The Best Penetration Testing Certifications

What is Penetration Testing?

Pen testing, penetration testing, or ethical hacking is a simulated cyber attack that aims to identify the strengths and weaknesses of existing cybersecurity systems. Identifying vulnerabilities beforehand seeks to protect data from real-world cyber attacks.

The penetration testing requires following the mindset of unethical hackers who want to access the data. Besides imparting protection, penetration testing offers insight into possible risks by identifying the data and information access available to the hacker. Penetration testing can test websites, remote servers, firewalls, routers, desktops, physical security measures and social engineering attacks.

Types of Penetration Testing

There are multiple types of penetration testing. The key ones among them are:

1. Wireless Penetration Testing: This type evaluates the organization’s Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). It also assesses wireless protocols such as Z-wave, Bluetooth and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The testing is significant because it offers information on rogue access points, duplicated wireless networks, WPA vulnerabilities, and weaknesses in encryption.
2. Internal and External Network Penetration Testing: This involves the evaluation of on-premise and cloud network infrastructure. The internal penetration test encompasses the assessment of the corporate network, and the attack is simulated from an inside source like an employee. The external aspect is considered with internet-facing components and involves attacks from outside sources regardless of the availability of external accessibility.
3. Blind Pen Testing: These tests are also called closed box pen tests, where the simulation attackers are unaware of the system being attacked. It is done based on company details available on public platforms.
4. Client-side Penetration Testing: The attack is simulated to identify security gaps in client-side applications. It aims to identify specific cyber attacks such as form hijacking, cross-site scripting attacks, clickjacking attacks, open redirection and others.
5. Cloud Penetration Testing: This refers to penetration testing that identifies vulnerabilities across cloud and hybrid environments.

Also Read: How to Become a Penetration Tester? 📖

Top 5 Penetration Testing Certifications

For professionals aspiring to a career in the field, here are the top five penetration testing certifications to choose from:

1. CEH Certification - Certified Ethical Hacking Course

The CEH Certification is a globally recognized credential that validates a professional’s ability to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks using the same techniques as malicious hackers—but in a legal and ethical manner. It equips individuals with expertise in ethical hacking, pen testing, vulnerability assessment, and security testing, making it an essential qualification for cybersecurity professionals seeking to protect digital assets effectively.

For penetration testers, CEH is a must-have certification as it provides hands-on experience with the latest hacking tools, methodologies, and real-world attack simulations. It covers key topics such as network security, cryptography, malware analysis, and social engineering, ensuring professionals can proactively identify and mitigate security risks.

2. CompTIA Security+ (Plus) Certification - SY0-701

Covering a wide range of security domains, including risk management, threat detection, and cryptography, the CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) certification provides a solid understanding of security principles required for various cybersecurity roles. Security+ is often the first step for those pursuing careers in ethical hacking and penetration testing, as it equips candidates with the necessary knowledge to identify vulnerabilities and secure networks effectively.

For penetration testers, CompTIA Security+ is crucial because it establishes a strong foundation in network security, attack vectors, and security assessment methodologies. The certification teaches essential skills in threat analysis, incident response, and vulnerability management, which are core components of penetration testing.

3. GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN)

The GIAC Certified Penetration Tester (GPEN) Certification is a highly respected credential that validates an individual’s expertise in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It equips cybersecurity professionals with the skills needed to identify, exploit, and remediate vulnerabilities in enterprise networks.

4. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) 

The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) Certification is a highly regarded credential for cybersecurity professionals specializing in penetration testing and ethical hacking. OSCP provides hands-on training in real-world attack scenarios, equipping candidates with practical skills in vulnerability exploitation, privilege escalation, and network security assessments. Unlike multiple-choice exams, OSCP requires candidates to complete a 24-hour hands-on exam, demonstrating their ability to compromise systems in a controlled environment.

5. Certified Penetration Testing Professional (CPENT) 

The Certified Penetration Testing Professional (CPENT) Certification is a crucial credential for cybersecurity professionals seeking expertise in ethical hacking and advanced penetration testing. This certification validates skills in exploiting vulnerabilities, conducting real-world attack simulations, and securing critical systems against cyber threats.

