Cybersecurity is one of the most important issues businesses face today. Professionals in the field need to have the best possible training and certifications to help protect organizations from the main cyber risks threatening them. In this blog post, we will provide a detailed list of the best cybersecurity certifications available, from entry-level and senior-level cybersecurity certifications to penetration testing certification options. We’ll also provide information on what each certification requires, covers, and validates in terms of abilities.
Senior-level cybersecurity certifications
CISA – ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor
The CISA certification is designed for auditors who want to specialize in information security. It requires five years of experience in the field and covers topics such as security controls, risk management, and incident response. CISA is a globally recognized certification for IS audit control and assurance. CISA validates an individual’s ability to audit, control, and monitor an organization’s information security.
CISSP – (ISC)2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional
The CISSP certification is one of the most popular and globally recognized cybersecurity certifications. It is also one of the hardest to obtain, as it requires five years of experience in two or more security domains. The CISSP covers a broad range of topics, including security architecture, design, management, and controls. CISSP validates an individual’s ability to design, implement, and manage a security program.
CISM – (ISC)2 Certified Information Security Manager
The CISM certification is geared toward security managers and those who want to pursue a management role in cybersecurity. It requires four years of experience in information security and covers topics such as security program development and management, incident response, and risk management. CISM validates an individual’s ability to manage, develop, and oversee an information security program.
CRISC – (ISC)2 Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control
The CRISC certification is designed for those who want to specialize in risk management. It requires three years of experience in the field and covers topics such as identifying, assessing, and responding to risks. CRISC validates an individual’s ability to effectively manage enterprise security risks.
CCSP – (ISC)2 Certified Cloud Security Professional
The CCSP certification is geared toward those who want to work in cloud security. It requires five years of experience in the field and covers topics such as architecture, design, controls, and security in the cloud. CCSP validates an individual’s ability to effectively secure cloud environments.
GSE – GIAC Security Expert
The GSE certification is designed for those who want to specialize in penetration testing. It requires five years of experience in the field and covers topics such as network security, application security, and database security. GSE validates an individual’s ability to effectively conduct security assessments and penetration tests.
Entry-level cybersecurity certification
SSCP – Systems Security Certified Practitioner
The SSCP certification requires one year of experience in the field and covers topics such as access control, network security, and security operations. SSCP validates an individual’s ability to implement and maintain security controls.
GSEC – GIAC Security Essentials Certification
The GSEC requires no experience and covers topics such as security concepts, access control, and cryptography. GSEC is known for being one of the most difficult entry-level exams. GSEC validates an individual’s ability to understand and apply security concepts.
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that covers a broad range of security topics, including network security, cryptography, and risk management. It is designed for entry-level and mid-level security professionals. CompTIA Security+ validates an individual’s ability to identify and mitigate security risks.
Penetration testing certification
OSCP – Offensive Security Certified Professional
The OSCP certification is one of the most popular penetration testing certifications. It requires practical experience in penetration testing and knowledge of the Penetration Testing Execution Standard (PTES). OSCP validates someone’s ability to perform advanced penetration testing on corporate networks.
OSWE – Offensive Security Web Expert
The OSWE certification is designed for those who want to specialize in web application security. It requires three years of experience in the field and covers topics such as web application security, OWASP Top Ten, and Secure SDLC. OSWE validates someone’s ability to perform advanced web application security assessments.
CompTIA PenTest+
The CompTIA PenTest+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification designed for entry-level and mid-level security professionals. It requires two years of experience in the field and covers a broad range of security topics, including network security, cryptography, and risk management. CompTIA PenTest+ validates an individual’s ability to identify and mitigate security risks.
GPEN – GIAC Certified Penetration Tester
The GPEN certification is designed for those who want to specialize in penetration testing. It requires two years of experience in the field and covers topics such as network security, application security, and database security. GPEN validates an individual’s ability to effectively conduct security assessments and penetration tests.
GWAPT – GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester
The GWAPT certification is designed for those who want to specialize in web application security. It requires two years of experience in the field and covers topics such as web application security, OWASP Top Ten, and Secure SDLC. GWAPT validates an individual’s ability to effectively conduct security assessments and penetration tests on web applications.
CEH – Certified Ethical Hacker
The CEH certification is designed for those who want to specialize in ethical hacking. It requires two years of experience in the field and covers topics such as network security, system security, and security policy. The CEH certification is good for those who want to validate their ability to find and exploit security vulnerabilities.
Penetration testing is a growing field of knowledge. To learn more, read our detailed article on some of the top penetration testing certifications.
Wrapping up
Certifications can be a great way for security professionals to develop and validate new, sought-after skills. By pursuing certifications, security professionals can stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices. Moreover, they can help security professionals stand out among their peers and demonstrate a dedication to professional development.
If you need help improving the cybersecurity of your organization, contact us.
