Cyber security is one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 33 percent growth rate for information security professionals by 2030, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. You can thrive in different cyber security careers, including cryptographer, security analyst, and security software developer, with the right education and credentials.
Investing in professional cyber security certifications is a great way to improve your odds of success in the field. Certifications for cyber security can prepare you for entry-level, mid-level, and senior-level roles. This article features the highest-paying cyber security certifications, what they involve, and how much they cost, as well as training resources.
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What Is a Professional Certification?
A professional certification is an advanced credential earned by a professional to reinforce their expertise in an industry. Certification proves that you have the skills, experience, and knowledge to succeed in specific positions. The credential is usually obtained through taking an exam offered by industry-specific organizations like CompTIA, ISACA, or EC-Council for the cyber security field.
What’s the Difference Between Certification and a Certificate?
There are several important differences between certification and a certificate. A professional certification involves an assessment of your skills, knowledge, and experience in the field. A certificate is an academic award that you receive upon completion of an educational program. You can pursue a certificate as a beginner, but you need work experience to achieve certification.
Certification is valid only for a specific timeframe, meaning that you will have to renew it, usually after one to three years. On the other hand, a certificate doesn’t require renewal and can act as a gateway to a degree program in a relevant field. Overall, certification carries more weight than a certificate because it proves that you meet a standard of expertise in the field.
Why Is Certification in Cyber Security Important?
Certification in cyber security is important because it facilitates professional development and credibility in the industry. Cyber security certifications are challenging, and earning one demonstrates your skill level and depth of knowledge in the industry. In fact, US News & World Report states that 91 percent of employers prioritize applicants with a cyber security certification.
Moreover, expanding your cyber security certification portfolio improves your earning potential. cyber security professionals earn different salaries depending on the certification. For example, a Certified Information Security Manager earns $129,000 per year on average, whereas someone with a CompTIA Security+ certification earns $78,000 per year on average.
Best Cyber Security Certifications by Salary
| Certification | Provider | Average Salary | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | ISACA | $129,000 | $575 for Members $760 for Non-members |
| Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) | International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 | $121,000 | $599 |
| Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) | International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2 | $119,000 | $749 |
| Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) | ISACA | $107,000 | $575 for Members $760 for Non-members |
| GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) | GIAC Certifications | $100,000 | $949 |
| CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) | CompTIA | $93,000 | $480 |
| GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) | GIAC Certifications | $91,000 | $949 |
| Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Cisco Systems | $88,000 | $300 |
| Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) | EC-Council | $82,966 | $1,699 |
| CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA | $78,000 | $381 |
Best Cyber Security Certifications to Further Your Career
The CISM certification is meant for IT professionals with five years of experience in information security, such as information security managers, prospective managers, or IT security consultants who have the knowledge to build and maintain an enterprise information security (infosec) program.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) Overview
- Average Salary: $129,000
- Cost: $575 (members); $760 (non-members)
- Requirements: Five years of work experience in information security management, 10 years of overall work experience, $50 application fee
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 150 multiple choice questions in four hours
- Best Suited For: Experts seeking to improve their skills in information security governance, information risk management, information security program development, and information security incident management
Potential Careers With Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
With this intermediate security credential from (ISC)², you can show employers that you have the skills to design, implement, and monitor a secure IT infrastructure. The exam tests expertise in access controls, risk identification and analysis, security administration, incident response, cryptography, and network, communications, systems, and application security. The CCSP is designed for IT professionals working hands-on with an organization’s security systems or assets.
