CHOOSING THE BEST CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATION PATH

Cybersecurity has now become one of the most important pillars for organizations for the smooth operation of their business. Though it doesn’t directly contribute to increasing their productivity, it protects the digital infrastructure of the organization from various kinds of cyber threats. Companies across industries have started understanding the importance of this domain and are looking to invest more in cybersecurity professionals who can protect their organizations.

In 2024, it is expected to see 33,000 vulnerabilities (Getastra). Moreover, 72.7% of organizations faced ransomware attacks in 2023 making it absolutely necessary for other organizations to have proper cybersecurity measures, and cybersecurity skills in place.

80% of organizations are planning to increase their cybersecurity spending and hiring skilled cybersecurity specialists will be their top priority in 2024. Are you ready to grab the ocean of opportunities that will be coming in the cybersecurity career path? Well, make yourself future-ready with the best cybersecurity certifications.

BENEFITS OF CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATION

Having a cybersecurity certification under your belt can help you with several benefits including:

- Validating your cybersecurity skills and expertise to employers

- Demonstrating your commitment towards professional growth

- Increases chances of getting hired

- Help you negotiate higher salaries

- Network with other cybersecurity professionals globally, and many more

ENTRY LEVEL CERTIFICATIONS

Now, first, let’s have a look at some of the popular entry-level cybersecurity certifications. These are certifications designed for beginners who want to start their career in cybersecurity path. The certifications in this category will help you master the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity such as risk management, system administration, security incident monitoring and response, basics of penetration testing, etc.

Some of the most popular entry-level certifications are:

1. CERTIFIED ETHICAL HACKER (CEH) OFFERED BY EC COUNCIL

This certification helps you learn the cybersecurity skills related to ethical hacking and penetration testing

2. COMPTIA SECURITY+

This is a highly recognized entry-level certification program accepted globally across industries and covers basic concepts like network and system security, risk management, etc.

INTERMEDIATE LEVEL CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

Intermediate-level cybersecurity certifications are usually designed for cybersecurity professionals having around 2-6 years of work experience and are responsible for cybersecurity tasks and projects requiring expert monitoring.

The intermediate-level certifications help them advance in their career to more strategic roles like cybersecurity manager, information security manager, cybersecurity consultant, etc. These certifications typically validate a professional’s ability to effectively perform tasks like vulnerability management, threat intelligence, prompt incident response, etc.

Popular inter-mediate level cybersecurity certifications are:

3. COMPTIA CYSA+

It is a valuable certification for professionals focusing on analytics and response. By earning this certification, they can demonstrate their expertise in identifying and analyzing security threats, and develop effective response plans. They will also be able to effectively implement strategies to protect their organizations digital infrastructure.

4. ECPTXV2

It is offered by eLearnSecurity and designed for experienced penetration testers. This certification focuses on real-world scenarios and provides the professionals with practical knowledge and skills required to perform advanced-level penetration resting.

ADVANCED LEVEL CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATIONS

The senior-level or advanced-level cybersecurity certifications are specifically designed for cybersecurity leadership roles and senior-level cybersecurity professionals who want to learn and implement advanced cybersecurity tactics in their decision-making and strategic processes.

The most recognized senior-level cybersecurity certifications are:

5. CERTIFIED SENIOR CYBERSECURITY SPECIALIST (CSCS®)

The CSCS®, offered by the United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®), is among the best cybersecurity certification programs designed for senior-level professionals with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in the cybersecurity domain.

In this certification program, the applicants can learn about securing data, cryptographic techniques, applications of cryptography, security leadership and regulations, and many more important concepts.

There are many unique features that make CSCS® demanding in the cybersecurity industry such as:

• It offers a self-paced online learning program that can be completed within 4-25 weeks

• Professionals only need to commit 8/10 hours a week without disturbing their regular routine

• They also get access to high-quality resource centers consisting of eBooks, practice codes, and lecture videos

• Upon completion they get a sharable digital badge to highlight their achievement as well.

Additionally, CSCS™ offers easy flexible payment options without financially burdening the applications, making it a more affordable choice. They can choose to pay in full, in three interest-free installments, or later using Klarna*.

6. GIAC SECURITY EXPERT (GSE)

The GIAC Security Expert (GSE) certification isn't a single exam, but rather a portfolio program demonstrating broad cybersecurity expertise. It requires earning several GIAC certifications, and showcasing proficiency in various security domains like penetration testing, incident response, and forensics. Earning the GSE signifies you're an elite security professional with advanced knowledge and practical skills.

CONCLUSION

So, these are some of the best cybersecurity certification paths designed to start or advance in your cybersecurity career path. Each offers a unique set of advantages and learning styles that will empower you with specific skill sets necessary to upgrade your cybersecurity career. Identify your current career position, determine your future career goals, match them with the best cybersecurity certification, and start your journey toward professional growth now.