The Path to Becoming a SOC Analyst

Transitioning into cybersecurity has been an exciting yet challenging experience. Coming from a social work background, I never imagined I would one day dive into the world of networks, security threats, and incident response.

However, my interest in cybersecurity started long before I knew how to break into the field. Without guidance, I had no idea where to start. Instead, I ended up learning Backend Web Development through an internship. While I gained technical skills in Node.js, databases, and APIs, something always felt off—I wasn’t passionate about it.

Cybersecurity, on the other hand, intrigued me. I finally decided to take the leap, and now I’m actively working towards becoming a SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center Analyst). But with so much to learn, I quickly realized that I needed a structured plan to avoid feeling lost or overwhelmed.

Here’s the roadmap I’ve created for myself, which I believe will help anyone else on a similar journey.

Step 1: Introduction to Cybersecurity

Before diving into hands-on skills, I needed to understand what cybersecurity really is and why it’s so important.

I started with Cisco’s Introduction to Cybersecurity course, which gave me an overview of:

✔️The cybersecurity landscape – Understanding modern threats and attacks
✔️ Cybersecurity principles – Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability (CIA)
✔️ Careers in Cybersecurity – Exploring roles like SOC Analyst, Ethical Hacker, and Penetration Tester
✔️ Best practices – The basics of protecting systems and personal data

Completing this course gave me a solid foundation and helped me confirm that this is the right path for me. I also earned a certificate, which serves as a great motivation boost!

Step 2: Mastering Networking Fundamentals

Cybersecurity and networking go hand in hand. A SOC Analyst needs to understand how data moves through a network, how systems communicate, and where vulnerabilities might exist. That’s why networking fundamentals are my next priority.

Here’s what I’m focusing on:

✔️ IP Addressing & Subnetting – Learning how devices communicate in a network
✔️ TCP/IP & OSI Model – Understanding the layers of communication
✔️ Firewalls, VPNs & Network Security – Learning how data is protected
✔️ Hands-on Practice – Using GNS3 for network simulations since I couldn’t install Cisco Packet Tracer

Networking is the backbone of cybersecurity, so I’m making sure to build a strong foundation before moving forward.

Step 3: Learning Linux & Windows Command Line

Most cybersecurity tools and security operations are carried out on Linux and Windows systems. Since I come from a non-tech background, I need to get comfortable with the command line on both operating systems.

I’m focusing on:

✔️ Linux Basics – File permissions, shell scripting, and package management
✔️ Windows PowerShell & CMD – Essential commands for security investigations
✔️ Setting Up Virtual Machines – Practicing in a safe environment

Knowing how to navigate these systems efficiently is a crucial skill for any cybersecurity professional.

Step 4: Understanding Cyber Threats & Incident Response

A SOC Analyst’s job is to monitor and respond to security incidents. That means I need to develop a strong understanding of cyber threats, attack techniques, and incident handling procedures.

I’m diving into:

✔️ Types of Cyber Threats – Phishing, malware, ransomware, insider threats
✔️ Threat Detection – How to identify suspicious activity in networks and systems
✔️ Security Information & Event Management (SIEM) – Learning to analyze logs
✔️ Incident Response – The steps to take when responding to a cyber attack

To make this hands-on, I’m using TryHackMe’s Cyber Threats module to practice real-world security scenarios.

Step 5: Gaining Hands-on Experience & Certifications

In cybersecurity, practical skills matter more than theory. To ensure I’m building real-world skills, I’m incorporating:

✔️ Hands-on labs – Practicing on TryHackMe and Hack The Box
✔️ CTF Challenges – Testing my skills in Capture The Flag competitions
✔️ Certifications – Preparing for CompTIA Security+, which covers fundamental cybersecurity concepts.

This roadmap gives me clarity and direction, ensuring that I stay on track. The journey won’t be easy, but I’m committed to learning and growing.

If you’re also transitioning into cybersecurity, how did you structure your learning path? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!