Top 12 Information Security Certification: Everything you Need to Know

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• Overview: CISSP is a prestigious certification recognized globally in the field of information security. It covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, and communication and network security. CISSP holders demonstrate expertise in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity programs to protect organizations from security threats.
• Requirements: Candidates must have at least five years of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
• Cost: The exam fee is around $699 USD.

2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

• Overview: CISM is designed for individuals responsible for managing, designing, overseeing, and assessing an enterprise's information security program. It focuses on information security governance, risk management, and compliance. CISM holders demonstrate proficiency in aligning information security with business objectives and managing security risks effectively.
• Requirements: Candidates must have at least five years of experience in information security management, with a minimum of three years of work experience in three or more of the job practice analysis areas.
• Cost: The exam fee is approximately $575 USD for ISACA members and $760 USD for non-members.

3. CompTIA Security+

• Overview: CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification that covers foundational principles in network security, compliance, and operational security. It validates the baseline skills required to perform core security functions and serves as a stepping stone for cybersecurity careers. Security+ holders demonstrate competence in identifying security threats, implementing security controls, and ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
• Requirements: There are no specific prerequisites, but CompTIA recommends having at least two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus.
• Cost: The exam fee is around $349 USD.

4. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

• Overview: CEH focuses on understanding the mindset of hackers and their methodologies to identify and fix vulnerabilities in systems through ethical hacking techniques. It provides knowledge of penetration testing, network scanning, and system hacking. CEH holders demonstrate skills in assessing and improving the security posture of organizations by simulating real-world cyberattacks.
• Requirements: Candidates must attend official training or have at least two years of work experience in information security.
• Cost: The exam fee varies but is typically around $1,199 to $1,399 USD.

5. CompTIA PenTest+

• Overview: CompTIA PenTest+ is designed for professionals involved in identifying and mitigating network vulnerabilities through penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. It covers penetration testing methodologies, planning and scoping, and vulnerability scanning techniques. PenTest+ holders demonstrate proficiency in evaluating the security of networks, systems, and applications to identify potential weaknesses and recommend remediation measures.
• Requirements: CompTIA recommends having Network+ and Security+ certifications and at least three to four years of hands-on information security or related experience.
• Cost: The exam fee is approximately $370 USD.

6. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

• Overview: CISA emphasizes auditing, control, and assurance of information systems. It is ideal for individuals involved in information systems auditing, control, and security. CISA covers audit processes, governance and management of IT, and protection of information assets. CISA holders demonstrate competence in evaluating and improving the effectiveness of information systems controls and governance practices.
• Requirements: Candidates must have at least five years of professional information systems auditing, control, or security experience.
• Cost: The exam fee is around $575 USD for ISACA members and $760 USD for non-members.

7. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

• Overview: GSEC covers a wide range of topics, including access controls, cryptography, and incident handling. It is suitable for security professionals with hands-on experience in IT systems. GSEC holders demonstrate proficiency in implementing and managing security controls to protect organizations from cybersecurity threats.
• Requirements: There are no specific prerequisites, but GIAC recommends having practical experience in information security.
• Cost: The exam fee is typically around $1,899 USD.

8. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

• Overview: CCSP focuses on cloud security principles, architecture, and design. It is designed for professionals working with cloud environments. CCSP covers cloud computing concepts, cloud security architecture, and cloud application security. CCSP holders demonstrate expertise in securing cloud environments and ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of cloud-based resources.
• Requirements: Candidates must have at least five years of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in information technology, with at least three years of experience in information security and one year in one or more of the six domains of the CCSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
• Cost: The exam fee is around $599 USD.

9. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

• Overview: SSCP is a globally recognized certification that validates technical skills in implementing, monitoring, and administering IT infrastructure. It covers access controls, cryptography, and risk management. SSCP holders demonstrate proficiency in protecting organizations from security threats by implementing and maintaining effective security controls.
• Requirements: Candidates must have at least one year of cumulative, paid, full-time work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the SSCP CBK.
• Cost: The exam fee is approximately $249 USD.

10. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)

• Overview: CASP+ is an advanced-level certification focusing on enterprise security operations and architecture. It covers risk management, enterprise security architecture, and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines. CASP+ holders demonstrate expertise in designing and implementing advanced security solutions to address complex cybersecurity challenges.
• Requirements: CompTIA recommends having at least ten years of experience in IT administration, including at least five years of hands-on technical security experience.
• Cost: The exam fee is around $466 USD.

11. GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)

• Overview: GCIH focuses on incident handling and response. It validates skills in detecting, responding to, and resolving computer security incidents. GCIH covers incident handling processes, forensic analysis, and malware detection techniques. GCIH holders demonstrate competence in mitigating and recovering from security incidents to minimize the impact on organizations.
• Requirements: There are no specific prerequisites, but GIAC recommends having practical experience in incident handling and response.
• Cost: The exam fee is typically around $1,899 USD.

12. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

• Overview: OSCP is a hands-on certification focusing on penetration testing and ethical hacking skills. It requires candidates to pass a challenging 24-hour practical exam, demonstrating proficiency in exploiting vulnerabilities, escalating privileges, and pivoting through networks. OSCP holders demonstrate practical expertise in identifying and exploiting security vulnerabilities to improve the overall security posture of organizations..
• Requirements: There are no specific prerequisites, but Offensive Security recommends having practical experience in information security and networking.
• Cost: The exam fee is around $999 USD.

Information security certifications can improve your reputation in a career. These certification courses, such as the Professional Certificate Program in Cybersecurity- Red Team, are a great way for IT professionals to advance their careers in the areas of risk management and cybersecurity.

FAQs

1.Why Pursue Information Security Certifications?

Information security certifications offer numerous benefits:

• • Career Advancement: Certifications demonstrate expertise and dedication, enhancing job prospects and paving the way for promotions.
  • Skill Validation: Certification exams validate knowledge and proficiency in various aspects of information security, providing employers with assurance of competency.
  • Industry Recognition: Holding certifications from reputable organizations increases credibility and recognition within the cybersecurity community.
  • Salary Potential: Certified professionals often command higher salaries and better compensation packages compared to non-certified counterparts.
  • Stay Updated: Certification programs require ongoing education and recertification, ensuring professionals stay abreast of emerging threats and evolving technologies in the field.

2. Which is better: CISSP or Security+?

• The choice between CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) and Security+ depends on individual career goals, experience level, and job requirements:
• CISSP: CISSP is an advanced certification suitable for experienced professionals aspiring to leadership roles in information security. It covers a wide range of security domains, including risk management, cryptography, and security architecture. CISSP requires substantial work experience (typically five years) in addition to passing a rigorous exam.
• Security+: Security+ is an entry-level certification designed for individuals with limited experience in information security or those seeking foundational knowledge in the field. It covers essential concepts such as network security, threat detection, and security compliance. Security+ is often recommended for newcomers to cybersecurity or professionals in roles like network administrators or IT technicians.
• The "better" certification depends on factors such as career aspirations, current skill levels, and job requirements. CISSP offers higher prestige and is geared towards seasoned professionals, while Security+ provides a solid grounding for beginners or those looking to specialize in specific areas of information security.