20+ Cybersecurity Certifications for Career Advancement

Driven by consistently increasing cyberattacks, the cybersecurity industry, which has had a 0% unemployment rate since 2016, offers copious growth opportunities. The need for trained cyber specialists is so high that most employers no longer require traditional degrees, instead favoring equivalent experience from those looking to break into the industry. A great way to gain that experience? Cybersecurity certifications.

Certifications offer an excellent way to gain and exhibit knowledge to potential employers. Current cyber professionals can use certifications to demonstrate their desire to improve and refine their skill set, helping them to earn their next raise or promotion. We’ve listed over 20 of the best cybersecurity certifications below ranging from entry-level and more advanced career paths.

1. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)
2. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
3. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional Cert (CISSP)
5. CompTIA A+
6. CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)
7. CompTIA Network+
8. CompTIA Security+
9. EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
10. CFCE (Certified Forensic Computer Examiner certification)
11. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
12. Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
13. GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)
14. GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
15. ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
16. ISACA CSX Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate
17. (ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
18. (ISC)² Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
19. Linux Professional Institute Linux Essentials
20. Microsoft 365 Fundamentals
21. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
22. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
23. PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

This intermediate certification grants IT professionals the skills and knowledge needed to work with Apple devices and software in IT support and management job roles. Apple certification programs focus on developing the proficiency of Macintosh service technicians in all areas, from help desk to system administrators. 

• Prerequisites: Complete the training course.
• Exam Fee: $149
• Difficulty: Intermediate

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Individuals seeking entry-level positions should look into this certification, which provides a foundational level of expertise in AWS (Amazon Web Services) cloud concepts. This is an ideal certification for anyone without experience in tech, as it opens up several possible career options in cloud computing services.

• Prerequisites: Complete the training course.
• Exam Fee: $100
• Difficulty: Entry-level

Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

For those interested in learning Scrum framework or becoming more proficient in its use, this intermediate certification provides the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of team accountabilities, events, and its real-world applications. Considered ideal for business analysts, software developers, project managers, and more, the techniques learned from obtaining this certification are known to improve the implementation and management of cybersecurity projects.

• Prerequisites: Complete the training course.
• Exam Fee: $495
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

This intermediate certification enables seasoned cybersecurity professionals to prove their knowledge in a multitude of security concepts, tools, and frameworks and is designed to allow professionals the ability to oversee risk detection and other tasks from a management position. This certification is ideal for Chief Information Officers, IT directors, Security System Engineers, and a variety of other roles.

• Prerequisites: Have at least five years of professional work experience in at least two domains of (ISC)² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).
• Exam Fee: $749 with an annual member fee of $125 a year
• Difficulty: Intermediate

CompTIA A+

This entry-level certification allows IT professionals to demonstrate their proficiency in troubleshooting and repairing security situations related to personal computers, networks, mobile devices, and more. This certification is ideal for any beginner seeking a role as an IT Support Specialist, Helpdesk Technician, Desktop Support Specialist, and more.

• Prerequisites: Complete the exams.
• Exam Fee: Costs range from $246 – $720
• Difficulty: Entry-level

CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)

This is another great entry-level certification, ideal for helping learners gain essential foundational IT skills and knowledge and figure out if a career in information technology is right for them. This certification is ideal for any individual considering a career in IT.

• Prerequisites: No prerequisites are required to take the exam.
• Exam Fee: $134
• Difficulty: Entry-level

CompTIA Network+

For learners seeking an entry-level position as a network professional, this certification is a great way to demonstrate knowledge of the technical skills needed to build and maintain an organization’s network. Individuals considering roles such as a Network Engineer, NOC Technician, or Junior Network administrator should seek this certification.

• Prerequisites: It is recommended you achieve the CompTIA A+ certification and have nine to twelve months of networking experience before attempting the exam.
• Exam Fee: $358
• Difficulty: Entry-level

CompTIA Security+

Considered to be one of the first certifications for anyone looking to break into cybersecurity, this helps establish core security principles and can be the bridge between entry-level positions and intermediate positions. Roles that will use this certification include Security Administrators, Helpdesk Managers, Security Engineers, and more. 

