Becoming a SOC analyst: What you need to know

• Programming skills (such as Python, PowerShell, Bash, SQL, Perl) enable SOC analysts to automate repetitive tasks like log analysis and threat detection, thereby improving efficiency.
• Custom security tools can be created or modified by analysts to suit particular security environments and requirements.
• Understanding programming helps in analyzing malicious code, identifying vulnerabilities, and responding to sophisticated attacks.

• The ability to identify anomalous behavior from a variety of log sources, including servers, firewalls, network devices, and apps.
• Familiarity with log aggregation tools like Graylog, Elasticsearch, or Kibana.

• Strong knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SMTP) and the data flow that occurs within a network.
• Ability to analyze network traffic and detect anomalies using tools like Wireshark or tcpdump.

• Proficiency in using SIEM platforms to collect, correlate, and analyze security data.
• Knowledge about how to set up IDS/IPS and keep an eye out for malicious activities.

• The ability to use threat intelligence platforms and feeds (such as VirusTotal and AlienVault OTX) to find possible threats.
• Experience with threat hunting (i.e., proactively searching for advanced threats not detected by automated tools).

• Knowledge of PowerShell, security policies, Windows event logs, Linux file systems, syslog, security configurations, and macOS security features.
• Proficiency in using EDR solutions to detect and respond to threats on endpoints (workstations, servers, mobile devices).

• Familiarity with the types, characteristics, and indications of compromise of malware.
• Employing tools such as Cuckoo Sandbox, Remnux, or Hybrid Analysis for basic malware analysis.

• Knowledge and hands-on experience on the incident response life cycle (preparation, detection, containment, eradication, recovery).

• Digital forensics fundamentals, such as file system comprehension, RAM dump analysis, and data recovery.

• Knowledge about how to manage and monitor permissions, authentication, and access controls using IAM tools and concepts.
• Familiarity with privileged access management (PAM), identity providers such as Okta or Azure AD, and multi-factor authentication (MFA).

• Familiarity with cloud infrastructure (AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud) and best practices for cloud workload security.
• Knowledge of cloud security monitoring programs such as Google Chronicle, Azure Security Center, or AWS CloudTrail.

• Familiarity with vulnerability scanners (Nessus, OpenVAS, Qualys) and how to analyze vulnerabilities in systems.
• An understanding of encryption technologies (SSL/TLS, PKI, AES) and how they secure data in transit and at rest.
• Familiarity with firewall setups and rules (e.g., Cisco ASA, Palo Alto, Fortinet).
• Knowledge of remote access security and VPN technology.
• Familiarity with security frameworks such as NIST Cybersecurity Framework, ISO 27001, or MITRE ATT&CK is often required or highly beneficial.

Beginners or those entering the field of cybersecurity will find these certifications helpful.

• CompTIA Security+: Network security, threat management, risk management, and security principles are all covered in this foundational cybersecurity certification.
• Certified SOC Analyst: Addresses SIEM platform management, incident detection, triaging, and monitoring and analysis.
• CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity analyst): Focuses on using a range of security monitoring and analysis tools to detect, analyze, and respond to threats.
• EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker: While more focused on offensive security, this certification provides an understanding of hacking techniques that can help SOC analysts defend systems better.
• Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate: With an emphasis on SOC-related competencies—including incident response, network intrusion analysis, and security monitoring—this certification is especially made for entry-level cybersecurity employees.

Professionals with some experience who wish to improve their technical proficiency can choose these certificates.

• GIAC Certified Incident Handler: This certification focuses on applying industry-standard methods and procedures to identify, address, and resolve security incidents.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional: The well-known CISSP exam covers a wide range of cybersecurity subjects, including risk management, network security, and incident response.
• Certified Information Security Manager: Managing information security operations and coordinating security plans with corporate goals are the main topics of this certification.

These are for professionals aiming for specialized or senior SOC analyst roles.

• GIAC Security Essentials: Covers essential information security skills, including incident handling, defense against cyber threats, and network security.
• GIAC Certified SOC Analyst: Emphasizes SOC analyst competencies such as threat identification with SIEM tools, log analysis, incident detection, and security monitoring.
• GIAC Certified Intrusion Analyst: SOC analysts need to be proficient in network intrusion detection, packet analysis, and traffic patterns, all of which are covered in this certification.

With organizations migrating to the cloud, cloud security is becoming increasingly crucial for SOC analysts, and these certifications will help.

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate: Focuses on putting security measures, incident response, and threat prevention into practice in Microsoft Azure systems.
• AWS Certified Security – Specialty: Discusses data protection, incident response, and monitoring as well as security recommended practices for AWS systems.
• Google Professional Cloud Security Engineer: Focuses on security best practices and compliance in Google Cloud environments.

• EC-Council Certified Incident Handler: Focuses on the incident response process, including how to handle, mitigate, and recover from security incidents.

SOC analysts can strengthen their defenses against threats by having a deeper understanding of offensive security.

• Offensive Security Certified Professional: A hands-on certification in penetration testing and ethical hacking, which provides insight into attack techniques used by hackers.
• EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester: Focuses on advanced penetration testing techniques and methodologies.