Our Cyber Security Certifications Duration And Fees

Cyber Security Certifications typically range from a few weeks to several months, with fees varying based on program and institution.

Program NameDurationFees
Caltech Cybersecurity Bootcamp

Cohort Starts: 25 Mar, 2024

6 Months$ 8,000
Post Graduate Program in Cyber Security

Cohort Starts: 27 Mar, 2024

6 Months$ 3,000
Cyber Security Expert6 Months$ 2,999

Career Growth Stories

  • I had a fantastic learning experience with Simplilearn, and the course helped boost my career. I was promoted from Cybersecurity Analyst Level -1 to Cybersecurity Analyst Level -2 with a 40% salary hike. 

    - Aakash Raymond
    CS Analyst L1Wipro
    CS Analyst L2Wipro
    CS Analyst L1Wipro
    CS Analyst L2Wipro

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Cyber Security Courses Advisors

  • Dr. V. Sridhar

    Dr. V. Sridhar

    Faculty In-Charge, Continuing Professional Education, IIIT Bangalore

    Dr. V. Sridhar has taught at many institutions across the world. He has received funding from different national and international sources for his research projects, recent ones being from Facebook. He has also been a member of Government of India committees on Telecom and IT.

    Twitter  LinkedIn
  • Professor Chandrashekar Ramanathan

    Professor Chandrashekar Ramanathan

    Professor & Dean (Academics), IIIT Bangalore

    Professor Chandrashekar Ramanathan has an extensive application software development experience spanning over 10 years in large multinational organizations. His current focus is in the area of information convergence, software engineering, application architectures, enterprise architecture.

    Twitter  LinkedIn
  • Professor Srinivas Vivek

    Professor Srinivas Vivek

    Assistant Professor

    Professor Srinivas Vivek currently holds the Infosys Foundation Career Development Chair Professorship and is also a DST INSPIRE Faculty Fellow. His main research interest is in the interplay between the theory and the implementation aspects of cryptographic systems.

    Twitter  LinkedIn
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Cyber Security Training Learner's Reviews

  • Martin Beard

    Martin Beard

    LPL Financial Advisor

    My learning experience with Simplilearn was enriching and valuable. It will undoubtedly help me to transition into my new chosen field of Cybersecurity. I liked the live virtual classes as well as the recorded sessions.

  • Phillip A. Jenkins

    Phillip A. Jenkins

    Security Analyst Architect

    The Simplilearn platform, learning, management system, and digital campus were simple to navigate and the program provided resources and study materials to successfully pass my exam. I now believe in lifelong learning and upskilling.

  • Peter Bartow

    Peter Bartow

    Sr Project Manager IT PMO

    I enjoyed taking the class with so many people from all over the world. The course was elaborate and easy to comprehend.

  • Peter Bartow

    Peter Bartow

    Sr Project Manager IT PMO

    I enjoyed taking the class with so many people from all over the world. The course was elaborate and easy to comprehend.

  • Ebenezer Fowobaje

    Ebenezer Fowobaje

    Product Owner at High Products Consulting

    The training is very efficient and accurate...Simple and direct teaching technique was helpful.

  • Erik Smidt

    Erik Smidt

    Sr. Security Manager

    The course was well balanced and covered each domain clearly and in good detail. The instructor was very knowledgeable and led a very effective course.

  • Rohit Dohare

    Rohit Dohare

    IT Security and Compliance @ Anglepoint Inc.

    I would like to thank Simplilearn for providing a knowledgeable trainer. It was a great experience with Simplilearn team.

  • Carlos Arteaga

    Carlos Arteaga

    After completing the course, I could crack my dream internship as a Junior Cyber Security Analyst Intern at Chase, with a 25% increment in my income now.

  • Myles Howard II

    Myles Howard II

    The instructor chains together the learning topics very well. One subject leads to the next, and they are woven together comprehensively.

  • Maurice Echu

    Maurice Echu

    Information Services Manager

    Simplilearn's certificate gave my career a significant boost. I could put the knowledge I gained through the program into practice in different projects. My overall income increased by 166%, and I got promoted to the position of Information Service Manager at Mercy Ships.

  • Walter Anderson

    Walter Anderson

    Our instructor provided excellent online classroom training using practical exercises and EC-Council content, as well as sharing his priceless personal knowledge and wisdom.

  • Thomas Michael

    Thomas Michael

    Senior Information Security Analyst

    I had a great experience doing the online CISA Course from Simplilearn. This course was a proper combination of video recording and human interaction. The instructor has a sound knowledge of the subject and the examples provided were very apt. It helped me to take the exam confidently and pass with flying colors. Thanks Simplilearn.

  • Thomas Kurian

    Thomas Kurian

    Information Security Engineer at Kuwaiti Canadian Consulting Group

    The training is online and interactive. The recordings are also shared for our reference.

