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Cybersecurity Certifications for IT Professionals: Which One is Better?

Certifications play a crucial role for those who want to build a successful career in cybersecurity. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional, obtaining the right certification allows you to validate your knowledge, expand job opportunities, and increase your salary potential.

In this article, we will explore the importance of cybersecurity certifications and determine which ones are the most valuable.

Why Are Cybersecurity Certifications Important?

While practical knowledge is essential in the technology field, employers want to see a certain standard. Certifications give you this advantage.

Increase Job Opportunities

The demand for certified professionals is growing every year. According to reports from (ISC)² and ISACA, the global shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals exceeds 3 million. Having the right certification gives you a competitive edge.

Validate Your Skills

Certifications are not just about acquiring knowledge—they also serve as proof. Many cybersecurity certifications include practical exams and real-world scenarios, demonstrating your expertise to employers.

Boost Your Salary Prospects

Certified IT professionals earn on average 20-30% more than their non-certified peers. Certifications like CISSP, CEH, and OSCP are particularly valued and lead to high-paying roles.

Top Cybersecurity Certifications

Choosing the best certification depends on your career goals and level of experience. Below are some of the most in-demand and valuable certifications.

CompTIA Security+ – Best for Beginners

The CompTIA Security+ certification is ideal for those new to cybersecurity. It covers:

• Network security, risk management, and attack types.
• Suitable for junior security engineers, system administrators, and security analysts.
• Exam: SY0-601 version (90 questions, 90 minutes).
• Average salary: $60,000 - $75,000/year.
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CISSP – For Experienced Professionals

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is one of the most prestigious certifications in information security.

• Requires knowledge of risk management, security strategies, and cybersecurity frameworks.
• Requires at least 5 years of work experience.
• Highly valued by large corporations and government agencies.

Exam: CAT format, 100-150 questions, 3 hours
Average Salary: $120,000 - $150,000/year

CEH – Ethical Hacking Certification

The CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) certification allows you to legally learn hacking techniques and protect organizations from cyber threats.

• Covers penetration testing and vulnerability analysis.
• Job opportunities: Ethical hacker, security analyst, penetration tester.

Exam: 125 questions, 4 hours
Average Salary: $90,000 - $120,000/year

CISM – Certification for Management and Strategy

CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) is designed for professionals focused on security management and strategy.

• Validates expertise in risk management and security policy development.
• Ideal for those looking to transition into security management roles.

Exam: 150 questions, 4 hours
Average Salary: $110,000 - $140,000/year

OSCP – For Practical Security Testing

OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) is one of the most respected certifications for penetration testing.

• Based on real attack simulations and hands-on assignments.
• Exam: 24-hour practical test.
• Ideal for penetration testers, ethical hackers, and security engineers.

Average Salary: $100,000 - $130,000/year

Which Certification Should You Choose?

Each certification is tailored to a specific expertise and experience level:

• For beginners → CompTIA Security+
• For management and risk-focused careers → CISM, CISSP
• For offensive security and ethical hacking → CEH, OSCP
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Want to become a cybersecurity professional and land a high-paying job? Enroll in our cybersecurity course today and gain deep knowledge in the field! Contact us now!