Cybersecurity certifications remain a crucial benchmark for validating a professional’s expertise and experience in 2025. As the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals grows, these certifications offer a recognized standard of credibility. Earning a certification not only helps candidates advance their careers by showcasing their knowledge but also opens doors to networking opportunities and specialized roles.
Many organizations now use these certifications as a requirement for hiring. At the same time, IT professionals gauge their peers’ skills and dedication through the types and levels of certifications obtained. In 2025, staying certified ensures you remain competitive in an evolving field.
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Cybersecurity Certification Comparison Chart
IT and security professionals need different cybersecurity certifications in their careers. Initially, entry-level certificates open opportunities to move into your first cybersecurity positions, but later, advanced or specialty certifications will validate experience and open doors to even more opportunities.
| Certificate | Test Pricing | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ | $392 | Individuals starting on their cybersecurity careers or those who wish to solidify their foundational knowledge in the field |
| Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) | $749 | Cybersecurity professionals who are ready to elevate their careers |
| Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) | $2,199 to $3,499 | IT professionals aiming to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing |
| Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) | $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members | CISA certification is specifically designed for IT Auditors, Audit Managers, Consultants and other Security Professionals |
| ISACA Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control® (CRISC®) | $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members | Particularly suited for Risk Analysts, IT Managers, and Compliance Officers. |
For additional insights, industry podcasts can be a valuable resource — check out this list of top cybersecurity podcasts for expert perspectives and the latest trends in the field.
Top 5 Best Cybersecurity Certifications
1. CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized entry-level certification that establishes foundational cybersecurity skills. Covering topics like network security, threat management, cryptography, and risk management, it provides an excellent starting point for launching a career in cybersecurity. This certification equips candidates with the essential knowledge to secure information systems and networks effectively.
Who Should Get This Certification?
CompTIA Security+ is tailored for individuals starting on their cybersecurity careers or those who wish to solidify their foundational knowledge in the field. It is particularly beneficial for roles such as:
- Security Administrator: Responsible for maintaining the security of the organization’s network and systems.
- Systems Administrator: Ensures the functionality and security of computer systems, often implementing security measures.
- Network Administrator: Manages the organization’s network infrastructure and is crucial in safeguarding against cyber threats.
This certification not only helps beginners break into the industry but also serves as a valuable credential for experienced professionals looking to validate their skills.
Exam Pricing & Format
- Pricing: The exam fee for CompTIA Security+ is approximately $392. This investment is generally considered reasonable, given the certification’s reputation and the opportunities it can unlock for candidates.
- Format: The exam consists of 90 questions, including multiple-choice and performance-based questions that assess real-world problem-solving skills in a simulated environment.
Exam Requirements
While there are no formal prerequisites for taking the CompTIA Security+ exam, it is strongly recommended that candidates have at least two years of IT experience and a foundational understanding of networking concepts. Familiarity with basic security principles will also benefit candidates during their studies and exam preparation.
Exam Prep
Candidates preparing for the CompTIA Security+ exam can access various resources, including official CompTIA courses taught by certified instructors and online training platforms like Udemy and Pluralsight. Practice exams help familiarize them with the test format, while various books and study guides provide detailed insights and additional practice opportunities.
Salary Range & Sample Job Listings
- Salary Range: Individuals holding the CompTIA Security+ certification can earn between $55,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on their experience, job role, and geographical location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with more experience or in higher-demand areas may command higher salaries.
- Sample Job Listings:
- Security Analyst: Responsible for monitoring and defending an organization’s networks and systems against threats.
- Systems Administrator: Maintain and secure the company’s IT infrastructure, ensuring all systems run efficiently and securely.
- Network Security Engineer: Specializes in protecting network integrity and security, often designing security measures to safeguard networked systems.
2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is a highly respected credential in the cybersecurity industry, administered by (ISC)². It validates expertise in designing, implementing, and managing cybersecurity programs, covering risk management, asset security, and security architecture. This certification is ideal for professionals aiming to establish themselves as leaders in the field.
Who Should Get This Certification?
CISSP is tailored for seasoned cybersecurity professionals ready to elevate their careers. Ideal candidates for this certification typically hold roles such as:
- Security Consultant: Offers expert advice to organizations on best security practices and risk mitigation strategies.
- Security Manager: Oversees an organization’s security policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with regulations and effective risk management.
- IT Director: Responsible for an organization’s overall technology strategy, including cybersecurity initiatives.
This certification is especially beneficial for individuals seeking leadership positions, as it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of information security and the ability to manage complex security environments.
Exam Pricing & Format
- Pricing: The exam fee for the CISSP is approximately $749, which reflects its status as a premier certification in cybersecurity.
- Format: The exam employs computerized adaptive testing, consisting of 100 to 150 questions that adjust in difficulty based on the test taker’s responses. This format allows for a more personalized assessment of knowledge and skill levels.
Exam Requirements
To be eligible for the CISSP certification, candidates must meet specific requirements, including:
At least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains outlined in the (ISC)² CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). These domains include:
- Security and Risk Management
- Asset Security
- Security Architecture and Engineering
- Communication and Network Security
- Identity and Access Management
- Security Assessment and Testing
- Security Operations
- Software Development Security
If a candidate does not have the requisite experience, they may still take the exam and earn an Associate of (ISC)² designation, which allows them to work towards the required experience over time.
