Top 5 Cybersecurity Certificates Needed for the 2024 Job Market
- Michael Ferig
- Jul 12, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 16, 2024
Published by Michael Ferig,
In the fast-evolving field of cybersecurity, staying ahead of the curve is essential for professionals looking to advance their careers. Earning the right certifications can open doors to higher-paying roles, greater job security, and enhanced professional credibility. As we move into 2024, certain certifications are standing out as particularly valuable. Here, we’ll explore the top five cybersecurity certifications you need to succeed in the 2024 job market.
1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is widely regarded as the gold standard in cybersecurity. Offered by (ISC)², CISSP is designed for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives who are involved in designing, engineering, implementing, and managing their organization’s overall security posture.
Why CISSP?
Global Recognition: As a globally recognized certification, CISSP is highly valued by employers around the world.
Career Advancement: CISSP holders often move into higher-level roles such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Security Consultant, and IT Director.
Requirements
Experience: A minimum of five years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge).
Endorsement: A current (ISC)² certified professional must endorse your certification candidacy.
Exam Details
Format: Multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions
Length: 3 hours
Number of Questions: 100-150
Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, offered by ISACA, is ideal for individuals who design, manage, and assess information security programs. CISM focuses on management rather than technical aspects, making it perfect for those looking to move into managerial positions.
Why CISM?
Management Focus: Unlike other certifications that focus on technical skills, CISM is tailored for professionals who want to manage and oversee enterprise-level security programs.
High Demand: CISM is highly sought after by employers looking for individuals who can manage and adapt technology to their enterprise’s needs.
Recognition: CISM is recognized by businesses and government agencies worldwide.
Requirements
Experience: A minimum of five years of experience in information security management, with at least three years in management roles across three or more of the CISM domains.
Waivers: Certain certifications and degrees can substitute for up to two years of experience.
Exam Details
Format: Multiple-choice
Length: 4 hours
Number of Questions: 150
Passing Score: 450 out of 800
3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, offered by EC-Council, is designed for professionals who want to understand and counteract hacking techniques by learning how to think like a hacker. CEH is ideal for those involved in network security, ethical hacking, and penetration testing.
Why CEH?
Practical Skills: CEH provides hands-on training in ethical hacking, covering tools and techniques used by hackers.
Industry Relevance: As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the demand for ethical hackers continues to grow.
Versatility: CEH is applicable to various roles, including Penetration Tester, Security Consultant, and Network Security Specialist.
Requirements
Experience: At least two years of work experience in the Information Security domain. Alternatively, candidates can attend an official EC-Council training.
Endorsement: Not required for CEH.
Exam Details
Format: Multiple-choice
Length: 4 hours
Number of Questions: 125
Passing Score: Varies (60-85%) based on the exam version
4. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, also offered by ISACA, is intended for individuals who audit, control, monitor, and assess information technology and business systems. CISA is recognized globally as a benchmark for IT auditors.
Why CISA?
Audit Focus: CISA emphasizes skills in auditing, control, and assurance, making it unique among cybersecurity certifications.
High Demand: Organizations increasingly rely on CISA-certified professionals to assess and ensure the security of their IT systems.
Global Recognition: CISA is recognized by numerous government agencies and businesses worldwide.
Requirements
Experience: A minimum of five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security. Waivers are available for up to three years of experience.
Endorsement: Not required for CISA.
Exam Details
Format: Multiple-choice
Length: 4 hours
Number of Questions: 150
Passing Score: 450 out of 800
5. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
The CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) certification is aimed at advanced-level cybersecurity professionals who focus on enterprise security, risk management, research and analysis, and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines.
Why CASP+?
Advanced Skills: CASP+ is one of the few certifications that covers advanced-level skills and knowledge required for complex enterprise security environments.
Hands-On Approach: CASP+ emphasizes practical skills and real-world scenarios, preparing professionals for hands-on tasks.
Broad Coverage: Topics include enterprise security, risk management, incident response, research and analysis, and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines.
Requirements
Experience: At least ten years of experience in IT administration, including five years of hands-on technical security experience.
Endorsement: Not required for CASP+.
Exam Details
Format: Multiple-choice and performance-based
Length: 165 minutes
Number of Questions: Up to 90
Passing Score: Pass/Fail (scaled score not provided)
Conclusion
In the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity, keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date is crucial. The certifications discussed here—CISSP, CISM, CEH, CISA, and CASP+—are among the most respected and sought-after in the industry. By earning one or more of these certifications, you can significantly enhance your career prospects and be better prepared to tackle the challenges of the 2024 job market.
Investing in these certifications not only validates your expertise but also demonstrates your commitment to professional development and cybersecurity excellence. Choose the certification that aligns best with your career goals and take the next step towards becoming a leader in the cybersecurity field.
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