The Top IT certifications For A Career In Security

Security breaches continued to grab headlines in 2018 at a staggering pace. The real losses, potential losses, and vigilance from both corporate and government entities are creating a lucrative, and important opportunities for staffing IT security professionals. What certifications are the most valuable to your career? Here are five you may want to consider.

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

Level: Intermediate

Administered By: EC Council

Cost: $900

URL: https://www.eccouncil.org/programs/certified-ethical-hacker-ceh/

The CEH certification consists of a single 125 question, multiple choice examination. Candidates are encouraged to take a 5-day preparation course, but it is not required. Candidates who have experience in system hacking, DoS attacks, hacking web servers, SQL injection, firewalls, honeypots, Trojans, worms, etc. may pay an additional $100 for a prerequisite assessment.

CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)

Level: Advanced

Administered By: ISACA

Cost: $500 – $785

URL: http://www.isaca.org/Certification/CISM-Certified-Information-Security-Manager/Pages/default.aspx

As an advanced certification, CISM candidates must have at least five years of IT security experience. Additionally, candidates must have a minimum of 3 years in IT security management. Exams are administered in June, September and December. Plan ahead and register early to save a few hundred dollars.

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)

Level: Advanced

Administered By: International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium

Cost: $699 + $599 Per Additional CISSP concentration

URL: https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CISSP

The CISSP is an advanced-level certification that is in high demand. As a high-level cert, candidates are required to have a minimum of five years’ work experience and a college degree. In addition to the CISSP, certifications are offered in three specific areas – architecture, engineering, and management.

GSEC (GIAC Security Essentials)

Level: Entry

Administered By: GIAC

Cost: $1699 + $429 Maintenance Fee Every Four Years

URL: https://www.giac.org/certification/security-essentials-gsec

As an entry-level certification, GSEC has no prerequisites. However, they do recommend candidates complete a training program prior to taking the test. The cert has to be renewed every four years by completing 36 hours of continuous education and paying a fee of $429.

Security+

Level: Entry

Administered By: CompTIA

Cost: $320

URL: https://certification.comptia.org/certifications/security

Security+ is recognized as one of the top entry-level certifications for IT security professionals. CompTIA has no work experience prerequisite; however, they highly recommend that you have 2 years of network security experience prior to taking the exam. There are a series of good practice exams available here https://www.kaplanittraining.com/certification/comptia/0-501 .

IT security is in high demand, as that will not likely change any time soon. Whether you are just starting your career, or a highly experienced professional, highly respected certifications in IT security can enhance your career opportunities.

Danielle Foppe is a Lead Technical Recruiter at Business Centric Technology. If you are interested in learning more about how to get the best IT talent in the Dallas metroplex, contact Danielle directly at dfoppe@bct-corp.com or call us at 972-267-7950. Business Centric Technology specializes in recruiting IT talent in Dallas, Ft. Worth and North Texas. If you are looking for a rewarding career contact us today.