In today’s highly interconnected society, where everyone and everything is connected to each other digitally, cybersecurity has become the utmost necessity of the hour. The emergence of new inventions and the rise of cybercrimes, which appear to have become more sophisticated and complex as a result of technological improvements, have created a global demand for experienced cyber security practitioners and professionals. Businesses are seeking employees with outstanding training and practical experience. The value of IT certification is rising along with the need for skilled professionals in cyber security. You may have an advantage over other job applicants if you have the correct certification.
Due to advancements in the tools and technologies employed, cybersecurity is a sector that is continuously changing. Thus, cybersecurity experts must maintain learning throughout their careers to stay on top of the game as well as tackle new threats. One of the most efficient ways to achieve this feat is through Cyber Security Certifications: exams or tests that demonstrate one’s skill in cybersecurity tools and techniques, as well as awareness of the subject. When you pass a certification exam or test, it shows the recruiters that you have the knowledge and tenacity to deal with cyberattacks or other security issues. Earning a certification in your name might also help you stand out from the crowd.
So, if you want to be a cybersecurity professional, keep reading because this article will highlight the relevance of certification in your career as well as provide you with a comprehensive overview of some of the best cyber security certifications available.
Why do you need a cybersecurity certification?
Cybersecurity certificates are highly prized and act as the benchmark of your competence because they are offered by recognized organizations that follow and uphold a set of criteria that are widely regarded in the industry. By confirming your knowledge and competence and proving to recruiters that you are in line with industry norms, obtaining internationally recognized certifications will help you stand out from the crowd of other experts in your sector.
Because of the enormity of cybercrime and the advancement of cybersecurity techniques, various cybersecurity and risk management certificates have been developed for prospective professionals to choose from. By qualifying for these certifications, you can gain the advanced knowledge and skill set required to perform in a variety of job roles, such as a certified information security manager, an offensive security certified professional, a certified information systems auditor, or even a certified ethical hacker.
Consequently, the following list of cybersecurity certifications can help you improve your knowledge and abilities. As a result, regardless of your academic or professional background, the first step to earning the proper certification is to determine your career goals and have a comprehensive understanding of the skill sets you need to build to boost your cybersecurity knowledge and expertise.
What are the best cybersecurity certifications?
Most certifications involve passing a specific exam, and eligibility restrictions vary. Hence, it is pivotal to gain the necessary training that helps you learn the topics included in the exam that you intend to appear for. Enrolling in a cybersecurity training program can assist you in covering the fundamental principles and topics, helping you to attain your goal. For instance, The Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s MIT SCC offers an excellent postgraduate degree in cyber security in collaboration with the EC council that is provided online on the digital platform of Simplilearn. This course is suitable for novices and professionals alike and has an excellent, well-structured curriculum that will keep you up to date on all the current cybersecurity developments and will help you gain knowledge of the necessary skillsets and tools. The list below includes the best cybersecurity certificates, ranging from entry-level to advanced/specialist.
1. CompTIA Security+ certification
This renowned foundational certification validates your eligibility for an entry-level cybersecurity position and is hence considered to be the first credential any aspiring or new cybersecurity professional should earn. It outlines the fundamentals and aids in evaluating a candidate’s understanding of basic information security topics. Numerous security and information assurance subjects are covered, such as network security, threats and vulnerabilities, Security architecture and design, access controls, cryptography, Governance, risk, and compliance and risk management principles.
2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
It is the world’s number one CEH certification offered by the EC-Council and is regarded as the gold standard in the industry for individuals interested in a career as a penetration tester or ethical hacker. The exam is divided into two sections: a four-hour knowledge exam with 125 multiple-choice questions and a six-hour practical exam with 20 scenario-based questions. It focuses on training IT professionals through a 20-module course to help prepare for enterprise-level security duties, such as testing and assessing vulnerabilities in the systems and networks of an organization.
The modules include:
- Introduction to ethical hacking
- Footprinting and reconnaissance
- Scanning networks
- Enumeration
- Vulnerability analysis
- System hacking
- Malware threats
- Social engineering
- Session hijacking
- Hacking web servers
- SQL injection
- Hacking wireless networks and many more.
3. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) by ISACA
Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) ‘s Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) designation is developed specifically for IT workers aspiring to management positions. It is a high-level certification that proves the recipient possesses the knowledge and experience necessary to manage security personnel and enterprise-level applications, as well as contribute to the creation of an organization’s overall security strategy.
The test covers the following topics:
- Information security governance
- Information security risk management
- Incident management
4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) by (ISC)²
The CISSP is an advanced certification provided by The International Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), intended for anyone looking to advance in their career and enhance their cybersecurity skills. It is a top-tier certification, which is recognized as the world’s leading cybersecurity certification, specifically for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives interested in software development security. The CISSP exam recognizes your ability to create, implement, and manage an excellent cyber security program.
It is designed for Chief information security officers, directors of security, executives, IT managers, and cybersecurity experts with at least five years of professional experience.
The exam covers the following eight domains:
- Security and Risk Management
- Asset Security
- Security Architecture and Engineering
- Communication and Network Security
- Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Security Assessment and Testing
- Security Operations
- Software Development Security
5. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
The CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) certification is an advanced-level cybersecurity credential for advanced practitioners who are not yet managers, such as security architects and senior security engineers, who are responsible for evaluating an enterprise’s cyber readiness as well as designing and implementing the appropriate solutions that can ensure the company’s security. It verifies the advanced abilities you need to lead the application of frameworks and policies, which managers frequently impose.
Skills acquired include:
- Security architecture
- Security operations
- Governance, risk, and compliance
- Security engineering and cryptography
6. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) by ISACA
The Certified Information Security Auditor (CISA) certification is a world-renowned credential provided by ISACA that acts as the gold standard for professionals interested in auditing, controlling, and monitoring an organization’s IT and business systems.
The training and exam covers domains such as Information systems and auditing process, Governance and management of IT, Information systems acquisition, development, and implementation, Information systems operations and business resilience, and Protection of information assets.
