In today’s digital world, where technology has become an integral part of our lives, cybersecurity has become crucial to ensure the protection of sensitive information and prevent cyber attacks. Cyber attacks can cause significant damage to individuals, organizations, and even governments, leading to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.
Cybersecurity certifications are essential for professionals who want to specialize in the field of cybersecurity. These certifications demonstrate that a person has the necessary knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage secure systems and networks. They also show that a person is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest developments and trends in the cybersecurity industry.
In addition, cybersecurity certifications are becoming increasingly important for organizations. Companies need to demonstrate to their customers, partners, and stakeholders that they have implemented the necessary security measures to protect their data and assets. Having certified cybersecurity professionals on their team provides organizations with the assurance that they have the necessary expertise to address cybersecurity challenges and mitigate potential risks.
So, let’s begin with the top cybersecurity certifications that will help you develop a better career.
Top 10 Cybersecurity Certifications
Below are some of the top and most valuable cybersecurity certifications.
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Information security executives who comprehend cybersecurity strategy and practical implementation are rewarded with the CISSP (Certified Information Security Systems Professional) credential. It demonstrates that you have the skills and expertise necessary to plan, create, and oversee an organization’s comprehensive security posture.
Using CISSP you can verify that you have what it takes to successfully plan, carry out, and oversee a top-notch cybersecurity program. By obtaining a CISSP, you can prove your knowledge and join (ISC)2, giving you access to a wide range of valuable resources, learning opportunities, and networking possibilities.
CISSP-certified cybersecurity specialists are among the most in-demand security professionals worldwide. According to our most recent statistics, the estimated global average CISSP salary is $92,639.
Related Job Roles:
The CISSP is perfect for professionals in the following professions who want to demonstrate their understanding of a broad range of security techniques and concepts, including experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives:
- Chief Information Security Officer
- Director of Security
- IT Director/Manager
- Security Systems Engineer
- Security Analyst
- Chief Information Officer
- Security Manager
- Security Auditor
- Network Architect
- Security Architect
- Security Consultant
Exam Details:
- Number of items: 125-175
- Time: 4 Hours
- Passing Score: 700
- Cost: U.S. $749
2. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
As an ANSI 17024 test, the EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Exam undergoes comprehensive external validation to guarantee that it is fair for the knowledge and experience levels of our certification challengers. Candidates taking the test should be well-versed in computer systems, networks, and a range of other IT issues, with the guideline of 2 years of experience in IT Security or official training.
Cut-Scores, which are meticulously defined by psychometricians who routinely assess test question performance and average pass/fail outcomes during the life of the program, is used by the examination itself to determine pass/fail results.
In most situations, cybersecurity specialists are compensated extraordinarily well, taking into account the worldwide demand and scarcity of competent people in the workforce. A quick search for employment based in the United States as of August 2022 reveals that Certified Ethical Hackers earned an average of $103,866 per year, with the 90th percentile earning more than $130,000.
Security officers, auditors, security experts, site administrators, and anybody else concerned about the integrity of the network infrastructure can greatly benefit from the Certified Ethical Hacking training course.
Exam Details:
- Exam Pass rate: 60%-80%
- Number of questions: 125 multiple-choice questions
- Time: 4 hours
3. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+ (CySA+)
Through the use of behavioral analytics on networks and devices, the CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) IT workforce certification can prevent, identify, and counteract cybersecurity threats.
In addition to emphasizing network traffic findings, proactive network traffic capture, monitoring, and response, CySA+ also places an emphasis on software and application security, automation, threat hunting, and IT regulatory compliance, all of which have an impact on security analysts’ day-to-day work.
Threat intelligence analysts, application security analysts, compliance analysts, incident responders/handlers, and threat hunters employ the most recent core security analyst skills and forthcoming job skills covered by CySA+ to battle threats both within and outside the Security Operations Center (SOC).
CySA+ will confirm that the chosen applicant possesses the knowledge and abilities necessary to:
- Utilize threat detection and intelligence techniques.
- Interpret and analyze data.
- Determine your weaknesses and fix them.
- Offer suggestions for defenses.
- Effectively deal with events and recover from them.
Knowledge required:
It is good to have Network+, Security+, or equivalent knowledge. And, a minimum of 4 years of hands-on information security experience.
Related Job Roles:
- Security analyst
- Threat intelligence analyst
- Security Engineer
- Application security analyst
- Incident response or handler
- Compliance Analyst
- Threat hunter
Exam Details:
- Number of Questions: 85 questions
- Type of Questions: Multiple choice and performance-based
- Length of Test: 165 minutes
- Passing Score: 750 (on a scale of 100-900)
- Price: $392 USD
4. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
The CCSP is perfect for IT and information security executives who want to demonstrate their knowledge of cybersecurity and protect crucial cloud assets. You can develop, administer, and protect data, apps, and infrastructure on the cloud, demonstrating that you have the advanced technical abilities and knowledge necessary.