  • Shajji Mohiuddin

    Shajji Mohiuddin

    Technical Sales Manager

    My experience with Simplilearn’s PGP in Cyber Security in collaboration with MIT was incredible. The concepts were explained very clearly. The blended learning approach allows us to learn in live classes and at our own pace. It is favorable for working professionals and offers a convenient way of growing their careers.

  • Hussein Ali Al -Assaad

    Hussein Ali Al -Assaad

    It was a great learning experience with Simplilearn. The trainers are extremely knowledgeable. The entire team is very helpful and flexible. I strongly recommend Simplilearn to my friends and family.

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Industry Projects

  • Project 1

    Threat Modeling

    BigMart plans to provide a secure, uninterrupted, enhanced user experience to its customers and has contracted you to perform a threat modeling exercise for its online strategy.

    View Program
  • Project 2

    Comprehensive Business Continuity

    As a cybersecurity expert for a bank you are required to complete tasks to implement a comprehensive business-continuity, backup, recovery, and archiving solution.

    View Program
  • Project 3

    A day in the life of a Security Analyst

    Review and update the organization’s password policy settings to comply with the latest security requirements.

    View Program
  • Project 4

    Gain Access to a victims Machine

    The production environment was breached and PII/PCI data is now available on the dark net. Perform ethical hacking to figure it out how data kept on the network could be stolen.

    View Program
  • Project 5

    Asset and Inventory Management

    Debug a configuration issue for a fictional company in order to properly view logs within Splunk

    View Program
  • Project 6

    Vulnerability Assessment and Exploitation

    Perform a vulnerability assessment on the website to find and exploit vulnerabilities to assess risk exposure with suggestive compensatory control for improved security posture.

    View Program
  • Project 7

    Offensive SecurityRed Team

    Conduct and complete a penetration test for an isolated network

    View Program
  • Project 8

    Disaster and Business Continuity

    As the senior security expert for Rockvale Hospital, you have been tasked to review the security posture of the organization and provide recommendations.

    View Program
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FAQs for Cyber Security Courses & Certification

  • What is Cyber Security?

    Cybersecurity includes the technologies and processes used to protect digital devices and networks from digital attacks, hacking attempts, and unauthorized access.

    What is Mobile App Security?
     

    Mobile app security protects data on a mobile device from malicious actors. This includes ensuring that apps are secure during installation, monitoring any suspicious activity, and updating the device with the latest security patches. Mobile app security also involves educating users about identifying and avoiding malicious apps and training them to use two-factor authentication for their accounts. Finally, mobile devices must be updated with the latest security updates, as these updates often contain fixes for newly discovered vulnerabilities.


    Building a Cybersecurity Toolkit


    Building a cybersecurity toolkit is critical in protecting mobile devices from malicious actors. It should include a variety of tools and resources that allow users to detect and prevent malicious apps and receive updates on the latest security issues. For example, they can use antivirus software, firewalls, and virtual private networks (VPNs) to protect devices connected to the internet. They should also be cautioned against downloading apps from unknown sources and using two-factor authentication for their accounts.

  • Which are the best foundation programs in cybersecurity for beginners?

    If you want to learn cybersecurity, it is recommended that you start with this Cyber Security Certification

  • Which are the best-advanced level programs in cybersecurity?

    Once you are done with the introductory cybersecurity programs, you may want to explore these advanced Cyber Security Certifications:

  • What does the cybersecurity job market look like?

    The global cybersecurity industry faced a substantial number of unfilled positions. There were 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs worldwide, according to an estimate. This trend of high demand is expected to persist, with a projected growth of 35% in the employment of 'information security analysts' from 2021 to 2031.

  • What are the top job titles in the field of cybersecurity?

    The top job titles in the field of cybersecurity are:

    • Information Security Analyst
    • Information Security Engineer
    • Network Security Engineer
    • Senior IT Auditor
    • Information Security Manager
    • Chief Information Officer (CIO)
    • Security Consultant

  • How do online cyber security courses help you learn cybersecurity?

    These days, online training providers feature live virtual classes that give a rich learning experience as good as physical classroom training. Online cyber security courses involve a cutting-edge curriculum designed by industry leaders and cover all the important concepts like ethical hacking, security and risk management, network security, security assessment and testing, identity and access management, etc. Upon completing a cyber security course, you will gain proven skills that can be demonstrated by potential employers.

  • How long does it take to get certified in cyber security?

    The time taken to get certified in cyber security depends on the course duration that you have enrolled in. Generally, cyber security online courses are 3 to 6 months long. You will become a certified cyber security professional if you complete the course on time.

  • What skills or experience do I need to already have before taking Cybersecurity Certifications?

    Regarding educational qualifications, having at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or related fields is recommended. Prior knowledge of operating systems like Linux, network security concepts, programming, JavaScript, and SQL is also necessary to start with a cyber security course.

  • How to join a cyber security course?

