Ethical Hacking, Penetration testing, or risk management? Cybersecurity is a vast domain to specialize in and therefore it becomes important to choose the right skill and right cybersecurity certification
Data breaches are on the rise. If you look at the number of individuals affected by data breaches in the previous year, then it is a whopping 40 million as compared to 31 million the year before. Not only that, the average global cost of a data breach has also gone north hitting a staggering value of $4.45 million in 2023, which also accounts for a 15% increase in just 3 years.
These numbers indicate how important cybersecurity is for current businesses as well as individuals. With the amount of technological advancement, we are seeing, the number of cyber threats is only going to increase in the coming years. Organizations are, therefore, seeking skilled and certified cybersecurity professionals to help minimize the damage and keep their organization and its data secure.
It is expected that around 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs will be available by 2025. This is a huge opportunity, but it will come with tough competition as well. And in that case, cybersecurity certifications will come to your rescue.
What do cybersecurity professionals do?
If you are looking to get into a cybersecurity career, then it is a golden time to invest in yourself and learn the skills and knowledge to become an efficient cybersecurity expert. Before you get into this domain, you must understand what cybersecurity professionals do. This will help you determine which certification or specialization you want to pursue. Here is a quick overview of what they do in their day-to-day life:
- They identify weaknesses in networks, systems, and software to prevent attackers from exploiting them
- Install firewalls, do encryption, manage access control
- Keep a watchful eye on network activity and systems for suspicious behavior that might indicate an attack.
- Respond to security incidents
- Train users on safe online practices and keep them informed about the latest cyber threats.
By enrolling in top cybersecurity certifications, you can specialize in these tasks.
Top Cybersecurity Certifications the Rewarding Career
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
- Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™)
- GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
- Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
- Google Cybersecurity Certificate
Here’s a detailed overview of these certification programs
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
CySA+ focuses more on cybersecurity’s data analytics part. This certification exam tests a candidate’s ability to track and analyze data from network sources. Earning this certification ensures they can validate their expertise in fighting off cyber attacks by implementing intelligence gathered as well as detecting threats even before they arise.
It covers various topics like incident response, threat and vulnerability management, software and systems security, compliance, etc.
Cost: $381 for certification exam ($949 if opting for learning materials)
Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™)
Offered by the United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®), CCGP™ is a beginner-friendly cybersecurity certification program that empowers students and young professionals with the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity such as network and system security, risk management, incident response, security terms, securing devices, etc.
CCGP™ is a highly sought-after entry-level certification and is recognized across industries as it is vetted by top industry experts and SMEs. Along with that, it offers many features that make it popular among students, such as:
- Self-paced online program offering world-class resource center
- Flexible payment option to pay in full, in installments, or later
- Easy renewal and upgradation process
- Online proctored exam with transparent exam policy.
Students also get a sharable digital badge upon completion of the certificate to highlight their skills in their social profiles like LinkedIn, or portfolio website.
GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
Offered by GIAC, this certification exam equips students and professionals with the penetration testing skills to help their organizations and clients identify vulnerabilities within their networks and systems and fix them before an actual cyber attack happens.
Through this exam, you can validate your skills to handle advanced password attacks, escalation and exploitation, as well as plan penetration testing and perform vulnerability scanning.
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
This cybersecurity certification is categorized under offensive operations in the security certification progressive chart. OSCP has been designed for cybersecurity professionals having a decent amount of experience in the field of information security.
It offers certification to validate professionals’ cybersecurity skills and expertise in detecting, forestalling, and reacting to cyber attacks or any kind of cybersecurity breaches. It empowers the professionals with following skills:
- Penetration testing
- Malware analysis
- Computer forensics
Google Cybersecurity Certificate
Available on Coursera, this is the latest launch by Google in the field of cybersecurity. This is an introductory-level cybersecurity certification program designed for anyone interested in making a career in cybersecurity and does not necessarily require any prior knowledge to get started.
It helps students set a strong foundation in their cybersecurity journey and makes students eligible for the CompTIA Security+ exam, that too at a discounted price. So, students get dual credentials to highlight their skills in security programming, information management, intrusion detection systems, etc.
Conclusion
Whether you want to start your cybersecurity career in the field of ethical hacking, intrusion detection, or risk management or want to gain an overall knowledge of the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity, these top cybersecurity certifications will help you gain the knowledge and expertise you seek. Also, being highly credible, will demonstrate your professional commitment and enhance your value among employers. So, why wait? Enroll today!
