Top 10 Network Security Certifications

The first line of protection against hackers and other cyber dangers is network security. We can see why network security has become more important, given estimates that cybercrime would cause $6 trillion in global damage by 2021. However, just as there are numerous types of assaults, there is a bewildering assortment of cybersecurity certificates from which to pick.

While having so many cybersecurity options is undoubtedly beneficial, the sheer number and range of options also present a hurdle. It's easy to become overwhelmed by the number of options available, to the point where you don't make a decision at all.

What are the most important network security credentials? Which one(s) is/are the best fit for you and your company? Is there any cyber security certification that is generally applicable?

What is the Definition of Network Security?

Most experts define network security as policies and practices for preventing trespassing, unlawful access, alteration, misuse, change, destruction, or the unauthorised gathering and dissemination of data on network infrastructure. A combination of hardware devices, security software, and user understanding of security processes and approaches is required for the entire process.

Employees who have been instructed on correct security measures, as well as experts who have completed network security training, are examples of the latter part.

What is the Purpose of Network Security?

Many parts of our lives have made the transition to the digital realm. We utilise the internet to conduct financial transactions, interact with family and coworkers, shop, entertain ourselves, and conduct research. Everything from birth dates, Social Security (or other identification numbers), health history, credit history, bank accounts, utility bills, and a variety of other things can be found online.

Hackers and cybercriminals have access to all of that information and transactions. The more time we devote to the internet, the greater the chance of being hacked. Furthermore, as the Internet of Things (IoT) grows in prominence, so does reliance on wireless networks, which only adds to the threat picture by giving criminals more ways and opportunities to commit fraud. There is far too much at stake in our personal and professional lives for network security to be compromised. So, what are the different types of network security?

What Are the Different Network Security Types?

Cybersecurity specialists have access to a vast array of network security technologies, methodologies, and practices. Here's a high-level summary:

Software

Anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware are examples of security software. These tools are offered as suites or as subscriptions, and the hosting provider updates them on a regular basis to stay on top of the current threats. These programmes keep an eye on your network and thwart intruders, spyware, and viruses.

Aside from that, it's far better to purchase a security subscription rather than buying a suite and installing it yourself. Subscription providers/vendors are better equipped to deal with the cybersecurity landscape's continual changes. Every day, it seems like a new cyber threat or virus emerges, and your software won't be able to protect you from threats it isn't aware of. That's why it's best to let the subscription provider handle the heavy job.

Firewalls

If your network were a posh nightclub, the firewall would be the bouncer, guarding the entrance and keeping intruders out. They block unwanted users by filtering traffic (both incoming and outgoing) based on established policies. Anyone who has attempted to work remotely but been barred out of their company's core systems due to a lack of authorisation knows how powerful a firewall can be.

Security Software for Email

In any network, email is a particularly vulnerable point. Cybercriminals enjoy sending phoney emails that appear to be from respectable businesses and financial institutions.

However, a single click on a link hidden in these phishing emails could damage your machine. To that purpose, email security software can not only filter out incoming threats but can also block the transmission of particular types of data.

Password Security

This is such a basic measure, but it is crucial. Strong passwords are a low-cost but effective approach to keep systems, apps, and networks secure, and you don't need to be a cybersecurity expert to use them. We don't mean passwords like "password" or "99999" when we mention "strong" passwords.

Networks that are Segmented

This method sorts and separates traffic according to predetermined parameters. Segmented networks are particularly effective for confining users to a single area, namely the one in which they need to complete their work, while keeping them away from material that isn't relevant to them. Restricting users in this way helps to reduce the network's overall weak points.

Top 10  Network Security Certifications

Before you can make a lot of money in network security, you must first understand the tools and abilities. This is where network security education comes into play. Network security certifications courses not only provide you with the necessary information for these professions, but they also provide you with a useful credential that verifies your qualifications to potential employers.

1. CEH: "Certified Ethical Hacker."

Ethical hacking, also known as white hat hacking, penetration testing, or red team hacking, is the practice of legitimately hacking businesses in order to find weaknesses before harmful actors do. The CEH Certified Ethical Hacker certification is offered by the EC-Council. To demonstrate your knowledge of penetration testing, attack detection, vectors, and prevention, earn this badge.

These are IT security professionals, also known as "white hat hackers," whose duty is to try to breach systems and uncover weaknesses. They are hired by businesses and organisations to uncover flaws in the system and figure out how to remedy them. When you consider how vital cybersecurity has become, it's no surprise that this certification is so valuable.

The CEH certification teaches you how to think like a hacker and how to be more proactive when it comes to cybersecurity. Consider this qualification if you want to work in the following fields:

• $104,116 for a penetration tester
• $86,454 for a cyber incident analyst
• $90,269 for a threat intelligence analyst
• $158,536 for a cloud security architect
• $100,636 for a cybersecurity engineer

Requirements: You can take the CEH test if you have two years of information security job experience or if you have completed an authorised EC-Council programme.

