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Cyber security certifications (2024) can help you advance in your career in information security. 

Whether you’re exploring cyber security certifications for beginners or pursuing the highest paying cyber security certifications, the right credentials can dramatically impact your career trajectory. 

Following a strategic cybersecurity certification roadmap can lead to salaries exceeding $100,000, with some specialized roles commanding even higher compensation.

So, without wasting any time, let us get into it.

Top 10+ Cybersecurity Certifications: Quick Table

Here are the top 10 Cybersecurity Certifications you must consider. I have picked beginner, intermediate, and advanced level certificates, so pick one according to your level:

Sr. No.CertificationProviderLevelValidityExpected Salary Post Certification
1ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)ISC2Beginner2-3 months$107,500/ year
2CompTIA Security+CompTIABeginner2-3 months$71,689 /year
3Google Cybersecurity CertificateGoogleBeginner3-6 months$143,268 /year
4IBM Cybersecurity AnalystIBMBeginner4-6 months$99,400 /year
5Microsoft Security Operations AnalystMicrosoftBeginner2-3 months$91,821 /year
6GSECGIACIntermediate4 years$50,041 /year
7CCSPISC2Advanced3 years$123,151/ year 
8CISAISACAAdvanced3 years$109,713 /year
9Cisco CCNA SecurityCiscoIntermediate3 years$124,948 /year
10CASP+CompTIAAdvanced3 years$87,500/ year

Now let us discuss all the 11 certificates in depth:

1. ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)

ProviderISC2
Cost$249
Prerequisites
Average Salary*$95,000–$120,000
Exam Details2 hours, 100 questions, Passing score: 700/1000
What You’ll LearnSecurity Principles, Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery, Access Controls, Network Security, Security Operations

The ISC2 CC certification is designed for cybersecurity newcomers. It provides a foundation for entry-level security roles such as Junior Security Analyst and Information Security Associate and is also a stepping stone toward advanced ISC2 certifications.

ISC2- Best Cyber Security Certification 2024
Source: ISC2

2. CompTIA Security+

ProviderCompTIA
Cost$392
Prerequisites
Average Salary*$21,500- $127,000
Exam Details90 minutes for 90 questions, Performance-based & multiple choice,  Passing score: 750/900
What You’ll LearnAttacks, Threats & Vulnerabilities, Architecture & Design, Implementation, Operations & Incident Response, Governance, Risk & Compliance

Security+ is widely recognized as the foundational certification for cybersecurity careers. It is ideal for roles like Security Administrator and System Security Analyst, and Many DoD positions require it. To practice and get free resources for CompTIA A+ certification, you can take the course on Coursera.

CompTIA Security+
Source: Coursera

3. Google Cybersecurity Certificate

ProviderGoogle via Coursera
Cost$49/month (Coursera subscription)
Prerequisites
Average Salary*$61,418- $200,418
Exam DetailsSelf-paced, finish 8 courses & Real-world projects
What You’ll LearnPython Programming, Linux & SQL, Security Operations, Asset Security, Incident Response

The Google certificate is available via Coursera. This certificate provides a direct pathway to entry-level cybersecurity positions at Google and its partner companies. It is perfect for career changers seeking roles like Cybersecurity Analyst or Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst.

Google Cybersecurity Certificate
Source: Coursera

4. IBM Cybersecurity Analyst

ProviderSelf-paced, finished 14 courses & Real-world projects
Cost$49/month (Coursera subscription)
PrerequisitesBasic IT knowledge is helpful but not required
Average Salary*$43,000- $150,000
Exam DetailsSelf-paced, finish 14 courses & Real-world projects
What You’ll LearnNetwork Security,  Incident Response, Threat Intelligence, Forensics Tools, SIEM Tools
Source- Zip Recruiter

IBM’s certification provides practical experience with industry tools, preparing candidates for roles like Security Analyst and Incident Responder. IBM’s brand recognition adds significant value to resumes. Using Coursera for the prep will help you receive professional-level training from IBM.

