Are you an aspiring security professional looking to boost your skill set and career prospects? Look no further! Pentesting, short for penetration testing, is a highly sought-after skill in the ever-expanding field of cybersecurity.
But with so many certifications available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s where we come in.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the top pentesting certifications that will set you apart from the competition and give you the expertise you need to excel in this rapidly growing industry. Read on.
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
The OSCP certification by Offensive Security is a gold standard within the pen-testing community. Known for its rigorous 24-hour practical exam, the OSCP certifies that the holder can successfully conduct a penetration test using a wide array of offensive techniques and tools. The course leading to this certification, Penetration Testing with Kali Linux (PWK), covers the fundamentals of:
- pen-testing methodology
- hands-on technical skills
This certification is recommended for those with a solid foundation in:
- networks
- operating systems
- hacking techniques
It’s helpful to consult an expert to help in deciding which IT certifications are best for you. They can also provide info such as the benefits of third party penetration testing.
Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) Master
Offered by the EC-Council, the LPT Master certification goes beyond conventional hacking. Candidates must pass a challenging 18-hour hands-on exam. This proves their ability to perform a full black-box penetration test.
This certification tests your technical skills. It also tests your ability to think creatively and persevere until the job is done. The LPT Master is aimed at seasoned security professionals.
It is also recognized for its high standard and rigorous assessment process. It is one of the best certification programs today.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Also to the EC-Council, the CEH certification is one of the most popular introductory credentials for professionals entering the pen-testing field. The CEH covers a wide range of foundational topics. This is from reconnaissance and scanning to:
- system hacking
- malware
- social engineering
The CEH certification is an excellent starting point for aspiring pentesters. This is with a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
It lays the groundwork for more advanced certifications and specialized areas within cybersecurity. Ethical hacking is very useful for cybersecurity careers.
GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)
The GPEN certification is offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) body. It’s designed for professionals seeking to demonstrate their ability to:
- execute penetration-testing methodologies
- properly conduct a penetration test
This is very helpful for professional development. Subjects covered include comprehensive:
- reconnaissance
- exploitation
- post-exploitation
- advanced password attacks
The GPEN certification is well-respected in the industry and is suitable for individuals who have some experience in cybersecurity.
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA’s PenTest+ certification is a great way to validate the penetration testing. Also, vulnerability management skills are needed to assess the resiliency of a network against attacks. Unlike some other certifications, PenTest+ covers management skills required to:
- plan
- scope
- manage weaknesses
This is not just exploit them. This certification is ideal for cybersecurity professionals at an intermediate level. These include:
- cybersecurity analysts
- penetration testers
- vulnerability analysts
Check Out These Pentesting Certifications Today
In conclusion, obtaining the top pentesting certifications are crucial for security professionals to excel in the field. It validates their skills and knowledge. It also opens up multiple career opportunities.
Consider investing in one of these top certifications and take a step towards a successful and rewarding career in cybersecurity. Don’t wait, start your journey toward becoming a pentesting professional today! Enroll now!
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