In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, major certification vendors such as CompTIA, EC- Council, and CISCO are now allowing their exams to be completely virtually with a remote proctor. This means that for the first time, an individual can now prepare, train, and certify all from the comfort of their own home. Remote testing has allowed for candidates to take the exam at any time and from anywhere with a solid internet connection. In this article, we will cover three entry-level cybersecurity certifications that support online testing.
1. CompTIA Security +
CompTIA’s Security+ is an industry-standard and baseline for cybersecurity professionals. This certification shows the world that the candidate is well suited for the challenges that await in the cybersecurity industry. The average salary of a cybersecurity professional with a Security+ certification is $84,000 annually, and it is projected to grow exponentially as the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow. The latest exam code for the Security + certification is SYO – 501, and the exam will test a candidate’s knowledge across various devices, networks, laws, and regulations. The exam is spread across 6 different weighted domains which are listed below:
Domain 1 Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities 21%
Domain 2 Technologies and Tools 22%
Domain 3 Architecture and Design 15%
Domain 4 Identity and Access Management 16%
Domain 5 Risk Management 14%
Domain 6 Cryptography and PKI 12%
2. CISCO CCNA (CISCO Certified Network Associate)
CISCO’s recently updated CCNA certification is another entry-level certification that shows that candidates are knowledgeable in installing, configuring, and operating small to medium-sized networks. Employers will be able to see that candidates with a CCNA certification have foundational knowledge in the art of networking. This certification was just refreshed in February of 2020, so it is full of modern technologies and is up to date with new cybersecurity techniques and best practices. The current exam code to become certified in CCNA is 200-301, and the exam is spread across 6 different weighted domains which are listed below:
Domain 1 Network Fundamentals 20%
Domain 2 Network Access 20%
Domain 3 IP Connectivity 25%
Domain 4 IP Services 10%
Domain 5 Security Fundamentals 15%
Domain 6 Automation and Programmability 10%
3. EC Council CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)
EC – Council’s CEH or Certified Ethical Hacker is one of the best-known certifications on this list and gives candidates a real inside look into the world of ethical hacking. Ethical hacking is basically when you try to use traditional hacking methods to break into a network in order to make the necessary changes to cybersecurity. Penetration testing is a well-known method of ethical hacking and it allows for vulnerabilities and potential threats to be found well before any cyberattacks or compromises can take place. The CEH certification shows employers that candidates are capable and knowledgeable in testing systems and knowing the ins and outs of ethical hacking. The average salary of a cybersecurity professional with a CEH certification was $71,331 and could go all the way up to $250,000 annually. Now, the CEH exam is arguably the most difficult in this list; however, with the right training and preparation it can be done. The current CEH is in version 10 and is spread across 7 different weighted domains which are listed below:
Domain 1 Background in Networking 4%
Domain 2 Analysis/Assessment of Networks and systems 13%
Domain 3 Security 25%
Domain 4 Tools, systems, and programs 32%
Domain 5 Procedures and Methodology 20%
Domain 6 Regulation and Policy 4%
Domain 7 Ethics 2%
All the mentioned certificates can be achieved from the comfort of your own home. The current pandemic has caused a lot of stress and has changed just about everyone’s life; however, it is important that if you planned to earn a certification this year that you stick to it and accomplish that goal. An easy way to get all three of these certifications is by participating in boot camps that will allow you to have an instructor-led session to help guide you through complex topics. Talk to one of our advisors today for more information on how to get started on your virtual training journey today!