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In a YouTube interview, Richard Cassidy of the data security firm
Alert Logic explains that “when they sit at the desk, the first thing
our SOC analyst will do is look at the open cases. They’ve got
very strict SLAs [service-level agreements] by which they have to
respond to our customers and ensure that they review all of the
data in intrinsic detail to make the right decision. Because what
we don’t want to do here . . . is to rely on an automated system.”
DSAs spend a lot of time learning and using security soft-
ware. They use these programs to detect outside intrusions and
track down their source. They also recommend new procedures
to enhance a company’s systems security. This means teaching
employees—one-on-one or in a group setting—how to manage
their devices and computers to protect against data breaches.
Spending on cybersecurity reached $86.4 billion in 2017,
when it was growing at the rate of 7 percent every year. Accord-
ing to St. Mary’s University, a Minnesota school that offers a two-
year master of science degree in cybersecurity, there will be 2
million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2020, meaning there is a
serious shortage of skilled workers in this area.
Despite the shortage, becoming a successful DSA is not easy.
The learning curve is steep in this field, and applicants must show
they’re keeping up with the constant changes and innovations.
Certifications are how applicants for data security jobs show po-
tential employers their level of experience and professionalism.
Staying current and demonstrating such knowledge in the field is
the best way to acquire and keep a data security job.

How Do You Become a

Data Security Analyst?

Education
At most companies, DSAs must hold a college degree in a
computer-related field. Some employers may require advanced
degrees, including a master of science in cybersecurity. Educa-

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