In today’s digital landscape, where technology plays a pivotal role in almost every aspect of our lives, ensuring the security and protection of sensitive information has become a paramount concern. With the rise of cyber threats and attacks, organizations across the globe are increasingly realizing the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals. As a result, obtaining relevant certifications has become crucial for individuals looking to establish themselves in the field of cybersecurity. This article will focus into the Best 10 cyber security certifications in 2023, providing valuable insights into each certification’s Benefits, Costs, Job Roles, Salary and requirements.
Before we dive into the specific certifications, let’s discuss why cyber security certifications hold significant value in today’s job market.IT certifications can improve your chances of getting a job in the IT field. A study by CompTIA found that 72% of hiring managers said that IT certifications are important or very important when making hiring decisions. Cybersecurity certifications serve as tangible proof of an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of cybersecurity. Employers often prioritize candidates with recognized certifications, as they demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and a strong foundation in industry best practices. IT professionals with certifications earn an average of $11,000 more per year than those without certifications .
The CISSP certification, offered by (ISC)², is one of the most prestigious certifications in the field of cybersecurity. It validates an individual’s ability to design, implement, and manage a robust cybersecurity program. CISSP covers a wide range of security domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security engineering, and more. With its comprehensive coverage, CISSP opens doors to various high-level cybersecurity roles.
CISSP Training Fee: The cost of CISSP training can vary depending on the provider and the format of the training. However, in general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1000 to $3,000 for a comprehensive CISSP training course.
CISSP Prerequisites:
5 years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
A four-year college degree or regional equivalent, or an additional credential from the (ISC)² approved list
CISSP Job Role and Salary: Source ZipRecruiter, Inc
| Job Title | Salary |
|---|---|
| Security Architect | $125,470 per year |
| Security Engineer | $112,234 per year |
| Security Analyst | $98,490 per year |
| Security Manager | $116,573 per year |
| Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | $181,060 per year |
CISSP Exam Format: The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) exam is a challenging and rigorous exam that tests the knowledge and skills of information security professionals. The exam is administered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)².
The CISSP exam is a 4-hour, Multiple choice and advanced innovative items exam that covers eight domains of information security
Security and Risk Management
Asset Security
Security Architecture and Engineering
Communication and Network Security
Identity and Access Management
Security Assessment and Testing
Security Operations
Contingency Planning and Disaster Recovery
CISSP Passing Score : The exam is scored on a scale of 700 to 1000, with a passing score of 700. The exam is updated every three years to reflect the latest changes in the information security landscape
CISSP Certification Body : International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)²
Other Certifications to purse after CISSP: Certifications that you can pursue after obtaining the CISSP certification. The best certification for you will depend on your specific career goals and interests. If you are interested in a management role, then the CCISO or CISM certification may be a good option for you. If you are interested in a technical role, then the CASP or SSCP certification may be a good option for you.
CEH Training Cost: In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $16,00 for a comprehensive CEH training course.
CEH Prerequisites: There is a two paths applicants can choose to be eligible for the final C|EH exam
1.A minimum of 2 years of experience in information security.
2.Completion of an EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker training course.
CEH Job Role and Salary: As Per PayScale
| Job Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Security Analyst | $82,000 to $120,000 |
| Penetration Tester | $95,000 to $135,000 |
| Security Consultant | $100,000 to $150,000 |
| Security Architect | $110,000 to $165,000 |
| Security Engineer | $105,000 to $155,000 |
CEH Exam Format: CEH exam is a 4-hour, 125 multiple-choice exam that covers the following topics:
Ethical Hacking Concepts
Networking
Systems Security
Web Application Security
Cryptography
Social Engineering
Attack Detection and Response
Laws and Regulations
CEH Passing Score: CEH exam consists of 125 questions and the passing score is 70%.
Certification Body: EC-Council
Other Certifications to Purse after CEH: ECSA ,Licensed Penetration Tester,OSCP,CHFI
Also Read: https://careermaker.us/best-it-certifications-2023/
CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral certification that serves as a foundation for a career in cybersecurity. This certification covers essential cybersecurity concepts, including network security, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response. CompTIA Security+ is an excellent starting point for individuals seeking entry-level positions in the cybersecurity field.
CompTIA Security+ Training Cost: The cost of CompTIA Security+ training in the United States somewhere around $1100-$2400 depends on training provider & training mode you choose.
CompTIA Security+ Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for the CompTIA Security+ exam. However, CompTIA recommends that you should have two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus
CompTIA Security+ Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Security Analyst | $70,000 to $110,000 |
| Penetration Tester | $80,000 to $120,000 |
| Security Consultant | $85,000 to $130,000 |
| Security Engineer | $90,000 to $140,000 |
| Systems Administrator | $75,000 to $115,000 |
CompTIA Security+ Exam Format: The CompTIA Security+ exam is a vendor-neutral certification exam that tests the fundamental security concepts and skills required to protect systems and networks. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions.