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) Overview
- Average Salary: $121,000
- Cost: $599
- Requirements: Five years of work experience, three years in information security, and one year in at least one of the domains
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 125 multiple choice questions in three hours
- Best Suited For: Cloud security professionals who want to improve their skills in cloud security fundamentals like design, operations, and compliance with regulatory frameworks
Potential Careers With Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
The CISSP certification from (ISC)² ranks among the most sought-after credentials in the industry. Earning your CISSP demonstrates that you’re experienced in IT security and capable of designing, implementing, and monitoring a cyber security program. This advanced certification is for experienced security professionals looking to advance their careers in roles like senior security consultant and security administrator.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Overview
- Average Salary: $119,000
- Cost: $749
- Requirements: Five years of paid work experience in at least two of the CISSP domains
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 100-150 multiple choice questions in three hours (CAT Exam), 250 multiple choice questions in six hours (Linear Exam)
- Best Suited For: Experienced security professionals, managers, and executives seeking to learn extensive security practices and principles
Potential Careers With Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISA exam confirms expertise for technicians that audit IT and business systems. Certification holders know how to stop fraud and non-compliance and analyze audit findings and report them to the affected organization. While challenging to earn, CISA is a good choice for technicians who want to level up their auditing and security skills.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) Overview
- Average Salary: $107,000
- Cost: $575 (members); $760 (non-members)
- Requirements: Five or more years of experience in IS/IT audit, control, assurance, or security; $50 application processing fee
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 150 multiple choice questions in four hours
- Best Suited For: Beginners and professionals interested in expanding their knowledge in information systems audit, security, and control
Potential Careers With Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
This Incident Handler certification is for cyber security professionals who aspire to solidify their authority in threat detection and response to security incidents. Professionals with this certification will have certified knowledge about common attack techniques and vectors. There are no official prerequisites, though it’s recommended that you have a basic understanding and relevant experience with security principles and networking protocols.
GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) Overview
- Average Salary: $100,000
- Cost: $949 for certification attempt exam ($199 for practice exams; $849 for retakes; $459 for a certification attempt extension)
- Requirements: No prerequisites
- Valid For: Four years
- Exam Length: 106 questions in four hours
- Best Suited For: Information security experts who act as first responders
Potential Careers With GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)
CASP+ is the only performance-based certification designed for advanced cyber security technicians. It is unique in that it covers security architecture and engineering, not just one or the other. CASP+ is the only designation that enables technical leaders to assess cyber readiness within an enterprise and design and implement solutions that ensure an organization is prepared for future attacks.
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) Overview
- Average Salary: $93,000
- Cost: $480
- Requirements: No prerequisites
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 90 questions in two hours 45 minutes
- Best Suited For: Beginners seeking an understanding of security principles, networking protocols, and the Windows command line
Potential Careers With CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
This certification from the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is an entry-level security credential for those with some background in information systems and networking. Earning this credential validates your skills in security tasks like active defense, network security, cryptography, incident response, and cloud security. Consider taking the GSEC exam if you have a background in IT and wish to move into cyber security.
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) Overview
- Average Salary: $91,000
- Cost: $949 for certification attempt exam ($199 for practice exams; $849 for retakes; $459 for a certification attempt extension)
- Requirements: No prerequisites
- Valid For: Four years
- Exam Length: 180 multiple choice questions in five hours
- Best Suited For: Beginners in information security
Potential Careers With GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
CCNA certification proves you have what it takes to navigate the ever-changing landscape of IT. The CCNA exam covers networking fundamentals, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. Designed for agility and versatility, CCNA validates that you have the skills required to manage and optimize today's most advanced networks.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Overview
- Average Salary: $88,000
- Cost: $300
- Requirements: No prerequisites
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 50-60 questions in one hour 30 minutes
- Best Suited For: Beginners improving their skills in advanced network fundamentals
Potential Careers With Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Ethical hacking, also known as white hat hacking and penetration testing, involves lawfully hacking organizations to try and uncover vulnerabilities before malicious players do. The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council) offers this certification.
Earn it to demonstrate your skills in penetration testing, attack detection, vectors, and prevention. The CEH certification helps you to think like a hacker and take a more proactive approach to cyber security.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Overview
- Average Salary: $82,966
- Cost: $1,699
- Requirements: $100 application fee, two years of work experience
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 125 multiple choice questions in four hours
- Best Suited For: Mid-level cyber security professionals
Potential Careers With Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level security certification that validates the core skills needed in any cyber security role. With this certification, you demonstrate your ability to assess the security of an organization, monitor and secure cloud, mobile, and internet of things (IoT) environments, understand laws and regulations related to risk and compliance and identify, and respond to security incidents.
