Table of Contents
[toc headings="h2,h3" title="Table of Contents"] Ensuring team members have the right education and training can be a challenge in a dynamic field like cybersecurity. An organization's security needs evolve as quickly as the technology they use. To keep up, the professionals who design, manage, and maintain these systems need to be constantly expanding their skills and knowledge. This is what makes cybersecurity certifications so valuable. These credentials are earned from professional organizations like CompTIA or (ISC)2 after the professional demonstrates their mastery of security concepts and practices. For employers, this ensures cybersecurity candidates have the skills and knowledge required for the role. Certifications also need to be maintained, encouraging professionals to stay up-to-date on their industry knowledge. Cybersecurity is a diverse field, and more so with each new technology that gains widespread use. While some certifications cover a broad swath of the industry, others are targeted to specific systems or stages of the security infrastructure. Understanding the many certifications available for professionals today can help you to get the most value from them as either a professional or an employer.
Who needs cybersecurity certification?
From the standpoint of a cybersecurity professional, certification is typically most valuable for entry-level workers who are ready to move their career to the next level. Many certifications can't be taken until you've amassed a few years of professional experience in information technology. A degree from a cybersecurity program often counts toward this experience requirement but doesn't fulfill it entirely. Most certifications are for professionals who work directly with security systems and architecture, though there are also options aimed at managers and leadership. Even if a job doesn't require certification, it's often a preferred qualification that will give job seekers an advantage over applicants who lack it. This can be particularly valuable for those who work in other aspects of IT and want to pivot into cybersecurity. Getting certified is also an easy way for professionals to prove an area of specialization. For someone who wants to go into security consulting, for example, certification gives you instant credibility. It can also help employees prove skill sets they haven't yet been able to use in a professional context. Many professionals start in a general security or IT role then pivot into a niche, after passing a certification exam in that area to show they're prepared for the shift.
The 10 most in-demand cybersecurity certifications in 2023
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2 Cost: $599 CISSP is the most in-demand certification for cybersecurity professionals, in part because it tests fundamental knowledge that's applicable to a wide range of careers in the field. This includes topics like risk management, security architecture, network administration, and other expertise required to design and manage an organization's security operations. It's desirable in roles like security administrator, security engineer, security analyst, and a range of other cybersecurity jobs. The CISSP exam is intended for mid-level professionals, who need to have at least five years of work experience in information security to qualify. A Bachelor's degree in cybersecurity can be substituted for one of these years, and freelance work or internships also count toward the requirement.
2. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Obtained through: ISACA Cost: $575 (members), $560 (nonmembers) Similar to CISSP, the CISA certification is for experienced security professionals and requires at least five years of experience to qualify. An undergraduate degree can be substituted for up to two of those years, but the remainder needs to be in IT auditing, security, or assurance. The CISA credential tests expertise in assessing the vulnerabilities in an IT infrastructure. It also covers topics like compliance reporting and the design and implementation of fixes and improvements. This makes it primarily valuable for careers such as IT security analyst, IT auditor, and other roles in security auditing and compliance.
3. CompTIA Security+
Obtained through: CompTIA Cost: $370 Security+ credentials are ideal for entry-level IT professionals who want to advance their cybersecurity careers. It takes a broad overview of hands-on, baseline skills that provide the foundation for success in a variety of security roles. Specific topics covered include risk assessment, incident response, digital forensics, penetration testing, and other core skills related to information and network security. While there are no firm prerequisites to take the Security+ exam, individuals are strongly encouraged to have either a Bachelor's degree or two years of hands-on experience prior to enrolling. It's also recommended to obtain Network+ security certification first, since the Security+ certification builds on the knowledge covered in that test.
