Cybersecurity, often known as computer security or information security, is the process of defending against unwanted access, loss, theft, and damage to computers, networks, and data.
Our interconnectedness increases the potential for theft, harm, and disruption by unscrupulous actors. The need for cybersecurity experts has increased due to an increase in cybercrime.
10 certifications in cybersecurity that employers are looking for:
Even though the majority of cybersecurity specialists hold at least a bachelor's degree in computer science, many employers choose applicants who additionally hold a certification that attests to their familiarity with industry best practices. There are hundreds of certifications available, ranging from basic to sophisticated and vendor-specific.
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional [CISSP]
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification in the field of information security. It is designed to demonstrate a person's knowledge and skills in developing and managing a security program.
To become a CISSP, an individual must have at least five years of full-time, paid work experience in at least two of the eight domains of the (ISC)² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains are:
- Security and Risk Management
- Asset Security
- Security Engineering
- Communication and Network Security
- Identity and Access Management
- Security Assessment and Testing
- Security Operations
- Software Development Security
Holding the CISSP certification is a respected accomplishment within the information security community and is often required for certain positions in the field. It is also considered a good investment for individuals looking to advance their careers in information security.
2. Certified Information Systems Auditor [CISA]
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of information systems (IS) auditing, control, and security. The certification is administered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), a global non-profit organization that provides education, certification, and professional development opportunities for IS professionals.
To become a CISA, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass the CISA exam. To be eligible, candidates must have at least five years of professional work experience in IS audit, control, or security, with at least three years of this experience occurring within the ten years preceding the application.
The CISA exam covers a wide range of topics related to IS auditing, control, and security, including:
- IS governance and management
- Information systems acquisition, development, and implementation
- IS operations, maintenance, and support
- Protection of information assets
- Business continuity and disaster recovery
Holding the CISA certification demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that an individual has the knowledge, skills, and experience required to effectively audit, control, and secure information systems. It is recognized globally as a standard of excellence for professionals in the IS field.
3. Certified Information Systems Manager [CISM]
The Information Systems Audit and Control Association offers the Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM) professional credential (ISACA). It is designed for information security managers and professionals who have experience in the design, implementation, and management of enterprise-level information security programs.
To qualify for the CISM certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of experience in information security management, including at least three years of experience in three of the four domains covered by the CISM exam: information security governance, information risk management, and compliance, information security program development and management, and information security incident management.
The CISM certification requires candidates to pass a four-hour, 200-question exam, which covers these four domains. The exam is offered twice a year at locations around the world.
Holders of the CISM certification are required to maintain their certification by earning a minimum of 20 continuing professional education (CPE) credits per year and complying with the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics.
The CISM certification is widely recognized as a leading credential for information security professionals, and it is often required or preferred by employers in the field. It is designed to demonstrate a level of competence and commitment to the field of information security management.
4. CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills required to secure networks and devices and protect against cyber threats. It is designed for IT professionals who have at least two years of experience in network security and want to advance their careers in the field of cybersecurity.
To earn the CompTIA Security+ certification, candidates must pass a performance-based exam that tests their knowledge and skills in six key areas:
- Network security: This includes understanding how to secure and maintain network infrastructure, as well as how to implement network protocols and technologies.
- Compliance and operational security: This includes understanding how to adhere to security policies and procedures, as well as how to implement security controls and best practices.
- Threats and vulnerabilities: This includes understanding how to identify, analyze, and mitigate various types of cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
- Application, data, and host security: This includes understanding how to secure data and applications, as well as how to secure host systems and devices.
- Access control and identity management: This includes understanding how to manage user authentication and access controls, as well as how to implement identity and access management systems.
- Cryptography: This includes understanding how to implement and manage cryptographic technologies and protocols.
5. Certified Ethical Hacker [CEH]
CEH, or Certified Ethical Hacker, is a professional certification for individuals who have demonstrated skills in identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. The certification is offered by the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council), an organization that provides training and certification in the field of information security.
To earn the CEH certification, individuals must complete a course of study and pass a rigorous exam. The course covers a wide range of topics related to ethical hacking, including network security, cryptography, and web application security. The exam is designed to test the individual's knowledge of these topics and their ability to apply them in real-world situations.
CEH certification is designed for professionals who work in the field of information security, such as security analysts, network administrators, and IT professionals. It is a valuable credential that can help individuals advance their careers and demonstrate their expertise in the field.
