Top Cybersecurity Certifications to Pursue in 2024
As the realm of cybersecurity threats continues to expand the need for professionals is higher than ever before. Opting for a cybersecurity certification can greatly boost your knowledge and job opportunities in this paced field. The year 2024 showcases a range of certifications tailored to experience levels and specializations. Whether you're starting from the basics or aiming for credentials these certifications are crafted to validate your expertise and ensure you remain competitive in the constantly evolving cybersecurity domain.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP certification, provided by (ISC)² stands out as one of the coveted credentials in the cybersecurity sector. It encompasses an array of subjects such as risk management, security architecture and software development security. This certification is particularly beneficial for professionals aspiring to secure roles like security consultant, IT director or chief information officer.
Prospective CISSP candidates should possess a minimum of five years of paid work experience in two or more domains within the CISSP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge). The examination comprises 100 150 questions and spans, over three hours. Successful candidates must accumulate Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits to uphold their certification status.
According to (ISC)², professionals who hold the CISSP certification typically earn a salary that's significantly higher than their non certified counterparts emphasizing the financial advantages of obtaining this certification.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The CEH certification offered by EC Council focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in target systems using tools and methods commonly used by hackers but in a legal and ethical manner. This credential is ideal for individuals interested in roles related to penetration testing and ethical hacking.
To be eligible to take the CEH exam candidates must possess a minimum of two years of experience working in information security or complete a training program provided by EC Council. The exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions that must be answered within a four hour time frame.
Individuals who hold the CEH certification are often hired by companies to conduct vulnerability assessments and ensure that robust security measures are implemented. The practical experience acquired through this certification makes it highly valuable for real world security positions.
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is an introductory level certification that offers a grounding in fundamental cybersecurity principles. It covers areas such as network security, cryptography and risk management. This certification is well suited for individuals, to the cybersecurity field or transitioning from other IT roles.
The Security+ test includes around 90 choice and performance based questions and must be completed within a 90 minute time frame. Candidates are advised to have a minimum of two years of IT experience focusing on security before taking the exam.
This certification is well respected in the job market. Acts as a starting point for more advanced qualifications. As per CompTIA individuals with Security+ certification are well equipped for roles such as security administrator, systems administrator and network engineer.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
CISM certification, offered by ISACA targets individuals with a focus on management who're responsible for designing and supervising enterprise information security programs. It puts emphasis on risk management, governance and response to incidents.
Candidates seeking CISM certification should have five years of work experience in managing information security with least three years in specific job areas outlined by ISACA. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions to be completed within a four hour period.
Employers highly value this certification when searching for leaders of aligning information security strategies with business objectives. ISACA notes that professionals certified in CISM often hold positions, like IT manager or compliance manager.
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)
Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) offers a selection of specialized certifications focused on cybersecurity, such as incident handling (GCIH) penetration testing (GPEN) and industrial control systems (GICSP). These certifications, administered by the SANS Institute are renowned for their standards.
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
- GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
- GIAC Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP)
Applicants must meet prerequisites and complete exams comprising various multiple choice questions with different time constraints. Many candidates opt to enroll in SANS training programs to ready themselves for these assessments.
GIAC certifications stand out for their emphasis on skills relevant to real world scenarios. They enable professionals to showcase their proficiency in cybersecurity domains making them highly sought after by employers, across diverse sectors.It's definitely an idea to consider getting one or more certifications if you're looking to stay updated on industry trends and progress, in your career!