Cost: Depending on the testing location, costs range from $950 to $1,199.

2. CISSP: (Certified Information Systems Security Professional)

This certification is for experienced security professionals who are in charge of developing and managing security processes, policies, and standards for their firm. It is ideal for IT security professionals who are looking to advance their careers.

The cybersecurity professional organisation (ISC) ranks among the top. CISSP certification is one of the most sought-after qualifications in the business. Earning a CISSP validates your knowledge of IT security and your ability to design, implement, and monitor a cybersecurity programme.

This advanced certification is for security professionals with expertise who want to further their careers in roles such as:

• $170,793 for Chief Information Security Officer
• $85,742 for a security administrator
• $100,605 for an IT security engineer
• $111,250 for a senior security consultant
• $82,070 for an information assurance analyst

Requirements: You must have five or more years of cumulative work experience in at least two of the eight cybersecurity domains to take the CISSP exam. Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Architecture and Engineering, Communication and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security are just a few of the topics covered.

You can still take the exam to become an Associate of (ISC)2 if you're new to cybersecurity and don't have the required experience. After passing the exam, you'll have six years to gain the necessary experience to achieve full CISSP certification.

One year of labour is satisfied by a four-year degree in computer science. Part-time jobs and paid internships are also valid options.

Cost: $749

3. CISA: (Certified Information Systems Auditor)

This certification is aimed at information security professionals who work primarily in the areas of audit control, assurance, and security. It equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to manage and control enterprise IT and conduct a thorough security audit. ISACA allows you to demonstrate your experience in identifying security vulnerabilities, devising and implementing controls, and tracking compliance. It's one of the most well-known qualifications in the field of cybersecurity auditing.

The CISA is for IT professionals in their mid-career who want to develop into positions such as:

• $122,254 for an IT audit manager
• $69,083 for a cybersecurity auditor
• $99,372 for an information security analyst
• $93,526 - IT security engineer
• $102,743 for IT project manager
• Manager of Compliance Programs - $92,829

Requirements: At least five years of expertise in IT or IS audit, control, security, or assurance is required. One or two years of experience can be substituted for a two- or four-year degree, respectively.

Cost: Members pay $575, while non-members pay $760.

4. Manager of Information Security Certification (CISM)

You can certify your knowledge in the management side of information security with the CISM certification from ISACA, which covers issues like governance, programme creation, and programme, incident, and risk management.

Earning your CISM could be a smart choice if you want to go from the technical to the managerial side of cybersecurity. The CISM is used in the following jobs:

• $108,353 for an IT manager
• Security officer for information systems - $96,568
• $92,624 - Information Risk Consultant
• $173,387 Director of Information Security
• $119,816 for a data governance manager

Requirements: You must have at least five years of experience in information security management to take the CISM exam. With general information security experience, you can satisfy up to two years of this prerequisite. With another valid certification or a graduate degree in an information security-related discipline, you can also skip one or two years.

Cost:  Members pay $575, while non-members pay $760.

5. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a certification programme that certifies you as a security expert. Cryptography, threat management, identity management, network access control, security systems, risk identification, and mitigation are all covered in this certification. It is aimed towards people who are just starting out in the field of information technology.

The certifications you choose will be determined by where you are in your profession, and each person's ideal list will be unique. The final two certificates, for example, are best suited for entry-level IT employees, whereas the CISM and CISSP are designed for more seasoned security experts. There is no better method for an IT professional to become well-rounded than to gradually earn certification in all of the above fields. Even the most seasoned cybersecurity professionals might benefit from a refresher course. Whether it's a newly found cyber threat or a new strategy to combat it, there's always something new to learn. Upskilling not only elevates your status within your company, but it also makes you a more marketable candidate if you decide to move on. Expertise, leverage, and independence are all benefits of upskilling.

The CompTIA Security+ certification is an entry-level security certification that verifies the essential abilities required in any cybersecurity position. Demonstrate your ability to assess an organization's security, monitor and secure cloud, mobile, and internet of things (IoT) environments, comprehend risk and compliance rules and regulations, and identify and respond to security issues with this certification.

Obtaining your Security+ certification can assist you in a variety of positions, including:

• $74,086 for a systems administrator
• $70,531 for a help desk manager
• $109,863 for a security engineer
• $110,152 for a cloud engineer
• $85,742 for a security administrator
• $78,633 for an IT auditor
• $107,597 for a software developer

Requirements: While there are no mandatory prerequisites for taking the Security+ test, it is recommended that you first acquire your Network+ certification and gain at least two years of IT experience with a security focus.

Cost: $370

6. Security Essentials Certification by GIAC (GSEC)

This entry-level security accreditation from the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) is for persons with a background in information systems and networking. This certification verifies your knowledge of active defence, network security, cryptography, incident response, and cloud security.

