Cyber Security Certification: Top 10 Courses In 2024

A survey conducted by IBM found that security skills shortage is one of the top amplifiers to the cost of a data breach. As the cost of mitigating incidents rises each year, security professionals will play a bigger role in the complex world of networks and cloud. With the rise in demand for security professionals, you start a career in this field with a cyber security certification. 

A cybersecurity certification validates your skills and expertise in security related tasks like incident response, threat analysis, cloud risk assessment, ethical hacking, cryptography, security compliance, and more. 

This article lists the best cyber security certifications offered by various popular certifying bodies, the type of exam, certification cost, and eligibility criteria. 

Top cybersecurity certifications

Here are some of the best cybersecurity certifications you can consider to kickstart your career in computer and network security: 

 

Certification	How does it help the organization?
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certification	This course helps an organization develop information security policies, standards, and procedures and oversee their implementation organization-wide.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)	The skills derived from this course help an organization design, implement, and manage its security network.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA®)	The skills derived from this course play a crucial role for an organization in implementing audit strategies, reviewing potential risk areas, and overseeing the audit process. They are actively involved in pre-audit processes, evaluating company objectives, systems, and risks to identify vulnerabilities and strengths.
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC®)	A professional with this certification will play an important role in implementing audit strategies to review potential risk areas and oversee the audit process. They are actively involved in pre-audit processes, evaluating company objectives, systems, and risks to identify vulnerabilities and strengths.
CompTIA Security+	CRISC certification for a company validates the foundational skills required to execute core security functions effectively. It ensures that individuals possess the essential competencies to manage and mitigate information security risks within the organization.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)	Ethical hackers employed by a company routinely conduct tests on IT systems to identify vulnerabilities and stay informed about potential threats like ransomware and emerging computer viruses. This ongoing testing ensures the security of IT systems and helps the organization stay ahead of cybersecurity risks.
CompTIA PenTest+	A professional with CompTIA PenTest+ certification helps a company validate and report vulnerability findings and communicate recommended strategies to enhance IT security.
IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate	This certificate helps an organization in data protection, endpoint protection, and SIEM (Security Information and Event Management). Professionals with this certification in a company will explore compliance and threat intelligence strategies.
AWS Certified Security – Specialty	This certification validates a professional’s proficiency and expertise in securing workloads. Hence, this is useful for an organization that wants to enhance its security measures and protection for its cloud-based assets.
COSO Internal Control Certificate Program	A professional with a COSO Internal Control Certificate Program can help a company minimize errors by establishing protocols and procedures to mitigate employee mistakes, facilitating continuous improvement as necessary, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing risks for the company.
Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect	A professional GCP certification validates that they can strategically design and plan cloud solution architectures focusing on security and compliance. This ensures that the company’s cloud infrastructure is robust and resilient while enabling the implementation and management of cloud architectures.
GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)	A professional with GSEC certification validates a practitioner’s understanding of information security.  They can greatly help in hands-on IT systems roles, particularly in performing security tasks, thereby enhancing the company’s capability to manage and safeguard its IT infrastructure against potential threats effectively.

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) 

The CISSP certification is a globally recognized credential that validates expertise in IT architecture definition and the establishment, development, and maintenance of secure business environments according to industry-standard security protocols. 

It is by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC) and is targeted towards cybersecurity analysts, affirming their proficiency in safeguarding information systems and networks against cyber threats.

The courses covered are:

• Security and Risk Management
• Security Architecture and Engineering
• Identity and Access Management IAM
• Security Operations
• Asset Security
• Communication and Network Security
• Security Assessment and Testing
• Software development security

How do you get qualified for the exam?

To qualify for the CISSP exam, candidates must meet specific experience requirements. Specifically, they need at least five years of cumulative, full-time experience in two or more of the eight domains outlined in the current CISSP Exam Outline.

Job profile	CISSP-certified professionals play a great role in organizations by leading and managing security programs. They are responsible for formulating and implementing strategies to protect information assets, ensuring the highest cybersecurity standards are maintained.
Salary package	₹155,000 – ₹4 million per year
Accreditation body	ISC2
Cost	$300 to $3200
Eligibility criteria	The eligibility criteria for the CISSP exam require candidates to possess a minimum of five years of cumulative, full-time experience in two or more of the eight domains outlined in the current CISSP Exam Outline.
Exam details	The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, including 25 pre-test questions. Candidates are required to achieve a passing score of 700 out of 1000. The exam duration is 6 hours.
Access	The exam is offered in 882 locations throughout 114 nations and eight languages.

