Cybersecurity has recently experienced growth and expansion like no other industry. With virtually every company establishing an online presence, the demand for security experts has increased tenfold.
Whether in-house positions, consultancy roles, or governmental positions, cybersecurity certificate holders are in high demand and will be for the upcoming years.
The global cyber security market, valued at USD 202.72 billion in 2022, is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.3% from 2023 to 2030.
The growing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and advanced technologies is expected to lead to a surge in cyber threats, prompting organizations to hire skilled cybersecurity experts to protect their systems.
This trend promises a long and engaging career and offers ample opportunities for advancement through experience gained after earning a cybersecurity certification. Here is a look at the best cybersecurity certifications to boost your cybersecurity career.
Highlighting the Market Trends Analysis by The Cyber Express, this article sheds light on the most preferred cybersecurity certifications in 2023, providing valuable insights for individuals seeking to excel in the field.
The Most Preferred Cybersecurity Certifications
A cybersecurity certificate encompasses various elements that equip graduates with the necessary skills required for roles within the industry.
The Cyber Express has conducted a Market Trend Analysis report, involving a comprehensive survey of over 2000 cybersecurity professionals.
This research aimed to gain insights into the current relevance and demand for various cybersecurity courses, as well as to determine the most and least preferred cybersecurity certifications and courses in the industry.
The study found that Cybersecurity Analysts and Security Engineers constituted the majority of respondents at 27.16% and 41.62%, respectively. Information Security Officers and IT Managers also made appearances at 23.90% and 6.94% respectively.
Cybersecurity careers encompass various roles, including consultants, ethical hackers, pen testers, analysts, CISOs, and many more. The versatility of opportunities within cybersecurity allows professionals to carve out unique career paths tailored to their interests and strengths.
One of the most critical questions in this field is the importance of formal education and degrees. According to The Cyber Express’s survey, 89.25% of respondents emphasized the importance of formal cybersecurity education or training.
However, cybersecurity is a field that requires no expensive degrees. If one has the heart to learn it, then various paid and free cybersecurity certifications are more than enough.
The International Association of Computer Science and Information Technology survey revealed that 78% of organizations factor in cybersecurity certification programs in their hiring decisions.
Best Cybersecurity Certifications to Consider in 2023
The cybersecurity certification program serves as validation of professionals’ knowledge and skills in the field of cybersecurity.
It involves rigorous training and top-tier examination assessing proficiency in network security, ethical hacking, and risk management.
Here are the top 5 cybersecurity certifications to consider in 2023.
1. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
- Favorability Rating: 16.40%
- Key Strength: Combines technical expertise with managerial acumen for leadership in security initiatives.
- Cost: Up to $760 (discounted rate of $575 for existing ISACA members).
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) stands out with a favorability rating of 16.40%. It uniquely combines technical expertise with managerial acumen, equipping professionals for roles demanding leadership in cybersecurity.
However, it may not further into the technical aspects that specialized roles might require. The cost for the CISM test can be up to $760 for qualifying applicants. Existing ISACA members receive a discounted rate of $575.
2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Favorability Rating: 16.11%
- Key Strength: Provides a comprehensive grasp of cybersecurity for versatile security roles.
- Cost: USD 749.
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is another cybersecurity certification with an impressive 16.11% favorability rating.
A CISSP certification equips individuals with a comprehensive grasp of cybersecurity, positioning them as highly adaptable candidates for various security roles.
The CISSP exam employs a rigorous Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format, incurring a fee of USD 749. This certification serves as a cornerstone for professionals in pursuit of expertise in cybersecurity.
3. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Favorability Rating: 13.46%
- Key Strength: Excels in audit and assurance, setting a gold standard for security protocols.
- Cost: USD 575 for ISACA members, USD 760 for non-members.
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) distinguishes itself with a favorability rating of 13.46%. It excels in the departments of audit and assurance, establishing a gold standard for roles centered around ensuring strict security protocols and standards.
While undeniably invaluable in its niche, its specialized focus may limit its applicability beyond its core domain. For members of ISACA, the CISA certification exam comes at a discounted price of USD 575, reflecting the benefits of the association. Conversely, non-members will need to allocate USD 760 for the same certification.
4. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
- Favorability Rating: 10.57%
- Key Strength: Premium hands-on offensive security training for anticipating and countering threats.
- Cost: USD 850.
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification boasts a favorability rating of 10.57%, cementing its reputation as a premium program for hands-on offensive security training. This comprehensive course is designed to teach professionals the way of hackers and the security world.
It fosters a unique ability to anticipate and counteract potential threats, making it a unique cybersecurity certification. It’s important to note that OSCP’s intensive focus on practical application may not seamlessly align with positions emphasizing broader, strategy-centric responsibilities like architects, security analysts, digital forensic examiners, and penetration testers.
5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Favorability Rating: 9.73%
- Key Strength: Provides in-depth understanding of ethical hacking for comprehensive vulnerability assessments.
- Cost: Between USD 950 and USD 1199.
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification commands an impressive favorability rating of 9.73%. This certification provides an in-depth understanding of ethical hacking, equipping holders to grasp and replicate hacker methodologies.
This skill set is invaluable in conducting thorough vulnerability assessments and is critical in protecting companies against cyber threats. Moreover, the CEH certification leans heavily towards hacking techniques, potentially leading to a narrower focus than certifications adopting a broader, strategy-centric approach.
As for the examination cost, aspiring CEH candidates should budget between USD 950 and USD 1199, an investment that pays dividends in the form of enhanced expertise in cybersecurity.