Information Security Analyst: What They Do and How to Become One - Coursera

Information Security Analyst: What They Do and How to Become One Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Oct 30, 2025 Share Information security analysts protect data from cyber threats. To become one, you’ll need key cybersecurity skills, a relevant degree, or certifications. Key takeaways Organizations hire information security analysts to protect data from cyber threats that can evolve into hacks and breaches. Information security analysts monitor networks for breaches, investigate incidents, test security measures, and implement safeguards to keep an organization’s data and systems secure. This role requires solid IT security knowledge, awareness of privacy laws, and strong communication and teamwork skills. You can become an information security analyst by earning a degree in IT or cybersecurity, gaining hands-on experience through entry-level tech roles, or pursuing certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH to build expertise and credibility. In this article, you'll learn more about this career path, including what InfoSec analysts do, how much they earn, and how to become one. If you're ready to prepare for your first information security analyst position, take the next step in your career with EC-Council's Information Security Analyst Professional Certificate program. In as little as four months, you can gain in-demand skills like risk analysis, cloud security, and cryptography through hands-on lessons with industry standard tools. Information Security Analyst professional certificate Beginner level · 4 month(s) Skills you'll build: Application Security, Cloud Security, Cryptography, Cyber Security Policies, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Identity and Access Management, Incident Response, Internet Of Things, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Risk Analysis, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Threat Detection, Vulnerability Assessments, Vulnerability Management, Web Applications, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Threat Hunting, Enterprise Security, Event Monitoring, Network Analysis, Data Loss Prevention, Authentications, Authorization (Computing), Wireless Networks, Data Security, Information Assurance, Cloud Computing, Security Controls, Infrastructure Security, Public Key Infrastructure, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Exploitation techniques, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Brute-force attacks, Threat Management, Security Testing, Encryption, Vulnerability Scanning, ISO/IEC 27001, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Computer Security Awareness Training, Systems Development Life Cycle, Human Factors (Security), Cyber Risk, Risk Management Framework, Security Management, Security Awareness, Systems Development, Linux Commands, File Systems, Data Integrity, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Operating Systems 4.9 (46 ratings) professional certificate Information Security Analyst Your path to a career in information security.. Build job-ready skills in ethical hacking, network defense, digital forensics & security operations 4.9 (46 ratings) 5,295 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 4 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Application Security, Cloud Security, Cryptography, Cyber Security Policies, Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics, Identity and Access Management, Incident Response, Internet Of Things, Malware Protection, Mobile Security, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Risk Analysis, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Threat Detection, Vulnerability Assessments, Vulnerability Management, Web Applications, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Cyber Threat Hunting, Enterprise Security, Event Monitoring, Network Analysis, Data Loss Prevention, Authentications, Authorization (Computing), Wireless Networks, Data Security, Information Assurance, Cloud Computing, Security Controls, Infrastructure Security, Public Key Infrastructure, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Attacks, Exploitation techniques, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Brute-force attacks, Threat Management, Security Testing, Encryption, Vulnerability Scanning, ISO/IEC 27001, General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), Computer Security Awareness Training, Systems Development Life Cycle, Human Factors (Security), Cyber Risk, Risk Management Framework, Security Management, Security Awareness, Systems Development, Linux Commands, File Systems, Data Integrity, Mac OS, Microsoft Windows, Linux, Operating Systems What is an information security analyst? An information security analyst is a professional in the cybersecurity field who specializes in securing data within an organization's computer networks, systems, and databases. They play a crucial role in designing and implementing security policies designed to mitigate cybersecurity risks. What do information security analysts do? An information security analyst job description is likely to include: Detecting, monitoring, and mediating various aspects of security—including physical security, software security, data security, and network security Performing compliance control testing Developing recommendations and training programs to minimize security risk and build security awareness in the company Staying current with evolving threats in cybersecurity space by communicating with external sources Collaborating with other teams and management within a company to implement best computer security procedures InfoSec analysts are needed in companies that keep sensitive data and information. This can include almost any field, including business, governance, technology, finance, energy, and many more. Pay and job outlook InfoSec analysts received a median salary of $124,910 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The hourly equivalent is about $60.05 per hour [1]. Job prospects in the information security field are expected to grow rapidly in the next decade. The BLS estimates that information security analyst positions will grow by 29 percent from 2024 to 2034. That’s much faster than the average for all occupations. Read more: Information Security Analyst Salary Guide (2026) Information security vs. cybersecurity Information security is often confused with cybersecurity—which is understandable, because there is significant overlap, and many use the two interchangeably. Cybersecurity, however, refers more broadly to preventing cyberattacks that come from unauthorized electronic sources. Information security focuses specifically on protecting the data and information of an organization, employees, or users, which can exist in both physical and electronic