Exam Prep
Candidates preparing for the CISSP exam can choose from several options. Official (ISC)² training courses offer comprehensive coverage of exam topics, often led by experienced instructors. Intensive online boot camps provide a focused, fast track to certification. Study groups encourage peer support and accountability, while various study guides and practice exams offer detailed explanations and practice questions to enhance preparation.
Salary Range & Sample Job Listings
- Salary Range: CISSP-certified professionals typically earn between $100,000 and $160,000 annually, with variations based on experience, location, and specific job roles. As cybersecurity threats continue to escalate, demand for certified professionals remains high, often resulting in competitive salaries.
- Sample Job Listings:
- Information Security Manager: Responsible for developing and enforcing policies to protect an organization’s information assets.
- IT Security Consultant: Provides insights and solutions for enhancing an organization’s security posture, including risk assessments and vulnerability management.
- Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): A senior executive responsible for an organization’s information security strategy, overseeing the security team, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, offered by the EC-Council, equips IT professionals with essential skills to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems and networks. Focusing on ethical hacking techniques, it emphasizes understanding the mindset of malicious hackers to better defend against cyber threats. This credential is crucial for advancing careers in cybersecurity, particularly in penetration testing.
Who Should Get This Certification?
The CEH certification is ideal for IT professionals specializing in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It is well-suited for individuals in roles such as:
- Penetration Tester: Responsible for simulating cyber attacks on an organization’s systems to identify weaknesses and recommend security improvements.
- Security Analyst: Focuses on monitoring and analyzing security incidents, assessing vulnerabilities, and implementing strategies to enhance the organization’s security posture.
- Network Engineer: Works on designing and implementing secure network architectures, ensuring that all systems are resilient against potential cyber threats.
This certification is particularly beneficial for those looking to transition into offensive security roles or enhance their skills with ethical hacking knowledge.
Exam Pricing & Format
- Pricing: The CEH exam costs approximately $1,199, which reflects the comprehensive nature of the training and certification process.
- Format: Candidates will face 125 multiple-choice questions during the exam, testing their knowledge of various ethical hacking tools and techniques and their understanding of security protocols and best practices.
Exam Requirements
To qualify for the CEH certification, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- At least two years of work experience in the Information Security domain is recommended. Alternatively, candidates can attend an official EC-Council training program to waive this requirement.
- Candidates should possess foundational knowledge in networking and basic security principles to facilitate their understanding of the exam content.
Exam Prep
Candidates preparing for the CEH certification can utilize various resources, including official EC-Council training courses that offer comprehensive instruction and hands-on labs. Additionally, numerous online platforms provide tailored courses, video tutorials, and interactive exercises. Study guides and practice exams from various authors also help candidates cover exam topics and assess their readiness effectively.
Salary Range & Sample Job Listings
- Salary Range: Professionals holding the CEH certification typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, with the potential for higher salaries depending on experience, location, and specific job roles within the organization.
- Sample Job Listings:
- Penetration Tester: Conducts simulated attacks to uncover vulnerabilities in systems and applications, providing detailed reports on findings and recommendations for remediation.
- Ethical Hacker: Works on the front lines of cybersecurity, using hacking techniques to assess the security of networks and systems, ensuring robust defenses are in place.
- Security Consultant: Advises organizations on security best practices and strategies, often conducting assessments and vulnerability tests to enhance overall security measures.
4. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification, offered by ISACA, validates expertise in information systems auditing, control, and security. Tailored for professionals ensuring information systems’ integrity, confidentiality, and availability, CISA is increasingly in demand as organizations prioritize cybersecurity and risk management.
Who Should Get This Certification?
The CISA certification is specifically designed for:
- IT Auditors: Professionals who assess and evaluate an organization’s information systems and processes to ensure compliance and security.
- Audit Managers: Individuals overseeing audit teams and ensuring the quality and integrity of audit processes within their organizations.
- Consultants: Those providing expert advice on information systems and security, helping organizations improve their governance and risk management practices.
- Security Professionals: Individuals looking to demonstrate their proficiency in information systems auditing and enhance their cybersecurity and risk management career prospects.
Exam Pricing & Format
- Pricing: The CISA certification exam costs approximately $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members. This pricing structure encourages membership within ISACA, providing additional resources and networking opportunities.
- Format: The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, designed to assess candidates’ knowledge across various domains related to information systems auditing and control.
Exam Requirements
To be eligible for the CISA certification, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Professional Experience: At least five years of professional experience in information systems auditing, control, or security is required. This experience helps ensure that candidates possess the necessary practical knowledge to perform in the auditing role effectively.
- Domain Experience: Candidates must have specific experience in at least two of the five CISA domains, which encompass areas such as information system auditing processes, governance and management of IT, and information systems acquisition, development, and implementation.
