5 in-demand skills of a SOC Analyst

What should be the top priority for enterprises in the expanding landscape of cyberthreats?

 Setting a security team or finding a SOC analyst with the right skills. 

Strong leadership abilities are a must to build a security operations center or revamp the existing one. A SOC analyst works with a team to fight threats and improve the organization's infrastructure. The Security Operations Analyst preserves the digital assets of an organization. They protect them from unauthorized access and pinpoint security fatigues. 

An organization deploys the latest tools to strengthen the security infrastructure. But a skilled and certified SOC analyst is still needed to operate and analyze the generated data. Often regarded as front-line defenders, they also determine the potency of security protocols. Let us take a look at which skills SOC analysts combat to build a more secure network. 


The most in-demand and top-notch skills of a SOC Analyst:


  1. Network Defenders


Since the network is actively connected to the internet, they are more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. A Security Operations analyst functions as a network defender to monitor, defend, and analyze the network threats that intrude the network via the internet. SOC Analysts install and configure network security protocols. They also perform vulnerability assessments. Implement & configure VPNs and are familiar with security policies, network topology, and other network components. 


  1. Ethical Hacking


Security Operation analysts also function as ethical hackers to safeguard the crucial data in an organization. They identify potential threats and expose vulnerabilities. They also protect the infrastructure from malicious attackers. They must also be proficient in penetration testing such as cracking passwords of social media accounts and emails.  


  1. Incident Response (IR)


SOC analysts follow an IR structured approach to manage the adverse effects of a breach and minimize its impact. They also suggest modifications to the existing security controls for future prevention. A robust IR plan prevents upcoming attacks and synchronizes business operations. A well-built security posture fixes cyber vulnerabilities and minimizes financial & reputational loss within an organization. 


  1. Computer Forensics


Knowledge of computer forensics will help to collect, analyze, and report the data. The SOC analysts implement incident analysis and data retrieval skills to solve cases related to cybercrime, fraud, illegal content, and theft of confidential information. 


  1. Reverse Engineering

SOC analysts must also possess knowledge of malware analysis tools & techniques. They must be confident in intrusion detection, log analysis, and vulnerability management. They comprehend the performance of a software program to patch a bug.


Bottom Line

The roles and responsibilities of a SOC analyst may vary every day. With changing roles, they have to face varying challenges and situations to prevent cyber attacks. They must possess communication skills, analytical skills, and comply with the latest tools & technology. They must possess the skills to determine the inefficiency of software, hardware, and network infrastructure.

Organizations may also opt for a CSA training program that helps to achieve proficiency for SOC analysts to acquire in-demand technical skills. Security Operations analysts can learn about SIEM deployment, log management, and the fundamentals of SOC operations. 


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