The Top Cyber Security Courses and Certifications for Beginners

Cybersecurity entails protecting systems and networks connected over the internet of an organization or the individual's online presence. The surging cases of data breaches and cyber-attacks have resulted in the high value and importance of Cyber security course programs across the globe. The global demand for cybersecurity professionals is projected to exceed 3 million people, as analyzed by the (ISC)2 Cybersecurity Workforce Study. To pursue a cyber security course and acquire the most in-demand skills implies building a robust career path. As competition rises, employers are also increasingly seeking professionals who have extra qualifications such as a cyber security certification. Given the multiplicity of the cyber security course and certification programs surfacing lately, it may become perplexing and confusing to choose. Here in this post, let us outline which cyber security certification and system is best for building a future-proof career. 



Top Cyber Security Certification Programs

Although a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science is the most common and basic qualification for cyber security professionals, hiring companies now take cognizance of the importance of employing certified professionals as they are well-oriented towards the industry trends and needs.

Cyber security enthusiasts need to scan through the course offering before choosing a cyber security certification program. Aspirants are required to align their career goals and interest with the cyber security course they are going to pursue, as not every course or certification are equal. If you are a beginner, starting with the most basic level is ideal. Professionals seeking career growth and advancement may choose the advanced cyber security certification that will validate their skills and knowledge. 


CompTIA Security+

This cyber security certification specializes in assessing, monitoring, and securing networks, systems, and devices of an organization. This is an entry-level credential and ideal for beginners.  A Cyber Security course for this certification trains professionals to secure an organization's systems, networks, and several other verticals including cloud security and the Internet of Things. A professional will also get to gain comprehensive knowledge about laws and regulations pertaining to risk and compliance, identification and response solutions to security incidents, etc. 


GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

This is another great entry-level cyber security certification, and basically ideal for those who are familiar with information systems and networking. A cyber security course for this fundamental certification level will train professionals about the skills involved in security tasks including active defense, cloud security, incident response, cryptography, and network security.


Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals

This is another remarkable cyber security certification for entry-level professionals. A cyber security course developed for professionals, business users, and students will give exposure to an array of cyber security topics such as Azure and Microsoft 365. The certification course will make participants gain fundamental knowledge of cloud computing security and networking system concepts.


Cyber Security Fundamentals by ISACA

This entry-level cyber security certification will help enthusiasts create a niche in the information security fundamentals. The cyber security course for this certification covers the areas of the threat landscape, security access, operations and responses of security, and fundamentals of cyber security.


GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)

This cyber security certification is formulated for professionals who want to specialize in systems administration or become managers and information security officers. The cyber security course for this specialization entails gaining a solid comprehension of computer networks, incident response, security policies, and not the least principles of cryptography. This cyber security certification although ideal for beginners is considered more challenging in comparison to other certification exams like the CompTIA Security+ exam. Typically, to be qualified for this certification will require professionals to clear a test covering problem-solving skills. A cyber security course hence would consist of training professionals with experiential hands-on projects.


Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)

This cyber security certification is the most popular among all the certifications in recent times. Professionals who acquired this credential will have numerous opportunities in the job market and become security analysts, security administrators, or network security engineers. However, to be qualified for the position one has to gain the fundamental skills and experience, and crack the certification exam. Ideally, a certification exam for this qualification will cover the areas of cyber security such as:

  • Access Controls

  • Security Operations and Administration

  • Risk Identification, Monitoring, and Analysis

  • Incident Response and Recovery

  • Cryptography

  • Network and Communications Security

  • Systems and Application Security


Those are the top cyber security certification that is for beginners. To choose the best one, aspirants must make sure the certification course fulfills their career goals. 


Also Read: What Are Cyber Security And its Advantages?

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