form. Information security also means making sure data is accessible to those who are authorized to use it. How to become an information security analyst If you’re interested in protecting organizations from cyber threats and keeping sensitive data safe, becoming an information security analyst could be the right career for you. It’s a role that combines technical expertise, an understanding of privacy and compliance, and the ability to work closely with teams to solve security challenges. The next sections outline a clear, step-by-step guide to help you break into this in-demand field. Step 1: Gain essential information security analyst skills Start by building a strong foundation in IT and cybersecurity. Learn how networks, operating systems, firewalls, and routers work, and understand the principles of risk management and data protection. Many information security analysts also develop ethical hacking or penetration testing skills to better identify and defend against potential vulnerabilities. Beyond technical know-how, you’ll also need an understanding of data privacy laws and compliance standards, such as HIPAA for healthcare or PCI DSS for finance. Finally, strong communication and teamwork skills are crucial, as you’ll often collaborate with other teams to detect, report, and resolve security threats. Step 2: Earn the necessary credentials Many information security analyst roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or cybersecurity. A degree provides a structured foundation in networking, programming, and system security. According to Zippia, about 62 percent of information security analysts hold a bachelor’s degree, while 20 percent have an associate degree [2]. If a degree isn’t part of your plan, you can still build a competitive resume by earning recognized cybersecurity certifications and hands-on experience. Entry-level credentials like CompTIA Security+, Network+, or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are great starting points. As you advance, certifications such as CISSP or CISM can help you move into more senior or specialized cybersecurity roles. Certified in Cybersecurity specialization Beginner level · 1 month(s) Skills you'll build: Business Continuity, Business Continuity Planning, Computer Security Awareness Training, Computer Security Incident Management, Configuration Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Security, Disaster Recovery, Governance, Incident Management, Incident Response, Information Assurance, Network Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Security Awareness, Security Controls, Security Management, System Configuration, Cyber Security Policies, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Authorization (Computing), Authentications, User Provisioning, Information Systems Security, Identity and Access Management, Cyber Governance, Risk Management Framework, Data Ethics, Cyber Risk, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Cloud Services, Firewall, Infrastructure Security, Computer Networking, Network Planning And Design, Network Protocols, OSI Models, Network Model, IT Security Architecture, Threat Detection, Data Centers, Cloud Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Threat Management, General Networking, Crisis Management, Encryption, IT General Controls (ITGC), Patch Management, Event Monitoring, Network Administration, Information Technology Operations, System Monitoring, Cryptography, Continuous Monitoring 4.7 (1,257 ratings) specialization Certified in Cybersecurity Advance Your IT Career with Cybersecurity Skills. Gain Flexibility with Self-Paced Learning 4.7 (1,257 ratings) 24,164 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 1 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Business Continuity, Business Continuity Planning, Computer Security Awareness Training, Computer Security Incident Management, Configuration Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, Data Security, Disaster Recovery, Governance, Incident Management, Incident Response, Information Assurance, Network Security, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Security Awareness, Security Controls, Security Management, System Configuration, Cyber Security Policies, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Access, Authorization (Computing), Authentications, User Provisioning, Information Systems Security, Identity and Access Management, Cyber Governance, Risk Management Framework, Data Ethics, Cyber Risk, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Cloud Services, Firewall, Infrastructure Security, Computer Networking, Network Planning And Design, Network Protocols, OSI Models, Network Model, IT Security Architecture, Threat Detection, Data Centers, Cloud Security, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, Threat Management, General Networking, Crisis Management, Encryption, IT General Controls (ITGC), Patch Management, Event Monitoring, Network Administration, Information Technology Operations, System Monitoring, Cryptography, Continuous Monitoring Step 3: Get hands-on experience Experience is key to becoming an information security analyst. Look for internships, entry-level IT roles, or cybersecurity training programs where you can apply your skills in real-world settings. Roles in network administration, technical support, or system analysis can all provide valuable experience that translates directly into information security work. Keep learning about information security jobs with Coursera's free resources Check out the Career Resource Hub to explore quizzes to help you decide on career paths, online courses, and more. Subscribe to Coursera's LinkedIn newsletter, Career Chat, to stay up-to-date on industry trends, career advancement tips, and more. Visit Coursera's Youtube channel to hear from established professionals in various fields and compare certificate programs. Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses. Build essential skills with one of our best deals Save now Article sources 1.  US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Information Security Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm." Accessed October 30, 2025. View all sources Keep reading 7 Popular Cloud Security Certifications for 2026 8 min read · December 5, 2025 8 In-Demand IT Skills to Boost Your Resume in 2026 5 min read · November 3, 2025 Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering: How the Jobs Differ December 16, 2025 Network Certification: 6 Options for Your IT Career in 2026 5 min read · February 23, 2026 Service Desk Analyst: Jobs, Courses, Salaries, and Career Paths 6 min read · May 28, 2026 What Is the CompTIA A+ Certification? (And How to Get One) October 21, 2025 Updated on Oct 30, 2025 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... 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