How much is a computer security analyst get paid on average?
Considering the rising number of cybercrime cases worldwide, it is the right time to kickstart your career as a Computer Security Analyst. The job market is also projected to proliferate for cyber security analysts, suggests the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). According to the BLS, employment for computer security analysts will grow 33% by 2030. It is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying occupations in the United States and Canada.
The U.S. News and World Report has ranked the computer security analyst role as the “Best Job for 2022” because of the demand in the job market, growth potential, and well-paying salary. As per ca.indeed.com, the average salary for a computer security analyst in Canada is CAD 82,243 per year. An entry-level security analyst in Canada makes CAD 79,250 per, while experienced information security professionals earn CAD 86,876 annually.
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Computer security vs. cyber security
Many people often confuse the terms ‘computer security’ and ‘cyber security. In simple words, computer security deals with the security of a computer’s software and hardware. Computer security analysts install software like firewalls to protect computer networks. They plan and carry out security measures to protect laptops, computer networks and systems, and other devices. They keep computer systems and networks updated and properly patched.
On the other hand, cybersecurity deals with the protection of everything that is digitally connected. Cybersecurity analysts mainly protect a computer’s networks, data, and information from cyber-attacks. They also protect data stored in printers and other devices. Cybersecurity analysts create contingency plans, review suspicious activities, and educate office staff on security measures to protect computer networks and data from cyber threats.
However, there is no vast difference between computer security and cybersecurity. Protection of computer systems and data from the risk of tampering and theft is of the utmost importance to businesses worldwide. Businesses must invest in preventive cyber security measures to avoid unexpected data breaches. They can also use serial numbers, locks, and alarms to protect computer hardware.
Roles and responsibilities of computer security analyst
The following are the roles and responsibilities of a computer security analyst working with an organization:
1. Protect information
As a computer security analyst, your primary responsibility is to protect information or any confidential data stored in the computer from being accessed by an unauthorized user. You will be responsible for maintaining a stand-alone system to protect data from anyone stealing or tampering with it.
2. Prevent hackers
In today’s digital world, there are multiple ways to steal or tamper with data stored in a computer system. Computer security analysts prevent hackers from accessing computer systems. These professionals install and update the anti-virus regularly to avoid malware. They also prevent hackers from getting access to accounts with the help of two-way authentication.
3. Update stand-alone systems
Computer security analysts install updates regularly to prevent various cyber attacks. They often update the anti-virus in the computer system to protect it from malware.
A career in computer security pays well and provides numerous opportunities to climb the career ladder. You can enroll in the program now to embark on your journey to becoming a computer security analyst. Sign up now!