2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM®)

The CISM certification teaches you how to assess risks and proactively respond to security incidents by implementing effective governance strategies. It offers several resources (student guides, online study groups, and questionnaires) for preparing for the exam. 

CISM certification exams are conducted online via testing centers or as remotely proctored format. You can take the exam within 48 hours of paying the registration fee. 

The certification has four domains: 

• Information Security Governance: Enterprise Governance and Information Security Development 
• Information Security Risk Management: Information Security Risk Assessment and Information Security Risk Response
• Information security program: Information Security Program Development and Information Security Program Management
• Incident Management Operations: Incident Management Readiness and Incident Management Operations

How do you qualify for the exam?

To attain CISM certification, professionals must fulfill the following prerequisites:

• Successfully pass the certification exam
• Pay the US$50 application processing fee
• Submit an application demonstrating fulfillment of experience requirements
• Abide by the Code of Professional Ethics
• Comply with the Continuing Professional Education Policy

Job profile	A CISM oversees and scrutinizes all aspects of computer security within a business. This role entails devising and executing security strategies to safeguard the organization’s data and information against deliberate attacks, unauthorized access, corruption, and theft.
Salary package	$49,500 – $152,500 per year
Accreditation body	ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association)
Cost	$760 ($575 for ISACA members)
Eligibility criteria	Five years of work experience in information security management
Exam details	ISACA provides various CISM exam preparation resources tailored to meet diverse learning preferences. These resources include group training sessions, self-paced training modules, and study materials available in multiple languages
Access	Candidates have the option to take the CISSP exam either at an in-person testing site or remotely via remote proctoring.

3. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA®)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a highly recognised credential for mid career professionals. It helps you demonstrate expertise and showcase the skills required to apply a risk based approach to plan, report, and execute audit engagements. 

The course offers five domains:  

1. Information Systems Auditing Process: Planning and Execution
2. Information Systems Acquisition, Development & Implementation: Information Systems Acquisition and Development and Information Systems Implementation
3. Information Systems Operations & Business Resilience: Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience
4. Protection Of Information Assets: Information Asset Security and Control and Security Event Management

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the CISA exam, you need to meet the following criteria:

• Minimum Work Experience: You must have at least 5 years of professional work experience in information systems auditing, control, or security. This experience should align with the job practice areas outlined in the CISA job practice areas.
• Work Experience Period: The work experience required for the CISA certification must be acquired within the 10-year period preceding the application date for certification. This means that your experience should be recent and relevant to the current industry standards.
• Maintain the Certification: Once you’ve obtained the CISA certification, it’s essential to maintain it by fulfilling continuing professional education (CPE) requirements and adhering to ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics. This ensures that your certification remains valid and up-to-date.

Job profile	The main responsibilities of a CISA include implementing an audit strategy for information systems (IS) grounded in risk management principles. This involves planning audits to evaluate the protection, management, and value of IT assets within an organization.
Salary package	$94,000 -$140,500 per annum
Accreditation body	ISACA
Cost	$760 ($575 for ISACA members)
Eligibility criteria	Five years of work experience in information security management
Exam details	The CISA certification is being updated this year to incorporate advancements and evolving technologies pertinent to the responsibilities of IT audit professionals. This exam comprises 150 questions spanning five job practice domains, assessing candidates’ proficiency in real-world job practices utilized by seasoned professionals.
Access	The availability of testing sites for the CISSP exam varies depending on the testing month. In September, there are approximately 15 testing locations across the US, whereas during the June and December slots, candidates have a wider selection, with around 77 testing locations available.

4. Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC®)

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control® (CRISC®) offers the skills required to become a risk management expert. You will be able to increase your company’s resilience against risks with a proactive approach based on agile methodologies. 

ISACA’S CRISC certification exam is conducted in online mode at authorized PSI testing centers or remotely proctored. You can register at any time and take the test within 48 hours of paying the exam fees. 

The CRISC® exam covers the following topics: 

1. Governance: Organizational Governance and Risk Governance
2. IT Risk Assessment: Risk Identification and Risk Evaluation
3. Risk Response And Reporting: Risk Response, Risk Monitoring and Reporting, and Control Design and Implementation
4. Information Technology And Security: Information Control Principles and Information Security Principles 

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the CRISC exam and certification, you must meet the following criteria:

• You need at least 3 years of work experience in Information Technology risk design and implementation management, with expertise in Information Security Controls.
• Successful candidates must commit to adhering to ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics at all times.
• Certified individuals must also agree to and adhere to ISACA’s CPE policy and the Code of Professional Ethics.