IBM Cybersecurity Analyst
Source: Coursera

5. Microsoft Security Operations Analyst

ProviderMicrosoft
Cost$165
PrerequisitesBasic understanding of Microsoft 365 services
Average Salary*$36,500- $126,500
Exam Details3 hours exam with 40-60 questions, Passing score: 700/1000
What You’ll LearnMicrosoft Security Tools, Threat Management, Security Monitoring, Incident Response, Regulatory Compliance
Source- Zip Recruiter

Microsoft Security Operations Analyst certification is ideal for those seeking roles in organizations using Microsoft security solutions, leading to positions like Security Operations Analyst and Microsoft Security Engineer. You work closely with business and security leaders to establish the organization’s security standards.

Microsoft Security Operations Analyst
Source: Microsoft

6. GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

ProviderGIAC
Cost$2,499
PrerequisitesSecurity experience is recommended
Average Salary*$32,500- $62,500
Exam DetailsOpen book timed 4 hours, 106 questions, Passing score: 73%
What You’ll LearnActive Defense, Network Security, Cryptography, Cloud Security, Risk Management

The GSEC certification covers key security topics like cryptography, network architecture, cloud operations, and endpoint security. It targets InfoSec professionals, IT engineers, and auditors, validating theoretical knowledge and practical skills through CyberLive’s real-world testing. Check the GIAC Security certificate here.

7. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

ProviderISC2
Cost$599
Prerequisites5 years of IT experience, including 3 in security
Average Salary*$61,000- $193,000
Exam Details3 hours exam with 125 questions, Passing score: 700/1000
What You’ll LearnCloud Architecture, Cloud Data Security, Cloud Platform Security, Cloud Application Security, Legal & Compliance
Source- Payscale

The CCSP certification is perfect for IT and cybersecurity leaders. It validates advanced technical skills in designing, managing, and securing cloud environments. Coursera offers a course to prepare for this exam, covering architecture, data, applications, operations, and compliance.

Certified Cloud Security Professional
Source: ISC2

8. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

ProviderISACA
Cost$760 (non-member), $575 (member)
Prerequisites5 years of IT experience, including 3 in security
Average Salary*$62,000- $150,000
Exam Details4 hours exam with 180 questions
What You’ll LearnInformation Systems Auditing, IT Governance, Systems Acquisition, Data Protection, Business Resilience
Source- Zip Recruiter

The CISA certification is a globally respected credential for IT auditing, monitoring, and risk-based assessments, covering emerging technologies like AI and blockchain. It demonstrates expertise, improves job performance, and is among the top-paying IT among the ISACA certifications.

9. Cisco CCNA Security

ProviderCISCO
Cost$300
PrerequisitesBasic networking knowledge, CCNA recommended
Average Salary*$21,000- $167,000
Exam Details4 hours exam with 180 questions
What You’ll LearnInformation Systems Auditing, IT Governance, Systems Acquisition, Data Protection, Business Resilience
Source- Zip Recruiter

Cisco security certifications validate expertise in protecting network infrastructures, addressing real-world security issues effectively, and preparing for roles like security analyst. Certifications such as CCNP and CCIE Security demonstrate proficiency in securing complex environments.

Cisco CCNA Security
Source: CISCO

10. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)

ProviderCompTIA
Cost$466
Prerequisites10 years IT admin experience (5 in security) recommended
Average Salary*$44,000- $131,000
Exam Details165 minutes, 90 questions, Performance-based, Passing score varies
What You’ll LearnInformation Systems Auditing, IT Governance, Systems Acquisition, Data Protection, Business Resilience

The CompTIA CASP+ certification empowers cybersecurity professionals to design, implement, and manage enterprise solutions. Unlike other certifications, CASP+ focuses on hands-on, advanced-level skills in security architecture and engineering, ensuring readiness for complex cyber threats and compliance needs.

