Data analysis is the art and science of transforming raw data into meaningful and useful information. Historically, businesses use data analysis to monitor their overall performance and to better understand factors that drive that performance, such as customer preferences and purchasing habits. However, data analysis can also aid in identifying cybersecurity threats, risks and incidents, helping businesses become safer and less vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Those interested in working in the high-demand field of cybersecurity can begin their career path by enrolling in the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Cybersecurity program from Florida Institute of Technology. This advanced degree program provides students with the expert knowledge and skills needed to integrate business, data analysis and cybersecurity practices, elevating their performance in high-level positions.
What Are the Challenge and Benefits of Big Data?
Businesses today are awash with data. Estimates suggest that people create over 400 terabytes of data every day, meaning that 90% of the world’s data was generated in the last two years. Many in the industry refer to this massive amount of data as “big data,” a term used for data sets that are so big or complex that they become difficult to capture, process and store.
Because of the proliferation of data and the ever-changing face of technology, along with its accompanying risks, making accurate and timely enterprise-level cybersecurity decisions can be difficult. Although big data can be challenging, the rise of big data analytics offers an immense amount of insight that can drive positive outcomes in areas like business decision-making. The sheer breadth and depth of big data and advanced analytics also present businesses with an almost unlimited capability to proactively monitor and mitigate potential cybersecurity risks and issues.
What Is the Role of Data Analytics in Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity involves protecting digital assets, networks and computers from attack or unauthorized access. As businesses continue to rely on technology and the internet, they also face the increased risk of cybercrime. Due to the constantly evolving nature of technology and related security risks, preventing cybercrime is a challenging responsibility.
Fortunately, data analysis can help cybersecurity professionals identify vulnerabilities and risks that result from the exponential growth of and reliance on technology and the internet. Data analysis can give businesses a comprehensive view of internal and external risks by alerting decision-makers about potential fraud, unusual network traffic patterns, hardware failures and security breaches. It converts data into actionable information, helping businesses advance their cybersecurity measures from a reactive state to a proactive state.
Becoming a Cybersecurity Data Analytics Professional
Data analysis positions typically require advanced competence in disciplines such as mathematics, statistics and computer science. Most analysts have a bachelor’s degree in a related field of study, but those aspiring to cybersecurity leadership roles will benefit from obtaining a specialized degree in cybersecurity, such as Florida Tech’s online MBA in Cybersecurity. This program focuses on the intersection of cybersecurity and business processes, giving students in-depth knowledge and training on how to recognize, evaluate and mitigate a variety of potential threats that can impact operations and the bottom line.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that cybersecurity-related positions will have an extremely favorable job outlook in the coming years. Due to continuous increases in the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, demand for qualified analysts is skyrocketing. BLS estimates that employment of information security analysts will increase 33% from 2023 to 2033, making this occupational group one of the fastest-growing job areas in the U.S.
Gain Expertise to Launch a Cybersecurity Career
Cybersecurity is a complex, technical field. To excel, professionals need advanced skills with targeted cybersecurity solutions and processes, from cutting-edge software tools to evolving computer network security practices.
Additionally, cybersecurity positions that interface with business operations and decision-support systems require substantial knowledge and competencies surrounding business functions and strategy. Those seeking upper-level positions must also develop a deep understanding of management practices and an aptitude for leadership. Students in Florida Tech’s MBA in Cybersecurity online program gain this unique combination of technical, business and leadership-oriented expertise and skills, preparing them to excel in the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online MBA in Cybersecurity program.