Exam Prep
Candidates preparing for the CISA certification can utilize various resources, including ISACA’s official review courses for structured study, comprehensive study guides and online materials for concept understanding, and practice exams to familiarize themselves with the test format and question types.
Salary Range & Sample Job Listings
- Salary Range: Certified CISA professionals can earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on factors such as experience, geographic location, and the specific nature of their roles.
- Sample Job Listings:
- IT Auditor: Responsible for assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of an organization’s information systems and controls, ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices.
- Audit Manager: Oversees audit activities and manages audit teams, ensuring the organization’s financial and operational audits’ accuracy and integrity.
- Compliance Analyst: Focuses on ensuring that the organization adheres to internal policies and external regulations, particularly concerning information security and data protection.
5. ISACA Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control® (CRISC®)
The Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control® (CRISC®) certification, offered by ISACA, is designed for IT professionals focused on managing risk, implementing effective controls, and ensuring robust governance.
As businesses increasingly navigate complex regulatory environments and cybersecurity threats, CRISC certification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with information systems.
Who Should Get This Certification?
The CRISC certification is particularly suited for:
- Risk Analysts: Professionals who assess potential risks to information systems and develop strategies to mitigate them.
- IT Managers: Individuals responsible for overseeing IT operations, ensuring that risk management and governance frameworks are implemented effectively.
- Compliance Officers: Those tasked with ensuring that organizations adhere to relevant regulations and standards, particularly concerning information security and data privacy.
Exam Pricing & Format
- Pricing: The exam fee for CRISC certification is approximately $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members. Membership with ISACA provides candidates with access to a wealth of resources and professional networking opportunities.
- Format: The certification exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, evaluating candidates’ understanding of risk management concepts and their ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.
Exam Requirements
To qualify for the CRISC certification, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Professional Experience: Candidates should possess at least three years of experience in risk management and information systems control, ensuring they have a solid foundation in the subject matter.
- Domain Knowledge: Experience must be in at least two of the four CRISC domains, which include:
- Risk Identification
- Risk Assessment
- Risk Response and Mitigation
- Risk and Control Monitoring and Reporting
Exam Prep
Candidates preparing for the CRISC certification can benefit from several resources. ISACA offers detailed review guides covering the exam content, while various online courses and webinars provide flexible learning options. Practicing with sample questions and exams helps candidates familiarize themselves with the format and reinforce their knowledge.
Salary Range & Sample Job Listings
- Salary Range: Professionals holding a CRISC certification can expect salaries ranging from $90,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location.
- Sample Job Listings:
- Risk Manager: Responsible for developing and implementing risk management strategies, assessing potential threats, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Compliance Specialist: Focuses on monitoring and enforcing compliance with laws and internal policies, working closely with various departments to ensure adherence.
- IT Risk Analyst: Analyzes potential risks to IT systems, assesses vulnerabilities, and recommends strategies for mitigating risks and enhancing security.
For those interested in getting started in a cybersecurity career, here is a useful resource on How to Get Started in a Cybersecurity Career. This guide provides practical insights and tips for anyone looking to break into the field, helping to bridge the gap between entry-level certifications and the skills required for a successful career in cybersecurity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do You Prepare for Cybersecurity Certification?
To prepare for cybersecurity certification, review the exam requirements to assess your knowledge. Experienced candidates may find inexpensive study guides sufficient, while others might need comprehensive self-study or instructor-led courses. Most certification programs offer low-cost study guides, practice tests, and courses on their websites.
Additionally, numerous third-party resources, including Coursera, Cybrary, ITPro.tv, Training Camp, and Udemy, are available for further preparation.
Which Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First?
If you’re just starting out, earn one or more of the top entry-level certifications to secure your first role in cybersecurity. After gaining 2–5 years of experience, consider advancing with a career-focused or specialized certification to expand your opportunities.
To stay updated and informed, follow experts in the field; check out this guide to top Twitter cybersecurity voices (formerly Twitter) for insights and trends.
How Do I Know Which Advanced or Specialty Certification Is Right For Me?
To find the best advanced or specialty certification for your career goals, consider your interests and review job listings for the required certifications in your desired roles over the next 3–10 years. If you’re still unsure, explore the LinkedIn profiles of admired colleagues, peers, or industry influencers to see their certifications. This can highlight respected certifications that align with your interests and validate your skills.
Can You Get a Cybersecurity Job with Just Certifications?
Certifications verify knowledge or experience but must be combined with other factors to land a job. The basic requirements for employment also include an appropriate job history for the position, effective communication during interviews, and a good fit for the hiring organization’s needs.
Bottom Line: A.B.C. (Always Be Credentialing)
In the constantly changing cybersecurity landscape, credentials are essential for career growth, skill validation, and staying competitive. Certifications showcase expertise and keep professionals aligned with industry standards and best practices. By consistently pursuing relevant certifications, you demonstrate a commitment to professional development and adaptability, which are highly valued field traits.
Remember, in cybersecurity, always be credentialing: staying up-to-date ensures you’re prepared to meet new challenges, build resilience in your career, and open doors to exciting opportunities. Additionally, understanding industry services like Managed Security Service Providers (MSSPs) can further enhance your strategic value in the field.
