In an ever-expanding digital world, a massive amount of information is created every day, and most of it is sensitive data that must be protected. These different types of data, and the devices that store them, can include personally identifying information, files, databases, servers, and clouds. Information security analysts are tasked with safeguarding these assets and protecting them from cyberattacks. Performing these critical functions requires adaptability and expertise. Discover how information security analysts stay on the cutting edge of cybersecurity and learn how you can get started on this exciting career path.

What Does an Information Security Analyst Do?

Because their skills apply to information stored at nearly every company, business, organization, nonprofit, and more, these professionals work at many levels throughout all industries. Their typical work environment is an office setting where they collaborate with other departments and administrators as needed. Some information security analysts may be able to work remotely, especially if their role is focused on cloud computing.

Depending on the specific information security analyst job, responsibilities may vary. However, most roles will need to be adept at information management and prepared to enact the latest cybersecurity practices. Information security analyst job responsibilities typically include risk assessment, identifying vulnerabilities, identifying threats, and incident response planning, according to IBM.¹

• Risk assessment: Explore every facet of the organization’s information systems to determine areas that need security. Enact appropriate security measures for all assets.
• Identifying vulnerabilities: Look for areas where security is weakest, taking the perspective of a potential hacker or cyber threat. Bolster security measures wherever needed.
• Identifying threats: Stay up to date regarding the latest cyberattacks and cyber threats, which can target users, files, programs, servers, and more. Ensure the organization is prepared for these threats.
• Incident response planning: Develop a plan for when security is compromised, and work to minimize damage while preserving evidence for a digital forensic investigation.

Each position will perform the duties listed above, but some information security analyst job descriptions will require additional skills. In fact, several types of information security analysts have distinct responsibilities. For example, a cloud security analyst oversees and maintains security for a company’s use of cloud computing. Cybersecurity and cloud computing have unique and differing characteristics that impact information security analyst jobs.

Other types of information security analysts include application security analysts, compliance analysts, network security analysts, and threat intelligence analysts, according to CareerExplorer.² Each of these roles has specific information security analyst job responsibilities tailored to their position.

• Application security analysts assess software applications (often called apps) to ensure users’ personal information remains secure. They commonly use penetration testing (also called ethical hacking) to explore weaknesses in application security. One example of a software application is Microsoft Word, where users expect their files, user information, and account information to remain private.
• Compliance analysts help an organization remain compliant with rules and regulations applicable to their organization. Healthcare organizations, for example, must have multiple levels of security for patient information, medical records, healthcare systems, and more. They must follow HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which establishes standards for the privacy and security of health information.
• Network security analysts monitor an organization’s network, which encompasses any device that communicates with other devices, such as computers, tablets, smart technology, and other technology. Networks can be local to a specific building or geographic area, or as widespread as college campuses or cities. Information security analysts protect networks with firewalls and monitor networks for security breaches.
• Threat intelligence analysts must stay ahead of emerging cyber threats. They continuously study the latest developments in cybersecurity and remain on the lookout for new cyber attack methods. They proactively address threats to their organization’s cybersecurity while collaborating with organization stakeholders.

Information Security Analyst Salary and Career Outlook

• The cybersecurity field is one of the most rapidly expanding areas of employment growth. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Security Spending Guide, global spending on cybersecurity increased by 12.2% in 2025 and will continue a pattern of steadily increasing.³ By 2028, global security spending is expected to reach $377 billion.³ This widespread growth is fueling vast employment opportunities for information security analysts, especially because security software and services represent the largest and fastest-growing segments of global security.³
• Opportunities for information security analysts in the U.S. follow this global trend. Job openings for these professionals are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations at an impressive 33% from 2023 to 2033, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.⁴ This expansion will lead to about 17,300 openings for information security analysts each year, on average, over the decade.⁴
• Correlating with the rise in global security spending, information security analysts have a median annual wage of $124,910, with a range of $69,660 to $186,420.⁴ Salary potential can be higher depending on years of experience and certifications acquired.

Information Security Analyst Training and Education

If you’d like to become an information security analyst, your first step is acquiring a bachelor’s degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can be an information security analyst with a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a related field, such as cloud computing, information security, or computer science. One example is King University’s B.S. in Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing, which emphasizes cybersecurity management techniques, cloud computing, and systems administration in fully online courses.

As an information security analyst, a degree also boosts advancement potential. This is especially true if your degree includes opportunities for hands-on practice as you learn how to use the latest cybersecurity technology. You can transfer this knowledge to your work immediately and build real-world knowledge to target your ideal career. In King University’s program, coursework includes the opportunity to apply a cybersecurity framework, practice computer forensics techniques, and more.

Information Security Analyst Certification

For an information security analyst, certification is crucial because it sharpens your skills for specific roles and shows employers that you’re committed to staying on the cutting edge of the field. Certifications also allow you to expand your resume and can increase your salary potential. Some are even required depending on the position you’re in. Common information security analyst certifications, according to Indeed, include the following.⁵

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Security Analyst
• CompTIA ‘s Advanced Cybersecurity Practitioner, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network+, and Security+
• Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) Information Security Fundamentals

Take the Next Step Toward Your Information Security Analyst Degree Today

Are you ready to pursue an information security analyst job in which you protect digital assets and thwart cyber criminals? Set yourself up for success with King University’s online B.S. in Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing. The program is designed for individuals with some college credit who seek to finish their bachelor’s degree and tailored for IT professionals who wish to enter positions of management or administration within their organizations. The degree is offered 100% online, so you can maintain your commitments as you study. Get started today, and graduate in 16 months ready to enter or advance in your cybersecurity career.

Sources

1. IBM. “What Is Information Security (InfoSec)?” July 26, 2024. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.ibm.com/think/topics/information-security.
2. CareerExplorer. “What Does an Information Security Analyst Do?” Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/information-security-analyst/.
3. International Data Corporation (IDC). “Worldwide Security Spending to Increase by 12.2% in 2025 as Global Cyberthreats Rise, Says IDC.” March 21, 2025. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://my.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prEUR253264525.
4. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. Occupational Outlook Handbook. “Information Security Analysts.” April 18, 2025. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm.
5. Indeed. “10 Cybersecurity Analyst Certifications You Can Pursue.” March 26, 2025. Retrieved July 9, 2025, from https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/cyber-security-analyst-certification.