Cybersecurity professionals need to update themselves on a regular basis in order to stay up-to-date with the knowledge of the latest practices in the field of security and risk management.
When it comes to cyber security, having the right certification is key. But with so many different options available, which certification should you choose?
In this blog post, we will outline the best cybersecurity certifications and how they can help you protect your organization from cyber-attacks.
Table of Contents
Introduction to CyberSecurity Certifications
Cybersecurity certifications are credentials earned by IT professionals to show that they have the skills and knowledge to protect computer networks and systems from cyber-attacks. While there are many different types of certifications available, some of the best cybersecurity certifications include:
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- CompTIA Security+
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate – Security (CCNA-Security)
While there are many different types of certifications, they all share one common goal, which is to ensure that those who hold them are capable of safeguarding sensitive information.
In today’s highly connected world, cybersecurity certifications are more important than ever before. With the right certifications, IT professionals can show employers that they have the skills needed to keep their systems and data safe.
In addition, certifications can help individuals stand out in a competitive job market. As the number of certified cybersecurity professionals continues to grow, businesses will have an easier time finding the talent they need to defend against digital threats.
5 Best CyberSecurity Certifications
Cybersecurity certifications are in high demand as organizations become more aware of the importance of protecting their networks and data. Here is a list of seven of the best cyber security certifications:
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP is a certification offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)2. It is one of the most popular and well-recognized certifications in the cybersecurity field.
CISSP certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years through Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the CISSP, candidates must have at least five years of experience in two or more of the ten CISSP domains. Some of those domains include:
- Security
- Management
- Risk Management
- Computer Security
- Operations Management
- Engineering
- Software Testing
- Communication and Network Security
Significance of CISSP
The CISSP certification can help you advance your career by demonstrating your expertise in information security. It can also help you earn a higher salary. According to Payscale.com, the median annual salary for CISSP-certified professionals is $115,000.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The CEH certification is a globally recognized ethical hacking certification. It validates an individual’s ability to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in an organization’s network and systems. The CEH exam covers 18 domains of computer-related knowledge, including but not limited to network security, cryptography, and web application security.
The CEH certification is beneficial for those seeking to enter the infosec field, as well as those who are already working in the core industry.
Eligibility: In order to become certified, individuals must pass a rigorous 4-hour exam.
Significance of CEH
For entry-level candidates, CEH can help you stand out from the crowd and give you the necessary skills to start your career in infosec.
For those already working in infosec, the CEH can help you validate your experience and knowledge, and potentially open up new career opportunities. Therefore, regardless of your level of experience, the CEH certification can help you in your career.
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
The GSEC is a certification offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC). It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of basic cybersecurity concepts.
Earning your GSEC certification demonstrates that you have the skills and knowledge to effectively secure an organization’s data and systems. The GSEC certification is also portable, meaning it is not specific to any one vendor or technology.
This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to build a long-term career in information security. The GSEC certification is also backed by the SANS Institute, a well-respected leader in information security training and education.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the GSEC, candidates must have at least six months of experience in information security.
Significance of GSEC
Earning your GSEC certification can open doors to new job opportunities and help you command a higher salary. It can also give you the confidence to tackle new challenges and take your career to the next level.
CompTIA Security+ Certification
CompTIA Security+ is a certification offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of basic cybersecurity concepts.
It is recognized by the Department of Defense, and it is a requirement for many government and civilian jobs. The Security+ Certification validates your knowledge of security fundamentals, and it demonstrates your commitment to keeping your skills up-to-date.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the CompTIA Security+, candidates must have at least six months of experience in information security.
Significance of CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ Certification is globally recognized, so it can help you to find jobs in other countries. In addition, the Security+ Certification can help you to earn higher salaries. Certified individuals typically earn 10% more than their non-certified counterparts. Therefore, the CompTIA Security+ Certification can help you to advance your career and earn a higher income.
Cisco Certified Network Associate – Security (CCNA-Security)
The CCNA-Security is a certification offered by Cisco Systems. It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of networking and security concepts.
The Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA-Security) is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot network security devices. The CCNA-Security also covers topics such as secure access, VPNs, and intrusion prevention and detection systems.
Eligibility: To be eligible for the CCNA-Security, candidates must have at least one year of experience working with Cisco networking products.
Significance of CCNA
Earning the CCNA-Security certification demonstrates your commitment to network security and can help you stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs. Moreover, many employers require or prefer candidates with CCNA-Security certification, making it a valuable credential to have on your resume. If you’re looking to enter or advance in the field of network security, obtaining your CCNA-Security certification is a great first step.
Additional Certifications
What are the additional cybersecurity certifications that you should consider, or what other certifications should I get for cybersecurity?
Certified in Cybersecurity – CC
The Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) is a new certification offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)2.
Research shows the cybersecurity workforce needs an influx of 2.7 million professionals to meet global demand. That’s where the (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity certification comes in. This new certification creates a clear pathway to an exciting and rewarding career in cybersecurity. It breaks down traditional barriers to entry, enabling you to build confidence and enter your first cybersecurity role ready for what’s next.
Certified Cybersecurity certification candidates include:
- IT professionals
- Career-changers
- College students or recent graduates
- Advanced high school students
- or recent graduates
Those earning the (ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity certification demonstrate they have the foundational knowledge, skills, and abilities to take on entry- and junior-level cybersecurity roles, enabling employers to more confidently build resilient teams across all experience levels.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
A certified information systems auditor or CISA is a credential acquired from the ISACA. ISACA stands for the Information Systems Audit and Control Association and is a respected nonprofit association that focuses on the development of information (IS) knowledge and practices.
This certification verifies your knowledge of security vulnerabilities, creating and deploying controls, and monitoring compliance. A CISA credential can help IT professionals advance into the following careers:
- Compliance project manager
- Cybersecurity auditor
- Information security analyst
- IT audit manager
- IT project manager
- IT security engineer
To qualify for this credential you need five years of experience in IT or IS that was focused on the areas of assurance and control.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
A certified information security manager or CISM is a credential acquired from ISACA as well.
It’s a qualification for cybersecurity professionals looking for ways to improve their skills and land better cybersecurity jobs.
This certification also requires at least five years of work experience (three in information security management before getting the qualification).
However, you can only receive this accreditation if you’ve completed your five years of work experience within ten years before submitting your application.
> Learn more on how to prepare and pass the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) exam.
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) presents you with a series of scenarios that you must hack using multiple exploitations. You then must produce penetration reports describing how you detected and handled the cyber attacks.
This advanced certification, which certifies the skills of ethical hacking and sophisticated penetration testing, can get you a job as a:
- Application security analyst
- Ethical hacker
- Penetration tester
- Threat research
Although there are no formal prerequisites to take the entry-level OSCP, it is advisable to have familiarity with information security systems, Linus, networking as well as various scripts such as Bash, Perl, and Python.
Conclusion
Cyber security certifications demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to protect systems and data from cyber-attacks.
Once you’ve earned your certification, be sure to keep your skills up to date by renewing it every few years and completing any required continuing education units (CEUs), or continuing professional education (CPEs).
Cybersecurity is a rapidly evolving field, so it’s critical to stay up to date on the latest threats and trends. By investing in your professional development, you can help ensure that you’re always ahead of the curve.
__
Thank you for reading my blog.
If you have any questions or feedback, please leave a comment.
-Charbel Nemnom-
