities 

Read more: What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? Job Guide

Salary and job outlook

Cybersecurity data analysts are in high demand and command a competitive salary.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the number of job openings for Information Security Analysts is projected to grow by 33% between 2023 and 2033 [2]. By comparison, the BLS notes that the average growth for all jobs in the country is projected to be just four percent during that same period.

The average annual US salary for information security analysts, another name for the cybersecurity data analyst role, is $119,693, according to data from Lightcast™ [4]. In comparison, Glassdoor suggests that a data analyst outside of the cybersecurity industry earns significantly less, with an average base salary of $84,785 [5].

How to become a data analyst in cybersecurity

Working as a cybersecurity data analyst involves demonstrating your skills in data analysis and applying them to the context of cybersecurity, along with gaining relevant experience, qualifications, and certifications. 

Let’s examine each step in more detail to help you envision the path forward.

1. Get a degree.

Earning a degree is an excellent way to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to work as a cybersecurity data analyst.

Consider earning your degree in computer science or a similar field. Sometimes, employers may look for professionals with a master’s degree. In some colleges, you may find specialist cybersecurity degrees to help you focus your studies further. Examples include a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and information assurance and a master’s in information security. 

However, a degree is only one of your options. According to Zippia, only 61 percent of cybersecurity data analysts have a bachelor’s degree [6]. In other cases, employers value skills over education and look favorably on boot camps where you learn up-to-date skills in a hands-on setting and in a shorter time than a degree. 

2. Build cybersecurity data analyst skills

Cybersecurity data analysts have a specific skill set that blends both technical skills and workplace skills. To secure a role, consider building and demonstrating these skills:

Technical skills

• Network security

• Cloud security

• Data modeling and management

• Data analysis

• Risk analysis

• Data modeling 

• Python and other programming languages

• Intrusion detection

• Incident response

• Scripting 

Workplace skills

• Analytical skills

• Communication skills

• Problem-solving

• Critical thinking

• Adaptability

• Collaboration

• Time management

• Creativity

• Attention to detail

3. Gain experience.

Experience is crucial in getting hired as a cybersecurity analyst; in some cases, experience and certifications can be enough without a degree. Some relevant experience includes working in an IT role, an entry-level information security job, taking an internship, or coming from a data analysis role outside cybersecurity.

Read more: How to Get into Cybersecurity: Career Guide

4. Obtain certification.

In a fast-moving technical industry like cybersecurity, certifications are crucial. They allow one to learn relevant, up-to-date skills essential to working in the field. Some employers ask for specific certifications, but even if it’s not required, having these credentials can be a helpful addition to your resume, particularly when applying for a competitive role.

For a cybersecurity data analyst role, you might consider credentials such as:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• CompTIA Security+

• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Read more: 4 Ethical Hacking Certifications to Boost Your Career

5. Put yourself out there.

Leverage your professional network to help find opportunities. Attend industry events, enroll in boot camps, network, and work on personal projects with others. You might also consider connecting with a mentor to guide you based on their experience. 

How to transition from data analyst to cybersecurity data analyst

Although you may already have many foundational skills necessary for working as a cybersecurity data analyst, you'll likely need additional training or to earn cybersecurity certifications to effectively transition from a general data analyst role. Some areas you may need to develop include a robust understanding of privacy issues, regulatory standards, compliance strategies, and how to work with threat models.

Read more: 5 Cybersecurity Career Paths (and How to Get Started)

Perks of working in cybersecurity

Working in cybersecurity has numerous perks, many of which you’ll find outlined above. Let's recap.

• High salary: The cybersecurity industry offers high salaries, averaging over $100,000 [3]. Top-level roles in cybersecurity come with even higher wages. For example, a chief information security officer earns an average base pay of $233,594, according to data from Glassdoor as of November 2024 [7].

• Growing industry: The BLS anticipates a growth rate of 33 percent in the decade leading up to 2033 [1].

• Career growth: Due to the industry’s rapid rate of expansion and significant skills gap, available jobs outweigh the number of suitable candidates. If you have the right skills, this translates to professional opportunities. 

Start building your career on Coursera

To start a career in the cybersecurity industry, begin building your skills and knowledge. Getting a degree is only one of your available options. You might also earn a resume-building credential by taking courses such as the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate or the IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate—both available on Coursera.