Job profile	CRISC offers IT security professionals tangible proof of their expertise and experience in risk management within enterprise and financial sectors. This certification benefits independent consultants and individuals employed directly by enterprises in various IT operations, security, and related roles.
Salary package	$169,065 per year on average
Accreditation body	ISACA
Cost	$760 ($575 for ISACA members)
Eligibility criteria	Five years of work experience in information security management
Exam details	The exams comprise 150 multiple-choice questions, encompassing the latest job practice areas derived from the most recent job practice analysis. Test-takers are allotted 4 hours to complete the exam.
Access	ISACA’s CRISC certification exams are conducted in a computer-based format and are administered at authorized PSI testing centers worldwide. Also, candidates have the option to take the exams remotely through remote proctoring.

5. CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification equips you with the basic skills required to deliver core security functions in IT related to threats, automation, risk management, IoT, zero trust, and more. 

It helps students land jobs like Security Architect, Cybersecurity Specialist, Tier II IT Support Technician, Cybersecurity Analyst, IT Support Manager

After completing the exam, you will have the expertise to:

• Analyze the security posture of enterprise infrastructure and implement appropriate security measures
• Monitor and secure hybrid environments like cloud, IoT, and operational technology 
• Understand regulations and policies around of governance, risk, and compliance
• Identify, analyze, mitigate, respond, and investigate security incidents 

How do you qualify for the exam?

While there are no prerequisites to qualify for the CompTIA Security+ exam, they recommend having at least 2 years of IT administration experience focusing on security. 

Also, earning the CompTIA Network+ certification beforehand is advised. Your level of experience in network and security plays a significant role in determining the gap between your existing knowledge and what’s expected for the exam. 

Some may find they need minimal additional knowledge, while others may require more extensive study efforts.

Job profile	The job profile for CompTIA Security+ holders typically involves configuring testing equipment, such as network devices like routers, switches, IDS/IPS, etc. They are also responsible for developing standard security documentation and preparing test plans for test engineers.
Salary package	$71,071 to $96,000, with a rough average of $86,885 per year
Accreditation body	CompTIA
Cost	$392 USD
Eligibility criteria	CompTIA Network+ and two years of relevant experience in IT with a focus on security or experience working in a security/ systems administrator role.
Exam details	The exam has 90 questions with multiple choices. The test lasts 90 minutes, and students must score 750 on a scale of 100 to 900.
Access	CompTIA in-person testing allows candidates to take their exams at any of the numerous Pearson VUE test centers globally. This option is ideal for individuals who lack access to a private, distraction-free environment or reliable Internet connectivity.

6. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a comprehensive certification course for aspiring cyber professionals that covers five phases of ethical hacking. Students gain hands-on training labs, practice cyber ranges for engagement, and certification assessments. 

The course offers four phases:

1. Learn: Contains 20 modules covering various technologies, tactics, and procedures that equip learners with the basic knowledge with a special focus on hands-on application of ethical hacking. 
2. Certify: This phase tests what you’ve learnt in the previous module with 125 MCQ questions in four hours and a set of 20 practical questions in six hours. 
3. Engage: An ethical hacking assignment tests students and provides the experience needed to face real life challenges using various tools and techniques. 
4. Compete: In the final stage, the aspirant competes with ethical hacking professionals across the globe. It is conducted every month all year round and aspirants can make it to the top of the leaderboard. 

CEH this course trains you in a way that upskills your ethical hacking abilities through rigorous job task analysis, extensive training, and hands-on experience in cybersecurity attacks. These skills can help you land a job in top companies, governments, militaries, and more. 

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the CEH (ANSI) exam, candidates must possess two years of work experience in the Information Security domain. This experience must be validated through application unless the candidate attends official training.

Job profile	Your role is mainly to safeguard digital assets and infrastructure. This includes identifying vulnerabilities and weaknesses in systems and networks, ensuring web application security, and employing ethical hacking techniques and methodologies to mitigate risks.
Salary package	$87,877 a year on average
Accreditation body	EC-Council
Cost	Choose from three packages: Elite, Pro, and Regular  – Exam fee is $1,199
Eligibility criteria	Two years of experience in IT security is recommended. Beginners are also eligible.
Exam details	The CEH exam spans 4 hours and comprises 125 multiple-choice questions. This knowledge-based assessment evaluates your proficiency in areas such as: Information Security Threats and Attack Vectors Attack Detection Attack Prevention Procedures Methodologies
Access	The Certified Ethical Hacker exam is accessible for candidates at both the ECC Exam Centre and Pearson Vue testing centers.

