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The year is almost 2024 – time to make a bold career change into the lucrative and in-demand field of cyber security. If you’ve ever dreamed of quitting your dead-end 9-5 job for a flexible remote role where you get paid well over $100k per year, then becoming a cyber security analyst is the perfect opportunity for you.
In this post, I’m going to share the step-by-step blueprint for how to get your first cyber security analyst job in as little as 6 months, even if you have no prior technical experience. By the end, you’ll understand exactly what skills and certifications are needed, and have a proven path to get you working as an analyst by this time next year.
 What is a Cyber Security Analyst?
One of the first things many people wonder is – what exactly does a cyber security analyst do? In simple terms, analysts act as the defenders and guardians of a company’s sensitive data and IT infrastructure. Their primary role involves monitoring systems, applications and network traffic for any irregularities or potential security threats.
If anomalies are detected, analysts will investigate further to determine the root cause and severity. This could involve digging into logs, reviewing network configurations or even interacting with potential threats through safe sandbox environments. The goal is to identify risks as early as possible and ensure sensitive data remains protected from both external and internal threats.
Key Skills Needed
To succeed as an analyst, there are three core skills and bodies of knowledge you’ll need to develop:
1. Computer Skills – You’ll need a strong understanding of how operating systems, applications and networks function at a technical level. Experience with scripting, programming and cyber security tools is a big plus.
2. Networking Fundamentals – Grasping networking protocols, infrastructure, cloud architectures and common vulnerabilities is critical for threat detection and mitigation.
3. Cyber Security Principles – Knowledge of concepts like the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity and availability), basic risk assessments, compliance and security best practices will allow you to think like a security professional.
Building these core analytical and technical competencies is the first step to a career in the field. The good news is you don’t need a technical degree – this knowledge can be self-taught with the right training resources.
 Getting Qualified with Certifications
Certifications are the quickest way to validate your skills and stand out to hiring managers. Here are a few of the top certs to pursue:
– CompTIA Security+ – A foundational certification covering network security, compliance and operational security. Highly recommended for beginners.
– Cisco Cybersecurity Associate – Validates hands-on skills in security concepts, technologies and best practices from a leading vendor perspective.
– Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – The prestigious ‘gold standard’ that shows mastery of a wide range of security domains. Aim for this one year in.
Getting certified demonstrates your commitment and ability to learn on your own – employers will take notice. Aim for at least one certification within your first 6 months of study to make yourself job ready.
 Online Training Platforms
Hands-on self-paced learning is the quickest way to absorb technical skills. Here are the top platforms for cyber security training:
– Coursera – Offers fundamental security courses from vendors lik noe Google, Cisco and CompTIA to kickstart your skills.
– Udemy – Hundreds of in-depth video courses on specific security tools, technologies and cert exam prep for all skill levels and interests.
– Cybrary – Free hands-on labs and courses structured around different security roles to explore specializations. Offers mentorship too.
– Pluralsight – Subscriptions include wide range of courses on network security, cloud security and red/blue teaming plus skill assessments.
Take advantage of trial offers and Coursera/Udemy sales to craft an immersive learning plan at a low cost. Aim to finish 2-3 courses within 6 months for well-rounded skills.
 Getting Hired
With the right certifications and practical skills under your belt after 6 months, you’ll be ready to land interviews. A few final tips:
– Update your resume and LinkedIn profile highlighting your new skills and understanding of the field.
– Leverage your personal and professional networks to find referrals and openings. Cold applications work too.
– Prepare for behavioral interviews by practicing common scenarios and questions involving risk assessments, IT troubleshooting, and security threats you’ve mitigated.
– Consider freelance analyst gigs on platforms like Upwork to gain paid experience if needed.
– Stay current by reading security news and blogs – you’ll ace technical questions better.
With dedication and focus, you have the power to transform your career path within a year. Take action starting today – the future you will thank yourself!
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