What Does It Take to Become a SOC Analyst?

**Executive summary:** This interview with ReliaQuest's VP of Incident Response outlines what SOC analysts do, recommended pathways into the role (hands-on practice, home labs, CTFs, and passion for security over formal degrees), useful certifications and training, key traits of effective analysts (curiosity, determination, thoroughness), and how ReliaQuest supports analyst growth through training, mentorship, and varied incident exposure.