7. CompTIA PenTest+

CompTIA PenTest+ is a certification designed for cybersecurity professionals conducting penetration testing and managing vulnerability assessments. Positioned at an intermediate skills level, this certification emphasizes offensive skills through pen testing and vulnerability assessment.

Throughout the course, you’ll learn:

• Planning and Scoping: Governance, risk, and compliance concepts, scoping projects, and maintaining an ethical hacking mindset
• Tools and Code Analysis: Identifying scripts, analyzing code samples, and understanding tool usage in penetration testing
• Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning: Techniques for vulnerability scans, reconnaissance, and vulnerability management
• Attacks and Exploits: Various attack techniques, including social engineering, network, wireless, and application-based attacks
• Reporting and Communication: Effective reporting and communication within regulatory frameworks

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the CompTIA Pentest+ certification exam, candidates typically need 2-3 years of experience in the IT Security field, along with knowledge of networking and penetration testing.

Job profile	In this role, you’ll be responsible for applying appropriate tools for penetration testing ensuring thorough evaluation of system vulnerabilities. Also, you’ll conduct social engineering tests and review physical security measures where necessary to assess overall security posture comprehensively.
Salary package	$75,000 – $78,139 a year on average
Accreditation body	CompTIA
Cost	Comes in 4 packages: Complete bundle – $1111 eLearning bundle – $1005 Exam prep bundle – $741 Basic bundle – $581
Eligibility criteria	While there are no strict prerequisites for the CompTIA PenTest+ exam, it’s advisable to have a minimum of three to four years of hands-on experience in information security or a related field before attempting the exam.  Candidates should have already completed CompTIA Security+ or have equivalent experience. This certification is designed to be technical and hands-on, focusing on practical skills and real-world scenarios.
Exam details	The exam comprises a maximum of 85 questions, including performance-based and multiple-choice questions. Test-takers are allotted 165 minutes to complete the exam. To pass, candidates must achieve a score of at least 750, based on a scale ranging from 100 to 900.
Access	The CompTIA PenTest+ exam can be proctored at a Pearson VUE testing center or online in a highly secure environment.

8. IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional Certificate

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst Professional course is one of the best cyber security certifications for beginners. It helps you become job ready in the field of cybersecurity, even if you have no prior experience. 

This course helps students gain knowledge of security analyst tools like data protection, endpoint security, SIEM, and system network basics.

It is an eight course series that covers topics related to threat intelligence, security compliance, and industry specific or open source security tools. It teaches how to respond to actual incidents and forensics with the help of case studies. 

On average, it takes four months to complete, at a pace of 10 hours a week. You can register from coursera. 

How do you qualify for the exam?

There are no prerequisites specifically available to qualify for the exam. You just need to enroll in the course and complete all the courses.

Job profile	This Professional Certificate equips you with the technical skills necessary to prepare you for a Cybersecurity Analyst role, making you job-ready for positions in the field.
Salary package	$36,000 – $118,000 per year on average
Accreditation body	IBM
Cost	$312
Eligibility criteria	No degree or prior experience required
Exam details	To earn this badge, you must complete all program courses. This includes completing multiple assessments throughout the courses, engaging in a real-world breach case study, and participating in various hands-on virtual labs. Also, you must achieve a passing score on the final assessment course, which covers all content from the preceding seven courses.
Access	Exams can be taken up online.

9. AWS Certified Security – Specialty

AWS Certified Security – Specialty is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services that validates your expertise in creating security solutions and implementing it in the AWS cloud. It also validates your understanding of data classifications and data protection mechanisms. 

After completing this course, you gain the skills or expertise required in cloud architecture, database, networking, and DevSecOps. 

The duration of the exam is 170 minutes in which candidates have to answer 65 questions in MCQ or multiple response format. It is conducted online either in a testing center or remotely proctored. 

The AWS Certified Security syllabus consists of:

1. AWS security fundamentals
2. AWS cloud quest security role 

AWS security fundamentals covers AWS global infrastructure, data center security, compliance and governance, DDoS mitigation, entry points on AWS, identity and access management, detective controls, infrastructure protection, data protection, and incident response

AWS Cloud Quest is a role-based learning game that helps candidates improve their practical skills through a series of exercises and hands-on activities. 