• Prerequisites: It is recommended you achieve the CompTIA Network+ certification and have two years experience in security-focused IT work.
• Exam Fee: $392
• Difficulty: Entry-level

EC Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEHv12)

This intermediate certification is considered to be one of the required baseline certifications for a variety of intermediate cybersecurity positions that engage in evaluating, testing, and reporting on network vulnerabilities. Mid-level Security Auditors, Security Administrators, and Network engineers are potential roles suited for this certification.

• Prerequisites: Two years of IT Security experience is recommended before attempting the exam.
• Exam Fee: Costs range from $1,699 – $2,049
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Certified Forensic Computer Examiner (CFCE)

This entry-level to intermediate certification demonstrates an individual’s skill in computer forensics and is conducted by the International Association of Computer Investigative Specialists (IACIS), one of the first organizations dedicated to digital forensics. Many positions, most commonly those in law enforcement, that engage in computer forensics require this certification.

• Prerequisites: You must complete 72 hours of field training, which can be achieved through a training course offered by the IACIS for an additional fee or through a different recognized institution, and be a member of the IACIS (membership fee is included in the cost of the certification). 
• Exam Fee: $750, not including the $2,995 fee for the optional training course
• Difficulty: Entry-level to intermediate

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

This is considered one of the best networking certifications for beginners and is ideal for those seeking to demonstrate their grasp on IT and Networking technologies and gain access to a wider variety of lucrative tech career specializations. Possible job roles include entry-level Network Engineer, Helpdesk Technician, and Network Administrator. 

• Prerequisites: One year of formal experience is recommended but not required.
• Exam Fee: $300
• Difficulty: Entry-level

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)

This entry-level certification allows learners to demonstrate their ability to diagnose, repair, or replace Cisco devices related to networks and systems. Potential roles available include Helpdesk technicians, network analysts, and other entry-level network positions.

• Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites to take this exam. 
• Exam Fee: $125
• Difficulty: Entry-level

GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)

This certification is great for entry-level cybersecurity practitioners as it demonstrates proficiency in terminology, computer networks, security policies, and more. This certification can potentially lead to roles such as Information Security Analyst, Security Engineer, and IT technician.

• Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites to take this exam.
• Exam Fee: $949
• Difficulty: Entry-level

GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

This intermediate certification builds upon the skills learned in the GISF certification by introducing the learner to advanced concepts in information security and demonstrates they are ready for higher-level positions. Roles potentially available include Security Managers, IT Supervisors, and Penetration Testers.

• Prerequisites: Having the GISF certification as well as formal security experience is recommended but not required.
• Exam Fee: $2499
• Difficulty: Intermediate

ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

This certification is ideal for any individual seeking intermediate to advanced positions in information technology. Demonstrating knowledge and skill in planning, executing, and reporting on audits while utilizing a risk-based approach, this certification helps a wide range of IT-minded professionals gain credibility in the field. The primary role available to those with this certification is in network and security system auditing.

• Prerequisites: A minimum of five years of experience in professional systems auditing or cybersecurity is required for certification.
• Exam Fee: $575 for members, $760 for non-members
• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced

ISACA CSX Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate

For entry-level cybersecurity professionals or those interested in breaking into the industry, this certification allows the practitioner to demonstrate their skill in cyber fundamentals, security, and threat response, and various network technologies. Potential roles available to those with this certification include Account Manager, Information Security Analyst, and Risk Management Specialist.

• Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this exam.
• Exam Fee: $150 for members, $199 for non-members
• Difficulty: Entry-level

(ISC)² Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

For professionals seeking to demonstrate advanced proficiency in designing, managing, and securing data and other systems related to cloud computing, this proven intermediate to advanced certification is key to advancing within the industry. This certification can open up roles such as Cloud Architect, Cloud Engineer, Cloud Consultant, and more. 

