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Everything You Need For A Career As A
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
With technological advancements, cyberattacks are rising and have become more
sophisticated. So, organizations allocate substantial resources to establish Security
Operations Centers (SOC) to keep sensitive data secure from cyber threats.
Most decision-makers consider cyber security expenditures necessary and know that cutting
security costs may result in more significant spending in the long run. In this
respect, cybersecurity software tools are crucial to combat cyber threats in the modern world.
However, SOC teams still play an essential role because we still need human intelligence to
overcome and evaluate challenging issues related to cyber security. A cost-effective
mechanism, centralized and coordinated efforts, and continuous monitoring throughout the
process are some benefits that make SOC teams indispensable in the fight against cyber
attacks.
This article discusses the role of the Security Operations Center (SOC) Analysts and the
importance of the role. We will also cover the job description of an analyst and the various
tools that an analyst can use to perform their duties.
What is an SOC Analyst?
An SOC analyst, serving as the first line of defense against cyber threats, is responsible for
monitoring, analyzing, and responding to security vulnerabilities to keep the system secure.
This role is vital because a cybersecurity analyst is active throughout the process. SOC
analyst protects digital assets by preventing and preempting security breaches.
Moreover, triage and priority assessment are critical job descriptions for an analyst to use the
resources more efficiently. SOC Analyst lightens the burden of higher level analysts by
eliminating or solving minor points and helps them focus on more crucial issues.
The SOC Analyst role is significant because she/he can monitor real-time logs and events
and respond to threats accordingly.
What does an SOC Analyst do?
SOC analysts monitor different kinds of data from various sources and should be detail-
oriented and alert in SOC analysts monitor different kinds of data from various sources and
should be detail-oriented and alert in the analysis process.
Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools aggregate log data, alerts, and
events into one location, where SOC analysts come to play. Correlations and behavioral
analysis from multiple real-time resources piled into one platform enable analysts to produce
more consistent studies. In general, the job description of an SOC analyst covers the
following:
● Offer hardening strategies to improve cybersecurity.
● Monitor security alerts and events, determine the threat’s origin, and advise on
mitigating the attack.
● Perform log/malware analysis to detect security breaches.
● Conduct vulnerability and risk assessments regularly.
● Identify measures to reduce or mitigate potential cybersecurtiy threats.
How do I Become an SOC Analyst?
SOC analysts should have sufficient knowledge about IT and cybersecurity to recognize
possible threats. One of the most accepted options for acquiring adequate knowledge is
enrolling in a bootcamp for proper training.
Cybersecurity analyst courses generally prefer to start with an introduction to computer
and network fundamentals. After having an idea about the philosophy of cyber attacks, the
curriculum continues with the SOC tools. CYBLU is very assertive about training future SOC
analysts in the best way. Our cyber security course will teach you free and paid SOC tools
used in the market and prepare you to conduct log and malware analysis techniques.
Focused hands-on training and group projects that simulate real-world scenarios would give
you an insight into what an SOC analyst does. Feel free to start this course even if you have
no experience.
What Education Does an SOC Analyst Need?
Becoming a SOC analyst requires no IT background or bachelor’s degree. However, having
a degree in a field related to information technology, cybersecurity, or computer science will
be a plus.
Choosing an experienced and well-planned cybersecurity bootcamp for high-level training is
essential. In this context, the CYBLU cyber security analyst course is an excellent option
to start a professional career.
To grab a job as a SOC analyst, you should have the basic information: Windows, Linux,
Web application security, malware, log analysis, and social engineering tactics. In the first
module of our course, we will discuss all items mentioned above in detail. Remember that
hard work and commitment are the key to success, but only a good guide leads to success.
What Certifications does an SOC Analyst Need?
Many job advertisements require certifications. The most desired ones on the list are CCNA,
CEH, CISA, CISM, CISSP, and CySA+. There are also many opportunities to support your
career with free certificates. But CompTIA Security + is acknowledged to be the most
accepted certificate for beginners, which provides the core knowledge required for any
cybersecurity role.
We are an authorized partner of CompTIA. Therefore, CompTIA Security + certification
would help you get recognized globally in job-hunting efforts. Besides, our field-experienced
instructors and mentors would guide you to get the most demanded certificates in the
market.
What Skills does an SOC Analyst Need?
A successful SOC analyst must have the following skills:
● Analytical and critical thinking to analyze logs and events to mitigate potential threats.
● In order to establish a more coordinated working environment, collaboration and good
communication are essential.
● Identifying and preventing cyber-attacks requires familiarity with threat patterns.
● Being attentive to details to estimate, evaluate and preempt security breaches.
● Time management is of utmost importance to carryi out multi-tasks.
● Adaptability to the ever-changing cyberspace environment.
● Keeping yourself updated will make you one step ahead in dealing with cyber
attacks.
How Much does an SOC Analyst Earn?
The average annual salary of an SOC analyst in the United States is approximately $96,625,
and the hourly wage is about $46. But remember that the payment amount may vary by
experience, location, industry, or other factors. From a broader perspective, a nearly 30%
increase is projected for the next five years.
Where does an SOC Analyst Work?
SOC analysts work with a 24/7 shift pattern and can work onsite at an office or remotely.
Generally, they work in IT or cybersecurity departments. SOC centers operate in education,
government, healthcare, finance, and private companies.
Cybersecurity roles are always in high demand, and it’s not difficult to find talented
professionals to fill them. So, become a SOC analyst and start building your career today.