CompTIA Security+ Overview
- Average Salary: $78,000
- Cost: $381
- Requirements: Two years of IT experience
- Valid For: Three years
- Exam Length: 90 multiple choice questions in one hour 30 minutes
- Best Suited For: Beginners
Potential Careers With CompTIA Security+
How to Choose the Best Cyber Security Certification for Your Career
When choosing the best cyber security certification for your career, consider your career goals, area of focus, and experience level. The cost of the certification is another factor to keep in mind. We’ll take a closer look at each of these considerations below.
Your Career Goals
Your career goals play a significant role in certification selection. You might be pursuing certification for professional development or in order to move into a leadership role. Defining your goals makes it easier to find the right certification. A wide array of cyber security certifications help you learn a new skill, change careers, or get a promotion.
Furthermore, defining your career path helps you zero in on a suitable area of focus. In the cyber security field, for example, there are certifications in the areas of application security, network architecture, security administration, and incident response.
Certification Cost
Cyber security certification costs vary depending on the certification body. However, they are generally pretty reasonable and considerably less than degree programs. The ones on our list cost between $300 and $1,699 and provide access to good-paying jobs. Consider your budget and the anticipated payoff when choosing the right certification for you.
Your Experience Level
Cyber security certifications are available to beginners, mid-level professionals, and experts. Certification bodies provide options addressing foundational-level aspects of cyber security and advanced topics. For example, a beginner may excel at the GIAC Security Essentials Certification exam but lacks access to the CASP+ certification, which requires 10 years of IT experience.
Which Cyber Security Certifications Pay the Most?
The cyber security certifications that pay the most are CISM, CISSP, CCSP, and CISA. These certification holders receive an average salary of $100,000 to $130,000. The certification providers are reputable cyber security organizations with years of industry contribution. Furthermore, employers highly regard the certification exams from these providers.
Highest-Paying Cyber Security Certifications
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): $129,000
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): $121,000
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): $119,000
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): $107,000
- GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH): $100,000
Which Cyber Security Certifications Are the Best for Beginners?
The cyber security certifications that are the best for beginners are the GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC), CompTIA Security+, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). These certifications have no prerequisites and are open to everyone, including entry-level professionals. Furthermore, these certifications cover foundation-level cyber security topics, which are perfect for beginners.
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Best College Certificate Programs
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How to Prepare for Your Cyber Security Certification Exam
You can prepare for your cyber security certification exam by taking short courses, creating study groups, reading cyber security books and blogs, or joining online cyber security forums. These resources are readily available and accessible, regardless of your experience in cyber security. Note that some exam prep resources require a fee, while others are free.
Best Courses to Prepare for Cyber Security Certification Exams
The best cyber security certification exam prep courses include the CISSP Exam Prep by Wichita State University and the CISA certification prep on Udemy. The courses cover fundamental cyber security concepts and skills to help you excel in your exams. Below is an in-depth overview of five of the best cyber security certification prep courses.
- Cost: $2,449
- Duration: Self-paced
- Best Suited For: CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
This bootcamp offers an expert master’s program to prepare professionals for CompTIA Security+, CISM, CISSP, and CCSP certifications. You will explore foundational, intermediate, and advanced cyber security skills. Moreover, users have lifetime access to recordings and self-paced videos. The program includes four courses and several electives. Reviewers commend the course for having instructors who provide in-depth training and practical exercises.
- Cost: $795.95
- Duration: 180 days
- Best Suited For: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This course offers a 180-day subscription to anyone preparing for the CISM certification. It includes eight modules covering information security governance, risk management, program management, and legal and ethical issues. You will also have access to over 50 practice exams, including three timed comprehensive exams. More than 6,000 candidates have taken the course, which is presented by ISACA's top-selling exam prep author, Allen Keele.
- Cost: $549
- Duration: 40 hours
- Best Suited For: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Center for Management Development at Wichita State University offers this course to professionals preparing for the CISSP certification. The course focuses on security breaches, asset security, engineering, operations, risk management, and communications and network security. It provides two practice exams, which cover 120 questions each.
The course is mobile-friendly and includes games, flashcards, video content, and real-world case studies. These resources make it easier for you to understand the ins and outs of the industry and certification.
- Cost: $289
- Duration: Eight online sessions (four weeks), at three hours each
- Best Suited For: GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH), GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
Edureka’s certification training course helps students learn application security, computer networks and security, cryptography, ethical hacking, malware threats, and SQL injection. It is a broad training program for cyber security beginners pursuing foundational-level certifications. The course explores confidentiality, security architecture, integrity, availability, security policies, and governance.
