Best Cybersecurity Certifications + Potential Jobs 2024

Cybersecurity professionals defend their clients’ and their own private digital information. This could be a rewarding profession for people who appreciate complicated problem solving and working with technology. If you want to work in cybersecurity, you need know which qualifications are useful for specific roles in the field.

What is cybersecurity certifications?

Cybersecurity certification is a process in which an individual earns a formal credential by demonstrating their professional abilities in a particular area of the field. Typically, candidates must pass a test to earn certification.

Why are cybersecurity certifications important?

Cybersecurity certifications are important because they can help you develop the skills required to execute an information technology (IT) or cybersecurity job effectively. This employment entails assisting businesses or individuals in avoiding security breaches and achieving continued success.

Cybersecurity team members can assist businesses prevent hacking and keep client trust. This may assist those businesses to retain clients in the long run. Companies may prioritize employing individuals with certificates that demonstrate their skills to aid in this process.

Top cybersecurity certifications and jobs

1. CompTIA Security

Here’s a basic certification to consider when beginning your cybersecurity career:

Certification overview

Security+ gives candidates a basic understanding of cryptography, risk management and vulnerability assessment. This may be a useful preliminary certification to supplement with other courses. Prerequisite requirements include at least two years of IT experience before taking the course.

Course contents

This certification provides students with an understanding of the proper way to install and configure systems. It also includes training on:

• How to secure devices, applications and networks effectively
• Threat analysis and mitigation techniques
• Strategies and defenses against network attacks
• What makes effective security policies
• Best practices for network and host-based security
• Disaster recovery
• Business continuity
• Standards and products for encryption

The Security+ exam covers:

• Assessing threats, attacks and vulnerabilities
• Managing identity and access
• Managing risks
• Understanding network architecture and design
• Cryptography and KPI

Potential jobs

The Security+ certification is introductory and may prepare you for basic technological jobs, like the following:

• IT technician: An IT technician helps diagnose computer and challenges. A basic understanding of cybersecurity can help these individuals protect computer information before a hack and repair it after one occurs.
• Support specialist: A support specialist provides technical support for a company. They may use basic cybersecurity knowledge to prevent and solve computer network issues.

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

This certification is also known as Certified Network Defense Architect (CNDA) by individuals who work for the government and focuses on hacking knowledge:

Certification overview

A Certified Ethical Hacker certification exists via the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). This certificate training encourages students to approach challenges from the perspective of a hacker to identify and repair network security issues before a cyberattack. To obtain this certification, first complete at least two years of information technology industry experience. You may also consider earning a Security+ certification first.

Course contents

During this course, students explore the five stages of hacking:

• Researching
• Getting access
• Enumeration
• Maintaining access
• Hiding evidence

Students also go through real-time scenarios and on different ways hackers penetrate networks to steal information. Students learn how to scan, test, hack and protect systems. Specific topics taught include:

• Hacking cloud-computing technology, mobile platforms and the latest operating systems
• Educating about new vulnerabilities, malware and viruses
• Informing students about security laws and standards

Potential jobs

This certification may offer opportunities for several new positions:

• Advanced Threat Analyst: In this position, individuals monitor computer networks to prevent any unauthorized access to files and systems. They also provide reports about the technical defense capabilities of the organization.
• Computer forensic analyst: Computer forensic analysts, or digital analyst, investigate security breaches to discover network vulnerability. They may then make suggestions on network security improvement.

3. Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)

Here’s another common cybersecurity certification that might help prepare you for your career:

Certification overview

Many IT companies consider the CISSP, from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, a basic requirement for individuals in charge of network security. This certification is highly reputable and can lead to very lucrative job opportunities. There’s also the option to earn the CISSP with a focus on your current role. Possible concentrations include:

• Architecture
• Engineering
• Management

This certification requires applicants to have at least three to five years of experience in the IT industry and be knowledgeable about least two domains of the Common Body of Knowledge.

Course contents

The CISSP covers a variety of cybersecurity leadership topics. These include both technical knowledge and interpersonal instruction. Specific topics include:

• Vulnerability assessment in web-based systems
• Cryptography
• Investigations
• Professional ethics890

Potential jobs

The CISSP certification is perfect for individuals looking for an advanced cybersecurity position. Possible positions include:

• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): This is an executive-level position that involves managing the company’s comprehensive security plan. CISOs are in charge of network security breaches and work alongside other executives to ensure that departments are complying with security standards.
• IT director: The IT director helps oversee the information technology strategy of a company’s digital goals. An IT director may use cybersecurity knowledge to incorporate digital safety into the developmental goals and budget.

4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The CISM is another popular cybersecurity course. Here’s what to expect if you pursue this option:

Certification overview

This certification comes from an international organization called the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). The international component makes this a versatile certification to complete if you’re interested in working abroad. It may be best for those with prior experience who are interested in progressing to management roles. ISACA requires applicants to have at least five years of IT experience to apply.

