How to Become a Forensic Computer Analyst
What Is a Forensic Computer Analyst?
A forensic computer analyst is an expert who deals with analysis of digital devices in order to find incidences of computer crimes. Consider them the detectives of the technological world. They use various tools and techniques to extract information from computers, smart phones and networks. Their work sometimes includes sorting files, emails and even deleted data to get important information.
The services of these analysts are very valuable in legal cases where the law enforcement and lawyers need to know what transpired in cyber crimes. They are required to be very precise and knowledgeable about the functioning of technology. It is one thing to locate evidence and quite another to make sure that the evidence will stand scrutiny in a court of law.
Step 1: Complete Your Degree
You will need to have a good academic background in order to become a forensic computer analyst. The majority of the people that works in this field have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or any other related field. These degrees provide the necessary skills in the technical aspects of computer science.
Several of analysts also get certification which include Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). This may help to improve one’s employment opportunities and is proof of the individual’s capabilities in forensic analysis. There are cases when a master degree is a must, particularly when the job opening is for a high-ranking position in the law enforcement or private investigation departments. In this exciting career, it is therefore important to have the right education, practical experience and update oneself constantly in the technology field.
Step 2: Do You Need a Certification?
It is important to get the right certifications to enhance your credibility as a forensic computer analyst. There is none more popular than the Certified Computer Examiner (CCE) which proves your competence to perform computer based evidence examination. Another certification that can be of benefit is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) which focuses on fundamental security principles that are important to any forensic investigation.
Similarly, the following certifications are also widely accepted in the field: EnCase Certified Examiner (EnCE) and GIAC Certified Forensic Analyst (GCFA). These certifications prove your skills in using particular forensic tools and techniques.
While these certificates are not always necessary, they can be helpful in the job search process and let the employers know that you are serious about your career growth.
Step 3: Learn About Forensic Computer Analyst Salaries
The salary of a forensic computer analyst also varies depending on the experience, location, and the industry being worked in. entry level jobs can get a salary of between $50,000 to $70,000 per year. The salary of analysts increases as they become more experienced and proficient in their work, sometimes tenfold. Mid-level professionals can expect to earn an average of $70,000 to $100,000 a year.
Salaries may go up to $100,000 or more for those in the senior positions or those working in areas of specializations such as law enforcement or cybersecurity companies. This is because working in big cities or tech hubs can attract a higher salary because of the high cost of living and the competition for employees. In general, a career in forensic analysis not only provides an opportunity to be involved in intriguing work but also an opportunity to earn a good salary.
Step 4: Find a Forensic Computer Analyst Job
If you want to find a job in forensic computer analysis then there are better places to start looking. First of all, you can turn to sites like Indeed, LinkedIn and Monster, where you can search for the positions that are relevant to your skills and location. These platforms help the user to create alerts that notify him or her whenever there are new job listings and this makes the search easier.
Networking is also very effective in this regard as well. These include attending industry conferences, workshops or local meetups to meet with people who are already working in this sector. It is also important to note that joining forums and groups that are focused on cybersecurity can act as a source of information on job Vacancies.
It is also important to look for government agencies, law enforcement agencies and other private cybersecurity companies as they always require forensic analysts to join their teams. Finally, do not forget about your university career services, which may have some contacts with the companies that are interested in recruiting new employees.