Earning the CISSP, CEH, or GCIH certifications can lead to highly sought-after career opportunities in security. However, it is important to consider which certification aligns best with your career goals, experience level, and salary prospects.
Making the right choice can greatly improve your chances of securing a rewarding job in the security industry.
(ISC)2 CISSP
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a highly respected and widely recognized certification in the field of IT security. It is offered by (ISC)2, a well-known nonprofit organization focusing on information security education. CISSP holders are responsible for establishing an organization's security plan, managing risk, and making important security decisions. This prestigious certification is intended for experienced senior security professionals and requires a minimum of five years of experience in the field.
Obtaining the CISSP is a significant accomplishment, as it requires passing a rigorous exam and meeting certain prerequisites. However, earning this certification can open up opportunities for high-level positions in the industry, including Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). It is worth noting that the CISSP does not specifically assess technical skills but rather evaluates an individual's ability to perform a senior IT security role and demonstrate an understanding of fundamental security principles. Despite being a highly respected security certification, the CISSP may be misunderstood as it does not focus solely on technical abilities.
EC-Council CEH
Obtaining the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification from the EC-Council demonstrates an understanding of the tools and methods used by malicious hackers to launch cyberattacks. While the CEH teaches these skills, it is intended for ethical purposes so that individuals can learn how to defend against such attacks. This intermediate-level certification covers hacking tools to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems and networks and how to locate and fix faults, backdoors, and vulnerabilities. By earning the CEH, individuals can demonstrate their ability to use these tools and techniques for ethical purposes.
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification from the EC-Council is designed for individuals interested in entering the field of penetration testing (ethical hacking) and provides a foundational understanding of cybersecurity for entry to intermediate-level IT professionals. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of penetration testing, individuals can pursue the ECSA (EC-Council Certified Security Analyst) certification, which builds on the skills learned during the CEH. The ECSA puts these tools and techniques into practice. The EC-Council is a member-based organization that offers certifications in various security areas and provides a clear career path starting with the CEH certification.
GIAC GCIH
The GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) certification focuses on the ability to identify, respond to, and resolve IT security incidents. This comprehensive certification covers a wide range of incident-handling topics, including how hackers gain access to networks, steal passwords, and conduct session hijacking. It is designed to provide individuals with the skills to handle IT security incidents effectively.
The GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) certification is intended for professionals who want to work as Incident Handlers, as well as system administrators and security architects who want to improve their cybersecurity knowledge. It shares some similarities with the EC-Council's Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification in that both cover the tools and techniques used by hackers to compromise organizations. However, the CEH emphasizes offensive security and attack tools, while the GCIH focuses on defense and incident response. If your goal is to become an Incident Handler, the GCIH is the more relevant certification.
CISSP, CEH, GCIH: Earning & Career Opportunities
(ISC)2 CISSP
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is highly respected in the IT industry and can significantly increase the chances of obtaining high-paying job roles. Many top positions, such as the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), require CISSP certification. Chief Information Security Analysts (CISO) who are certified with the CISSP can expect to earn a median salary of $160,000, according to PayScale.
EC-Council CEH
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification from the EC-Council provides a deep understanding of how criminal hackers operate, which can help individuals better secure their businesses or clients. The CEH is well-suited for roles such as penetration tester, where CEH-certified professionals can earn an average salary of $88,500. It is important to note that practical experience is highly valued in penetration testing, so it is advisable to complement a CEH certification with on-the-job experience.
GIAC GCIH
GIAC's focus is on providing certifications that align with specific job roles. The GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) certification is designed to teach the hands-on skills necessary for an Incident Handler. GIAC certifications are widely recognized as indicators of cybersecurity expertise and are often used by employers to select employees for hiring and promotion. GCIH-certified professionals can expect to earn an average salary of $88,500.
How to get certified?
(ISC)2 CISSP
To earn the highly respected Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification, individuals must have a thorough understanding of the design, implementation, and management of security programs, as well as in-depth knowledge of the eight CISSP domains, which cover a wide range of security topics, including network security and risk management. The CISSP is intended for high-level security professionals and requires five years of paid, full-time work experience in two of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Those who meet the requirements can take the exam, which consists of 250 questions over six hours. Even if you do not have the required experience, you can still take the exam and become an Associate of (ISC)2, demonstrating your knowledge of security and commitment to your career. Once you meet the prerequisites, you can become a certified CISSP.
EC-Council CEH
To be eligible to take the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification exam from the EC-Council, candidates must have two years of IT experience, which can be validated through the EC-Council's application process. However, suppose a candidate attends official training at an Accredited Training Center, through the iClass platform, or at an approved academic institution. In that case, they are exempt from the application process and can take the CEH exam directly. While it is not required, it is recommended to have at least two years of IT experience and a good understanding of TCP/IP, Windows Server, and basic familiarity with Linux and Unix to increase the chances of passing the CEH Exam 321-50, a 125-question multiple-choice exam with a four-hour time limit. A passing score of 70% or higher is required for certification.
GIAC GCIH
While there are no formal prerequisites for the GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) certification, it is helpful to understand basic networking protocols, security principles, and experience with the Windows Command Line. To earn the GCIH certification, candidates must pass the GCIH exam, which consists of 150 questions. The exam is proctored and has a four-hour time limit. A 73% or higher passing score is required to earn the GCIH certification. GIAC exams are open-book, so you are encouraged to use any resources available.
The Final Words
In conclusion, the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and GIAC Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) are all highly respected and sought-after certifications in the field of cybersecurity. The CISSP is geared towards high-level security professionals and covers a wide range of security topics related to the design, implementation, and management of security programs.
The CEH focuses on the tools and techniques used by hackers to compromise organizations, while the GCIH teaches the hands-on skills necessary for the role of an Incident Handler.
All three certifications require a certain level of experience and knowledge, and each has its exam requirements. Ultimately, the best certification for you will depend on your career goals and the specific skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your chosen field.
