How much does a information security analyst make?

The median pay is $62.11 per hour — roughly $129,000 a year, with the real range running from about $36.10/hr (10th percentile) to $96.08/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a information security analyst?

The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

What does a information security analyst actually do all day?

Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs. Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems. Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.

Computing & IT◆ PROMISING

Information Security Analysts

Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses.

What it pays
Information Security Analysts earn a median of $62.11/hr — about $129,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $36.10/hr; the top 10% earn $96.08/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)

What you'd actually do

Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs.
Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems.
Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.
Perform risk assessments and execute tests of data processing system to ensure functioning of data processing activities and security measures.
Modify computer security files to incorporate new software, correct errors, or change individual access status.
Review violations of computer security procedures and discuss procedures with violators to ensure violations are not repeated.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

The feel of the work

The work splits time indoors and out. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0.6% of information security analysts are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are organized and detail-focused, analytical and hands-on.

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Quick questions

How much does a information security analyst make?: The median pay is $62.11 per hour — roughly $129,000 a year, with the real range running from about $36.10/hr (10th percentile) to $96.08/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do you need a degree to be a information security analyst?: The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
What does a information security analyst actually do all day?: Develop plans to safeguard computer files against accidental or unauthorized modification, destruction, or disclosure and to meet emergency data processing needs. Monitor current reports of computer viruses to determine when to update virus protection systems. Encrypt data transmissions and erect firewalls to conceal confidential information as it is being transmitted and to keep out tainted digital transfers.

Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS. Tasks & interests: O*NET. Career pathways shown in the app are draft archetypes — verify before relying on them. Trailhead is a free career guide for students — honest numbers, no hype.

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