CompTIA Security+ Passing Score: The exam is scored on a scale of 100 to 900, with a passing score of 750.
CompTIA Security+ Certification Body: CompTIA
Other Certifications to Purse after CompTIA Security+: CompTIA CySA+ , CompTIA PenTest+ ,GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC),Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
CISM, offered by ISACA, is designed for professionals involved in managing and overseeing an enterprise’s information security program. This certification focuses on information risk management, governance, incident management, and program development. CISM is highly regarded by organizations seeking individuals capable of aligning security initiatives with business objectives.
CISM Training Cost: CISM training will cost you anywhere between $1200-$3500.
CISM Prerequisites: The CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) certification is a highly respected certification in the field of information security. It is designed for professionals who have experience in managing information security programs.
To qualify for the CISM certification, you must meet the following prerequisites:
5 years of information security work experience: This experience must be gained in at least three of the four CISM job practice areas:
Information Security Governance
Information Risk Management
Information Security Program Development and Management
Information Security Incident Management
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent: This can be in any field, but it is preferable if it is in information security or a related field.
CISM Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Information Security Manager | $146,000 |
| Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) | $207,500 |
| Security Architect | $132,500 |
| Security Engineer | $125,500 |
| Information Security Analyst | $105,500 |
| Security Consultant | $110,500 |
| Certification | CISM |
| Performance-based Questions | No |
| Exam Length | 4 Hours, 150 Questions |
| Experience Level | Manager |
| Pre-requisites | 5 years experience |
| Exam Price | $575 member/ $760 non-member |
| Passing Score | 450 (out of 800) |
CISM Passing Score: 450 (out of 800)
CISM Certification Body: ISACA
Other Certifications to Purse after CISM: CISSP,CIPP/E,CCSP,CSSLP
As cloud computing continues to gain prominence, the CCSP certification becomes increasingly valuable. Offered by (ISC)², CCSP validates an individual’s ability to secure cloud environments. This certification covers key areas such as cloud architecture, data security, legal and compliance, and operations. CCSP is ideal for professionals working with cloud technologies and services.
CCSP Training Cost: You can expect to pay anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000 for a training course.
CCSP Prerequisites: 5 years of cumulative, paid work experience in information technology, of which three years must be in cloud security: This experience must be gained in at least two of the five CCSP job practice areas:
Cloud Security Architecture and Design
Cloud Infrastructure Security
Cloud Application Security
Cloud Compliance and Risk
Cloud Operations Security
CCSP Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Cloud Security Architect | $135,670 |
| Cloud Security Engineer | $122,520 |
| Cloud Security Analyst | $105,520 |
| Cloud Security Consultant | $110,520 |
CCSP Exam: 150 Multiple choice questions. You have 4 hours to complete the exam.
CCSP Passing Score: 700 out of 1000 points
CCSP Certification Body: International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)²
Other Certifications to Purse after CCSP: CISM-ISSMP,CISSP, CRISC, COBIT 5
With privacy concerns at the forefront, the CIPP certification holds significant relevance in today’s digital age. This certification, provided by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), focuses on global privacy laws, regulations, and frameworks. CIPP is ideal for professionals involved in data protection and privacy management.
CIPP Training Cost: The cost of CIPP training varies depending on the provider and the length of the course. starts anywhere from $8,00 to $2,000 for a training course.
CIPP Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for the CIPP certification. However, the IAPP recommends that you have some experience in privacy law and regulation before taking the exam.
CIPP Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Privacy Officer | $120,000 |
| Privacy Manager | $105,000 |
| Privacy Analyst | $90,000 |
| Privacy Consultant | $95,000 |
CIPP Exam: The CIPP exam is a multiple-choice questions with 90 questions allotted time of 2.5 hours with a 15-minute break. You will need to score at least 300 in order to pass.
CIPP Passing Score: The passing score for the CIPP exam is (300) on a scale of 100-500.
CIPP Certification Body: International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
Other Certifications to Purse after CIPP: CIPP/E, CIPT,CISA,CISSP-ISSMP
Also Read:https://careermaker.us/how-to-prepare-for-cissp-exam-2023/
The OSCP certification, offered by Offensive Security, is highly respected within the cybersecurity community. It emphasizes practical hands-on skills and requires individuals to successfully complete a comprehensive penetration testing exam. OSCP equips professionals with the knowledge and expertise needed to identify vulnerabilities and secure systems effectively.
CIPP Training Cost: The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) training fee is $1,599.Again, depending on the training provider and format you choose.
