A Logical Approach to CompTIA Security+ vs. CEH Dilemma
You might have come across the CompTIA Security+ and CEH certificates if you researched certifications in the realm of cybersecurity, the hottest topic in the digital world. These two credentials are the most common in the cybersecurity business. When deciding whether to take CompTIA Security+ or CEH, consider your present knowledge and skills as well as the career path you want to pursue.
But let us face it, to find and commit to certification when you are new to the field of cybersecurity, or any new profession for that matter can be an intimidating endeavor. After all, you will put up your hard-earned money and invest your time to advance your education. So, if this decision is haunting you, then you have come to the right place. This article will compare and contrast the CompTIA Security+ and the CEH certifications. It will help you to decide the best accreditation for yourself.
Why cybersecurity?
First of all, you need to figure out why you want to enter the world of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is the safeguarding of computer systems and networks against data leakage, theft, or damage to their hardware, software, or electronic data, as well as disruption or misdirection of the services they provide.
With the rapid increase in digital transformation around the globe, cyberattacks, and data breaches are also soaring. For this reason, cybersecurity has become vital to any business or individual. Thanks to the rising need for cybersecurity services, the demand for professionals who can help secure IT systems has increased. Therefore, there has never been a better moment to pursue a career in cybersecurity. The cybersecurity field presents the ultimate growth potential for both your career and learning opportunities.
Now that we realize what cybersecurity is and why it is beneficial to pursue a career in this field, let us discuss the two certifications available to you that are mentioned above.
What is CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is often considered an entry-level certification. It is offered by CompTIA who provides industry-leading vendor-neutral certifications. The CompTIA Security+ certification is a great place to start if you are entering the world of cybersecurity. It is considered one of the best beginner-level certifications because it provides the basic knowledge of the cybersecurity domain needed to perform IT security functions.
The CompTIA Security+ certification delivers the core knowledge needed for any cybersecurity profession and is a stepping stone to more advanced cybersecurity positions. The accreditation covers risk management and mitigation skills, knowledge, market trends, how to respond to risks and address them, and numerous audits and penetration testing skills. It tests your knowledge of five domains. They are:
The CompTIA Security+ is primarily concerned with theoretical knowledge of many facets of cybersecurity, such as the configuration, production, implementation, and stability of security systems, policies, and infrastructure. It highlights the hands-on practical skills utilized by cybersecurity professionals with performance-based questions.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is the initial step towards becoming an information security professional who can help businesses combat and mitigate cybercrime. It equips candidates with the skills they will need to land one of the many cybersecurity positions available. If you are an entry-level professional and want to sharpen your skills before you enter the world of cybersecurity, then CompTIA Security+ is the right choice for you. However, you will obtain higher-paying opportunities when you add more skills and work experience to your resume.
What is CEH?
CEH or Certified Ethical Hacker, offered by the EC-Council, is an advanced level certification compared to CompTIA Security+. The CEH is a credential earned when you demonstrate the competence to analyze the security of IT systems to look for flaws and vulnerabilities in target systems using the same information and tools as a malicious attacker but lawfully and legitimately. It focuses on the recently emerging malware attacks, hacking tools, and attack vectors.
The accreditation certifies a professional’s knowledge and skills in ethical hacking techniques. Organizations hire CEH professionals to break into network and computer systems in order to uncover and resolve security vulnerabilities.
CEH is a leader in establishing ethical hacking as a global norm. To match the competence ethical hackers require today, it covers the five phases of ethical hacking: reconnaissance, scanning, gaining access, maintaining access, and clearing tracks. The CEH certification is highly regarded since it demonstrates refined ethical hacking and penetration specialist skills. CEH can help you to obtain higher-paying jobs.
EC-Council and CompTIA recommend that participants have similar experience in the field, despite these certifications being for two separate career paths.
Comparison of CompTIA Security+ and CEH
| Parameter | CompTIA Security+ | CEH |
| Exam Format | Multiple-choice and performance-based | Multiple-choice |
| Recommended Experience | Two years in IT and CompTIA Network+ certification | Two years in IT security and CompTIA Security+ certification |
| Area of focus | Focuses on the layers of defense and terminology used most frequently in IT security roles | Focuses more on the hacking process and attack types |
| Job Roles |
1. Security Analyst 2. Network Administrator 3. IT Support Technician 4. Systems Administrator 5. Security Administrator 6. Junior IT Auditor 7. Security Consultant 8. Security Engineer |
1. Penetration Tester 2. Ethical Hacker 3. IT Auditor 4. Security Engineer 5. Security Consultant 6. Network Security Specialist |
CompTIA Security+ or CEH?
You can not go wrong with either of these certifications. Both of these certifications will help you succeed in the field of cybersecurity. Consider taking the CompTIA Security+ certification if you are absolutely new to the world of cybersecurity. If you have any prior experience in the industry, then CEH certification is excellent. CEH is primarily concerned with expanding professional awareness on specific IT topics such as penetration testing and ethical hacking. You can go for both as well. It all comes down to where you are headed in your career when you decide between the two. Choose wisely!
How can InfosecTrain help you?
InfosecTrain is a leading provider of Information Technology and Cybersecurity consulting services, certifications, and training. Our certified and experienced instructors will help you gain in-depth knowledge and enhance the skills needed in the field of cybersecurity. If you have decided on certification for you, you can check and enroll in our CompTIA Security+ and CEH certification training course and lay the foundation towards an enriching career.
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