The (ISC)2 CCSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK®) is divided into six domains, and applicants must pass the test and have at least five years of cumulative, paid job experience in information technology, of which three years must be in information security, in order to be eligible for the CCSP.
The CCSP is appropriate for IT and information security executives, such as those in the following positions, who are in charge of implementing best practices to cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration:
- Cloud Architect
- Cloud Engineer
- Auditor of Cloud Computing Services
- Cloud Consultant
- Cloud Administrator
- Professional Cloud Developer
- Cloud Security Analyst
- Cloud Specialist
Exam Details:
- Number of Questions: 150
- Time: 4 Hours
- Passing Score: 700
- Cost: U.S. $599
5. CompTIA PenTest+
The most thorough exam, encompassing every level of penetration testing, is CompTIA PenTest+. PenTest+ employs both performance-based and knowledge-based questions to ensure that all stages are covered, in contrast to other penetration testing tests that only cover a section of stages with essay questions and hands-on. In order to examine the network’s resilience to assaults, PenTest+ evaluates the most recent techniques for penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and management. Successful applicants will be able to demonstrate that they possess the knowledge and abilities necessary to:
- Plan and define the scope of a penetration testing project.
- Recognize the requirements for conformity with the law.
- Utilize the proper tools and procedures to do vulnerability scanning and penetration testing, and then examine the results.
- Create a written report outlining suggested repair methods, effectively inform the management team of the findings, and offer useful advice.
Knowledge required:
- Network+, Security+, or comparable expertise.
- A minimum of 3–4 years of relevant experience, including information security.
- PenTest+ has a technical, hands-on focus and is meant to follow CompTIA Security+ or related expertise, while there is no requirement.
Related Job Roles:
- Penetration Tester
- Security Consultant
- Cloud Penetration Tester
- Web App Penetration Tester
- Cloud Security Specialist
- Network & Security Specialist
Exam Details:
- Number of Questions: 85 questions
- Type of Questions: Performance-based and multiple choice
- Length of Test: 165 minutes
- Passing Score: 750 (on a scale of 100-900)
- Price: $392 USD
6. Certificate of Cloud Security Knowledge (CCSK)
The CCSK certificate provides you with a comprehensive and vendor-neutral grasp of how to safeguard data in the cloud and is widely regarded as the standard of competence for cloud security. You can earn additional cloud credentials that are necessary for certain vendors or job positions by starting with the CCSK credential.
By earning the CCSK, you’ll have the knowledge necessary to establish a comprehensive cloud security program that adheres to widely recognized standards. It covers important topics including SecaaS, safeguarding new technologies, application security, data encryption, cloud incident response, IAM best practices, and more.
Related Job Roles:
- Cybersecurity analysts
- Security Engineers
- Security Architects
- Enterprise Architects
- Security Administrators
- Compliance Managers
- Security Consultants
- Systems Engineers
- CISOs
Exam Details:
- The CCSK is a 90-minute, open-book, online test that consists of 60 multiple-choice questions drawn at random from the CCSK question bank.
- You get two test tries after paying $395 for the exam, and you have two years to use them.
- 80% is the cutoff percentage for passing.
7. CompTIA Security+
The worldwide certification CompTIA Security+ verifies the foundational competencies required to carry out fundamental security tasks and pursue a career in IT security.
CompTIA Security+ establishes the fundamental skills necessary for any cybersecurity position and serves as a launching pad for cybersecurity employment at the intermediate level. Best practices for practical troubleshooting are incorporated into Security+, ensuring that candidates have the abilities to:
- Determining the enterprise environment’s security status, then suggest and execute the best security measures.
- Monitoring and securing Cloud, mobile, and IoT hybrid environments.
- Operating with an understanding of the relevant laws and regulations, including the governance, risk, and compliance concepts.
- Examining security issues and occurrences.
Knowledge Area:
- It is recommended to have two years of security-focused IT administration experience and the CompTIA Network+ certification
Related Job Roles:
- Security Administrator
- Systems Administrator
- Helpdesk Manager / Analyst
- Network / Cloud Engineer
- Security Engineer / Analyst
- DevOps / Software Developer
- IT Auditors
- IT Project Manager
Exam Details:
- Number of Questions: 90 questions
- Type of Questions: Multiple choice and performance-based
- Length of Test: 90 minutes
- Passing Score: 750 (on a scale of 100-900)
- Price: $392 USD
8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
For security architects and senior security engineers responsible for directing and enhancing an enterprise’s cybersecurity readiness, CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) is an advanced-level cybersecurity credential. CASP+ is an advanced-level cybersecurity certification that evaluates a candidate’s technical proficiency in security architecture and senior security engineering in traditional, cloud, and hybrid environments, as well as their knowledge of governance, risk management, and compliance. This also assesses a candidate’s ability to assess an organization’s cybersecurity readiness and to manage technical teams in the implementation of enterprise-wide cybersecurity solutions. Candidates that are successful will be knowledgeable enough to:
- Support a resilient enterprise, architect, engineer, integrate, and deliver secure solutions across complex settings.