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Obtained through: ISACA Cost: $575 (members), $760 (nonmembers) For professionals who want to advance their cybersecurity career into management and leadership roles, CISM is one of the best cybersecurity certifications available. The main areas covered by this exam are security governance, risk management, security program development and management, and incident response and management. Eligibility for the CISM exam requires at least five years of experience managing information security, though up to two years of this can be general IT experience. Up to two additional years can be waived for those with a Master's degree in a cybersecurity field or another active security certification.
5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Obtained through: EC-Council Cost: $1,199 Getting CEH certification prepares you for a career as a penetration tester. Also known as white hat hackers or ethical hackers, these professionals find vulnerabilities in security systems by thinking like a malicious hacker and attempting to access them from the outside. This requires an in-depth understanding of both information security architecture and hacking best practices. Both sides of this are tested in the CEH exam, which covers topics including detecting attacks, common attack vectors, reconnaissance techniques, and mobile and web application hacking. To qualify for the CEH exam, you need to have two years of relevant work experience, or to have completed an official EC-Council training course. This is one of the higher priced options on the list, especially if you add in the cost of a training course. Some professionals instead choose to obtain the CompTIA PenTest+ certificate, which verifies a similar level of penetration test expertise but at a much lower price.
6. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
Obtained through: GIAC Cost: $949 Unlike other IT certifications, GSEC is a truly entry-level certificate for those with a background in networking or other IT fields who want to join the cybersecurity workforce. Because it's entry-level, there are no experience requirements for the exam. However, security beginners will want to ensure they have firm knowledge of networks, cloud computing, and security principles before enrolling. Since it's a general certification, the GSEC exam covers a number of subjects. These include cryptography basics, cloud security fundamentals, defense network architecture, Linux and Windows fundamentals, incident handling, penetration testing, and mobile device security. It verifies skill sets for an equally wide range of cybersecurity industry job titles, including security engineers, managers, administrators, and operations personnel.
7. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2 Cost: $249 SSCP is an intermediate certification for professionals who monitor and maintain organization networks. It tests expertise in risk analysis, access controls, asset security, cryptography, network administration, and application security. The knowledge covered prepares professionals for an IT career as a database administrator, network administrator, systems engineer, or security consultant. Only one year of work experience is required to register for the SSCP exam, though it must be paid professional experience. This requirement is waived for those with cybersecurity education at either the Bachelor's or Master's level.
8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Obtained through: CompTIA Cost: $494 CASP+ is the only certification for advanced security professionals who want to stay on the hands-on, operations side of security, as opposed to shifting into management. It covers both engineering and security architecture topics. To pass the exam, you have to demonstrate mastery in architecting and implementing security solutions for on-site, cloud, mobile, and endpoint infrastructure, as well as advanced topics like information security governance, incident response, and risk management. While there is no experience prerequisite for the CASP+ exam, CompTIA recommends that takers have at least ten years of IT experience, with at least half of that in hands-on security contexts. If you want some extra test prep, CompTIA offers certification training, including online courses, guided labs, and study guides, which you can bundle with the exam voucher.
9. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
Obtained through: GIAC Cost: $949 If your career goals include roles like security architect, system administrator, or incident handler, GCIH certification is a good option. This exam verifies skills and knowledge of common attack vectors and methods, and the professional's ability to identify and defend against these attacks. It also includes investigative and forensic techniques, making it a good choice for people interested in cyber crime investigation and the law enforcement side of the cybersecurity world. There are no official prerequisites for the GCIH exam, though you will need a deep understanding of networking and security principles to pass. GIAC offers a course in Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling (SEC504) that is excellent preparation for the exam if you want to shore up your knowledge before taking it.
10. Cloud Security Certification (CCSP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2 Cost: $599 As cloud computing, applications, and data storage become more widespread, they're increasingly the target of hackers and other malicious attacks. CCSP certification verifies you have the skills to keep cloud-based data, apps, and systems secure. While it's not yet as popular as more all-purpose certifications, it is the #1 certification that current IT professionals plan to pursue, and can help ensure you're prepared for the security landscape of the future. The experience requirements for the CCSP is at least five years of paid IT work experience, three years of which must be in information security, and one year of which must be in a cloud computing domain. A CCSK certificate can be substituted for this last requirement. If you have a CISSP credential, that waives the entire experience requirement.