- Cost: $39-$89/month (Coursera subscription)
- Duration: Eight months
- Best Suited For: GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Coursera is one of the most affordable course providers for various cyber security courses, including certification courses. The University of Maryland offers this specialization course in partnership with Coursera to prepare students for any cyber security certification. The specialization includes five courses that delve into software security, usable security, cryptography, hardware security, and a cyber security capstone project.
Other Resources to Prepare for Your Cyber Security Certification Exams
Other cyber security exam prep resources include books, podcasts, blogs, webinars, and YouTube videos. The wide array of resources makes it easier for you to find the most suitable exam prep resource. Below are five of the best options available.
CompTIA Complete Cyber Security Study Guide
This two-book set scores 4.3 stars on Amazon and covers CompTIA CySA+ and CompTIA Security+ certifications. You will learn essential security technologies, tools, and tasks in vulnerability management, cyber incident response, threat management, and security architecture. The set comes with free access to the Sybex interactive learning environment, where you will test your knowledge using electronic flashcards and practice questions.
CompTIA Complete cyber security Study Guide Overview
- Type of Resource: Books
- Cost: $39.76
- Ideal For: People who want to prepare for the CompTIA certification or understand CompTIA security concepts
Cyber Work Podcast
Infosec’s Cyber Work podcast is one of the best cyber security podcasts for industry professionals. It features weekly conversations with cyber security experts in cybercrime, security coding, ethical hacking, security management, development, and control. This inclusive podcast targets beginner, intermediate, and advanced cyber security professionals. You can listen to the podcast on various podcast hosting sites like YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and Spotify.
Cyber Work Podcast Overview
- Type of Resource: Podcast
- Cost: Free
- Ideal For: People who want to gain new skills for career development, keep up with modern cyber security trends, and learn from industry experts
Practice Exams: Entry-Level Cyber Security Certification
In this program, Udemy offers four practice exams consisting of 75 questions each. These exams are beneficial to entry-level cyber security professionals seeking to improve their credentials. The questions cover several cyber security domains, including security principles, access control, security operations, network security, business continuity, incident response, and disaster recovery.
Practice Exams: Entry-Level cyber security Certification Overview
- Type of Resource: Practice exams
- Cost: $29.99
- Ideal For: Beginners and professionals seeking to gauge their cyber security knowledge before taking the certification exam
TechExams Community
TechExams is a unique cyber security forum where you can interact with professionals from different walks of life and employment backgrounds. The forum was designed by Infosec Institute, a renowned cyber security education company. Joining the group gives you 24/7 access to educational content, practice tests, videos, and interactive group engagements.
TechExams Community Overview
- Type of Resource: Online forum
- Cost: Free
- Ideal For: People who want to learn from and interact with a community of fellow cyber security enthusiasts
Krebs on Security
Created by Brian Krebs, a cyber security expert and former Washington Post reporter, Krebs on Security is one of the best-performing cyber security blogs. It explores modern cyber security trends, cyber security applications, cybercrime, and everything cyber-related, and is an exceptional blog for beginners and experts alike.
Krebs on Security Overview
- Type of Resource: Blog
- Cost: Free
- Ideal For: Beginners and professionals who want to keep up with modern cyber security trends, compare various security applications, and gain new skills
Best Online Courses
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Cyber Security Job Outlook and Average Salary
The job outlooks and average salaries of cyber security positions look strong. Information security analysts can expect a 33 percent job growth rate between 2020 and 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Information security analysts who pursue computer occupations can expect a 13 percent job growth rate during the same period. Both rates are higher than average. The BLS also reports that 16,300 jobs will be available in the field annually.
The BLS further indicates that the average salary for these occupations is $102,600. However, the average annual wage may differ depending on things like your experience and your certification. As indicated above, different certifications tend to result in different salaries. For example, the CISM certification pays more than the CISSP certification.
Best Cyber Security Jobs After Certification
Certifications increase your chances of getting the best cyber security jobs by validating your knowledge and skills in different areas. These certifications give you access to high-paying jobs because employers value them and increasingly look for them on resumes. Below is an overview of the best cyber security jobs and their related cyber security certifications.