6. GIAC Security Essentials Certification [GSEC]
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is a globally recognized cybersecurity certification that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and skills in the field of information security. It is offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC), a division of the SANS Institute, a leading provider of cybersecurity training and certification programs.
To earn the GSEC certification, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, including:
- Networking fundamentals
- Operating system security
- System Administration
- Security Protocols
- Cryptography
- Access control
- Risk management
- Incident response
- Legal and ethical issues in cybersecurity
The GSEC certification is designed for IT professionals who work in roles such as network administrators, security analysts, and systems administrators. It is a valuable credential for those seeking to advance their careers in the field of cybersecurity or to demonstrate their knowledge and skills to employers.
To maintain the GSEC certification, individuals must complete continuing education requirements every four years. This helps to ensure that they stay current with the latest developments in the field of cybersecurity.
7. Systems Security Certified Practitioner [SSCP]
The Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) is a professional certification in the field of information security. It is administered by the International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology (ISC)², a non-profit organization that specializes in cybersecurity education and certification.
To be eligible for the SSCP certification, candidates must have at least one year of work experience in at least one of the seven domains covered by the SSCP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains are:
- Access Controls
- Security Operations and Administration
- Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis
- Incident Response and Recovery
- Cryptography
- Network and Communications Security
- Systems and Application Security
Candidates must also pass the SSCP exam, which consists of 125 multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions. The exam is designed to test candidates' knowledge and skills in the above-mentioned domains.
Holding the SSCP certification demonstrates a professional's knowledge and skills in information security and can be beneficial for career advancement. It is often a requirement for certain job roles in the field of information security, and it may also lead to higher salaries and better job prospects.
8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner [CASP+]
The CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) is a globally recognized certification for IT professionals who have advanced skills in cybersecurity. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who have at least 10 years of experience in IT administration and a minimum of five years of hands-on technical security experience.
To earn the CASP+ certification, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, including risk management, enterprise security, research and analysis, and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines.
The CASP+ certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it is not tied to any particular technology or product. It is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense as meeting the Directive 8570.01-M requirements for Information Assurance Technical (IAT) Level III and Information Assurance Management (IAM) Level II. It is also recognized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as a baseline certification for cybersecurity professionals.
Holding the CASP+ certification demonstrates to employers that an IT professional has the skills and knowledge needed to protect an organization's critical assets from cybersecurity threats. It can also lead to higher salaries and more job opportunities for IT professionals in the cybersecurity field.
9. GIAC Certified Incident Handler [GCIH]
The GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) is a professional certification offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) organization. It is designed for individuals who work in cybersecurity and incident response roles and focuses on the knowledge and skills needed to effectively handle and respond to security incidents.
To earn the GCIH certification, candidates must pass a written exam and meet certain prerequisites, such as having at least one year of experience in incident handling or a related field. The exam covers a variety of subjects, such as:
- Understanding common security incidents and how to identify them
- Developing incident response plans and procedures
- Conducting forensic investigations to determine the root cause of an incident
- Communicating with stakeholders during an incident
- Implementing controls to prevent future incidents
Holding the GCIH certification demonstrates to employers and clients that an individual has the knowledge and skills to handle security incidents effectively and protect organizations from cyber threats. It is also a valuable addition to any cybersecurity professional's resume, as it shows a dedication to staying current with the latest best practices and technologies in the field.
10. Offensive Security Certified Professional [OSCP]
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is a certification program that focuses on hands-on offensive information security skills. It is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to conduct real-world penetration testing and ethical hacking.
To obtain the OSCP certification, candidates must complete a rigorous practical examination that involves attempting to compromise a set of live systems. The examination is designed to test a candidate's ability to apply their knowledge and skills in a real-world setting, rather than just relying on memorization or theoretical knowledge.
The OSCP certification is considered to be a highly respected and sought-after credential in the field of information security. It is recognized as a benchmark for professionals who are serious about pursuing a career in penetration testing and ethical hacking.
To qualify for the OSCP certification, candidates must complete a course called "Penetration Testing with Kali Linux" (PWK). This course covers a wide range of topics related to offensive security, including hacking methodologies, exploit development, and the use of tools and techniques for conducting real-world penetration tests.
Upon completing the PWK course and passing the OSCP exam, candidates will be awarded the OSCP certification and will be able to use the OSCP designation after their name.
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