Choosing the right certification for your career
First of all, you don't need to limit yourself to a single certificate. It's fairly common for professionals to hold multiple certifications concurrently, especially those with extensive skills in various aspects of the industry. If you're wondering which to get first, the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications are strong entry-level options. They're fairly affordable, for one thing, and have both a written test and a practical component, providing a more comprehensive evaluation than some other exams. They also don't have an experience prerequisite, making them a good option for students or recent graduates who want to jump start their career progress. Once you're past the entry level, the best way to choose the right certification is to consider your long-term career goals. If your plan is to advance into leadership, CISM certification is an excellent stepping stone on that path. On the other hand, someone who wants to start their own security firm will be better served by advanced operations certifications like CASP+ or CISA. Many professionals seek certification in preparation for a job search. In this case, a good first step is to peruse the job descriptions for the type of role you're seeking. This is an easy way to check what types of certifications employers look for in candidates, letting you choose the option that will give you the most significant advantage. The bottom line is, there is no one right choice for every person or situation. As a professional goes through their career, the certifications that will be most valuable will change, and the most desirable certifications today may not even be on employers' radar ten years down the line.
Preparing for cybersecurity exams
The coursework of a cybersecurity degree program gives students much of the knowledge they'll need to pass an entry-level certification exam. Working hands-on with real world security environments will provide a similar skill foundation, one reason most of these exams require some work experience before registering. Even with experience and a degree, however, it's smart to take some time studying the specific topics and questions that you'll be asked about during the exam. The professional organization that administers the exam is the best place to get these preparatory materials. The (ISC)2 has extensive exam training options, including classroom-based and online courses as well as self-guided study tools. The GIAC's exam prep resources include practice tests and training courses, while CompTIA offers CertMaster Practice for all of its certifications. The ISACA and EC-Council also have educational resources and courses in addition to proctoring exams.
How to maintain a cybersecurity certification
The typical cybersecurity certification is good for three years from the date of the exam. This timespan is fairly consistent across organizations and types of certification. You may also need to earn a designated number of continuing education credits in order to recertify, in addition to passing a recertification exam. Certification renewal requirements for each of the five major organizations include:
- CompTIA: Depending on the certification, members must earn 20-75 continuing education units over a 3-year period, in addition to paying a continuing education fee of $25-$50 per year. Holders of multiple CompTIA certifications only need to complete the requirements for the highest, which will automatically renew the lower certifications.
- EC-Council: Certified members must earn 120 continuing education credits over a 3-year period, earning at least 30 per year, as well as paying an $80 annual membership fee. These credits can be earned by taking classes and webinars, or by attending conferences, writing research papers, or other educational activities in the field. Each certification must be recertified independently.
- GIAC: Obtaining 36 continuing professional education (CPE) credits over 4 years maintains an active certification. These can include training classes, professional development activities, or work experience, and many CPE categories can be applied to multiple certifications at once. There is also a renewal fee of $469 every 4 years.
- ISACA: Certified professionals must earn 120 CPE hours over a 3-year period, with a minimum of 20 per year. There is also an annual maintenance fee of $45 for members, or $85 for nonmembers.
- (ISC)2: Depending on the certification, renewal requires 60-120 CPE credits earned over a 3-year period. There is also an annual member fee of $125, which is a flat fee that covers all certifications held through the organization.
A final word on cybersecurity exams
Anyone who plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity can benefit from certification, and there are several options to choose from depending on your skill sets, interests, and background. While the ten explored above are the most popular, there are a plethora of other choices that may be more suitable for certain professionals. The resources and information here can serve as a good foundation of knowledge to get you started on your certification journey.