Is PenTest Certification Worth It?

The numerous available penetration testing certification exams offer significant value to the takers. They are associated with the following benefits:

• Increases the potential of monetary promotion due to the presence of knowledge and skills backed by the certification exam.
• Expanded skills, making them worthy for complex and diverse tasks.
• Has a positive impact on career advancement.
• Networking opportunities through conferences, online forums and local chapters pave the way for discovering better options.
• Certain industries mandatorily require PenTest certification. Qualifying for the exam offers direct entry into such sectors.
• The certification exams are the industry standard and benefit securing security critical roles.
• Some certifications are vendor-neutral and, hence, are applicable in diverse IT environments, systems and tools.

Did You Know? 🔍

The compound annual growth rate for the penetration testing market size is expected to grow 13.7% by 2027. 

What Skills Are Necessary to Become a Penetration Tester?

The essential skills to possess to earn penetration testing certifications include:

Hard Skills

The hard skills to develop for a career in penetration testing are:

• Computer Networks: The candidates must be familiar with Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) models and architecture. It includes the application of network-layer, transport layer, application layer and link layer protocols.
• Computer Languages: They should have knowledge and experience with Powershell, Golang, Python and Bash.
• Exploits and Vulnerabilities: A penetration tester should possess an in-depth understanding of security vulnerabilities such as SQL injection, insecure direct object references, cross-site sculpting (XSS), security misconfigurations, buffer overflows and others.
• Network Components: The pentester must be well-versed in network software and hardware, such as firewalls, network switches, routers/gateways, and Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs).
• Tools: To perform the duties, hands-on experience with penetration testing and application security tools, such as Kali, Metasploit, Nessus, Wireshark, and others, is necessary.

Soft Skills

The essential soft skills that must be developed to become a penetration tester are:

• Critical Thinking
• Presentation and Communication
• Adaptability
• Independence on Automated Tools
• Willingness to Learn
• Report Writing
• Team Player

Unlock your potential as a cybersecurity expert with our CEH v13 - Certified Ethical Hacking Course. Learn to protect systems from threats using the latest tools and techniques. Enroll now to enhance your skills and boost your career. 🎯

How to Choose the Right Penetration Testing Certification?

There are several factors to consider when going forward with penetration testing certifications. The following points can assist:

1. Curriculum: The certification must assess the candidates on the topics they want to improve or gain proficiency in.
2. Difficulty: The exam level plays a key role. Taking the beginner or advanced-level exam will not help if you are a mid-level candidate.
3. Reputation and Acceptance: The certification must be well-known and acceptable across the industry and globally. If you move to a different area or country, you will not want to take another exam.
4. Eligibility Requirements: Certain certifications require demonstrated and specific years of experience, while others do not. Compare the requirements with your knowledge and experience level to choose.
5. Cost: Check the cost of taking the penetration testing certifications along with the course.

Begin the PenTester Journey With Simplilearn 

Penetration testing is among the highly required security skills, and this career path is encouraged. Developing knowledge and industry-ready skills is a key requirement for entering the profession. To assist you in earning these skills with expert guidance and accredited training, Simplilearn offers the CEH Certification—Certified Ethical Hacking Course.

It offers detailed insights into AI-driven cyber security measures, procedures, tools and methodologies. Gain familiarity with hard skills necessary for the role, such as network packet analysis and system penetration testing. Further, the course accompanies access to e-courseware and exam vouchers by EC-Council.

FAQs

1. Which certification is best for a penetration tester?

The best penetration testing certifications depend on your knowledge level, experience, provider reputation and other factors. Assess your level to find the most suitable one. The Certified Ethical Hacker and CompTIA PenTest+ are among the well-known options.

2. What are the advantages of penetration testing certification?

Earning penetration testing certifications helps you progress in your career by developing new skills. It also allows you to explore new job roles and increase your earning potential.

3. Is CCNA good for penetration testing?

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is best for candidates interested in networking careers. Hence, it is not an optimal choice for penetration testing.

4. How often can I update my penetration testing certifications?

The period and frequency of updates to penetration testing certifications vary depending on the certification provider. For instance, CompTIA PenTest+ must be renewed every three years.