Certification Options for Cybersecurity Professionals

Cybersecurity professionals help protect data and information from security threats across computer networks and operating systems. With a degree in cyber security, you’ll be prepared to find potential security risks, learn practical technical and business skills, and become familiar with numerous platforms and technologies.

As the demand for new technology rises, employment for computer technology occupations is expected to grow 13% from 2020-2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). U.S. News and World Report declared that an information security analyst ranked #5 in best technology jobs, while the BLS reported a 32% projected growth, which is well above the national average.

One of the best ways to become a cyber security analyst and position yourself for career growth is to be certified. Herzing prepares cybersecurity program graduates for their certifications from valuable certification providers as part of their tuition:

1. Cisco

Cisco, a world leader in IT, networking, and cybersecurity solutions, provides a few different certifications for professionals at all levels of expertise. Network management can be an important component of security operations, and professionals should consider getting their Cisco Certified Network certification.

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an associate-level certification, which demonstrates that you have a deep understanding of core technological principles. The certification keeps up to date with the most recent industry trends and has many specializations including routing and switching, and security and cloud industrial.

The CCNA validates your skills and knowledge in such areas as network fundamentals, network access, security fundamentals and programmability. The purpose of the exam is to help give you a foundation to take your IT career in any direction.

Cisco examinations are not easy, but 59% of Cisco-certified employees perform stronger in their positions and provide a higher quality of service to customers when compared to non-certified employees.

2. EC Council

The International Council of E-Commerce Consultants is the world’s largest cybersecurity technical certification body. It is a respected and trusted ethical hacking program that certifies cybersecurity professionals to work in a variety of different businesses.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a certification that provides a security professional with the skills that they need to fix vulnerabilities and breaches in a system network. CEH takes the same information that a hacker would but uses it legally and ethically to protect system security. The test is based both on education experience and real-world applicability.

In addition to providing a basis for system security, the CEH has other purposes. It is designed for professionals to make sure that system security meets or exceeds standards and that ethical hacking is reinforced as a valid and self-regulated profession.

3. CompTIA

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) offers certifications to help professionals through every step of their career. According to Business News Daily, CompTIA’s certification program is recognized as one of the best in the tech industry. Different certifications test a variety of skills:

• CompTIA Security+ certification provides the core knowledge and skills for an individual just starting their cybersecurity career. The certification emphasizes hands-on skills and is the baseline for other security certifications. Security+ focuses on the latest trends in risk management and risk mitigation such as the installing and configuring of new network components and much more.
• CompTIA A+ certification is a great baseline for all IT professionals and is a part of CompTIA’s core certifications. The certification is performance-based and is designed to test core service and support challenges. The exam will test professionals on customizing, installing, maintaining and operating computers.
• CompTIA Network+ is a mid-level certification for network technician professionals. The certification covers troubleshooting, installing, configuring and managing computer networks. Network+ emphasizes troubleshooting and network operations.

Why Should You Get Your Certification?

Technology is a growing field, so it’s a prudent choice to pursue your certifications even if you already have your degree. Here’s why:

• Shows credibility. Having your certification demonstrates that you’re serious about your career and have the knowledge needed to perform well in your position. It can also add to your credibility, especially if you don’t have a security or IT-related degree.
• It makes you marketable. When applying for jobs, having a certification might give you leverage over applicants who are not certified. You also may be eligible for a job promotion or a higher salary.
• Highlights your willingness to learn. Your certification shows that you’re up to date on the latest trends in your industry. You can also retake a certification so that you’re always in the know when it comes to the latest industry trends.

With these certifications and experience, you can grow and explore new opportunities in your field.