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner
Source: CompTIA

11. AWS Security Specialty

ProviderAmazon Web Services
Cost$300
Prerequisites2+ years AWS security experience recommended
Average Salary*$31,500- $132,500
Exam Details170 minutes, 65 questions, Scenario-based questions
What You’ll LearnInfrastructure Security, Data Protection, Incident Response, Identity Management, Monitoring & Logging

The AWS Certified Security Specialty certification focuses on securing AWS workloads and cloud environments. It validates expertise in designing and implementing security solutions, enhancing credibility as a trusted advisor. Preparation includes hands-on experience with AWS security tools and best practices.

AWS Security Specialty
Source: Amazon

Why Get the Best Cyber Security Certifications?

Cybersecurity professionals faceless threat of unemployment. Organizations increasingly prioritize certified professionals to protect against evolving cyber threats and maintain compliance standards.

Getting a Career Cyber Security Certification can get you Advancement Opportunities such as:

  • Fast-track promotions with recognized credentials
  • Access to senior-level positions and management roles
  • Higher priority in competitive job markets
  • Global recognition and portability of certifications
  • Specialized role opportunities

Cyber Security Certifications can also get you a big salary. If you want to earn a big paycheck, here are the Highest Paying Cyber Security Certifications:

  • CISSP ($150,000+)
  • AWS Security Specialty ($160,000+)
  • CCSP ($150,000+)

Career Paths In Cybersecurity

Let us quickly take a look at the breakdown of career paths in cybersecurity:

1. Entry-level Positions

  • Security Analyst
  • Junior Penetration Tester
  • SOC Analyst Level 1
  • Information Security Associate

2. Mid-career Opportunities

  • Security Engineer
  • Threat Intelligence Analyst
  • Incident Response Manager
  • Security Consultant

3. Advanced Roles

  • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
  • Security Architect
  • Director of Security
  • Principal Security Engineer

4. Specialization Options

  • Cloud Security
  • Forensics
  • Governance & Compliance
  • Penetration Testing
  • Application Security

Choosing The Right Certification

Selecting the appropriate cybersecurity certification requires careful consideration of your career goals, current skill level, and industry demands. 

The cybersecurity certification roadmap typically starts with foundational certifications like ISC2 CC or CompTIA Security+ before progressing to specialized credentials. 

Consider your investment in terms of time, money, and career return while ensuring the certification aligns with industry requirements in your region.

Also Read:

Conclusion: Cyber Security Certificates Help You Earn $150,000+ Annually

Cybersecurity certifications are invaluable investments for career growth, with top professionals earning $150,000+ annually. 

However, if you are confused about where to start my top recommendations are:

  1. CompTIA Security+ for its industry-wide recognition and DoD acceptance
  2. Google Cybersecurity Certificate for its direct pathway to employment and comprehensive curriculum
  3. CCSP for its high salary potential and cloud security expertise.

These certifications validate your skills, demonstrate commitment to employers, and keep you current with evolving threats. 

The growing demand for cybersecurity makes now the perfect time to invest in your professional development. Start with an entry-level certification like Security+ or ISC2 CC, create a study plan, and take the first step toward your cybersecurity career advancement.

FAQs

Which certificate is best for cyber security?

CompTIA Security+ is for beginners, and CISSP is for advanced professionals. The choice depends on experience level and career goals.

What are the highest-paid certifications in cyber security?

CISSP, AWS Security Specialty, and CCSP consistently rank as the highest-paying cybersecurity certifications.

What is the most sought after cyber security certification?

CISSP remains the most sought-after certification, followed by Security+ for entry-level positions.

Is IT better to get a cybersecurity degree or certificate?

Certificates provide faster entry into the field, while degrees offer broader knowledge. Many professionals pursue both.

Can I get a cybersecurity job with a certificate?

Entry-level certifications like Security+ or ISC2 CC can qualify you for junior security analyst positions.

Is CompTIA Security+ hard?

Moderate difficulty requiring 2-3 months of dedicated study. Previous IT experience helps but isn’t mandatory.

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