A malware analyst assesses cybersecurity threats, monitors security, and finds new tools to improve network security. They analyze malware and create responses to keep the network secure, and assess a network’s strengths and weaknesses. They may also be involved in larger, longer-term projects and need project management and communication skills.
A malware analyst is someone who assesses cybersecurity threats for an employer. These professionals often spend a lot of time learning about the most common types of viruses, malware, and other harmful technologies, and minimizing the negative impact on a network. In general, the malware analyst provides expertise in rogue software, often referred to as malware, and related resources used by hackers or anyone else trying to harm a website or network. This involves carefully monitoring existing security and finding the best new tools to improve the network’s ability to deal with threats.
Malware analysts often look at bots, worms, Trojans, and other types of malware to find out how they work. These professionals create responses that will keep the network secure. This can include preventive screening with antivirus or malware stoppers, as well as maintaining firewalls or human efforts to isolate and destroy malware.
Many who understand the role of a malware analyst say it includes reverse engineering. Reverse engineering is the process of analyzing a compiled software product and figuring out how it is produced. Malware analysts can do this with malware in order to create the most effective responses.
Besides just running and testing programs, malware analysts can do a lot more for a company. They help assess a network’s strengths and weaknesses. Malware analyst professionals often act as the vanguard of cybersecurity, alerting leadership to the real risks of a network setup. These professionals can also become part of the larger analyst community by writing about malware issues, speaking at technology conferences, or gaining visibility as experts. This often helps both the individual and the employer, and some employers may encourage these external efforts.
The average malware analyst combines elements of a daily malware and virus response with larger, longer-term projects around securing a network. These individuals may be involved in meetings with engineering teams, other technology teams, or leadership about how to go about securing a network or site. Giving presentations about malware and viruses, or even training employees on computer programs like filters, can be part of the job. Malware analysts need to have experience with harmful programs, but they also need to have some project management and communication skills to be effective.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
