Like many other fields in the IT industry, forensic computer analysts also have a fairly good pay scale and reputation. Individuals associated with this field work in a wide variety of areas ranging from government platforms to private sector companies.

If you have all the prerequisites, you can also become a successful forensic computer analyst. However, the process is not as simple. You need special skills and qualifications that are not learnt overnight.

Let us tell you more about the requirements to become a forensic computer analyst!

What is a Forensic Computer Analyst?

Usually, forensic computer analysts work individually from office. However, they sometimes work with teams as well. It depends on the nature and requirements of the task being done. A person serving as a forensic computer analyst develops and implements strategies to recover encrypted data from different devices such as computers, smartphones, etc.

The information is then analyzed and brought back to its original state. The task requires extraordinary skills and a huge amount of commitment. Later, the same information is used for legal and security purposes.

The post has a high value in defense and military where information is being retrieved and used for investigative purposes regularly.

Normally, the day-to-day tasks of a forensic computer analyst include the following.

• Use forensic tools and methods to retrieve electronic data
• Use their skills to find hidden, lost, or deleted data
• Assist detectives and other related individuals and teams in analyzing and evaluating the recovered data
• Organize the collected information in a clear format to send out to relevant officials

Career Requirements to become a Forensic Computer Analyst

Educational Requirements

A 4-year Degree Program

A bachelor’s degree with majors related to information technology is a must for a forensic computer analyst. Without this, your chances of getting a job in this area are close to zero. However, professionals say that degrees in criminal justice and accounting also help but since you will be working majorly on computers, IT subjects are ideal.

There are also specialized degree programs in computer forensics that increase the chances of you becoming a forensic computer analyst. Although getting a degree will help, it is not enough. You will be required to learn a lot of skills after graduating.

Certifications 

For many employers, it is not enough to have a bachelor’s degree only. They expect you to undergo training, certifications, or a cybersecurity bootcamp to polish your skills and enhance your knowledge of the given area. The initial investment to get the certification might be high but in the long run, it is going to benefit your professional life by a great deal.

Here are some of the biggest certifications designed for forensic computer analysts.

• Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)
• Certified Computer Examiner (CCE)
• Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)

These certifications add unlimited value to your resume’ and it is most likely to be prioritized by hirers.

Other Requirements

Technical Skills

It is basic for any field in the IT industry. When it comes to computer forensics, it is highly necessary because you are required to work on various technologies. The technologies are not only confined to mobiles and computers. There are multiple other devices you are exposed to so having know-how before you step in the industry is in your best interest.

Knowledge of Law and Criminal Investigation

A strong grip on law and criminal investigations is just as important as being familiar with different types of technologies. Forensic computer analysts tend to work on various kinds of crimes so you should make efforts to enhance your investigation skills whenever you get the chance. Only then can you survive in the industry because the job is all about using technology to investigate crimes.

Cybersecurity Basics

Cybersecurity and forensics are closely connected. While you are learning new forensic techniques, learning about cybersecurity will further help you understand the job and its scope. It will help you in sorting out modern-age crimes that are being done through the internet. Individuals with a good knowledge of cybersecurity always have an edge over their competitors.

Many courses designed for computer forensics have a special component revolving around cybersecurity so you can well imagine its importance

Analytical Skills

Your analytical skills must be impressive to be able to qualify as a forensics computer analyst. A major portion of your time as a forensics professional is spent on investigating and analyzing data and evidence. This plays a crucial role in developing your ability to successfully solve crimes of different natures.

We believe you should have a natural aptitude for such skills as it affects the quality of any work you do.

Ability to Take Challenge

The job is full of challenges and you can turn a blind eye to any of them as you are the one to tackle these challenges and solve the issue being handled. You should be prepared for highs and lows because there are times when it seems there is no solution to the problem being handled.

During such situations, you should be able to stay composed and confident, instead of excessively worrying about the situation and brushing it aside.

How to Build Computer Forensics Skills?

Many skills are learned through degrees and certifications, but learning is an ongoing process in any field. Soft skills such as communication and analytical skills are naturally there but you must make efforts to enhance them.

For this, you will need to experience things first-hand. For example, there are major life events that improve such skills in one way or the other. There are multiple tests on the internet specifically designed to improve critical thinking and analytic skills by putting some hypothetical situations in front of you.

The key is to keep your mind and eyes open in every situation and take time to analyze it.

Observing your seniors and coworkers doing their job is also a great way to introduce yourself to these skills. Feel free to ask questions and volunteer to help whenever and wherever you can.

Conclusion

Computer forensics is a popular field and somewhat hard to get in. However, the job is totally for you if you have all the prerequisites mentioned in this article.

Our advice? You should not hesitate to learn skills even if you are at a mature stage of the job.