Offering some of the fastest-growing jobs in the world, a career in cybersecurity has become one of the most preferred career choices among students and young professionals.

Today, every organization is actively adopting AI and machine learning. This is the top reason affecting cybersecurity in the next 12 months, believe 66% of respondents, followed by convergence of IT and OT security (13%) and Cloud technologies (11%), as per WEF Global Cybersecurity Outlook Report 2025.

So, we can say, a career in cybersecurity has tremendous opportunities and career growth prospects in the years to come. So, if you are looking to get in this rewarding and growing career path, is it necessary to get a cybersecurity certification?

Let’s answer.

What are Cybersecurity Certifications?

These are important credentials offered by institutes, universities, vendor-neutral certification providers, or large tech organizations. They are designed to validate a student or professional's cybersecurity skills, knowledge, experience, and expertise within several domains of cybersecurity such as cloud security, application security, network security, ethical hacking, etc.

Cybersecurity certifications are awarded only after rigorous assessment which meticulously tests a professional’s technical expertise and practical knowledge on different cybersecurity principles.

Do Employers Value These Credentials?

Certifications from reputable institutes and certification bodies are highly recognized and valued among employers. ISC², CompTIA, the United States Cybersecurity Institute (USCSI®), EC-Council, IBM, etc., are some of the best cybersecurity certification providers. Employers value certifications because:

• These credentials are proof of the candidate’s skills and expertise and provide clear evidence about their competency and experience
• Demonstrate their commitment towards lifelong learning, professional development, and cybersecurity best practices
• They provide a standard benchmark to evaluate diverse candidates and help with the hiring process
• In regulated such as finance or healthcare, employers can get an assurance of a professional’s capabilities to handle sensitive data without violating security standards and regulations

Employers often look for certifications in these three stages:

• Entry-level certifications that certify students and young professionals possess the fundamental cybersecurity skills and knowledge to do their cybersecurity jobs efficiently
• Intermediate certifications are suited for professionals having a few years of experience who want to learn and validate specific skills and specialization
• Advanced certifications help seasoned professionals to validate their cybersecurity leadership skills and prove their strategic thinking.

Are Cybersecurity Certifications Needed for a Job?

So now the important question – is cybersecurity certification needed for a cybersecurity job? Well, it depends on the specific cybersecurity job role you are applying for, what the employer or industry prefers, and what the position demands from the candidates.

Though employers highly prefer cybersecurity certifications for the tons of benefits it offers, not just to candidates but employers as well, some employers give preferences to practical experience, portfolio of cybersecurity projects, and demonstratable skills.

Impact of Cybersecurity Certifications on a Career

Earning a credible and recognized cybersecurity certification can significantly help you advance in your cybersecurity career. Here are some benefits they offer:

• Validating your cybersecurity skills and experience, of course
• Networking with other cybersecurity professionals
• Increasing earning potential with up to 40-50% higher salaries
• Get started with a cybersecurity career faster

How to Prepare for a Certification Exam?

Different certifications have different requirements, patterns, and assessments. While some certifications provide the study material to prepare for their certification exam, some only conduct exams requiring candidates to use external resources for their assessment.

Some certification exams can only contain multiple choice questions, while some may require demonstrating cybersecurity skills on simulated projects.

So, if you are looking to go for any particular certification, research about the available courses especially in the online platforms like Udemy or Coursera. Check if the certifying bodies provide any official study materials like practice tests, eBooks, or lecture videos to help gain required knowledge.

You can also try your hands on popular platforms like TryHackMe, Hack the Box, etc., to test your practical skills before registering for the certification exam.

Best Cybersecurity Certifications to Consider

Here are some of the best cybersecurity certification programs to help you grow in your career rapidly.

1. Certified Cybersecurity General Practitioner (CCGP™) by USCSI®: It validates foundational cybersecurity knowledge, covering essential concepts and practical skills for those entering or seeking to enhance their understanding of cybersecurity
2. CompTIA Security+: It validates baseline skills for performing core security functions, ideal for those starting a cybersecurity career
3. GIAC Security Essentials: Focuses on essential information security knowledge and skills, proving a practitioner's ability to perform security tasks
4. CISSP: It is great for demonstrating expertise in designing, implementing, and managing security programs
5. Certified Cybersecurity Consultant (CCC™) by USCSI®: Validates your knowledge to design and implement effective security solutions across your organization or for your clients.
6. Certified Ethical Hacker: It certifies individuals in ethical hacking techniques, enabling them to assess system vulnerabilities from an attacker's perspective
7. CISM: Designed for security managers, focusing on information security governance, risk management, and program development
8. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Validates advanced technical skills and knowledge for designing, managing, and securing data, applications, and infrastructure in the cloud

Conclusion

So, you must have got your answer now. Cybersecurity certifications are great credentials that can truly enhance your career prospectus. Check out the best certification programs that match your career goals and cover the skills and knowledge you want to gain and enroll today.