How do you qualify for the exam?

The AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification is designed for seasoned professionals with at least 5 years of IT security experience in designing and implementing security solutions. Also, candidates should have at least 2 years of hands-on experience securing AWS workloads.

Job profile	This certification enhances skills and expertise relevant to various job roles in cloud architecture, database management, networking, and DevSecOps.
Salary package	$38000 – $84000 per year
Accreditation body	AWS
Cost	$300
Eligibility criteria	Experience of at least five years in IT security with a specialization in designing and implementing security solutions and two years of hands-on experience in securing AWS workloads.
Exam details	The exam details for AWS Certified Security – Specialty include a duration of 170 minutes. The exam consists of 65 questions, which may be presented in multiple-choice or multiple-response formats.
Access	You can take the test in person or online. For in-person tests, the center is Pearson VUE testing center.

10. COSO Internal Control Certificate Program

COSO Internal Control Certificate Program helps you develop the skills and expertise needed to design, implement, manage, and monitor a system of internal security controls in an organization. 

It consists of nine self paced modules that helps to understand and implement COSO’s Internal Control–Integrated Framework (IC framework). 

The course provides a brief overview of the IC framework and comprehensive details to help you assess internal controls. After completing the modules, you will gain expertise on the following areas: 

• How to optimize cost through streamlined processes and efficient management 
• Conduct better quality risk assessments
• Strengthen fraud deterring efforts
• Improve alignment with third-party vendors 
• Understand the technical considerations related to internal controls 

The COSO Internal Control Certificate Program covers the following topics: 

• Categories of objectives achieved by internal controls
• Components of internal controls
• Principles and points of focus
• Roles and responsibilities
• Limitations of internal controls

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the exam, candidates should possess a minimum of 2-6 years of experience working with a system of internal control. The COSO Internal Control Certificate Program is available online as a self-study learning program. Participants have 12 months to access the learning materials, providing flexibility to accommodate work and personal commitments.

Job profile	The role involves applying principles-based approaches, identifying, assessing, and responding to risks, and pinpointing areas for improvement based on assessment results. Their role is critical in ensuring effective governance processes and mitigating potential risks within the company.
Salary package	$114,000-$131,000 per year on average
Accreditation body	AICPA (Association of International Certified Professional Accountants)
Cost	Cost: £1,500 – £1,915
Eligibility criteria	Participants should have 2-6 years of experience working with a system of internal controls
Exam details	This is a digital product granting full access to content for one year from the date of purchase. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a digital badge, which you can conveniently share with your professional network.
Access	Online from AICPA & CIMA, COSO, Theiia

11. Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cybersecurity Certificate equips you with the skills required to land an entry-level job in security such as Cybersecurity analyst, Security analyst, SOC analyst, Information security analyst, IT security analyst, Cyber defense analyst. 

The course teaches ways to identify common security risks, threats, and vulnerabilities and ways to techniques to mitigate them. You also learn how to protect systems, networks data, and people from unauthorized access using Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools. 

You gain hands-on experience in Linux, Python Programming, Python Programming, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), SQL, Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), and more. 

How do you qualify for the exam?

To qualify for the exam, candidates should have proficiency with command-line usage, familiarity with the Linux operating system, and experience in systems operations. While there are no strict prerequisites, having at least 3 years of industry experience is recommended to ensure readiness for the certification exam.

Job profile	In this role, you will design and oversee cloud-based data storage solutions, including platforms like BigQuery and Cloud Storage. You’ll also be involved in data pipeline development, designing, developing, and maintaining pipelines to extract, transform, and load data from diverse sources into cloud-based storage and processing systems.
Salary package	$130,000 – $180,000 per annum
Accreditation body	Google Cloud Platform
Cost	$200
Eligibility criteria	No previous experience is necessary
Exam details	The estimated course completion time is one month at 10 hours a week. It is a flexible course; you can complete it independently.
Access	Online – Available on Coursera and Udemy

12. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

The GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is certification that validates a professional’s knowledge of information security in depth, beyond the basics. 

It qualifies them to take on roles in the IT system related to security such as InfoSec professions, security professionals, security managers, operations personnel, IT engineers and supervisors, security administrators, forensic analysts, penetration testers, and auditors. 

The exam consists of 106-180 questions that candidates must complete in 4 to 5 hours via remote or onsite proctoring. The qualification marks is 75%. 

