What is a cybersecurity certification for?
Cybersecurity Certification: Main Objectives
There are two basic reasons for gaining cybersecurity certifications.
- For entry-level practitioners. Certification programs can help beginners gain the basics of the field. For example, in using certain tools and technologies.
- For seasoned and experienced. Certifications can also serve well those who are already seasoned and professional. It can further boost their credentials, for instance. These are also opportunities for them to show capabilities and mastery of skills.
Thus, cybersecurity certifications can mean a revamp in one’s career in the field. It can further career promotion and credibility.
Professional vs. Academic Cybersecurity Certifications
Today, there are basically two types of cybersecurity certifications. Namely, the academic and the professional cybersecurity programs.
For example, consider each and their differences below.
1. Academic Cybersecurity Certification
This program aims to provide its learners a deep context of the cybersecurity field. For example, in some of today’s issues.
For example, here are two (2) examples of programs for academic cybersecurity certification.
- Harvard’s Online Cybersecurity Certification
- University of Maryland Online Undergraduate Certification in Cybersecurity
Most often, these programs come with coursework and certification programs. Also, the core objective of these programs is to equip students with enough skills. Perhaps skills that should be enough to start within the cybersecurity industry.
2. Professional Cybersecurity Certification
On the other hand, if you are someone who already started a career in the field, this program suits you. Perhaps if you are working in the same-related field. Information technology and other networking fields, for instance.
Besides, this type of program aims to showcase proficiency in certain technologies. These programs aim to train existing skilled cybersecurity persons of the following:
- How to make use of the latest tools and software
- Learn how these can help prevent, detect, and combat cybersecurity issues
Examples Of Certifications By Reputable Cybersecurity Organizations
It is best to gain certifications on well-known and highly-respected entities on cybersecurity. This can also help you better be acknowledged easily. However, this does not necessarily apply in all cases.
But here are some of them.
1. CISSP
CISSP or the Certified Information Systems Security Professional
This certification is also one of the most sought-after certifications existing today.
Who is this certification for?
This certification is not for beginners and entry-level positions. Instead, this certification is for seasoned and experienced in the field.
Requirements:
- Minimum of 5 years of cumulative, full-time, and paid experience
- Said experience should consist of at least 2 of 8 domains of the CBK (Common Body of Knowledge)
2. SSCP
SSCP or the Systems Security Certified Practitioner
Who is this certification for?
This is another certification for existing professionals. For example, systems administrator, network security administrator, and security analysts. Besides, this certification can help them further their careers in cybersecurity.
Requirements:
- Minimum of 1-year experience
- Said experience should cover 1 or more of the SSCP seven domains CBK
3. ECSA
ECSA or the EC-Council Certified Security Analyst
Who is this certification for?
This is a certification that fits those who are pursuing a career in penetration testing.
Requirements:
- Attend an official EC-Council ECSA training; or
- Minimum of 2 years experience in the cybersecurity field
