The demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise. According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology, there are currently 663,434 cybersecurity job openings. As a beginner in cybersecurity, to qualify for these jobs, you need to be skilled. Not only that, most employers would require evidence of your skills and that is where cybersecurity certifications come in.
Cybersecurity certifications give credence to your specialized knowledge of cybersecurity and make you stand out in your professional journey. A survey by Forbes reveals that 96% of IT leaders believe team members with cybersecurity certifications add value to their organizations.
Cybersecurity certifications are credentials that demonstrate the knowledge and skills of professionals in the field of cybersecurity. You shouldn’t confuse them with certificates though.
Cybersecurity Certifications vs. Certificates
Cybersecurity certifications are industry-recognized because they are offered by reputable cybersecurity organizations and accredited by organizations such as the American National Standards Institute. Certifications are generally taken to showcase your skills and expertise, and you typically will need to pass an exam before you earn one.
Certificates, on the other hand, are online or offline courses you take to enhance your knowledge of a particular field.
Why Do You Need to Take Cybersecurity Certifications as a Beginner?
Pursuing cybersecurity certifications as a beginner is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, certifications validate your knowledge and skills, providing credibility in a competitive field. They offer a structured learning path, guiding you from foundational to more advanced concepts. Additionally, certifications enhance your employability, giving you an edge in a growing job market. They also serve as a tangible demonstration of your commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Lastly, certifications often connect you with a supportive network of fellow learners and experts, facilitating valuable connections as you embark on your cybersecurity career.
5 Best Beginner Cybersecurity Certifications
Now that you know what cybersecurity certifications are and why you need to take them, let’s find out the 5 best in the industry you should consider taking.
- CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is the most popular cybersecurity certification and is a great starting point for anyone interested in a career in cybersecurity. It covers essential cybersecurity topics including security fundamentals, technologies and tools, cryptography and PKI, risk management, identity and access management, and threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities. This certification is recognized globally and is often a requirement for entry-level cybersecurity roles.
- (ISC)² Certified in Cyber (CC)
The CC certification is a free training and certification exam by the (ISC)² that provides foundational knowledge, skills and abilities for entry- or junior-level cybersecurity roles. The certification covers basic cybersecurity concepts and is ideal for career changers, students, enthusiasts and beginners.
- eJPT Certification – Junior Penetration Tester
The eJPT certification is a good first step if you want to work as a penetration tester or ethical hacker. It is a hands-on, entry-level Red Team certification that simulates skills utilized during real-world engagements. This certification covers Assessment Methodologies, Host and Network Auditing, Host and Network Penetration Testing, and Web Application Penetration Testing. It is one of the most valuable certifications for ethical hackers with little or no experience.
- Cisco CyberOps
The Cisco CyberOps certification validates the day-to-day, tactical knowledge and skills that Security Operations Center (SOC) teams need to detect and respond to cybersecurity threats. The CyberOps Associate exam and training cover knowledge and skills related to security concepts, security monitoring, hostbased analysis, network intrusion analysis, and security policies and procedures. This is a good certification for beginners who want to become cybersecurity analysts or are interested in Security Operations.
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
If you prefer a practical approach to learning then the GSEC certification is the best choice for you. It is more technical than CompTIA Security+ and focuses on hands-on technical skills and knowledge. It covers topics such as Active defense, Cryptography, Defensible network architecture, Vulnerability scanning, Linux security, Security policy, Web communication security, and Windows security.
Embarking on a career in cybersecurity can be both exciting and rewarding. With the increasing number of cyber threats, the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow. By obtaining relevant certifications, beginners can not only gain knowledge and skills but also demonstrate their commitment to the field. Whether you’re interested in technical hands-on roles or managerial positions, there’s a cybersecurity certification tailored for you. Choose one that aligns with your interests and career goals, and start your journey toward becoming a cybersecurity expert from the ground up.
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