Course contents

• The course teaches these important aspects of cybersecurity:
• Information security (IS) governance
• IS program development and management
• IS incident management
• Risk management and compliance

Those who complete the course may more effectively communicate with peers. It can also offers instruction on interacting with internal or external stakeholders.

Potential jobs

Here are some potential jobs this certification might help you obtain:

• Information Security Manager: These individuals develop policies and procedures to secure the company network. They also oversee information security analysts, including their hiring and training, and they ensure that the company complies with information security standards.
• Information Security Assessor: These individuals review the company’s security policies and procedures to make recommendations about the security of a company. They accomplish this by interviewing the IT team, checking the network’s security and testing the system for vulnerabilities.

5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

If you’re interested in learning about auditing, this certification from the ISACA might help:

Certification overview

The CISA certification is mostly focused on information auditing. It confirms that the holders have auditing experience and can manage a company’s vulnerabilities while developing enterprise-level controls. Prospective students must have at least five years of professional experience in their field.

Course contents

The CISA certification trains students on information systems relevant to cybersecurity. It also helps students develop applicable monitoring skills. Specific areas of focus may include:

• Auditing information systems
• Managing and governing information technology
• Protecting information assets

Potential jobs

CISA is the primary requirement for upper-level IS audit, assurance and control positions, like:

• Cybersecurity auditor: Cybersecurity auditors provide the company for which they work with an audit of its online security system. They may work internally within a company or offer contract work.
• Information Security Analyst:
  These individuals help ensure the protection of the company’s network through high-quality defenses. They may also implement the company’s disaster recovery plan during network outages.

6. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) Lead Implementer (LI) Certification

The National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies offers the following option:

Certification overview

The certification prepares IT professionals to plan, implement, test, and manage cybersecurity programs utilizing the NIST Cybersecurity Framework. It specifically gives a framework for comprehending computer security advise based on private sector organizational policy. Those who obtain this certification are recognized as experts in the development, implementation, and administration of cybersecurity programming.

Course contents

The structure of the course centers on five core functions:

• Identify
• Protect
• Detect
• Respond
• Recover

Other core course content includes skills relating to managing, monitoring and improving NIST Cybersecurity Framework policy and the ability to expand individual cybersecurity understanding.

Potential jobs

Here are some potential jobs you might pursue with this certificate:

• Security Engineer: Individuals in this role plan and executing a company’s information security strategy and help ensure proper maintenance of all security solutions. They may also document any challenges or measures to aid the security of the company.
• Security Consultant: Security consultants use their expertise to evaluate a company’s security, while also advising other IT team members. The goal of the consultant is to manage threats and, to do so, they may plan, test and manage a company’s security protocols.

7. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Here’s a certification that can help you specifically with cloud-related cybersecurity preparedness:

Certification overview

The CCSP trains IT specialists about cloud:

• Security architecture
• Design
• Operations
• Services

It’s a certification built for security specialists that already have a working knowledge of information technology, IT architecture, governance and the engineering of cloud and web security. Students must have at least five years of security-related experience in a cloud-computing environment.

Course contents

The certification covers many topics relating to the cloud. Specifically, you may learn about cloud architecture and design. Other areas of focus include:

• Cloud data security
• Platform and infrastructure security
• Cloud operations
• Compliance

Potential jobs

The CCSP certification is ideal for:

• Cybersecurity Analyst: Cybersecurity analysts protect company networks and data. They manage current security measures, and respond to any security breaches.
• Systems Architects: These individuals create cybersecurity systems and help companies implement those systems. This includes hardware, software and network systems.

8. Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)

The CHFI is an advanced certification for forensic network security investigators. Here’s more information about this EC-Counsil offering:

Certification overview

The certification equips and trains students to gather evidence and prosecute offenders in a court of law. This may be a good option for those interested in advanced cybercrime investigation and defense. It reviews investigation, recording and reporting of cybercriminal activity.

Course contents

The CHFI certification covers:

• Response and forensics relating to an incident
• Recovering deleted, encrypted or damaged files
• Examination, analysis and reporting of technical evidence

It includes lab projects that emphasize vendor-neutral training in digital forensics. Other topics of discussion include the dark web, the internet of things and Cloud forensics.

Potential jobs

Here are some jobs you might perform after earning this certification:

• Forensic investigator: Forensic investigators investigate everything from the theft of intellectual property to IT system fraud and misuse. A hacking forensic investigator gathers information used to report hacking crimes and then conducts audits to prevent future incidents.
• Chief security officer: The chief security officer (CSO) for an organization oversees all activities for the protection of a company’s digital and physical assets. Tasks may include creating risk assessments and enacting security protocols.

9. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security

Cisco Systems is a digital communications technology conglomerate with many cybersecurity offerings, including the following certification:

Certification overview

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security certification is specifically for protecting Cisco networks. This may be particularly useful if you work for a company that uses CISCO networks. For other individuals hoping to develop new skills, the CCNA may still offer valuable, associate-level training. There are no specific prerequisites for this certification.