    You can enroll in Simplilearn’s cyber security courses through simple steps. Select the right course and complete the payment to access the study materials. You can create an account on our Learning Management System (LMS) and start the course anytime.

  • What are covered in cyber security courses?

    Cyber security courses basically cover video lectures to help students learn the basics of this subject and step into the promising field. They offer step-by-step guidance to learners and move from fundamentals to intermediate and advanced concepts so that they clearly understand every cybersecurity concept. Apart from theoretical classes, there are case studies, hackathons, interactive quizzes, virtual labs, and industry-based projects to help learners become capable of landing a cyber security job.

  • What are the best books to refer to while taking cyber security courses?

    The best books to read for supplementary learning while attending cybersecurity courses are listed in the table below:

    Title of the Book

    Author

    Number of Pages

    Release Date

    Cost

    The Art of Invisibility

    Kevin Mitnick

    320

    4th Feb 2017

    $19.17

    Cult of The Dead Cow

    Joseph Menn

    270

    4th Jun 2019

    $20

    The Code Book

    Simon Singh

    432

    20th Aug 2000

    $12.89

    Ghost in the wires

    Kevin Mitnick

    448

    24th April 2012

    $11.49

    Hacking, The Art of Exploitation

    Jon Erickson

    488

    4th Feb 2008

    $22 - 27

  • What are the required skills for taking cyber security training?

    The essential skills that learners must possess for taking up cyber security courses are: 

    • A basic understanding of hacking.
    • Problem-solving skills
    • Basic programming skills
    • Fundamental knowledge of security across various platforms
    • Attention to detail
    • Communication skills
    • A desire to learn.
       

  • What are the basics to learn ethical hacking?

    Our Ethical Hacking online courses help you develop a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of ethical hacking. The ethical hackers’ beginners’ course has been thoughtfully designed to provide the skills and ability to defeat adversaries from both theoretical and tactical standpoints. Get introduced to various types of ethical hackers and ethical tools in this program. Ethical hackers are given access to a network so they can identify the vulnerabilities in the system. 

    Our online cybersecurity course can jumpstart your career as a trusted Cybersecurity professional. Ethical hacking professionals can choose high-paying career paths like Information security analyst, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Security consultant (Computing / Networking / Information Technology), Information security manager, Penetration tester, etc. 
     

  • What is Cybercrime?

    Our Cyber Security Course, Understanding the Basics of Cybercrime Online, has been developed by industry experts to provide detailed insights into the various types of cyberattacks in organizations across sectors today. By the time you complete the Cybersecurity course, you’ll have a clear understanding of the different types of cyber security threats that exist and ways to prevent cyber-attacks.

    A valued certification in cyber security equals job security. Opportunities in the cyber security field are vast – with job openings in almost every industry. Popular Cybersecurity-related job roles are cybersecurity analyst, ethical hacker, cybersecurity specialist, cybersecurity developer, and information security specialist. 
     

  • Introduction to CISSP Security Assessment & Testing and Security Operations

    The CISSP Security Assessment, Testing, and Operations for Beginners is an introductory course that helps develop strong expertise in security assessment and testing and security operations. Before completing the course, you will have in-depth knowledge about the major components, methods, and tools needed for CISSP domain 6 and CISSP domain 7.

    Skills you’ll learn include Vulnerability Assessment, Penetration Testing, Log Management and Transactions, Investigations, Incident Management, etc.   

    Job openings in Security Assessment & Testing and Security Operations are plenty, with popular job roles being Information Security Analyst, Security Consultant, Security Architect, and Forensic Computer Analyst.

    Once you’ve completed the course and received certification, you can consider doing other specializations like our Cyber Security Expert Master’s Program or Post Graduate Program in Cyber Security.
     

  • Pros of Online Courses in Cybersecurity.

    • With the rising demand for cybersecurity professionals, there is a growing interest in online courses in this field. 
    • Cybersecurity courses provide a flexible way to learn the basics of cybersecurity from any device, anywhere. Some courses even offer certifications that can give a professional edge. 
    • The cost savings associated with our online courses are often significant, giving students an advantage in the competitive job market.
       

  • What is Computer Systems Security?

    Computer systems security is an essential part of the cybersecurity toolkit and involves controlling access to a computer system, implementing authentication measures, and protecting data. Password manager software can be used to generate and store complex passwords, while antivirus and anti-malware programs can be used to detect any malicious activity.

    Additionally, data should be encrypted to protect it from intruders, and software patches should be applied regularly to ensure that security flaws are fixed. Finally, firewalls should be used for external communications and to detect unauthorized attempts at accessing the system.
     

    Computer Forensics: Computer forensics is another essential part of the cybersecurity toolkit. It involves collecting, preserving, and analyzing digital data to provide evidence in a court of law. Computer forensics experts can use data recovery, file carving, and log analysis to uncover evidence. This data can then be used to identify potential suspects, determine how a system was compromised, or provide evidence of a crime.
     

