Information Security Analyst: Salary and Job Outlook

Information security analysts are in high demand as data breaches and cyberattacks become more common. They protect a company’s electronic data and ensure computer systems aren’t vulnerable to attacks.

Information security analysts, sometimes called information security managers, protect sensitive information from hackers and data breaches. Organisations of all sizes depend on them to defend their data from high-tech invasions.

What is an information security analyst, and what do they do?

If you’re interested in technology and how to protect systems from cyberattacks, an information security analyst can be an attractive career. As high-tech criminals become more advanced, information security professionals are in demand.  

An information security analyst’s job is to keep a computer system secure and free of vulnerabilities. In this role, you analyse risks and take preventive actions, such as installing firewalls and data encryption software. You are sometimes responsible for taking the lead when a security breach occurs.

As technology changes rapidly, organisations need to keep current with security measures. As an information security analyst, you keep abreast of changes or threat alerts and take steps to reduce system vulnerability. You should maintain a disaster recovery plan if a breach occurs, and you need to keep current with operating systems and their vulnerabilities.

Demand is expected to be high.

According to the Economic Times, India’s cybersecurity market has expanded at a compound annual growth rate of 25 percent since 2019 and is projected to increase further [1]. The global cybersecurity market is also expected to cross 200 billion USD in 2024 [1].

Additionally, as cybersecurity requirements increase, more analysts will be in need. 

Information security analyst job titles (with salaries)

When you’re ready to launch a career in information security, you’ll find various job titles and salaries. Some of the more common titles include the following:

All salary data is sourced from Talent.com as of October 2024. 

Security engineer

Average annual salary (India): ₹15,00,000 [2]

IT security engineers design and build systems to secure information stored in electronic devices. In this role, you identify security risks and develop plans to eliminate threats.   

Systems administrator

Average annual salary (India): ₹9,50,000 [3]

As a systems administrator, you must ensure secure sensitive information and monitor systems for performance and security. You’ll troubleshoot any issues that arise and ensure networks are secure.  

Information security manager

Average annual salary (India): ₹15,50,000 [4] 

Information security managers are responsible for securing electronic information systems. You might train others on security measures, manage security measures for a company, and keep up with technological advances.  

Cloud security architect 

Average annual salary (India): ₹25,00,000 [5] 

A cloud security architect designs security systems and oversees security awareness programs. You perform testing and respond to security breaches.   

Skills required for an information security analyst role

Employers look for communication and analytical skills in prospective candidates wanting to pursue an information security analyst career. You should also have the following technical skills and knowledge:

• Security architecture: Experience with computer architecture is critical for securing computer systems and building protection measures. 

• Framework: Another essential component of information security architecture is the framework. You should know Python, Cisco, and Linux frameworks.

• Incidence response: Not all information security analysts respond to incidents, but it’s good to know response details should you need them someday.

• Hacking: Information security analysts must understand hacking to prevent attacks and protect computer systems.

Becoming an information security analyst

Education

The typical path to an information security analyst career is obtaining a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a closely related discipline. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed an undergraduate degree. Earning a graduate degree in cybersecurity can boost your resume and increase your chances of securing a role in this field. 

Some employers may prefer candidates with specialised knowledge of information security.

Certifications and experience

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certifications are good to have in this field.

To qualify for the CISSP certification, you’ll need five years of work experience in at least two of the eight domains of the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).  The certification for Ethical Hacker requires two years of experience and passage of a four-hour proctored exam. 

For an entry-level job, your experience can include work in a related field. Certifications can also qualify you for an entry-level position. An acceptable certification for starting a career in cybersecurity is the CompTIA Security +, which provides basic security knowledge.

Other certifications in information security analysis are available along with the CISSP and CEH. Take a look at some of the options:

• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP): This certification, developed by members of the Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking industry, provides the basic and advanced knowledge needed to work in information security.  

• Certified in Risk and Information System Control (CRISC): You’ll need three years of experience to sit for this exam. To receive certification, you’ll need to pass the exam and submit an application with the appropriate fee. 

• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): To qualify for certification, you’ll need to have five years of experience and pass the exam. You'll pay an application fee and an exam fee.

Build cybersecurity skills with Coursera

If you’re interested in starting a career in cybersecurity, consider the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. This programme is great for individuals with no previous experience to find their first job in the field of cybersecurity, all at their own pace. The courses cover topics such as security models, tools that are used to access and address threats, networks, and more.