Course contents

The CCNA certification trains applicants to recognize threats and vulnerabilities, handle security threats and develop a security infrastructure. Specifically, you may learn about:

• Network fundamentals
• Network access
• IP connectivity
• IP services
• Security Fundamentals
• Automation and programmability

Each associate-level certification from CISCO requires one core exam.

Potential jobs

The CCNA certification provides valuable training for job roles like:

• Help desk technician: An individual in this role may offer technical support to other company team members, either in person or remotely. They may support both software and hardware challenges.
• Network Engineer: A network engineer focus on daily maintenance of a computer network. They may help troubleshoot technical challenges and collaborate with other IT technicians to find solutions.

10. Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT)

Here’s another certification from the EC-Counsil to consider:

Certification overview

An LPT certification validates a person’s ability to test and assess cybersecurity systems. This certification is for persons who have a thorough understanding of cybersecurity strategies. Applicants must have at least one of the following to apply:

• At least two years of experience as a penetration tester
• A Security Analyst (ECSA) certification
• An industry-equivalent certification, like a GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

Course contents

The certification teaches students to analyze systems and recommend useful updates to improve security. Specific topics include:

• Multi-level pivoting
• OS exploits
• SSH tunneling
• Privilege escalation

Earning the certificate involves passing a remote exam that lasts 24 hours.

Potential jobs

Here are some jobs that an LPT certification will help you get:

• Cybersecurity Engineer: These individuals are the architects of a company’s network security and organize the building, installation and management of web content filters, firewalls, network sniffers and router access control lists. They’re also often responsible for creating traps for potential hackers while monitoring all activity to improve defensive systems.
• Penetration Tester: Penetration testers legally hack company computer networks to attempt to gain information. If they find vulnerabilities, they can recommend improvements.

11. IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate

Here’s a useful beginner certificate to consider if you’re new to the field of cybersecurity:

Certification overview

This 8-month certification course is ideal for novices who want to prepare for a career in cybersecurity. It entails training in fields such as cybersecurity analyst tools, threat intelligence, and reaction forensics. The course is totally self-paced, which allows students to learn at their own pace. The training requires an average of four hours per week.

Course contents

This course combines instructional knowledge with hands-on lab activity to help students master their new abilities. It teaches students about essential compliance principles like as threat intelligence, network security, and incident response. The areas of attention include:

• Information security analysis
• Malware and cyber attacks
• Database vulnerabilities
• Data protection and endpoint protection
• Security information and event management (SIEM)
• Systems and network fundamentals

Potential jobs

Here are some potential jobs to this certificate might help you prepare to pursue:

• Junior Cybersecurity Analyst: A junior cybersecurity analyst assists senior specialists with cyber safety measures. Specifically, they may assist with data protection and troubleshooting security breaches.
• Web developer: A web developer uses coding skills to design the functionality and visual appearance of a website. Learning the basics of cybersecurity may help these individuals develop high-quality, secure web experiences.

12. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

The Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) organization offers this introductory certification:

Certification overview

This certification course may be best for individuals with some experience in IT and systems networking and who are hoping to continue to improve their skills. It may also be ideal for those hoping to make a career shift to focus on cybersecurity. Individuals with any level of experience are welcome to take this exam.

Course contents

This certificate includes training on both terminology and active security tasks. It covers topics like:

• Active defense
• Network security
• Cryptography
• Incident response
• Cloud Security

The exam at the end of the course is a 4 to 5-hour test with a proctor. It includes 106-180 questions. Applicants with a score above 73% earn the certificate.

Potential jobs

• Security Administrator: Security administrators help create and implement security plans to protect data and data systems. They may also monitor company networks to identify and address security breaches.
• IT engineer: An IT engineer designs and installs computer systems. This can involve testing, troubleshooting and updating both hardware and software.

13. Advanced Cybersecurity Certificate

If you’d like to gain a certificate from an institute of higher learning, here’s one to consider from Stanford’s online offerings:

Certification overview

This certification course option may be best suited for IT leaders and people with a strong understanding of cybersecurity who want to improve the security of the firm where they work. Students can experience writing secure code, learning about cryptography tools, assembling an information security program, and developing threat countermeasures. You may also learn about leadership and teamwork in cybersecurity.

Course contents

This certificate is an online, self-paced learning opportunity that results in a Certificate of Achievement if you complete six courses. Each course includes approximately 10 to 12 hours of work. Featured courses include:

• Exploiting and protecting web applications
• Foundations of information security
• Cybersecurity and executive strategy

Potential jobs

• Senior Security Consultant: These individuals test a company’s security and analyze the company network. They may also research new security technologies and threats.
• Network Security Specialist: These individuals use expert knowledge to oversee company networks and address security threats. They may also write reports detailing security breaches or unauthorized access to improve security measures in the future.