Once you have registered from the official website, GIAC will give you 120 days to attempt for the certification. The syllabus covers the following topics:

Access Control & Password Management	Defense in Depth	Log Management & SIEM	Web Communication Security
AWS Fundamentals and Security	Defensible Network Architecture	Malicious Code & Exploit Mitigation	Windows Access Controls
Container and MacOS Security	Endpoint Security	Network Security Devices	Windows as a Service
Cryptography	Enforcing Windows Security Policy	Networking & Protocols	Windows Automation, Auditing, and Forensics
Cryptography Algorithms & Deployment	Incident Handling & Response	Security Frameworks and CIS Controls	Windows Security Infrastructure
Cryptography Application	Linux Fundamentals	Virtualization and Cloud Security	Windows Services and Microsoft Cloud
Data Loss Prevention and Mobile Device Security	Linux Security and Hardening	Vulnerability Scanning and Penetration Testing	Wireless Network Security

How do you qualify for the exam?

There are no specific prerequisites to qualify for the GSEC exam. Professionals from various backgrounds seeking to enhance their Information Security (IS) knowledge can enroll in this training and pursue the certification.

Job profile	The job profile associated with the GSEC exam includes various roles, including ICS Security Engineer/Specialist and Security Engineer – Analyst or Associate. Professionals in these positions are responsible for safeguarding information systems against cyber threats, conducting security assessments, implementing security controls, and responding to security incidents.
Salary package	It depends on various security job roles. However, the range is $67,000 – $133,000 per year
Accreditation body.	GIAC Certifications
Cost	$1,299
Eligibility criteria	GIAC does not specify any prior experience or educational background as a qualification benchmark
Exam details	The exam details for the GSEC include a single proctored exam consisting of 106 questions. Test-takers have a time limit of 4 hours to complete the exam. To pass, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 73%.
Access	Register online on the GIAC website

Why get a cyber security certification?

You already know the state of security today – breaches occur every day and the number is not slowing down, no matter how sophisticated preventive technology gets. 

This trend is making both consumers and businesses conscious about data security. Businesses don’t want to partner with vendors who don’t take security seriously. Customers don’t want their privacy breached. 

More breaches directly impact the demand for cyber security professionals – The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the demand for security roles will grow by 31% in just 10 years (2022 to 2032). This number is higher than the average of all other occupations.  

A cybersecurity professional earns a decent salary and can be employed in any industry as cloud networking is used in every sector. On average, here is what you pay scale may look like based on the country: 

• United States – $116,000
• United Kingdom – £50,000 (about $68,000)
• Canada – C$75,000 (about $58,000)
• Australia – AU$98,000 (about $76,000)
• Germany – €60,000 (about $72,000)
• France – €50,000 (about $60,000)
• Netherlands – €60,000 (about $72,000)
• Japan – ¥8,500,000 (about $77,000)
• South Korea – KRW 60,000,000 (about $53,000)
• Singapore – SGD 80,000 (about $59,000)

These numbers above can be higher or lower based on your experience level. Here are some of the common types of cybersecurity jobs: 

1. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
2. Security Architecture
3. Cybersecurity Engineer
4. Malware Analyst 
5. Penetration Tester
6. Computer Forensics Analyst 
7. Application Security Engineer
8. Cloud Security Specialist
9. Compliance manager 
10. Incident Manager

FAQs

How long does it take to get cybersecurity certification?

The time taken to gain a certification in the cybersecurity field depends on the length of the course, the number of practice tests you complete, individual pace, and difficulty of the topic. It can take anywhere from a week to months. 

Which is the best certification in cyber security?

The best and advanced certification would depend on your career goals and which security niche you want to work in. Some of the most popular certifications in cyber security are Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC). 

What skills do I need to land a job in the cybersecurity industry?

Skills needed for a cybersecurity career include risk identification, deep understanding of ethical hacking, computer forensic skills, coding, network security, cyber threat intelligence analysis, network defense mechanisms, and more depending on what type of career in cybersecurity. 

What does a security consultant do?

A security consultant has the essential skills to evaluate your systems and networks for vulnerabilities, mitigates threats, and strengthens the system to make it more resilient. 

What are some common cybersecurity roles?

Some common roles in the field of cybersecurity are Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Security Architecture, Cybersecurity Engineer, Malware Analyst, Penetration Tester, and Computer Forensics Analyst. 

What is the annual salary of a security professional?

On average, a security professional makes around $116,000 in the USA. The number can be higher or lower depending on your level of experience and organization.