- Proactively support ongoing security operations in a corporate setting, using monitoring, detection, incident response, and automation.
- Apply security procedures to mobile, on-premises, endpoint, and cloud infrastructure while taking cryptographic tools and methods into consideration.
- Think about how governance, risk, and compliance needs affect the whole organization.
Knowledge Area:
- A minimum of ten years of general IT hands-on experience, including a minimum of five years of extensive security hands-on expertise
Related Job Roles:
- Security Architect
- Senior Security Engineer
- SOC Manager
- Security Analyst
Exam Details:
- Number of Questions: 90 questions
- Type of Questions: Multiple-choice and performance-based
- Length of Test: 165 Minutes
- Passing Score: Pass or fail only.
- Price: $494 USD
9. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification from ISACA is for those who desire to transition from team member to manager and have technical competence and experience in IS/IT security and control. Your relationships with peers, regulators and internal and external stakeholders can become more credible and assured thanks to CISM. With this accreditation, your team gains credibility and the organization’s information security program is in line with its overarching aims and objectives. CISM may boost client retention by confirming your team’s dedication to compliance, security, and integrity.
Knowledge Area:
- Designed for people who oversee, manage, plan, and evaluate the information security function of an organization.
- A minimum of five years of experience managing information security.
Exam Details:
- Time: 4 hours (240 minutes),
- Number of questions: 150 multiple-choice questions
- Cost: ISACA Member: US $575 and ISACA Nonmember: US $760
10. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
The only certification targeted at enterprise IT risks management is the Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) designation. Your knowledge in creating a well-defined, agile risk-management program that is based on best practices to identify, analyze, evaluate, assess, prioritize, and deal with risks is validated by CRISC. This improves benefits realization and gives stakeholders the most value. For professionals in the middle of their careers in IT,/IS audit, risk, and security, the Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification from ISACA is perfect.
This certification takes into account the most recent working methods and expertise employed by CRISC practitioners, modifications to the commercial environment, and a sharper focus on corporate governance and improved company resilience. Employers can rest easy knowing that with CRISC at their disposal, their IT team is adhering to best practices in governance and approaching ITRM in a proactive, agile manner that minimizes risks and threats and maximizes resources and ROI.
Knowledge Area:
- Designed for people with experience in the design, implementation, monitoring, and maintenance of IS controls and the management of IT risk.
- Three or more years of expertise in IS control and IT risk management
Exam Details:
- Time: 4 hours (240 minutes),
- Number of questions: 150 multiple-choice questions
- Cost: ISACA Member: US $575 and ISACA Nonmember: US $760
How to pick a certification in cybersecurity?
A cybersecurity certification can help you develop your profession and confirm your hard-earned abilities. The following are some factors to take into account while deciding which certification is best for you.
- Start by earning a certification that is appropriate for your current skill level. Invest in a certification that you are confident you can earn so that you may progress to more difficult certifications later on in your career. Check out these introductory IT qualifications and certificates if you’re new to the field.
- The normal cost of becoming certified is several hundred dollars (or more), plus ongoing maintenance fees. The correct certification can lead to greater employment opportunities or higher income, but it’s crucial to make a sensible investment.
- A more basic certification can be a wise choice if you’re just starting out in cybersecurity or want to advance to a management position. You could opt to specialize as your career develops. A certification in your field of specialization may vouch for your abilities to prospective employers.
- To find out what credentials are often necessary, go through a few job postings for companies you might like to work for or positions you want to apply for.
Final Words
As technology continues to evolve and cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is likely to continue to grow. Therefore, cybersecurity certifications will continue to be important for professionals who want to specialize in this field.
Furthermore, as the regulatory landscape for data protection becomes more stringent, organizations will need to demonstrate compliance with various cybersecurity standards and frameworks. Cybersecurity certifications can help organizations meet these requirements and provide assurance to stakeholders that they take security seriously.
Finally, as the world becomes more interconnected, the need for cybersecurity professionals with a global perspective and understanding of international cybersecurity issues will continue to grow. Therefore, certifications that provide a broader understanding of the global cybersecurity landscape and the ability to work with diverse teams will become increasingly valuable.
In conclusion, the future of cybersecurity certifications looks bright, and they will continue to be an essential tool for professionals who want to specialize in this field and for organizations that want to ensure the protection of their sensitive information and assets.
