The digital world is booming at an unprecedented rate and with it comes an ever-increasing risk of cyber threats that need to be addressed. The global cybersecurity market is projected to reach a staggering $323.1 billion by 2028 as reported by Markets and Markets. This growth indicates the demand for cybersecurity professionals will also increase due to different types of cybersecurity challenges. So, we can expect a wealth of opportunities coming for those seeking a career in the cybersecurity domain.
But for them, knowing where to start can be a confusing task. Earning a cybersecurity certification can prove to be an effective strategic first step in kick-starting your cybersecurity career as it will help validate your cybersecurity skills and knowledge as well as make you a more attractive candidate for various kinds of cybersecurity job roles.
In this brief guide, let us understand the importance of cybersecurity certifications for beginners and see how to find the best one for you.
What are cybersecurity certifications?
Cybersecurity certifications refer to the process of earning formal credentials in the field of cybersecurity that demonstrate and validate the individual’s cybersecurity skills and knowledge required to perform various kinds of cybersecurity tasks.
Cybersecurity certifications come in various forms i.e., for beginners, intermediate-level professionals, and advanced cybersecurity experts.
All these certifications are designed keeping in mind the experience level of professionals and consist of course curriculum meeting topics required for jobs at specific levels or skills.
For example: Certified Ethical Hacker is designed to validate the skills of ethical hackers and penetration testers while Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™) is a general foundational level cybersecurity certification best for beginners looking to master the fundamental concepts of cybersecurity.
Difference between cybersecurity certifications and cybersecurity degrees
Though both cybersecurity certifications and cybersecurity degrees aim to enhance the knowledge of students in the field of cybersecurity, their approach is different.
Here’s a brief comparison between them.
| Characteristics | Certification | Degree |
| Focus | More focused on specific skills, be it for beginners or experts | Emphasizes the foundational concept in depth |
| Time | Shorter usually 3 to 12 months | Takes longer than 12 months to acquire |
| Depth | They test and validate specific cybersecurity skills and knowledge | They provide a strong foundation and in-depth theoretical knowledge |
| Career Path | Prepare and assist for a specific cybersecurity job role | Prepares for diverse cybersecurity roles |
Why does Cybersecurity Certification matter?
Cybersecurity certifications are not mandatory to succeed in one’s cybersecurity career. However, with top certification under your belt, you can demonstrate your commitment to professional development. As per a report by ISC2, it was found that 64% of employers consider certification as an important factor when hiring the right candidate.
Apart from these, some notable benefits include:
- Higher salary potential
- Learning the latest and relevant skills
- Networking with other professionals in this domain
- Practical experience and portfolio of real-world projects.
Things to consider while choosing cybersecurity certification programs
These credentials are a great addition to your resume. They will definitely help you get noticed in your starting career phase. If you are looking to get into a cybersecurity career and exploring certification options, then here are a few things to consider:
- Time commitment needed to complete the certification
- Cost. Usually, the beginner-level certifications can cost anywhere between $200-$1000 approximately
- Course curriculum. See if the foundational concepts are included.
- Certification provider. Check whether it is credible and recognized among employers.
Top 5 cybersecurity certifications for beginners
Some of the most popular certifications for beginners are:
- CompTIA Security+
It is among the most reputed cybersecurity certifications for beginners and covers important topics like network security, cryptography, risk management, incident response, etc.
- Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™)
Offered by the prestigious United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®), this foundational level cybersecurity certification for beginners covers fundamental concepts like protecting devices, security terms, authentication for security, protecting devices, and more. This online self-paced program also offers an excellent resource center consisting of eBooks, lecture videos, practice codes, and more to help students and young professionals prepare for the exam.
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
It is offered by the globally recognized and pioneers of cybersecurity certification, ISC2. This program focuses on how to implement security controls and procedures. Through this program, students can learn about access control, incident response, cryptography, etc.
Apart from these, many universities and tech firms like Harvard, MIT, CISCO, EC-Council, etc. also offer generalized cybersecurity certification programs that you can explore.
Conclusion
For students and young professionals seeking a career in cybersecurity, these certifications for beginners can prove to be a great strategic investment. You must choose the right certification course depending on what you want to learn, how much you want to invest, and how much time you can commit to learning new skills. Earning these reputed certifications will also help you unlock a world of opportunities in this ever-changing world. Remember, cybersecurity certifications are not the destination, but a checkpoint in your cybersecurity career, and you must be willing to upgrade yourself regularly to stay abreast with the latest trends and technologies in the dynamic world of cybersecurity.