• Prerequisites: Have at least five years of cumulative work experience in information technology, three have to be in information security. You must also have one year in one or more of the six domains of the (ISC)² CCSP CBK.
• Exam Fee: $599
• Difficulty: Intermediate to advanced 

(ISC)² Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

This intermediate-level certification displays a professional’s competency in creating, monitoring, and maintaining IT infrastructure as well as additional security policies and procedures. This certification is ideal for those seeking roles such as Network Security Engineer, Systems Administrator, and Security Consultant.

• Prerequisites: Have at least one year of professional work experience in one or more of the seven domains of the (ISC)² SSCP CBK.
• Exam Fee: $249
• Difficulty: Intermediate

Linux Professional Institute Linux Essentials

This entry-level certification is often ideal for professionals seeking to prove their skill in Linux-based Information and Communication Technology as well as act as a gateway to more advanced Linux professional certifications.

• Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for this certification.
• Exam Fee: $120 – $200 
• Difficulty: Entry-level

Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

With this entry-level to intermediate certification, professionals can demonstrate to employers their knowledge of Microsoft 365 SaaS solutions and cloud services. This certification can open the door to positions in Cloud Engineering, Consulting, Office 365 Service Engineering, and more.

• Prerequisites: It is recommended that one familiarizes themselves with cloud computing, but it is not required.
• Exam Fee: $99
• Difficulty: Entry-level to intermediate

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

These are a suite of entry-level certifications provided by Microsoft that demonstrate a professional’s knowledge of fundamental technologies related to cloud security, network security, and software development.

• Costs and prerequisites vary depending on which certification is pursued. 
• Difficulty: Entry-level

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

Ethical hackers often seek this intermediate certification as it signifies an individual’s knowledge and skill in penetration testing methods and tools offered through Kali Linux distribution. This exam is commonly for those with some experience in the field looking to refine their technical skills.

• Prerequisites: Having an understanding of TCP/IP networking, experience with Windows and Linux administration, and familiarity with either Bash or Python scripting.
• Exam Fee: $1499
• Difficulty: Intermediate

PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

A wide range of professionals, tech or otherwise, interested in entry-level project management roles often achieve this certification to illustrate their commitment towards working on and improving project-based teams.

• Prerequisites: Have a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or equivalent degree) and a minimum of 23 hours of project management education (PMI’s online course fulfills this prerequisite).
• Exam Fee: $225 for members, $300 for non-members
• Difficulty: Entry-level

Which Cybersecurity Certification is Best?

You may find yourself wondering which cybersecurity certification is best, and that’s a fair question to ask. One easy way to start the process is to look at job posting requirements that appeal to you. Compile a list of what they have in common to determine which certifications to pursue. 

Additionally, you can connect with the cybersecurity community online through a variety of forums, blogs, and chat rooms. Sites such as LinkedIn can connect you with certification holders allowing you to network with other professionals and gain their perspectives. 

Ultimately, it comes down to the specialization and job roles that appeal to you. Fortunately, due to the numerous positions available within the industry, you will likely find certifications that are best suited for the career path you choose.

How Certifications Can Impact Salary

Certifications are not absolutely necessary to land a career in cybersecurity, but they can have a huge impact on the growth opportunities available within the industry. Global Knowledge’s 2021 IT Skills and Salary Report found most IT professionals received a raise of about $5k, while those that trained on new skills and earned certifications saw a higher raise of about $13k. Professionals with larger raises attributed this to learning new skills and achieving certifications, thus increasing their value to the business.

There’s also good news for those seeking to break into tech. Current wage growth is around 5.8%, but those that change careers altogether see an average increase in salary by about 14%. Changing careers can be the first big step towards a more lucrative future, and this is possible through obtaining a variety of entry-level certifications listed above.

Prepare for Certifications with Foundational Cybersecurity Knowledge

A great way to gain the baseline skills and knowledge in cybersecurity is with the non-credit, non-degree Penn State Behrend Cybersecurity Bootcamp, offered by ThriveDX. Throughout the program, you will learn from industry experts and engage in simulations of real-world cybersecurity scenarios. While this bootcamp is not a certification-prep program, it can help you build a firm foundation through hands-on experience that you can apply to future certification exams you choose to pursue. 

Fill out the form below to schedule a brief introduction or call us at 814-826-1323 for information on start dates and other program details.