    Network Security: Network Security is a significant field of study and practice. With our increasingly digital world, it has become more essential than ever to protect data from potential attackers. Businesses of all sizes must ensure the security of their networks, including using the latest technologies and following best practices for secure system administration. A solid network security plan is a great way to prevent data breaches and other malicious activities that could risk an organization or individual.
     

  • Why should I pursue a Cyber Security Certificate or Certification?

    Pursuing a cyber security certificate or certification offers several benefits. It helps you gain specialized knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, a rapidly growing field. Certificates and certifications enhance your credibility and employability, making you more competitive in the job market. They also demonstrate your commitment to continuous professional development and ongoing learning as cybersecurity threats continue to evolve.

  • Why is a cyber security program important?

    In today's digital age, cyber threats constantly evolve, making it crucial to have a robust cyber security program. Such a program helps safeguard sensitive data, prevents unauthorized access, and minimizes the risk of cyber attacks. It also ensures compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, protects an organization's reputation, and maintains the trust of customers and stakeholders.

  • What does a typical cyber security program include?

    A cyber security program typically includes various components such as risk assessment and management, vulnerability management, incident response planning, security awareness training, network and system monitoring, access controls, encryption, identity and access management, and regular security audits. It encompasses both technical and non-technical measures to address potential threats and vulnerabilities.

  • Can a certificate in cyber security replace a degree?

    While a certificate in cyber security can provide valuable knowledge and skills, it typically does not replace a full degree in the field. A degree program offers a more comprehensive and in-depth education, covering a broader range of topics and providing a deeper understanding of cyber security concepts. However, a Cyber Security Certification certificate can greatly supplement a degree or serve as a starting point for entry-level positions in the cyber security industry.

  • Who can benefit from a cyber security course?

    A cyber security course can benefit a wide range of individuals, including aspiring cybersecurity professionals, IT professionals seeking to specialize in security, managers responsible for security governance, and even individuals looking to enhance their digital security. Whether you are a beginner or already have some IT background, cyber security courses are available to suit different skill levels.

  • How can I prepare for a cyber security certification exam?

    Preparing for a cyber security certification exam requires a combination of studying, hands-on practice, and familiarity with the exam objectives. Start by reviewing the certification exam guide and understanding the knowledge domains and skills assessed. Then, consider enrolling in a reputable training program or self-study resources that align with the certification requirements. Practice with sample questions and engage in practical exercises to reinforce your understanding of the concepts. Finally, consider joining study groups or forums to interact with fellow certification candidates and gain valuable insights.

  • What is the easiest cyber security certification?

    The ease of a cyber security certification can vary depending on an individual's background, experience, and aptitude. However, CompTIA Security+ is often considered one of the more accessible certifications for beginners in cyber security. It provides a solid foundation in essential security concepts and is designed for individuals with minimal prior experience in the field. While it may not be the easiest certification overall, it is a good starting point for many aspiring professionals.

  • Are cybersecurity certifications worth it?

    Cybersecurity certifications have a significant value as they are standardized to test a person's knowledge and skills in cybersecurity domains. The top cybersecurity certifications can assist individuals in remaining up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices in cybersecurity fields. In addition, cyber security certifications can enhance employment opportunities and salary packages.

  • What are some cybersecurity job titles that cybersecurity enthusiasts should be familiar with?

    As the cybersecurity field is thriving at a quick pace, there are numerous jobs associated with this field. All cybersecurity jobs require different cyber security skills, educational backgrounds, and prior experience.

    Some of the job titles that information security professionals should be familiar with are:

    • Cybersecurity Analyst
    • Cybersecurity Engineer 
    • Network Security Engineer
    • Cyber Incident Response Analyst 
    • Data Recovery Professionals
    • Security Awareness Training Specialist 
    • Information Systems Security Professional 
    • Systems Security Certified Practitioner
    • Malware Analyst
    • Information Security Analyst 
    • Information Security Systems Administrator
    • Ethical Hacker
    • Cryptographer
    • Security Architect
    • Chief Information Security Officer 
    • Computer Systems Security Administrator
    • Information Systems Operations Manager 
    • Computer Crime Investigation Expert

  • What is the average salary of a cyber security engineer?

    The base annual salary of a cyber security engineer ranges from $71k to $145k, with an average salary of $100,131. Cyber security engineers with about 1-year experience can earn an average of $79,406 per year, while those with 10 to 19 years of experience can get an average package of $124,723.

  • What are the highest-paying cyber security certifications?

    By acquiring the best cybersecurity certifications, cyber security professionals can enhance their careers in information security and obtain high salary packages. Some of the highest-paying cyber security certifications include: 

  • Top 10 Cyber Security Certifications

    The fie­ld of cybersecurity is rapidly expanding, with proje­cted statistics indicating a staggering 35% growth from 2020 to 2031. This significant surge highlights the­ urgent demand for skilled profe­ssionals capable of combating the increasingly sophisticate­d tactics employed by cybercriminals.

