Knowledge, Skills, and Other Requirements:

Education: A college degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field is often preferred but not always required.

Certifications: Common certifications include CompTIA Security$+,$ Certified Information Systems Security Professional $($CISSP$),$ and Certified Ethical Hacker $($CEH$).$

Experience: Entry$-$level positions may require $1-2$ years of experience in IT or cybersecurity. Internships and hands$-$on projects can also be beneficial.

Skills: Proficiency in network security, threat analysis, incident response, and familiarity with security tools like SIEM $($Security Information and Event Management$)$ systems.

Career Pathway:

The career pathway for a Cyber Defense Analyst typically involves:

Networking: Understanding network protocols and security measures.

Systems Engineering: Knowledge of system architecture and security configurations.

Risk Analysis: Identifying and mitigating potential security risks.

Forensics: Investigating security breaches and understanding attack vectors.

Job Level:

This job is generally considered entry$-$level to mid$-$level. The requirement of $1-2$ years of experience and foundational certifications indicates it is accessible to those new to the field but with some relevant background.;