CIPP Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification. However, Offensive Security recommends that you have the following before taking the exam: At least 2 years of experience in IT security along with basic understanding of penetration testing & working knowledge of Kali Linux
CIPP Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Penetration Tester | $100,000 |
| Security Analyst | $80,000 |
| Cybersecurity Engineer | $100,000 |
| Information Security Consultant | $75,000 |
CIPP Exam: The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification exam is a hands-on exam that is conducted in a simulated environment. The exam consists of 20 machines that are vulnerable to a variety of attacks. You will have 24 hours to complete the exam and to root as many machines as possible
CIPP Passing Score: The exam is graded based on the number of machines that you root and the quality of your write-ups
CIPP Certification Body: Offensive Security (or OffSec)
Other Certifications to Purse after OSCP:OSCE, GWAPT,PTES
Similar to the CIPP certification, the CIPT certification also focuses on privacy management but from a technological perspective. CIPT, provided by IAPP, equips individuals with the knowledge to navigate the complex landscape of privacy in the digital age. This certification is particularly valuable for professionals involved in privacy engineering and technology implementation.
CIPT Training Cost: CIPT training varies depending on the provider and the length of the course. $1,000 to $3,000 for a training course.
CIPT Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for the Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) certification. IAPP recommends you should have basic understanding of information privacy and Some experience in working with privacy before taking the exam
CIPT Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Privacy Engineer | $100,000 |
| Privacy Analyst | $80,000 |
| Privacy Compliance Officer | $90,000 |
| Privacy Manager | $105,000 |
CIPT Exam: The Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) certification exam is a multiple-choice exam with 90 questions and 2.5 Hours duration.
CIPT Passing Score: Score at least 70% for Pass the exam.
CIPT Certification Body: International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
Other Certifications to Purse after CIPT: CIPP/E,CISM,CISSP
CSSLP, offered by (ISC)², focuses on secure software development practices. This certification validates an individual’s understanding of software vulnerabilities, risk management, and secure coding practices. CSSLP is ideal for professionals involved in software development, ensuring that security measures are integrated into every phase of the software development lifecycle.
CSSLP Training Cost: CSSLP training cost you in between $1200-$3500.
CSSLP Prerequisites:
To be eligible for the (ISC)² CSSLP certification, candidates must have either:
CSSLP Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Security Engineer | $105,000 |
| Security Architect | $120,000 |
| Security Manager | $130,000 |
| Chief Security Officer (CSO) | $150,000 |
CSSLP Exam: You will get 3 Hours to complete the exam. There will be will 125 Multiple Choice Questions.
CSSLP Passing Score: 700 out of 1000 points
CSSLP Certification Body:(ISC)²
Other Certifications to Purse after CSSLP:OSCP,CISA,CISM,CISSP
The E|CIH certification, provided by EC-Council, focuses on incident handling and response. This certification equips professionals with the skills to detect, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity incidents effectively. E|CIH is highly valuable for individuals seeking roles in incident response teams or security operations centers.
E|CIH Training Cost: Cost of Certified Cybersecurity Incident Handler (E|CIH) training may be vary and depends on training provider you choose. Generally costs around $900-$4000.
E|CIH Prerequisites:1 Year of experience managing Windows/ Unix/ Linux systems or equivalent and understanding of general network and security services
E|CIH Job Role and Salary:
| Job Role | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Incident Responder | $110,000 |
| Security Analyst | $120,000 |
| Security Engineer | $130,000 |
| Security Manager | $140,000 |
E|CIH Exam: There will be 100 Multiple Choice Questions and you have 180 minutes to complete the exam.
E|CIH Passing Score: Score at Least 70% to pass the exam.
E|CIH Certification Body: EC-Council
Other Certifications to Purse after (E|CIH): GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH),CISSP,CISA
Also Read: https://careermaker.us/security-vs-cissp/
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, obtaining the right cybersecurity certifications is essential for professionals looking to establish themselves in the field. The best 10 cyber security certifications in 2023 discussed in this article provide individuals with a solid foundation and demonstrate their expertise in various cybersecurity domains. By acquiring these certifications, individuals can position themselves as highly qualified and sought-after cybersecurity professionals.
Each certification has its own prerequisites, which may include a certain level of professional experience, educational background, or prior certifications. It is essential to review the specific requirements for each certification to determine the prerequisites that must be fulfilled.
The preparation time for each certification varies depending on factors such as prior knowledge, experience, and the individual’s dedication to studying. On average, candidates should allocate several months of focused preparation to ensure success in these certifications.
Yes, all the certifications mentioned in this article are globally recognized. They hold value in the job market and are sought after by employers worldwide.
Absolutely! Obtaining any of these certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects in the cybersecurity field. These certifications validate your expertise and increase your credibility, making you a desirable candidate for various cybersecurity roles.
Most of these certifications require renewal after a certain period. The renewal intervals vary depending on the certification. It is essential to stay updated with the respective certification body’s renewal requirements to maintain the validity of your certification.
Yes, Company Like CareerMaker Solutions helping students to prepare for this Certifications. There are numerous training resources available for each certification. These resources include official study guides, practice exams, online courses, and instructor-led training programs. Utilizing these resources can greatly aid in your exam preparation.