If you have some IT experience and want to move into cybersecurity, consider taking the GSEC exam. The skills indicated by the GSEC are used in the following job roles:

• $124,638 for IT security manager
• $85,121 for a computer forensic analyst
• $104,116 for a penetration tester
• $85,742 for a security administrator
• $78,633 for an IT auditor
• $116,252 for a software development engineer

Requirements: There are no specific prerequisites for taking the GSEC exam. Get some experience with information systems or computer networking to set yourself up for success.

Cost: $2,499 (includes two practise tests)

7. Certified Systems Security Practitioner (SSCP)

Employers will be able to see that you have the abilities to design, deploy, and maintain a secure IT infrastructure if you have this intermediate security certificate from (ISC)2. The exam assesses knowledge of access controls, risk identification and analysis, security administration, incident response, cryptography, and network, communications, systems, and application security, as well as network, communications, systems, and application security.

The SSCP is for IT professionals who work directly with a company's security systems or assets. This accreditation is suitable for jobs such as:

• $95,997 for a network security engineer
• $74,086 for a system administrator
• $76,112 for a systems engineer
• $77,662 for a security analyst
• $82,167 for database administrator
• $97,516 for a security consultant

Requirements: Candidates must have at least one year of paid job experience in one or more of the testing areas to be eligible for the SSCP. A bachelor's or master's degree in a cybersecurity-related programme can also satisfy this requirement.

Cost: $249

8. Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) 

It is a certification offered by CompTIA. The CASP+ is for cybersecurity professionals who have demonstrated advanced skills but want to stay in the industry (as opposed to management). Enterprise security domain, risk analysis, software vulnerability, safeguarding cloud and virtualization technologies, and cryptographic approaches are among the advanced subjects covered in the test.

Advanced responsibilities in architecture, risk management, and enterprise security integration may become available as a result of the CASP+. The following are examples of possible job titles:

• $152,732 for a security architect
• $109,863 for a security engineer
• $110,660 for an application security engineer
• $109,766 for technical lead analyst
• $80,475 for a vulnerability analyst

Requirements: There are no formal prerequisites for taking the CASP+ examination. Only experienced cybersecurity workers with at least 10 years of IT administration expertise should take it, according to CompTIA (including five years of broad hands-on experience with security).

Cost: $466

9. Incident Handler with GIAC Certification (GCIH)

The GCIH certifies your knowledge of offensive operations, including as common attack strategies and vectors, as well as your ability to identify, respond, and defend against attacks. Incident handling, computer crime investigation, hacker exploits, and hacker tools are all included in the certification test.

Anyone who works in incident response will benefit from this certification. The following are examples of job titles:

• $92,833 for incident handler
• $152,732 for a security architect
• $74,086 for a system administrator

Requirements:There are no specific prerequisites for taking the GCIH exam, however having a working knowledge of security principles, networking protocols, and the Windows Command Line is a good idea.

Cost: $2,499 (includes two practise tests)

10. Certified Professional in Offensive Security (OSCP)

One of the most sought-after credentials for penetration testers is the OSCP from Offensive Security. The exam assesses your ability to compromise a number of target devices using a variety of exploitation techniques and provide detailed penetration test reports for each attack.

The OSCP is an excellent choice for jobs such as:

• $104,116 for a penetration tester
• $100,742 for ethical hacker
• $65,148 for a threat researcher
• $92,005 for an application security analyst

Requirements: There are no official exam requirements. Networking, Linux, Bash scripting, Perl or Python knowledge, as well as completion of the Penetration Testing with Kali course, are all recommended by Offensive Security.

Cost: $999. (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK/PEN-200) training, 30 days of lab access, and one test attempt are included in the basic package.)

How to Choose the Right One for You?

Earning a cybersecurity certification can help you authenticate your hard-won abilities and boost your career. When deciding whether certification is best for you, keep the following points in mind.

Your level of knowledge: Begin by obtaining a certification that corresponds to your present skill set. Invest in a certification that you know you'll be able to complete and utilise it to progress to more difficult certifications later in your career. If you're fresh to the field of information technology,

Cost: Obtaining certification often costs several hundred dollars (or more), plus ongoing fees. The correct certification can lead to improved career opportunities and more pay, but it's crucial to invest carefully.

It's always a good idea to ask ahead of time if your employer would assist pay for your certification. According to the (ISC)2 survey, 40% of respondents stated that their company paid for their courses, exams, and fees.

Area of focus: A more generic certification can be a suitable alternative if you're just getting started in cybersecurity or want to progress into a management position. You might decide to specialise as your career progresses. A certification in your concentration area will help potential employers recognise your abilities.

Potential employers: Employers who might be interested: Examine the job descriptions of potential companies (or the job titles you intend to apply for) to determine what certifications are typically required.

Having the correct certifications might help you find work in the field of information security (InfoSec). If you work in information security or cybersecurity, you should be aware of the top network security certifications. Gaining these credentials can help you to achieve success in your career.

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