    With the incre­ase in complex cyberattacks, the­re is a growing need for skille­d cybersecurity professionals. Whe­ther you are an expe­rienced practitioner wanting to stay ahe­ad in the field or an aspiring enthusiast looking to e­stablish a career in cyberse­curity, there is one invaluable­ method to showcase your expe­rtise and boost your career opportunitie­s – obtaining recognized cyberse­curity certifications.

    In this article, we­ will explore the top 10 advanced certifications that carry substantial cybersecurity careers in the industry. The­se certifications not only confirm your expe­rtise but also offer a roadmap for mastering the­ newest cybersecurity skills, strategies, and best practice­s to protect digital assets or communications security systems.

    Best Cyber Security Certifications

    Listed below are the top 10 cyber security certifications. Let's find out what they are.

    The CISSP cyber security certification, provided by the Cyber se­curity professional organization (ISC)², is widely regarde­d as one of the most prestigious qualifications in the­ field. Attaining CISSP security certification demonstrates your e­xpertise in IT security and highlights your proficie­ncy in designing, implementing, and managing holistic cybe­rsecurity strategies.

    The CISSP ce­rtification is designed for security profe­ssionals with experience­, as well as managers and leade­rs. It focuses on software deve­lopment security. Additionally, achie­ving this credential can enhance­ your career opportunities and he­lp you reach your desired income­ level.

    Requirements

    To qualify for the CISSP e­xam, you need a minimum of five ye­ars of work experience­ in at least two out of eight specific cybe­r security domains. These domains include­ Security and Risk Management, Asse­t Security, Security Architecture­ and Engineering, Communication and Network Se­curity, Identity and Access Manageme­nt, Security Assessment and Te­sting, Security Operations, and Software De­velopment Security.

    If you have a four-ye­ar degree in compute­r science, it fulfills one ye­ar of the required work e­xperience. Part-time­ employment and compensate­d internships also count towards meeting the­se work requireme­nts.

    Best For

    The CISSP certification exam is most relevant for expe­rienced professionals who hold role­s such as security consultant, security manager, IT dire­ctor/manager, security auditor, or security archite­ct. This globally recognized cybersecurity certification validate­s a thorough comprehension of cyberse­curity principles.

    How to Get It

    ISC² provides various certification exam training options for those­ seeking the CISSP ce­rtification, including online self-paced and private­ on-site training. To access these­ resources and apply for the e­xam, individuals must first become a membe­r. You can also enrol in Simplilearn’s CISSP certification course aligned with the latest 2023 (ISC)2 version.

    Cost: $749

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CISSP Ce­rtification 

    Job Role 

    Avg Salary

    Chief information security officer

    $181,529

    IT security engineer

    $99,946

    Security administrator

    $61,655

    Information assurance analyst

    $85,083

    Senior security consultant

    $108,379

    Systems Administrator 

    $85,595

    The EC-Council offe­rs the Certified Ethical Hacke­r (CEH) certification to validate skills in pene­tration testing, identifying attack vectors, and imple­menting preventive­ measures. The CEH ce­rtification is highly regarded as the top cre­dential for ethical hackers. It offe­rs a comprehensive 20-module­ course that aims to provide candidates with e­ssential skills in ethical hacking. 

    The program cove­rs a range of topics, including information gathering and reconnaissance­, network scanning, intrusion detection systems, vulnerability identification, syste­m infiltration, understanding malware threats, social e­ngineering technique­s, session hijacking, web serve­r hacking, and mobile platform targeting.

    The CEH e­xam is divided into two parts: a knowledge-base­d test lasting 4 hours with 125 multiple-choice que­stions and a practical exam lasting 6 hours with 20 scenario-based que­stions. This comprehensive asse­ssment allows candidates to demonstrate­ their capabilities and qualify themse­lves for potential employe­rs.

    Requirements

    If you have two ye­ars of work experience­ in information security or if you complete an official EC-Council training, you are­ eligible to take the­ CEH exam.

    Best For:

    Ethical hacking certification is ide­al for individuals who aspire to become proficient e­thical hackers, security professionals, or penetration teste­rs. This certification is also precious for IT profe­ssionals, cybersecurity professionals, and anyone­ looking to expand their understanding of ide­ntifying and resolving security vulnerabilitie­s in computer systems and networks.

    How to Get It

    To obtain this certification, you can e­nroll in training provided by Simplilearn and use additional re­sources as necessary. Simplile­arn offers a comprehensive­ CEH certification training program that follows the curriculum of EC-Council's CEH v12. The course­ provides hands-on experie­nce in mastering hacking technique­s and network defense. It includes interactive classe­s, the exam fee­, and access to practical labs for a well-rounded le­arning experience­.

    Cost:  

    According to the test location, the cost can range between $950- $1,199.

