Security

Explore Top Cybersecurity Certifications and Certificates for 2024

techtrendnews

— 3 min read
Explore Top Cybersecurity Certifications and Certificates for 2024

8 Cybersecurity Certifications Employers Value

Though many cybersecurity roles require a bachelor’s degree in fields like computer science or information technology, certifications can be a powerful way to validate your knowledge and skills. With a wide range of certifications available—spanning entry-level to advanced and general to vendor-specific—it’s essential to choose the one that aligns with your career goals.

Below are eight certifications that frequently appear in job postings across platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Simply Hired, as of October 2024.

Note: Salary figures represent average U.S. salaries based on Glassdoor data from October 2024.

1. CompTIA Security+

This foundational certification equips professionals with essential cybersecurity skills, including threat assessment, incident response, and compliance management. It’s ideal for entry-level roles in cybersecurity.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Systems Administrator: $89,915
  • Security Engineer: $157,496
  • IT Auditor: $89,468

Requirements: While not mandatory, it’s recommended to have two years of IT experience and a Network+ certification before attempting the Security+ exam.

2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Widely regarded as a gold standard, the CISSP demonstrates proficiency in designing and managing robust cybersecurity programs. It’s tailored for experienced professionals.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Chief Information Security Officer: $217,127
  • Senior Security Consultant: $142,737

Requirements: Five years of experience in at least two of eight cybersecurity domains are needed. A degree or certain certifications may count toward this requirement.

3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The CEH certification focuses on ethical hacking techniques to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities. It’s perfect for roles like penetration testing and threat analysis.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Penetration Tester: $137,195
  • Threat Intelligence Analyst: $163,428

Requirements: Two years of experience in information security or completion of an EC-Council-approved training program.

4. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The CISA validates expertise in auditing IT systems and ensuring compliance with industry standards, making it ideal for cybersecurity auditing professionals.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • IT Audit Manager: $112,241
  • Cybersecurity Auditor: $162,067

Requirements: Five years of relevant work experience, with partial waivers available for education.

5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

CISM is tailored for individuals transitioning into managerial roles, emphasizing governance, risk management, and incident response.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Director of Information Security: $345,673
  • Information Risk Consultant: $111,198

Requirements: Five years of experience in information security management, with options to waive some requirements.

6. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)

The GCIH certification showcases your ability to handle cybersecurity incidents, including identifying, responding to, and mitigating cyber threats.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Security Incident Handler: $61,662
  • Security Architect: $156,094

Requirements: No formal prerequisites, but knowledge of security fundamentals is beneficial.

7. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

Designed for professionals managing an organization’s IT security systems, the SSCP tests a range of skills, from cryptography to incident response.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • Network Security Engineer: $117,349
  • Cybersecurity Consultant: $197,194

Requirements: One year of work experience or a degree in a cybersecurity-related field.

8. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

Ideal for those transitioning into cybersecurity, the GSEC validates foundational skills in areas like active defense and cloud security.

Relevant roles and average salaries:

  • IT Security Manager: $139,454
  • Penetration Tester: $137,195

Requirements: No prerequisites, but experience in IT or networking is recommended.

Recognized Cybersecurity Certificates

While certifications validate exam success, certificates demonstrate completion of structured training programs. Both can elevate your profile.

Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate

This certificate focuses on hands-on training with tools like Python and intrusion detection systems, preparing you for roles such as cybersecurity analyst or security administrator.

Google Cloud Cybersecurity Professional Certificate

Emphasizing cloud computing security, this certificate is tailored for professionals working with Google Cloud technologies.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cybersecurity Credential

When selecting a certification or certificate:

  • Match your experience: Choose an option aligned with your current skill level.
  • Consider costs: Factor in the expense of exams and maintenance fees.
  • Focus on specialization: Decide whether a general or niche certification aligns with your career goals.

By strategically selecting a credential, you can boost your career prospects and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.

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