Threat Hunter vs. Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

The Battle of the Cybersecurity Roles: Threat Hunter vs Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

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In today's fast-paced world, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand. Organizations are constantly looking for skilled individuals to protect their networks, systems, and data from cyber threats. Two roles that have gained prominence in recent years are Threat Hunter and Cloud Cyber Security Analyst. These roles are critical in ensuring organizations' security posture and protecting them from cyber-attacks. In this article, we will compare these two roles in detail, including their definitions, responsibilities, required skills, educational backgrounds, tools and software used, common industries, outlooks, and practical tips for getting started in these careers.

Definition

Threat Hunter

A Threat Hunter is a cybersecurity professional who proactively searches for and identifies cyber threats that have gone undetected by traditional security measures. A Threat Hunter uses various tools and techniques to analyze data and identify potential threats that could harm an organization's network, systems, or data. Threat Hunters are responsible for identifying and mitigating advanced persistent threats (APTs) and other sophisticated cyber-attacks that could cause significant damage to an organization.

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

A Cloud Cyber Security Analyst is a cybersecurity professional who is responsible for ensuring the security of an organization's cloud infrastructure. Cloud Cyber Security Analysts monitor cloud-based systems, networks, and applications to identify and mitigate potential security risks. They are responsible for implementing and maintaining security controls to protect cloud-based assets from cyber threats.

Responsibilities

Threat Hunter

The primary responsibilities of a Threat Hunter include:

• Conducting advanced threat hunting activities to identify potential security incidents and breaches
• Analyzing data from various sources to identify patterns and indicators of compromise
• Developing and implementing threat hunting strategies and techniques
• Collaborating with other cybersecurity professionals to identify and mitigate potential threats
• Conducting vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify potential Vulnerabilities in systems and networks
• Developing and maintaining Threat intelligence feeds to stay up-to-date on the latest threats and attack techniques

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

The primary responsibilities of a Cloud Cyber Security Analyst include:

• Monitoring cloud-based systems, networks, and applications for potential security incidents and breaches
• Implementing and maintaining security controls to protect cloud-based assets from cyber threats
• Conducting vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify potential Vulnerabilities in cloud-based systems and applications
• Collaborating with other cybersecurity professionals to identify and mitigate potential threats
• Developing and maintaining security policies and procedures for cloud-based systems and applications
• Ensuring Compliance with industry regulations and standards related to cloud security

Required Skills

Threat Hunter

The essential skills required for a Threat Hunter include:

• Knowledge of various cybersecurity frameworks, such as NIST, ISO, and CIS
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of threat hunting techniques and tools, such as SIEM, EDR, and threat intelligence feeds
• Understanding of network protocols, operating systems, and cloud-based environments
• Familiarity with Scripting languages, such as Python and PowerShell
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

The essential skills required for a Cloud Cyber Security Analyst include:

• Knowledge of cloud security frameworks, such as CSA, AWS, and Azure
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Understanding of cloud-based systems and applications, including cloud infrastructure, platforms, and software as a service (SaaS)
• Familiarity with security controls and tools, such as Firewalls, Intrusion detection and prevention systems, and data loss prevention tools
• Knowledge of industry regulations and standards related to cloud security, such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Educational Background

Threat Hunter

A bachelor's degree in Computer Science, cybersecurity, or a related field is typically required for a Threat Hunter role. A master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field can be an advantage. Additionally, certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) can be beneficial.

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is typically required for a Cloud Cyber Security Analyst role. A master's degree in cybersecurity or a related field can be an advantage. Additionally, certifications such as Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), AWS Certified Security – Specialty, and Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate can be beneficial.

Tools and Software Used

Threat Hunter

The tools and software commonly used by Threat Hunters include:

• Security information and event management (SIEM) systems, such as Splunk and IBM QRadar
• Endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools, such as Carbon Black and CrowdStrike
• Threat intelligence feeds, such as AlienVault and Recorded Future
• Network analysis tools, such as Wireshark and tcpdump
• Vulnerability scanning tools, such as Nessus and Qualys
• Scripting languages, such as Python and PowerShell

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

The tools and software commonly used by Cloud Cyber Security Analysts include:

• Cloud security platforms, such as AWS Security Hub and Azure Security Center
• Cloud access security brokers (CASBs), such as Netskope and Symantec CloudSOC
• Cloud-based Firewalls, such as Palo Alto Networks VM-Series and Fortinet FortiGate-VM
• Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS), such as Alert Logic and Snort
• Data loss prevention (DLP) tools, such as McAfee DLP and Symantec DLP

Common Industries

Threat Hunter

Threat Hunters are in demand across various industries, including financial services, healthcare, government, and technology. Any organization that values its security and data Privacy can benefit from the services of a Threat Hunter.

Cloud Cyber Security Analyst

Cloud Cyber Security Analysts are in demand in industries that have adopted cloud-based systems and applications, including technology, healthcare, Finance, and retail. Any organization that uses cloud-based systems and applications can benefit from the services of a Cloud Cyber Security Analyst.

Outlook

The demand for cybersecurity professionals, including Threat Hunters and Cloud Cyber Security Analysts, is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of information security analysts, which includes Threat Hunters and Cloud Cyber Security Analysts, is projected to grow 31 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Practical Tips for Getting Started

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Threat Hunter or Cloud Cyber Security Analyst, here are some practical tips to get started:

• Gain a strong foundation in cybersecurity by obtaining a degree in Computer Science, cybersecurity, or a related field
• Obtain relevant certifications, such as CISSP, CEH, CCSP, and AWS Certified Security – Specialty
• Develop hands-on experience by participating in cybersecurity competitions, working on open-source projects, or interning at a cybersecurity firm
• Stay up-to-date on the latest cybersecurity trends and techniques by attending conferences, reading industry publications, and participating in online forums
• Build a professional network by attending cybersecurity events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other cybersecurity professionals on social media platforms such as LinkedIn

In conclusion, both Threat Hunter and Cloud Cyber Security Analyst roles are critical in protecting organizations from cyber threats. While the roles have some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of their responsibilities, required skills, educational backgrounds, tools, and software used, and common industries. By understanding the differences between these roles and following the practical tips provided, you can choose the role that best suits your interests and skills and build a successful career in cybersecurity.