What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? 2026 Job Guide - Coursera

What Does a Cybersecurity Analyst Do? 2026 Job Guide Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on Oct 28, 2025 Share Cybersecurity analysts are often the first line of defense against cybercrime. Cybersecurity analysts protect computer networks from cyberattacks and unauthorized access. At a glance, here's what you need to know about this important IT career: Demand for cybersecurity analysts is projected to grow by 29 percent between 2024 and 2034 [1]. In this role, you play a key role in protecting your organization’s valuable data by anticipating and defending against cyber threats and responding to security breaches when they do happen. You'll likely need a cybersecurity-related degree and job-relevant skills to qualify for this role. As you progress, certifications can help you prepare for more specialized positions. Below, we’ll take a closer look at what working as a cybersecurity analyst is like, why you might choose to pursue a career in cybersecurity, and how to get started in this in-demand field. Afterward, if you're interested in working towards a career in the field, consider enrolling in the Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate. Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst professional certificate Beginner level · 6 month(s) Skills you'll build: Active Directory, Authentications, Azure Active Directory, Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Compliance Management, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cybersecurity, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Encryption, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, Operating Systems, Penetration Testing, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Zero Trust Network Access, Microsoft Azure, Data Security, Business Continuity, Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (COBIT), Threat Detection, Security Strategy, Data Management, Governance Risk Management and Compliance, Cloud Standards, Regulatory Compliance, Business Continuity Planning, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Cloud Platforms, Cyber Governance, Personally Identifiable Information, Security Management, Cloud Management, General Networking, Firewall, Virtual Machines, Computer Networking, Virtualization, Digital Transformation, Network Monitoring, Cloud Services, Networking Hardware, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Network Protocols, Network Infrastructure, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Architecture, Incident Response, Event Management, Endpoint Detection and Response, Security Controls, Cyber Security Policies, Endpoint Security, Identity and Access Management, Threat Management, Cyber Attacks, Malware Protection, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Governance, AI Security, Cyber Risk, Generative AI, Computer Security, Authorization (Computing), Cryptography, Data Encryption Standard, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Internet Of Things, Application Security, Secure Coding, Asset Management, IT Security Architecture, Vulnerability Scanning, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Command-Line Interface, Vulnerability Assessments, Test Tools, Windows PowerShell, Security Software, Cyber Security Assessment, Security Testing, System Testing, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Single Sign-On (SSO), User Provisioning, Enterprise Security, Computer Architecture 4.7 (3,009 ratings) professional certificate Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst. Build job-ready skills – and must-have AI skills – for an in-demand career. Earn a credential from Microsoft. No prior experience required. 4.7 (3,009 ratings) 136,886 already enrolled Beginner level Learn More Average time: 6 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Active Directory, Authentications, Azure Active Directory, Cloud Computing, Cloud Security, Compliance Management, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Security Strategy, Cybersecurity, Distributed Denial-Of-Service (DDoS) Attacks, Encryption, Intrusion Detection and Prevention, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, Operating Systems, Penetration Testing, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Threat Modeling, Vulnerability Management, Zero Trust Network Access, Microsoft Azure, Data Security, Business Continuity, Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (COBIT), Threat Detection, Security Strategy, Data Management, Governance Risk Management and Compliance, Cloud Standards, Regulatory Compliance, Business Continuity Planning, Law, Regulation, and Compliance, Cloud Platforms, Cyber Governance, Personally Identifiable Information, Security Management, Cloud Management, General Networking, Firewall, Virtual Machines, Computer Networking, Virtualization, Digital Transformation, Network Monitoring, Cloud Services, Networking Hardware, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Network Protocols, Network Infrastructure, Virtualization and Virtual Machines, Network Architecture, Incident Response, Event Management, Endpoint Detection and Response, Security Controls, Cyber Security Policies, Endpoint Security, Identity and Access Management, Threat Management, Cyber Attacks, Malware Protection, Multi-Factor Authentication, Data Governance, AI Security, Cyber Risk, Generative AI, Computer Security, Authorization (Computing), Cryptography, Data Encryption Standard, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Internet Of Things, Application Security, Secure Coding, Asset Management, IT Security Architecture, Vulnerability Scanning, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), Command-Line Interface, Vulnerability Assessments, Test Tools, Windows PowerShell, Security Software, Cyber Security Assessment, Security Testing, System Testing, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Single Sign-On (SSO), User Provisioning, Enterprise Security, Computer Architecture What does a cybersecurity analyst do? As a cybersecurity analyst, you’re tasked with protecting your company’s hardware, software, and networks from theft, loss, or unauthorized access. At a small company or organization, you might expect to perform a variety of cybersecurity tasks. At larger organizations, you might specialize as one part of a larger security team.  