Kickstart Your Career with CEH Certification Essentials!

Introduction

Whether you are a cybersecurity enthusiast or a professional, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification could be a stepping stone in your career. But you should know the CEH prerequisites before preparing for the same. Therefore, this read explores the career and certification aspects and the CEH certification requirements.

What is a CEH Certification?

The CEH certification is a professional qualification that validates your skills and knowledge to identify vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, and applications. This certification trains you to think like malicious hackers but with an ethical purpose. With this certification, you can secure digital assets by fixing security flaws before anyone else can exploit them. 

In other words, as a CEH-certified hacker, you use your talent and knowledge in alignment with the law and a code of ethics. The CEH certification assures that you work morally and are a reliable talent. Moreover, this CEH certification will help you to:

• Oversee and provide guidelines for credentialing expert information security specialists in ethical hacking techniques
• Notify the public when those with credentials surpass or fulfill requirements
• Promote ethical hacking as a distinct and self-regulating industry through your certification. 

The above responsibilities are the basic responsibilities you will have as a CEH certificate holder. 

CEH Certification Requirements

Before applying for this certification, you must check the certified ethical hacker requirements. For a CEH certificate, you need at least two years of experience in the information security sector. Otherwise, if you are a beginner, you can attend an official training course, after which you can appear for the exam.

To assist further, here are the criteria one needs to have:

• Experience: If you have experience of at least two years in the information security field. This can be any area, for instance, network security, systems administration, or any related field. You are also eligible if you have experience in any of the following fields:
• Data protection and moral hacking
• Methods of reconnaissance
• Phases of system hacking and methods of assault
• Hacking of networks and perimeter
• Hacking of web applications
• hacking of a wireless network
• Hacking utilizing mobile platforms, IoT, and operational technology (OT)
• Cloud-based computing
• Encryption

• However, ensure your work experience is documented and reproduced as proof. If you are a beginner and do not have any work experience, you can still take the CEH exam.

• Training: You must complete an official training course from a certified training center. This training will help you gain a comprehensive idea about methodologies, reconnaissance, systems hacking, and network scanning.

• Exam: If you are a beginner, it is only after you have completed the training course, you can take the CEH exam. However, if you have working experience, you can skip the training and directly sit for the certification exam. This exam tests you on ethical hacking fundamental concepts, tools, and methods. The test has multiple-choice questions and simulations meant to assess your practical skills.

How to Get the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Certification?

Here is how to get CEH certification:

Get an Associated Bachelor's Degree

You need a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a similar field. Having a degree helps you get initial EC Council training and introduces you to key ideas about the related field of cybersecurity. Obtaining the training helps you with strong fundamental clarity and also boosts your employability in the network security industry.

Gain Experience

You can start looking for a network security entry-level job to prepare for certification. According to the EC-Council, you need a minimum of two years of experience to obtain the certification. However, if you do not have this, take admission into an authorized training program, where you can learn about security and ethical hacking from trained instructors. This way, you will get experience that can help you in exam preparation and job hunting once you have earned your certification.

Apply for the Exam

Once you are ready, whether as a beginner or a working professional, you need to apply to the EC-Council. This will be followed by verification of prior experience if any, and payment of an application fee. The EC-Council needs to approve your details before allowing you to sit for the exam. Once the council has verified your documents, you can register and complete your preparations for the CEH exam. 

Become Certified

For the CEH exam, the EC-Council provides remote and on-site testing alternatives. The CEH exam has a dynamic scoring system that considers the difficulty of the questions you are randomly assigned to answer. So, if you have the right knowledge to take the exam, you should do well! Network enumeration, network reconnaissance, network access, network maintenance, hiding signs of a network breach, etc., are a few topics you can expect in the exam.

Apart from these basic requirements, you must be resilient with your decision to pursue the CEH certificate. After all, it is a skilled-based industry. So, once you have understood the requirements, you need to begin your preparation.  

Tips For Earning a CEH Certification

You need dedicated effort and thoughtful planning to obtain the CEH certification. To help you further, consider the following tips while you prepare for your CEH certificate exam:

Understand the Basics

Start by familiarizing yourself with basic concepts of cybersecurity. This should include understanding networks, operating systems, and common security vulnerabilities. Before diving into CEH certification, you must grasp fundamental cybersecurity principles. This ensures you are not overwhelmed by the material presented in the CEH course. Moreover, familiarity with networks, operating systems, and vulnerabilities will help you navigate the more advanced topics covered in the certification.

Enroll in a CEH Course

If you want formal training, look for accredited training providers offering Certified Ethical Hacker courses. These courses should cover all the topics included in the CEH exam blueprint. You should take a CEH course from a reputable provider for comprehensive preparation. This ensures that you are learning well! 

Practice

Any exam requires regular practice and dedication. Practicing frequently in virtual laboratories and CTF challenges enables you to use your knowledge in practical settings. Practical experience is crucial for developing your self-assurance and skill in ethical hacking methods. 

Stay Updated

Keeping yourself updated is always a good idea. Learn about the changes in the cybersecurity world and keep your tabs on the rising trends and practices.

Join a Study Group

Join a study group of like-minded people on the same path as you. You can join a community to share questions, and doubts and help each other solve probable questions. Preparing together will give you the confidence to take the exam.

Conclusion

The CEH certification stands as a hallmark of proficiency in identifying vulnerabilities within digital ecosystems, emphasizing ethical hacking practices for safeguarding digital assets. To pursue this certification, candidates must meet specific criteria, including requisite experience or completion of an official training course.

Navigating the path towards CEH certification entails a strategic approach, from gaining foundational knowledge through formal education to accumulating practical experience in network security. Additionally, applicants must undergo rigorous preparation and stay abreast of evolving cybersecurity trends to excel in the certification examination.

For aspirants embarking on this journey, adherence to fundamental cybersecurity principles, enrollment in an accredited CEH (v12)- Certified Ethical Hacker course, consistent practice, and active engagement within study groups are essential strategies. By embracing these tips and committing to continuous learning, individuals can unlock the doors to a rewarding career in ethical hacking.

FAQs

1. Does CEH require coding?

No, CEH does not explicitly require coding knowledge. However, having a basic understanding of languages like Python can be beneficial for the certification.

2. Is CEH entry-level?

Yes, CEH is considered an entry-level certification in cybersecurity. It provides a foundational understanding of ethical hacking principles and techniques, making it suitable for beginners or those looking to start a career in cybersecurity.

3. How much does CEH certification cost?

The cost of CEH certification varies depending on location and study materials. On average, you can expect INR 3 lakhs to 15 lakhs.