Ensuring team members have the right education and training can be a challenge in a dynamic field like cybersecurity. An organization’s security needs evolve as quickly as the technology they use. To keep up, the professionals who design, manage, and maintain these systems need to be constantly expanding their skills and knowledge.
This is what makes cybersecurity certifications so valuable. These credentials are earned from professional organizations like CompTIA or (ISC)2 after the professional demonstrates their mastery of security concepts and practices. For employers, this ensures cybersecurity candidates have the skills and knowledge required for the role. Certifications also need to be maintained, encouraging professionals to stay up-to-date on their industry knowledge.
Cybersecurity is a diverse field, and more so with each new technology that gains widespread use. While some certifications cover a broad swath of the industry, others are targeted to specific systems or stages of the security infrastructure. Understanding the many certifications available for professionals today can help you to get the most value from them as either a professional or an employer.
Who needs cybersecurity certification?
From the standpoint of a cybersecurity professional, certification is typically most valuable for entry-level workers who are ready to move their career to the next level. Many certifications can’t be taken until you’ve amassed a few years of professional experience in information technology. A degree from a cybersecurity program often counts toward this experience requirement but doesn’t fulfill it entirely.
Most certifications are for professionals who work directly with security systems and architecture, though there are also options aimed at managers and leadership. Even if a job doesn’t require certification, it’s often a preferred qualification that will give job seekers an advantage over applicants who lack it. This can be particularly valuable for those who work in other aspects of IT and want to pivot into cybersecurity.
Getting certified is also an easy way for professionals to prove an area of specialization. For someone who wants to go into security consulting, for example, certification gives you instant credibility. It can also help employees prove skill sets they haven’t yet been able to use in a professional context. Many professionals start in a general security or IT role then pivot into a niche, after passing a certification exam in that area to show they’re prepared for the shift.
The 10 most in-demand cybersecurity certifications in 2023
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2
Cost: $599
CISSP is the most in-demand certification for cybersecurity professionals, in part because it tests fundamental knowledge that’s applicable to a wide range of careers in the field. This includes topics like risk management, security architecture, network administration, and other expertise required to design and manage an organization’s security operations. It’s desirable in roles like security administrator, security engineer, security analyst, and a range of other cybersecurity jobs.
The CISSP exam is intended for mid-level professionals, who need to have at least five years of work experience in information security to qualify. A Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity can be substituted for one of these years, and freelance work or internships also count toward the requirement.
2. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Obtained through: ISACA
Cost: $575 (members), $560 (nonmembers)
Similar to CISSP, the CISA certification is for experienced security professionals and requires at least five years of experience to qualify. An undergraduate degree can be substituted for up to two of those years, but the remainder needs to be in IT auditing, security, or assurance.
The CISA credential tests expertise in assessing the vulnerabilities in an IT infrastructure. It also covers topics like compliance reporting and the design and implementation of fixes and improvements. This makes it primarily valuable for careers such as IT security analyst, IT auditor, and other roles in security auditing and compliance.
3. CompTIA Security+
Obtained through: CompTIA
Cost: $370
Security+ credentials are ideal for entry-level IT professionals who want to advance their cybersecurity careers. It takes a broad overview of hands-on, baseline skills that provide the foundation for success in a variety of security roles. Specific topics covered include risk assessment, incident response, digital forensics, penetration testing, and other core skills related to information and network security.
While there are no firm prerequisites to take the Security+ exam, individuals are strongly encouraged to have either a Bachelor’s degree or two years of hands-on experience prior to enrolling. It’s also recommended to obtain Network+ security certification first, since the Security+ certification builds on the knowledge covered in that test.
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Obtained through: ISACA
Cost: $575 (members), $760 (nonmembers)
For professionals who want to advance their cybersecurity career into management and leadership roles, CISM is one of the best cybersecurity certifications available. The main areas covered by this exam are security governance, risk management, security program development and management, and incident response and management.