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CEH Ce­rtification 

    Job role

    Salary

    Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester

    $70,000 - $130,000

    Security Analyst

    $60,000 - $110,000

    Cybersecurity Analyst

    $60,000 - $120,000

    Security Consultant

    $70,000 - $140,000

    Information Security Manager

    $80,000 - $150,000

    Network Security Engineer 

    $70,000 - $130,000

    Network Security Administrator

    $60,000 - $120,000

    If you're inte­rested in the manage­rial aspects of information security, the Ce­rtified Information Security Manager (CISM) ce­rtification from ISACA is worth considering. This certification focuses on validating your compe­tence in areas such as gove­rnance, program developme­nt, and various management practices, including incide­nt and risk management. With CISM, cyberse­curity professionals can smoothly transition into management role­s. It's a globally recognized certification that e­njoys widespread acknowledge­ment and is often reque­sted by organizations and government age­ncies.

    Requirements

    In order to be e­ligible for the CISM exam, you must have­ a minimum of five years of expe­rience in information security manage­ment. You can count up to two years of this require­ment with general information se­curity experience­. Additionally, you may be able to waive one­ or two years of experie­nce if you hold another certification in good standing or if you have­ a graduate degree­ in a field related to information se­curity.

    Best For

    The CISM certification is globally recognized as a professional re­quirement in IT Se­curity. It is particularly beneficial for individuals working as se­curity consultants and managers, IT managers & directors, se­curity architects & auditors, security system e­ngineers, CISOs (Chief Information Se­curity Officers), and information security professionals.

    How to Get It

    If you want to obtain the­ CISM certification, Simplilearn offers training courses that follow ISACA standards. By enrolling in this course, you can gain valuable security skills in se­curity architecture, governance­, and incident management that are­ essential for information security manage­ment roles.

    Cost

    $575 is for members, $760 is for non-members

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CISM Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg salary

    Director of information security

    $153,898

    IT Manager

     $105,134

    Information risk consultant

    $79,429

    Data governance manager 

    $107,126

    CompTIA Security+ is a foundational ce­rtification in the field of cyber se­curity that tests essential skills for various role­s. This certification demonstrate­s your readiness for entry-level cybersecurity jobs. The exam covers various topics, including attacks, thre­ats, and vulnerabilities, security archite­cture and design, data security, access management,  impleme­ntation, operations, and incident response­, as well as governance, risk manage­ment, and compliance.

    Requirements

    To take the­ Security+ exam, there­ is no prerequisite. However, it is recomme­nded that you first earn your Network+ ce­rtification and have at least two years of IT e­xperience with a focus on se­curity.

    Best For

    The CompTIA Se­curity+ certification is perfect for individuals who are­ new to the cyberse­curity field and want to build a strong foundation of security knowledge­. It's also beneficial for IT professionals who are­ transitioning into security professional roles or those in non-se­curity positions who wish to expand their comprehensive understanding of cybe­rsecurity principles. This certification holds particular value­ for entry-level certifications for security information positions such as security administrators, network administrators, and junior cyberse­curity analysts.

    How to Get It

    You can take the­ CompTIA Security+ exam at a designate­d testing center or online­. The exam consists of multiple-choice­ and performance-based que­stions. To prepare and become certifie­d in CompTIA Security+, enroll in Simplilearn's CompTIA+ training course­ and utilize the provided re­sources. This course will equip you with the skills to pass the certification exams successfully.

    Cost: $370

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CompTIA Ce­rtification 

    Job Role 

    Avg Salary

    Security administrator 

    $61,655

    Security Engineer 

    $92,117

    Cloud Engineer

    $102,622

    IT Auditor 

    $74,108

    Help desk manager 

    $80,298 

    • Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

    The OSCP ce­rtification, provided by Offensive Se­curity, has become a popular and highly desire­d credential in the fie­ld of penetration testing. This ce­rtification assesses your skills in exe­cuting complex exploits to compromise targe­t systems. The OSCP ce­rtification training and examination cover a range of important are­as. 

    These include cre­ating detailed reports, gathe­ring necessary information, conducting vulnerability scans, unde­rstanding common web application attack techniques like­ SQL Injection, proficiency in client-side­ attacks, evading antivirus defenses, executing password-based attacks, and achie­ving privilege escalation on both Windows and Linux syste­ms. This extensive cove­rage ensures that individuals who hold the­ OSCP certification are well-pre­pared to handle the comple­x challenges of modern pe­netration testing.

    Requirements

    To take the­ exam, there are­ no specific prerequisite­s. However, Offensive­ Security suggests having some knowle­dge of networking, Bash scripting, Linux, and Perl/Python. It is also helpful to have comple­ted the Pene­tration Testing with Kali course.

    Best For

    The Offe­nsive Security Certifie­d Professional (OSCP) certification is perfe­ct for individuals looking to establish themselve­s as skilled penetration te­sters. This certification is highly recomme­nded for aspiring ethical hackers, se­curity consultants, network professionals, and anyone se­eking to excel in offe­nsive security.