While the day-to-day tasks of a cybersecurity analyst will vary from company to company, here are a few tasks and responsibilities pulled from real job listings: Monitor network traffic for security incidents and events. Investigate incidents and respond to events in real time. Write detailed incident response reports. Install and operate firewalls, encryption programs, and other security software. Fix vulnerabilities. Develop and promote best practices for information security. Conduct threat research. Perform periodic risk assessments and penetration tests. Cybersecurity analysts need to understand the latest cyber threat landscape, as well as their company’s IT infrastructure. Depending on where you work, this might mean having familiarity with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems and experience with firewalls, VPNs, and proxies, as well as security and information event management systems (SIEMs).  A day in the life of a cybersecurity analyst Ask a cybersecurity professional why they chose this as a career, and you might get a variety of answers. You can have an impact on your organization by keeping valuable data protected. With new threats and sophisticated attacks emerging all the time, there’s always something new to learn. Staying one step ahead of cybercriminals can be an exciting job where no two days are the same. Learn more about what it's like to be a cybersecurity professional in this lecture from Microsoft's Cybersecurity Professional Certificate: Picture in picture Return to video 0:05 / 5:53 1x A lecture from Microsoft's Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate. Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems and Security Microsoft 4.8 (1,976 ratings)  |  160K Students Enrolled Course 1 of 3 in the Microsoft Foundations of Cybersecurity, Networking, and Cloud Systems Specialization Enroll for free Cybersecurity analyst salary and job outlook Cybersecurity analysts are in high demand and earn a higher-than-average salary. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for security analysts is expected to grow 29% from 2024 to 2034 [1]. This equates to an estimated 16,000 job openings each year. For comparison, the average growth rate for all occupations is just three percent during the same period. The median total pay for cybersecurity analysts in the US is $127,000, according to Glassdoor as of October 2025 [2]. The total pay range begins at $98,000 and ends at $165,000 per year, and includes additional compensation like bonuses. You can learn more about earning potential and the factors that influence your salary as a cybersecurity analyst in the article Cybersecurity Analyst Salary Guide: How Much Can You Make? Cybersecurity analyst vs. information security analyst: What’s the difference? Information security and cybersecurity overlap, and the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. While cybersecurity analysts and information security analysts might perform similar tasks, their roles are somewhat different.  Information security is a broader term that refers to the protection of data. Cybersecurity refers to the protection of data in its digital form. A cybersecurity analyst is responsible for data security for any data stored on computers, hard drives, or the internet. An information security analyst would also consider the security of data stored elsewhere, like documents in a filing cabinet or insider knowledge possessed by some employees. How to become a cybersecurity analyst Starting a career in cybersecurity—or switching from another field—typically involves developing the right skills for the job. If you’re interested in getting a job as a cybersecurity analyst, here are some steps you can take to get on your way. 1. Learn the basics of cybersecurity. The field of cybersecurity has its own set of jargon, tools, and best practices. It can help to get an overview of it all by taking some introductory courses in cybersecurity. While it’s totally possible to teach yourself through books, blogs, podcasts, and other resources, you may find a course or certificate program helpful in giving structure and context to what you’re learning. Certificates can also be a great way to fill the gaps in your resume and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. Do I need a degree to be a cybersecurity analyst? According to Zippia, 61 percent of cybersecurity analysts hold at least a bachelor’s degree. Another 19 percent have an associate degree, and 15 percent have a master's [3]. While earning a degree isn’t strictly necessary to get a job, earning one could mean more job opportunities and a more competitive resume. 2. Develop your cybersecurity skills. While cybersecurity analysis is a technical role with some job-specific skills, you’ll also want to develop your workplace skills—some of these may even transfer from your previous experiences. These are some skills to focus on as you get yourself job-ready. Cybersecurity technical skills Intrusion detection: While the ultimate goal of cybersecurity is to prevent attacks, you’ll need to know how to detect them when they do happen. This can include network monitoring, event log analysis, and familiarity with SIEMs. Endpoint management: As more and more people work from home, companies need security professionals who know how to secure multiple endpoints, like computers, phones, and Internet of Things devices. Tools might include firewalls, antivirus software, network access controls, and virtual private networks (VPNs). Data security: Data represents a valuable resource for most organizations. Knowing how to protect it involves understanding encryption, access management, transmission control and internet protocols (TCPs and IPs), and the CIA Triad (confidentiality, integrity, accessibility). Networking and network security: Most attacks occur on networked systems. To protect against these types of threats, you’ll need to know how networks work, as well as their particular vulnerabilities. Programming: While advances in technology are enabling cybersecurity analysts to perform their work without having to write code, a foundational understanding of languages like JavaScript, Python, and C/C++ could give you a competitive edge. Need to sharpen your skills and earn credentials to prepare for a career change? With Coursera Plus, you'll gain unlimited access to over 10,000 self-paced learning programs led by top companies and universities like Google, IBM, Vanderbilt, and Duke. Cybersecurity workplace skills Attention to detail: Noticing a small anomaly could mean saving your company from a big data loss.  