Our world is becoming increasingly digitised, meaning sensitive information is at a higher risk due of cybercrime. Organisations need people to monitor and audit a company’s existing system for breaches; this is where a SOC analyst comes in.
What is an SOC Analyst?
A Security Operations Center analyst (SOC) is a person who works on a team to monitor, analyse and respond to security issues. Their main aim is to prevent attacks on a network by monitoring and auditing the company’s systems. SOC Analysts also work with other departments such as human resources or sales to ensure wider businesses systems are secure.
What does a SOC Analyst do?
A SOC Analyst is the front line of a company’s cyber defences. This includes activities such as performing threat analysis and penetration testing, to preparing and validating disaster recovery plans. They are recognised as experts in the field of cybersecurity.
Typically SOC analysts collaborate within a broader team that encompasses threat intelligence, information security analysis and incident response.
Each team member contributes unique skills and responsibilities to develop a robust cybersecurity defence strategy. In order to succeed as a SOC analyst you need to be able to understand your position and be prepared to offer additional insights.
Skills required to be a SOC Analyst
Here are five key skills a SOC Analyst should have to succeed in the cybersecurity industry.
- Programming skills
It is useful for SOC analysts to know programming languages as they often work with cybersecurity engineers and security experts to devise threat mitigation strategies.
- Strong fundamental skills
A strong understanding of network protocols, systems and IT infrastructure is crucial. Technology solutions are constantly evolving, so being able to adapt quickly to changing threat scenarios is valuable.
- Communication and collaboration
Effective and concise communication is essential, particularly as SOC analysts work closely with their team members and other security professionals. Empathy, emotional intelligence and motivation are needed to accomplish and manage challenging tasks whilst keeping everyone updated.
- Ethical hacking skills
SOC analysts must demonstrate ethical hacking and pen-testing skills to detect, identify and mitigate threats.
- Incident handling and documentation
Incident handling and response measures can be unpredictable, requiring SOC analysts to develop effective data backup and maintain recovery plans. They must report incidents to key stakeholders within the organisation and prioritise addressing security challenges.
How to become a SOC analyst
To become a SOC analyst, a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is usually required, although if you have lots of experience in the same field you may be able to forego the degree. Training programs from credible institutions are also required to get certified.
Get a degree
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information security or a related field is a good starting point for a SOC analyst role.
Earn certifications
On completion of a degree, explore various training programs by credible institutions to become a certified SOC Analyst (CSA). Other useful certifications include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA Security and GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst certifications.
Hone your skills
A SOC analyst needs to excel not only in technical skills related to security technologies but also have soft skills such as proactive problem-solving.
Gain experience
Honing your skills and working your way up from entry-level positions such as security analysts or network administrators can help you secure more senior positions.
There are three SOC analyst tiers:
Tier 1 SOC analyst
Tier 1 analysts are responsible for monitoring security alerts in real time, analysing the associated threats, and escalating incidents to the appropriate teams for remediation. This role requires basic technical, administrative and analytical skills to proactively identify and report incidents.
Tier 2 SOC analyst
Tier 2 analysts are equipped with more experience, knowledge, and additional training. They are responsible for investigating security incidents, analysing root causes, and resolving incidents. They also provide feedback for further improvements
Tier 3 SOC analyst
These senior analysts are the most experienced in the hierarchy. They handle critical security issues that Tier 2 analysts cannot resolve, which may involve accessing logs, conducting network forensics, and developing strategies for security and risk management.
Becoming a certified SOC analyst is a rewarding cybersecurity career putting you as a front-line defender from emerging cyber threats. Are you ready to step into a career in cyber security? Check out our current cyber security vacancies available across the UK and find your match!
