THE BEST CYBER SECURITY CERTIFICATIONS FOR BEGINNERS (2024)

Choosing the right certification not only gives you the foundation knowledge needed but can also serve as a gateway into a promising career in cybersecurity. These are beginner certifications tailored toward those who are looking to enter cyber security,there will be an expectation that you have some IT knowledge or certification.
These certifications include:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): is an ANSI-accredited entry-level or foundational-level security certification ofered by EC Council and designed for professionals who aspire to become ethical hackers, penetration testers and IT security professionals. CEH is a highly recognized certification, appearing frequently on job postings.
  Choose the CEH if you aim for a recognized credential to open doors in ethical hacking and cyber security, especially if you are interested in government roles where ANSI accreditation is valued.
• Certified in Cybersecurity: The (ISC)2 CC exam validates foundational knowledge for those new to cyber security across 5 domains, including security principles, security operations and business continuity. These domains cover various security principles, technologies and practices. The (ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity is an emerging certification, quickly gaining recognition for providing foundational cybersecurity knowledge.
  The (ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity is perfect for you if you are starting your cybersecurity career and want a stepping stone to advanced certifications focusing on foundational principles.
• CompTIA Security+ : Security+ is a globally recognized certification that covers baseline cyber security skills and is vendor-neutral. It focuses on practical skills covering many cyber security concepts, including attacks and vulnerabilities, operations, incident response, etc.
  Take Security+ if you want a comprehensive introduction to cyber security, equipping you with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for various security roles and a stepping stone for more advanced certifications.
• eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester (eJPET): eJPET is an entry-level certification focused on practical, hands-on skills in penetration testing and ethical hacking. It includes a practical exam that tests real-world skills in a controlled environment. eJPET is a great starting point for aspiring pentesters.
• Cisco CyberOps Associate (CBROPS): The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification is an essential step for those looking to embark on a career in cyber security, particularly in roles involving the operation and security of network systems. Consider the Cisco CyberOps Associate if your interest lies in cyber security, particularly in a SOC environment and you value Cisco’s industry reputation.
• Blue Team Level 1 (BTL1) Junior Security Operations: BTL1 focuses on foundational defensive cyber skills suitable for entry-level or junior roles. The BTL1 certification covers six core domains: Security Fundamentals, Phishing Analysis, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Digital Forensics and Incident Response.
  You should choose the BTL1 if you want an affordable certification gocused on developing technical skills through hands-on labs and a practical exam.
  *Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate: focuses on fundamental concepts and skills in cyber security including hands-on labs and scenarios. It is part of the “Grow with Google” initiative, emphasizing job readiness. Google’s Cybersecurity Professional cerificationis known for its accessibility and comprehensive coverage of fundamental cyber security concepts.