Communication: When security events happen, you’ll need to coordinate with your security team and document the process of investigation and recovery. You may be tasked with training your fellow employees in best security practices. Critical thinking: Whether you’re responding to a threat, patching a vulnerability, or recommending new security protocols, critical thinking skills empower you to make data-driven decisions. Curiosity: Technology continues to evolve, and cybercriminals continue to come up with new ways to steal or destroy data. Curiosity will help you stay up to date on new threats and security best practices. Calm under pressure: Responding to a security event means acting fast and prioritizing the tasks that will shut down the attack or isolate the data breach quickly to minimize damage.  3. Get a cybersecurity certification. Earning a cybersecurity certification can be a great way to validate your skills to recruiters and potential employers. Preparing for an exam doubles as a way to learn more about the field and build your skills. Take a look at some of the most popular cybersecurity certifications companies are hiring for. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) CS0-003 specialization Intermediate level · 1 month(s) Skills you'll build: Authentications, Cloud Security, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, DevSecOps, Encryption, Hardening, IT Security Architecture, Malware Protection, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, Security Management, Threat Detection, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Integrity, Incident Response, Security Controls, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Vulnerability, Configuration Management, Vulnerability Management, Patch Management 4.4 (24 ratings) specialization CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) CS0-003 Prepare for the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst exam. Equip yourself with the skills to detect, analyze, and respond to cybersecurity threats effectively. 4.4 (24 ratings) 2,655 already enrolled Intermediate level Learn More Average time: 1 month(s) Learn at your own pace Skills you'll build: Authentications, Cloud Security, Computer Security Incident Management, Cyber Operations, Cyber Security Assessment, Cyber Security Strategy, Cyber Threat Hunting, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cyber Attacks, Cybersecurity, DevSecOps, Encryption, Hardening, IT Security Architecture, Malware Protection, MITRE ATT&CK Framework, Network Security, Security Management, Threat Detection, Vulnerability Assessments, Data Integrity, Incident Response, Security Controls, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Vulnerability, Configuration Management, Vulnerability Management, Patch Management 4. Apply for jobs or internships. Once you’ve built your cybersecurity skill set, start applying for jobs or internships in the field. Depending on your professional and educational background, you may start in an entry-level information technology (IT) job or as a junior data analyst, before advancing into more specialized positions.  As you’re searching for jobs, expand your search beyond general sites like LinkedIn and Indeed, and include some job sites specific to cybersecurity: Clearedjobs.net NinjaJobs Dice Read more: How to Get a Cybersecurity Internship Have career questions? We have answers. Subscribe to Coursera Career Chat on LinkedIn to receive our weekly, bite-sized newsletter for more work insights, tips, and updates from our in-house team. Build toward your cybersecurity analyst career on Coursera 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 Frequently asked questions (FAQ) Is cybersecurity analytics hard?‎ What does an entry-level cybersecurity analyst do on a day-to-day basis?‎ What are the work hours in cybersecurity jobs?‎ Article sources 1.  US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook: Information Security Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm." Accessed October 28, 2025. View all sources Keep reading 5 Cybersecurity Career Paths (and How to Get Started) 6 min read · September 9, 2025 How to Become a Security Architect: 2026 Career Guide 8 min read · December 4, 2025 What Is the Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) Certification? Your 2026 Guide 6 min read · December 4, 2025 Cybersecurity Analyst Salary Guide: How Much Can You Make? 6 min read · May 6, 2026 8 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications in 2026 11 min read · November 24, 2025 What Is the CompTIA Security+ (Plus) Certification? 2026 Guide 7 min read · March 26, 2026 Updated on Oct 28, 2025 Share Written by: Coursera Staff Editorial Team Coursera’s editorial team is comprised of highly experienced professional editors, writers, and fact... This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals. Opt-Out Request Honored Cookies Preference Center Cookies are small text files downloaded to your device via your web browser when you interact with the Site. Coursera and our approved third parties use cookies for the purposes described below under each of the category headings. 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