Eligibility for the CISM exam requires at least five years of experience managing information security, though up to two years of this can be general IT experience. Up to two additional years can be waived for those with a Master’s degree in a cybersecurity field or another active security certification.
5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Obtained through: EC-Council
Cost: $1,199
Getting CEH certification prepares you for a career as a penetration tester. Also known as white hat hackers or ethical hackers, these professionals find vulnerabilities in security systems by thinking like a malicious hacker and attempting to access them from the outside. This requires an in-depth understanding of both information security architecture and hacking best practices. Both sides of this are tested in the CEH exam, which covers topics including detecting attacks, common attack vectors, reconnaissance techniques, and mobile and web application hacking.
To qualify for the CEH exam, you need to have two years of relevant work experience, or to have completed an official EC-Council training course. This is one of the higher priced options on the list, especially if you add in the cost of a training course. Some professionals instead choose to obtain the CompTIA PenTest+ certificate, which verifies a similar level of penetration test expertise but at a much lower price.
6. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
Obtained through: GIAC
Cost: $949
Unlike other IT certifications, GSEC is a truly entry-level certificate for those with a background in networking or other IT fields who want to join the cybersecurity workforce. Because it’s entry-level, there are no experience requirements for the exam. However, security beginners will want to ensure they have firm knowledge of networks, cloud computing, and security principles before enrolling.
Since it’s a general certification, the GSEC exam covers a number of subjects. These include cryptography basics, cloud security fundamentals, defense network architecture, Linux and Windows fundamentals, incident handling, penetration testing, and mobile device security. It verifies skill sets for an equally wide range of cybersecurity industry job titles, including security engineers, managers, administrators, and operations personnel.
7. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2
Cost: $249
SSCP is an intermediate certification for professionals who monitor and maintain organization networks. It tests expertise in risk analysis, access controls, asset security, cryptography, network administration, and application security. The knowledge covered prepares professionals for an IT career as a database administrator, network administrator, systems engineer, or security consultant.
Only one year of work experience is required to register for the SSCP exam, though it must be paid professional experience. This requirement is waived for those with cybersecurity education at either the Bachelor’s or Master’s level.
8. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Obtained through: CompTIA
Cost: $494
CASP+ is the only certification for advanced security professionals who want to stay on the hands-on, operations side of security, as opposed to shifting into management. It covers both engineering and security architecture topics. To pass the exam, you have to demonstrate mastery in architecting and implementing security solutions for on-site, cloud, mobile, and endpoint infrastructure, as well as advanced topics like information security governance, incident response, and risk management.
While there is no experience prerequisite for the CASP+ exam, CompTIA recommends that takers have at least ten years of IT experience, with at least half of that in hands-on security contexts. If you want some extra test prep, CompTIA offers certification training, including online courses, guided labs, and study guides, which you can bundle with the exam voucher.
9. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
Obtained through: GIAC
Cost: $949
If your career goals include roles like security architect, system administrator, or incident handler, GCIH certification is a good option. This exam verifies skills and knowledge of common attack vectors and methods, and the professional’s ability to identify and defend against these attacks. It also includes investigative and forensic techniques, making it a good choice for people interested in cyber crime investigation and the law enforcement side of the cybersecurity world.
There are no official prerequisites for the GCIH exam, though you will need a deep understanding of networking and security principles to pass. GIAC offers a course in Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling (SEC504) that is excellent preparation for the exam if you want to shore up your knowledge before taking it.
10. Cloud Security Certification (CCSP)
Obtained through: (ISC)2
Cost: $599
As cloud computing, applications, and data storage become more widespread, they’re increasingly the target of hackers and other malicious attacks. CCSP certification verifies you have the skills to keep cloud-based data, apps, and systems secure. While it’s not yet as popular as more all-purpose certifications, it is the #1 certification that current IT professionals plan to pursue, and can help ensure you’re prepared for the security landscape of the future.
