10 Most Popular Certifications Needed for Cybersecurity Careers

The growth in global spending on cybersecurity services and products is enough to validate the growing concerns related to cybersecurity threats. In fact, it is further expected that the growth will continue to increase by 12%-15% every year until 2021, with products of the Internet of Things continue to lead the way. Every product today that is connected to the internet is at risk of getting targeted for hacking. It is now quite clear why most organizations - both small and large - are investing in the information security to find the best that's available in the market to take care of the growing cybersecurity threat.

The supply, however, is unable to match the growing demand of cybersecurity experts in the market, due to which, organizations are finding it difficult to hire professionals to ensure maximum protection from both external and internal threats. In simple words, there's a constant need for people in the IT field to fill the gap, and the best way to make it a career opportunity is to attain the most popular cybersecurity certifications.

If that's the career you're looking for, check out the list below that we've compiled for you:

1. CompTIA Security+

This is a foundation certification that's recognized as a must for every cybersecurity professional. To obtain the CompTIA Security+ certification, you must also have a minimum of 1-year experience. The aim is to help you with the basic skills required to carry out cybersecurity tasks with the utmost professionalism.

The certification is essential to gain expertise like identity management, threat management, security systems, cryptography, network access control, security infrastructure, and security risk identification and mitigation.

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certification

Hacking is an art, especially if done in an ethical way. Hackers are innovators, especially when responsible for protecting the organization against the threat.  They are usually equipped with the innovation and capabilities that make them counter-attack the threats of black-hat hackers.

To attain this certification, the professional must have a minimum of 1 year of experience in the information security field. Having prior experience ensures they are ready for the industry and already have information about the prevailing cybersecurity threats.

A Certified Ethical Hacker is a highly demanded certification for employers because candidates have a better understanding of the vulnerabilities and weaknesses in the system. Even though they are into ethical hacking, they still think like hackers and can proficiently comprehend the problems in the system without any delay. This ensures taking counter measures effectively and accordingly.  

3. Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)

The CISSP is an advanced-level certification suitable for IT professionals trying to make it big through information security careers. This one is one of the most popular cybersecurity certifications for experts in the field who have a clear vision with big aims.

Since it is a pro-level certification, it requires 5-7 years of industry experience. By obtaining CISSP certification online, you can polish your decision-making skills like planning, developing, executing, and managing security procedures, standards, and policies for the security of the network system as well as the entire organization.  

4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The CCNA security certification training and Cisco Cyber OPS training certifications are two of the most demanded cybersecurity certifications, especially for newbies. For basic level enthusiasts looking for great professional opportunities must opt for the CCNA Security as a basic level certification in the Cisco chain.

There are no prerequisites in terms of other certifications or number of years in experience to gain this certification. However, there's a certain age restriction for people opting for this certification.

For CCNA Cyber Ops certification, you must clear two exams as a prerequisite and should also have at least two years of experience under your belt. The aim is to provide the candidate with core learning of cybersecurity and covers basics to intermediate learning.

5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

CISM is one of the most recognized and top credential for IT professionals at managerial posts. These professionals are responsible for managing, overseeing, and developing information security systems in enterprise-level applications.

By obtaining this certification, you can achieve a higher success potential in this field. Also, you can secure the highest paying jobs in the IT industry by gaining CISM certification. To ensure you qualify for the certification, you must have at least five years of professional experience. The exam includes 200 questions, which you must attempt to clear it and achieve your certification. A CISM certified professional can expect a salary worth $115,000 per year as well as other major career opportunities.

6. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

If you are looking for a surefire method to boost your career in cybersecurity, CISA certification is your ultimate answer. This professional-level certification guarantees career growth if you already have at least five years of proficient experience. Next, you must attempt the exam and score above 450 to get your hands on the certification.

The certification works on capabilities like controlling, reviewing, surveying data innovation, screening, and surveying business systems.

7. System Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

This is another important certification for cybersecurity careers as it helps the candidates with skills to manage the basic functions in cybersecurity. The SSCP certification helps gain knowledge on cybersecurity functions like monitoring, access controls, malicious code and activity, cryptography, analysis, security administration, security operations, and network and communications.

SSCP holders are capable of administering security building, usage and positions, and a hands-on security limit.

8. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

The CRISC certification has a prerequisite of a minimum of three years of professional experience before you can sit for the exam. This certification is surely going to take your career to the next level, as it covers one of the biggest IT challenge: risk management.

By obtaining CRISC, you can take your salary up to $122,000 per year, with a strong position in the organization.

9. GSEC - GIAC Security Essentials

GSEC is suitable for individuals who have thorough experience in the cybersecurity field. This is the main reason why there's no prerequisite set for any experience before you appear in the exam. In fact, this certification is ideal if you want to start your career in cybersecurity and thrive in it.

Average compensation for certified GSEC is $77,000.

10. Cisco Network Security Engineers (CCNP)

The CCNP certification is ideal for network security engineers, who are responsible for the security of routers, switches, networking devices, and machines.

You will require 1-3 years of relevant experience, which will help you improve your skills related to deployment, support, ability to make a choice, and troubleshooting firewalls.

Conclusion

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