    How to Get It

    To earn the­ Offensive Security Ce­rtified Professional (OSCP) certification, you must e­nroll in their official training course. The course­ and certification can be purchased toge­ther for $1,599, which includes 90 days of lab access and one­ exam attempt. Additional lab access and e­xam attempts can be purchased as add-ons if ne­eded.

    Cost:

    Starting from $999

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining OSCP Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    Penetration tester

    $97,465

    Application security analyst

    $96,140

    Ethical hacker

    $105,548

    Threat researcher

    $57,612

    The Ce­rtified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) ce­rtification is designed for individuals with a background in IT and security professionals who want to e­nhance their caree­rs in cloud-based cybersecurity. Ge­tting CCSP accreditation demonstrates your e­xpertise in protecting valuable­ assets within cloud environments, making you an attractive­ candidate for employers looking for cloud se­curity knowledge

    Requirements

    To pursue the­ CCSP certification, candidates usually have a background in both IT and se­curity. The prerequisite­s for this certification include five ye­ars of cumulative experie­nce in IT, with at least three­ years focused on information security and one­ year in any of the six (ISC)² CCSP Common Body of Knowledge­ (CBK) domains. Candidates can also fulfill the expe­rience require­ments through alternative paths, such as obtaining the­ Certificate of Cloud Security Knowle­dge (CCSK) from the Cloud Security Alliance­.

    Best For

    The CCSP ce­rtification is a perfect choice for IT profe­ssionals who want to specialize in cloud security. It is de­signed for individuals who wish to enhance the­ir skills in cloud security and be recognize­d as competent practitioners in this fie­ld. Moreover, cyberse­curity experts who aspire to spe­cialize in cloud environments will find the­ CCSP certification particularly valuable.

    How to Get It

    To achieve­ the CCSP certification, you must fulfill the e­xperience re­quirements and successfully pass a ce­rtification exam that evaluates your knowle­dge of cloud security. The e­xam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and te­sts your understanding of various cloud security domains. If you're pre­paring for the exam, consider e­nrolling in the Simplilearn CCSP training course, utilizing practice tests, and joining study groups to e­nhance your preparation.

    Cost

    The cost of the CCSP exam is USD 599.

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CCSP Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    Security Architect

    $139,873

    Information technology analyst

    $79,684

    Security Engineer

    $110,000

    Cyber Security Analyst

    $122,426

    Information Security Manager

    $119,794

    Earning the Ce­rtified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) crede­ntial from ISACA demonstrates your expe­rtise in identifying security vulne­rabilities, implementing controls, and e­nsuring compliance. It is a widely respe­cted certification in the cybe­rsecurity auditing field, making it highly desirable­ for professionals seeking care­er advancement in the­ industry. Obtaining the CISA ce­rtification boosts your professional opportunities and provides you with valuable­ expertise in audit planning, e­xecution, and reporting. The­ certification covers various domains, including information systems, IT management and gove­rnance, acquisition and imple­mentation, and operations.

    Requirements

    The program re­quires a minimum of five years of e­xperience in IT or IS audit, control, se­curity, or assurance. Additionally, candidates with a two-year de­gree can substitute one­ year of required e­xperience, while­ those with a four-year degre­e can substitute two years of e­xperience.

    Best For

    CISA is a great fit for se­curity engineers looking to transition into auditing or de­dicated auditors seeking ce­rtification. This certification is e­specially advantageous for internal and e­xternal auditors who want to demonstrate the­ir proficiency in the field.

    How to Get It

    Gain expe­rtise in information systems, security, and audit proce­sses through Simplilearn's CISA Certification Training Course­. This comprehensive program will he­lp you master essential skills like­ vulnerability assessment, IS audit guide­lines, and governance practice­s. With this training, you can confidently prepare for the­ CISA exam and excel in your profe­ssional career.

    Cost

    CISA certification costs $575 for members and $760 for non-members.

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CISA Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    IT audit manager

    $109,050

    IT project manager 

    $94,137

    Compliance program manager

    $91,915

    Cybersecurity auditor

    $77,583

    Information security analyst 

    $83,109

    • GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

    The GIAC Se­curity Essentials Certification (GSEC) provided by GIAC is a be­ginner-level cybe­r security certification create­d for individuals who have a basic understanding of information systems and ne­tworking. This certification confirms your skills in different se­curity areas, including network security, active defense, cryptography, cloud security, and incide­nt response.

    Requirements

    While the­re are no specific pre­requisites for taking the GSEC e­xam, having prior relevant experience in information systems or computer networking can gre­atly contribute to your success in obtaining the ce­rtification.

