Top 10 Popular Cybersecurity Certifications to Boost Your Career
As businesses and organizations continue to digitize their operations, cybersecurity has become a critical aspect of IT. Cyber attacks have become more sophisticated, and companies are looking for professionals with cybersecurity knowledge to secure their data and systems. Obtaining cybersecurity certifications can provide professionals with the skills and knowledge to protect organizations from cyber threats. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 popular cybersecurity certifications to boost your career.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
CISSP is a globally recognized certification, administered by the (ISC)², and is considered to be the gold standard in the cybersecurity field. CISSP certification focuses on cybersecurity strategy, architecture, design, and management. It covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security engineering, communication and network security, identity and access management, security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security.
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification and is widely recognized in the IT industry. It covers basic cybersecurity concepts and focuses on practical skills for network security, compliance, and operational security. The certification assists in validating one’s knowledge of security protocols and basic functionalities for network security, compliance, and operational security.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CEH is designed to certify security professionals who have in-depth knowledge of hacking tools, techniques, and methodologies. This certification lays a foundational groundwork in implementing better security measures by stressing hands-on application of cybersecurity concepts. It covers areas such as information security, ethical hacking, penetration testing, and security assessment.
GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
GSEC certification is designed for professionals who want to establish baseline knowledge of information security. It covers a wide range of security topics, including network security, cryptography, access control, malware, and vulnerabilities. The certification is offered by Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) and has a hands-on lab component to validate its essence.
Information Systems Security Architecture Professional (ISSAP)
ISSAP certification focuses on security architecture, administration, design, and management. It covers six domains – identity and access management architecture, security operations architecture, infrastructure security architecture, application security, and ethical hacking for architects.
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
OSCP is a hands-on certification that focuses on information security penetration testing. The certification program teaches candidates to apply a methodical approach to penetration testing, including the steps to follow and the tools and techniques to use. The certification also includes a 24-hour practical exam that requires students to apply penetration-testing techniques to a vulnerable network.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
CISM certification is designed for professionals who want to focus on information security management. It covers areas such as risk management, incident management, and governance. The certification provides a comprehensive governance structure for information security management.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security
CCNA Security certification is designed for professionals interested in securing Cisco networks. The certification covers network security, VPN technologies, firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and basic wireless security concepts.
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
CCSP certification is designed for professionals responsible for securing cloud environments. It covers cloud computing architecture and service management, cloud data security, cloud platform and infrastructure security, cloud application security, and compliance, legal, and privacy issues in the cloud.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
CISA certification is designed for professionals who want to focus on auditing, monitoring, and assessing an organization’s information systems and technology. It covers areas such as information systems auditing processes, governance, and management of IT, protection of information assets, and IT audit and assurance management.
In conclusion, obtaining cybersecurity certifications is essential to demonstrate expertise in specific areas of cybersecurity. The certifications mentioned above are excellent for any cybersecurity professional looking to advance their career or change their path. However, before choosing any certification, it is vital to identify the areas where your skills and interest lie and where you want to advance your expertise.