A chief information security officer is an executive who develops, assesses, and implements information security programs within an organization. They ensure that all the data is secure and guide junior employees on how to maintain data security. Moreover, CISOs oversee all of the strategic and budgetary aspects of the organization's security needs.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). This certification emphasizes your ability to perform critical CISO responsibilities by testing your skills in designing, implementing, and managing cyber security programs.
Also referred to as IT managers, the computer and information systems manager plays a significant role in managing all IT-related activities within an organization. They analyze the computers and other data systems, ensure the network is secure, oversee the installation and maintenance of software and hardware, and oversee recommended upgrades.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). This certification proves your information security governance, risk management, and program development expertise, all of which are important skills for an IT manager.
Information security analysts monitor an organization's network for security breaches and vulnerabilities. They are responsible for maintaining security software, researching new security and IT trends, upholding security standards, and recommending security improvements. In addition, they need the skills to design a recovery plan, train employees, and find immediate solutions.
Best Certification for the Job Role
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA). The CISA certification is suitable for this profession because it focuses on system auditing processes, IT governance, operations, business resilience, and the protection of data assets.
Penetration testers perform planned cyber attacks on an organization’s network and security systems to identify vulnerabilities. These authorized attacks ensure the systems are secure from hackers and viruses that may cripple the organization’s performance. Penetration testers must be highly skilled in threat modeling, incident handling, cryptography, security assessment tools, and technical writing.
Best Certification for the Job Role
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC). GSEC is the best certification for this role because the exam is structured to test all the mandatory skills stated above.
This role involves managing servers and electronic equipment to safeguard an organization's network and systems. They act as first responders in case any breaches occur, notifying security analysts, engineers, or the CISO. They also add users to the network after vetting, optimize system performance, and train network users.
Best Certification for the Job Role
GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH). This certification is perfect for first responders and incident handlers in cyber security, as these roles revolve around the skills and knowledge it tests.
Best Cyber Security Associations
Cyber security associations provide a platform for industry professionals to interact with each other and stay updated on cyber security developments. Some associations are known for their certifications, while others focus on educating the public and raising awareness of the importance of cyber security for organizations and individuals. Depending on your needs, you can join a private or public association.
Center for Internet Security
CIS is a non-profit association renowned for its best practices that secure data and IT systems. The association focuses on cyber security readiness, risk management, and incident response, and raises awareness through collaboration. With 20 years in business, CIS has developed world-class resources, such as CIS Controls and CIS Benchmarks.
International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)2
(ISC)² is a global cyber security association and certifying body, established in 1989. It is a non-profit membership-only association dedicated to helping its members learn and grow in their careers. Members have access to exam prep resources for a variety of certifications, such as CISSP, CCSP, SSCP, CAP, and CSSLP.
SANS Institute
SANS Institute began in 1989 with a mission to provide cyber security professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to improve information security. The institute offers high-quality certification training, academic scholarships, and resources to advance your knowledge and skills. You can access all GIAC certifications through SANS Institute.
Are Cyber Security Certifications Worth It?
Yes, cyber security certifications are worth it because they validate your skills and knowledge as a cyber security professional. These certifications allow you to reap the benefits of your hard work through salary increases, promotions, and freelance work. More people are using the Internet and storing data on cloud systems, meaning cyber attacks and vulnerabilities are rising, and getting a certification gives you a competitive edge in a congested industry.
Additional Reading About Cyber Security
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Cyber Security Certifications FAQ
Yes, you can have more than one cyber security certification. Certifications cater to different aspects of cyber security, meaning that you can select a certification depending on your career needs. Moreover, they don’t take as long as traditional degrees.
You should get a cyber security certification designed for entry-level professionals, like GSEC or CompTIA Security+. In addition, there’s a wide range of beginner-friendly resources to help you grasp the basic concepts.
Yes, your cyber security certification can get you a job without a degree. However, you will only be eligible for entry-level jobs because senior roles and advanced certifications require academic credentials.
No, it is not mandatory to join a cyber security association. However, these associations connect you with fellow industry experts and provide an environment where you can learn, get jobs, and stay updated on cyber security news and advancements.
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