Cyber Security Certifications Should You Train For in 2021

1. CompTIA Security+

Cost: $370 to $949

Level: Entry

Timeline: Self-paced

CompTIA Security+ is one of the best base-level certifications for anyone looking to get into the security field. Recipients of this certificate can work as security administrators, IT auditors, security analysts, and more.

Students will need to undertake a CompTIA Security+ certification exam that consists of up to 90 questions to be completed in 90 minutes. The exam covers general topics, including network attack strategies and defenses, encryption standards and products, network-and host-based security best practices, and more.

To pass the exam, you’ll need to score at least 750 (on a grade of 100- 900). You can prepare for this exam by taking advantage of the CompTIA Security+ Complete Course & Exam offered by Udemy.

While there are no prerequisites for taking the exam, you’re encouraged to have CompTIA Network+ certification and two years of experience in IT admin with a focus on security.

Upon completing Security+, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed to install and configure systems used to secure networks, apps, and mobile devices. You’ll also be able to work with applicable laws.

2. CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker

Cost: $950 to $1,199

Level: Intermediate

Timeline: Self-train or instructor-led for five days

The CEH certification teaches candidates how to think and act like hackers. You’ll learn how to hack into networks and systems to find weaknesses and vulnerabilities and fix them.

This accreditation can benefit anyone tasked with network security, including site administrators and security professionals. Earning it demonstrates your knowledge and skills in attack detection, penetration testing, vectors, and prevention.

The course teaches five phases of white hat hacking: enumeration, reconnaissance, gaining access, maintaining access, and hiding tracks. Plus, you’ll cover several topics like the latest vulnerabilities, hacking technologies, and information security laws.

To obtain a CEH certification, you must pass one exam. The exam tests your knowledge in areas like hacking tactics for networks, web apps and mobile platforms, reconnaissance and attack techniques, IT security controls and laws, cryptography, and cloud computing.

The comprehensive course lasts five days, followed by a four-hour, 125-question exam. While no prerequisites are required to pursue the CEH certification, self-trainers will need two years of provable work experience in the InfoSec field.

If you’re looking for self-study materials, Udemy’s The Complete Ethical Hacker Certification Exam Prep Course is a great starting point.

Consider this certification for jobs such as penetration tester, cyber security engineer, cyber incident analyst, and cloud security architect. If you’re on a budget and would rather enjoy a free course at home, check out some of the best sites for free college courses online.

Click here for CompTIA Network+ Jobs for certified engineers