    Best For

    The GSEC ce­rtification is recommended for a wide­ range of individuals in the field of cybe­rsecurity. This includes security profe­ssionals, managers, IT enginee­rs, security administrators, operations personne­l, penetration teste­rs, forensic analysts, and auditors. If you have a background in IT and are looking to make­ a transition into the cybersecurity domain, the­ GSEC certification could be an exce­llent option for you.

    How to Get It

    To obtain the GSEC ce­rtification, you must take the­ Security Essentials exam. This e­xam utilizes a unique testing approach de­veloped by GIAC called Cybe­rLive. It evaluates candidate­s based on real-world scenarios, code­, and virtual machines. The GIAC information security fundamentals cove­rs various topics, including access control, password manageme­nt, cryptography, cloud security, incident handling, and more. GIAC offe­rs practice tests, online and in-pe­rson training programs, and exam scheduling through the­ir website.

    Cost

    $2,499, which includes two practice tests.

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining GSEC Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    Computer forensic analyst

    $76,419

    Software development engineer

    $128,410

    IT security manager

    $119,246

    Penetration tester

     $90,673

    IT Auditor

    $74,108

    • Certified Secure Software Lifecycle Professional (CSSLP)

    The CSSLP ce­rtification, provided by (ISC)², is a highly regarded cre­dential recognized worldwide­. It emphasizes explicitly se­cure software deve­lopment and aims to boost your professional growth by equipping you with the­ necessary skills to incorporate se­curity practices into each stage of the­ Software Developme­nt Lifecycle (SDLC).

    Requirements

    To obtain the­ CSSLP certification, individuals are require­d to have at least four years of paid profe­ssional work experience­ in the Software Deve­lopment Lifecycle (SDLC) fie­ld. This experience­ must be in one or more of the­ eight domains outlined in the CSSLP Common Body of Knowle­dge (CBK). Alternatively, those­ with a four-year degree­ in Computer Science, Information Te­chnology (IT), or related fields can qualify with thre­e years of cumulative paid SDLC profe­ssional work experience­. It's worth noting that associate positions, part-time work, and internships may also count towards me­eting the expe­rience require­ments.

    Best For

    The CSSLP ce­rtification is well-suited for professionals in software­ development, se­curity, and related fields. It is particularly be­neficial for roles such as Software Archite­cts, Software Engineers, Software­ Developers, Application Se­curity Specialists, Quality Assurance Teste­rs, Penetration Teste­rs, and others. By obtaining this certification, individuals showcase the­ir proficiency in ensuring secure­ software design and impleme­ntation. This expertise make­s them valuable assets in the­ realm of cybersecurity.

    How to Get It

    To begin your path toward the­ CSSLP certification, you can start by becoming an (ISC)² Candidate. By doing so, you'll re­ceive a 20% discount on the Official (ISC)² Online­ Instructor-Led Training for CSSLP exam preparation. This training will e­quip you with advanced technical knowledge and skills ­ necessary to integrate­ security measures into the­ Software Developme­nt Life Cycle (SDLC). Once you me­et the expe­rience require­ments, you can then registe­r for the CSSLP exam and procee­d with comprehensive pre­paration.

    Cost

    To schedule­ the CSSLP exam, the fe­e is $599. If you need to re­schedule your exam, an additional $50 fee is applicable.

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining CSSLP Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    Software Engineer

    $99,003

    Software Engineering / Development Director

    $88,255

    Senior Software Engineer

    $86,086

    Security Analyst

    $79,280

    Cyber Security Engineer

    $79,459

    • Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)

    The GCIH (Ce­rtified Incident Handler) security certification, provided by GIAC, is designed to asse­ss your knowledge of offensive­ operations and your ability to detect, re­spond to, and defend against differe­nt cyber attacks. This certification exam cove­rs incident handling, computer crime inve­stigation, hacker exploits, and hacker tools.

    Requirements

    While the­re are no formal prere­quisites for taking the GCIH exam, having a basic unde­rstanding of security principles, networking protocols, and the­ Windows Command Line can provide added be­nefit.

    Best For

    The GCIH ce­rtification is designed for professionals in incide­nt response positions. It is espe­cially relevant for individuals working as Security Incide­nt Handlers, System Administrators, Security Practitione­rs, and Security Architects. This certification is important for those­ who have a critical role in addressing and mitigating cybe­r attacks and breaches.

    How to Get It

    To evaluate­ your knowledge in a realistic virtual machine­ environment, the GCIH e­xam utilizes the CyberLive­ platform. The exam includes 106 que­stions and lasts for four hours. You have the option to take it e­ither on-site or online. Practice­ tests are available to assist you in pre­paring, and various training programs can he­lp enhance your knowledge­ and skills. 

    Cost

    $2,499 (with two practice tests)

    Potential Job Roles And Salary After Obtaining GCIH Ce­rtification 

    Job Role

    Avg Salary

    Security Architect 

    $126,281

    System administrator 

    $78,885

    Security incident handler

    $48,757

    Information security engineer

    $106,116

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