A lot of activities and processes have gone online in today’s world of interconnectivity and this has increased online security risks. Hackers and cybercriminals keep seeking ways to compromise such connections for criminal purposes including data and identity theft. There is, therefore, a rising demand for cybersecurity professionals who are well-qualified and experienced in preventing and tackling cybercrimes. If you’re looking to play a crucial role in protecting data and infrastructure, earning a cybersecurity certification can open doors for you. Read on to learn the top certifications that can help you excel in your cybersecurity career in 2024.
What is Cybersecurity?
Cybersecurity involves protecting systems, networks, devices, and data from theft, damage, loss, or unauthorized access. It is a crucial field in today’s interconnected digital world, as cyber threats continue to evolve and grow in sophistication.
Why you should go for a cybersecurity certification
- Job Growth: According to projections, the job outlook for cybersecurity will grow by up to 32 percent by 2032. This in itself can be a primary reason to go for cybersecurity certifications.
- Increased Value: Employers and companies tend to value candidates with cybersecurity certifications as it validate their knowledge of cybersecurity best practices.
- Competitive Edge: The top cybersecurity certifications can give you a distinct advantage when applying for jobs in cybersecurity, allowing you to stand out from other candidates…
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Types of Cybersecurity Certifications
Cybersecurity certifications are of different types depending on specialty areas, job roles, and the governing body or provider. Here are some of the major types of cybersecurity certifications.
- ISACA Certifications (previously referred to as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association). ISC2 Certifications (The International Information System Security Certification Consortium)
- EC-Council Certification (The International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants)
- CompTIA Certificates (The Computing Technology Industry Association)
- GIAC Certification (The Global Information Assurance Certification)
- Offensive Security Certificates
- Coursera
Top cybersecurity certifications to boost your career
One of the decisions that you need to make before going for a cybersecurity certification is to choose between beginner, intermediate, or advanced cybersecurity courses. You can choose from the following top cybersecurity certifications in 2024 that include beginner and advanced courses.
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Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
This entry-level certification is ideal for beginners looking to build a strong foundation in cybersecurity. Offered by Google, this course covers topics like Python programming, network security, cloud computing, and cryptography. It takes about six months to complete at your own pace, with no prior experience or degree required.
CompTIA Security+
A popular entry-level security certification that can equip you with the essential skills needed in an average cybersecurity role. Examples of these roles include systems administrator, security engineer, and cloud engineer.
The certification does not have strict requirements but it’s usually easier if you already have a Network+ certification and some years of IT experience with a leaning towards security.
For instance, CompTia may recommend that you first secure an a+ cyber Specialization. By the end of the certification, you should be able to assess organizational security, monitor and secure various networks including cloud, mobile, and Internet of Things (IoT), and implement security risk and compliance processes. You can use CompTIA’s training companion to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam.
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CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
An advanced-level cybersecurity credential, the CASP+ certification prepares security architects and senior security engineers for processes such as improving cybersecurity readiness in an enterprise. It can also equip you with the skills for implementing technical solutions in enterprise environments.
The coverage extends to security architecture and engineering as well as managing risks in cloud and hybrid systems.
In terms of requirements, the CompTIA recommendation is for you to have up to 5 years of practical security experience and a minimum of 10 years general hands-on IT experience.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
If you’re interested in becoming proficient in assessing systems and implementing control measures, you can go for this.
With the CISA certificate, you should be able to handle the challenges and responsibilities associated with a modern IT auditor. In order to apply for CISA certification, you need to have passed the CISA Exam and also possess at least a five-year work experience in professional systems auditing, control, or security.
You can use a paid CISA online review course as well as resource materials to prepare for the examination. Alternatively, you can try a free practice quiz or simply go for Coursera’s Information Systems Auditing, Controls, and Assurance course.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
This ISACA credential is appropriate for advanced IT security managers who have up to five years of experience. You can make do with three years of experience if you have a relevant degree.
You can therefore go for this certification if you’re an experienced security professional looking for management or consulting roles. As a security professional, the CISM certification shows that you can competently handle data breaches, ransomware attacks, and even evolving security threats.
Overall, the certification teaches governance framework creation and how to manage information security governance.
You can use ISACA’s CISM exam preparation resources which include self-paced training and study resources to prepare for the certification. Likewise, you can check out the free CISM practice quiz and Udemy’s prep courses.
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Tips on choosing a cybersecurity certification in 2024
Here are some factors and tips to consider when choosing the right cybersecurity certification:
- Set realistic goals and choose a certification that you can achieve. Then, use it as a foundation to go for more advanced certifications.
- While certifications are worth the investment, you should plan your budget well and invest wisely.
- It may be wise to find out if your employer will pay for your certification as some organizations do cover training and exam costs.
- Browse job listings of potential employers for insights on required certifications and job descriptions.
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Enhancing your career prospects with a cyber security certification
Cybersecurity is a growing field and you can significantly better your career prospects if you obtain a cybersecurity certification. After all, the growing demand for certifications such as CISM, CISSP, and CompTIA Security+ means that you can gain a significant edge if you have the requisite qualifications and certifications. Remember to stay informed and to keep upgrading your qualifications in order to contribute to a more secure digital landscape in 2024 and beyond.
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