The experience requirements for the CCSP is at least five years of paid IT work experience, three years of which must be in information security, and one year of which must be in a cloud computing domain. A CCSK certificate can be substituted for this last requirement. If you have a CISSP credential, that waives the entire experience requirement.
Choosing the right certification for your career
First of all, you don’t need to limit yourself to a single certificate. It’s fairly common for professionals to hold multiple certifications concurrently, especially those with extensive skills in various aspects of the industry.
If you’re wondering which to get first, the CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications are strong entry-level options. They’re fairly affordable, for one thing, and have both a written test and a practical component, providing a more comprehensive evaluation than some other exams. They also don’t have an experience prerequisite, making them a good option for students or recent graduates who want to jump start their career progress.
Once you’re past the entry level, the best way to choose the right certification is to consider your long-term career goals. If your plan is to advance into leadership, CISM certification is an excellent stepping stone on that path. On the other hand, someone who wants to start their own security firm will be better served by advanced operations certifications like CASP+ or CISA.
Many professionals seek certification in preparation for a job search. In this case, a good first step is to peruse the job descriptions for the type of role you’re seeking. This is an easy way to check what types of certifications employers look for in candidates, letting you choose the option that will give you the most significant advantage.
The bottom line is, there is no one right choice for every person or situation. As a professional goes through their career, the certifications that will be most valuable will change, and the most desirable certifications today may not even be on employers’ radar ten years down the line.
Preparing for cybersecurity exams
The coursework of a cybersecurity degree program gives students much of the knowledge they’ll need to pass an entry-level certification exam. Working hands-on with real world security environments will provide a similar skill foundation, one reason most of these exams require some work experience before registering.
Even with experience and a degree, however, it’s smart to take some time studying the specific topics and questions that you’ll be asked about during the exam. The professional organization that administers the exam is the best place to get these preparatory materials. The (ISC)2 has extensive exam training options, including classroom-based and online courses as well as self-guided study tools. The GIAC’s exam prep resources include practice tests and training courses, while CompTIA offers CertMaster Practice for all of its certifications. The ISACA and EC-Council also have educational resources and courses in addition to proctoring exams.
How to maintain a cybersecurity certification
The typical cybersecurity certification is good for three years from the date of the exam. This timespan is fairly consistent across organizations and types of certification. You may also need to earn a designated number of continuing education credits in order to recertify, in addition to passing a recertification exam.
Certification renewal requirements for each of the five major organizations include:
- CompTIA: Depending on the certification, members must earn 20-75 continuing education units over a 3-year period, in addition to paying a continuing education fee of $25-$50 per year. Holders of multiple CompTIA certifications only need to complete the requirements for the highest, which will automatically renew the lower certifications.
- EC-Council: Certified members must earn 120 continuing education credits over a 3-year period, earning at least 30 per year, as well as paying an $80 annual membership fee. These credits can be earned by taking classes and webinars, or by attending conferences, writing research papers, or other educational activities in the field. Each certification must be recertified independently.
- GIAC: Obtaining 36 continuing professional education (CPE) credits over 4 years maintains an active certification. These can include training classes, professional development activities, or work experience, and many CPE categories can be applied to multiple certifications at once. There is also a renewal fee of $469 every 4 years.
- ISACA: Certified professionals must earn 120 CPE hours over a 3-year period, with a minimum of 20 per year. There is also an annual maintenance fee of $45 for members, or $85 for nonmembers.
- (ISC)2: Depending on the certification, renewal requires 60-120 CPE credits earned over a 3-year period. There is also an annual member fee of $125, which is a flat fee that covers all certifications held through the organization.
A final word on cybersecurity exams
Anyone who plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity can benefit from certification, and there are several options to choose from depending on your skill sets, interests, and background. While the ten explored above are the most popular, there are a plethora of other choices that may be more suitable for certain professionals. The resources and information here can serve as a good foundation of knowledge to get you started on your certification journey.