What exam should I take after security+?

If you’ve recently earned your Security+ certification, congratulations! The CompTIA Security+ certification is a great foundation for a career in cybersecurity, providing an in-depth understanding of common security concepts and techniques used to secure networks and mitigate threats.

Now, you may be wondering, “What exam should I take after Security+?” The answer depends on several factors, including your career goals, skillset, and personal interests. In this article, we’ll explore the options available and help you make an informed decision about which advanced security certification to pursue next.

The role of Security+ certification in career growth

Before discussing the advanced security certifications, let’s take a moment to understand the significance of Security+ certification in career growth. Security+ certification from CompTIA is an entry-level certification that validates your skills and knowledge in foundational security concepts, risk management, and cybersecurity tools and technologies.

Security+ certification is vendor-neutral, which means that it is not specific to any particular technology or vendor. Being vendor-neutral gives you a broader understanding of security concepts and techniques, enhances job opportunities, and makes you more valuable in the job market. Having Security+ certification on your resume opens up many job roles such as security analyst, security engineer and security consultant.

Moreover, Security+ certification is recognized globally and is highly respected in the industry. It is a requirement for many government and military positions, making it a valuable asset for those seeking a career in these fields. Additionally, Security+ certification is a stepping stone to more advanced security certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

How Security+ prepares you for advanced security certifications

Security+ certification is a stepping stone for many cybersecurity professionals to advance their career. It provides a solid foundation in security concepts and tools, which are necessary for advanced security certifications. Security+ acts as a prerequisite for many advanced level cybersecurity certifications and provides a pathway to an intermediate level.

CompTIA provides a wide array of advanced cybersecurity certifications that you can pursue according to your interests, career goals, and skillset. Let’s dive into the options available.

One of the most popular advanced cybersecurity certifications offered by CompTIA is the CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) certification. This certification focuses on the skills required to identify and respond to security threats and vulnerabilities. It is ideal for professionals who want to specialize in threat detection and response.

Comparison between different advanced security certifications

When considering advanced security certifications, you have several options to choose from. The most popular advanced security certifications include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) among others. Each of these certifications has a unique focus that caters to different career paths in cybersecurity.

For instance, CISSP is a globally recognized certification that focuses on the management and design of security protocols. It is ideal for professionals who want to specialize in security management, risk assessment, and security architecture. On the other hand, CEH is designed for professionals who want to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It equips professionals with the skills to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks and develop countermeasures to prevent cyber-attacks.

Importance of choosing the right advanced security certification

Choosing the right advanced security certification is vital as it helps you align your skills with your interests and career goals. The right certification helps you enhance your skills, knowledge, and experience, and it broadens your job prospects and provides potential for career growth.

Moreover, having the right advanced security certification can also increase your earning potential. Employers often offer higher salaries to professionals who hold advanced certifications, as it demonstrates their expertise and commitment to the field. Additionally, advanced security certifications can help you stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies, which is crucial in a constantly evolving field like cybersecurity.

Factors to consider when selecting an advanced security certification

Choosing an advanced security certification depends on various factors, such as:

Career path: Consider the job roles that interest you and the skills they require.
Technology focus: Choose a certification based on specific technology and vendor insight to remain current in the latest security practices.
Salary: Research the average salary for security certification to determine justification for the effort and chances of a return on investment.
Cost: Consider study materials, exam fees, and time investment before making a decision.

Another important factor to consider when selecting an advanced security certification is the reputation of the certification provider. It is essential to choose a certification that is recognized and respected in the industry to ensure that it holds value and credibility.

Additionally, it is crucial to consider the level of difficulty of the certification exam. Some certifications may require more extensive knowledge and experience, while others may be more accessible. It is essential to choose a certification that aligns with your current skill level and experience to ensure that you can pass the exam and obtain the certification successfully.

Benefits of pursuing an advanced security certification after Security+

The benefits of pursuing an advanced certificate after obtaining CompTIA Security+ certification include:

Enhanced skills and expertise: Advanced security certification provides an in-depth understanding of critical security concepts.
Career growth: Advanced security certification aligns with job roles requiring advanced knowledge and skills.
Networking: Advanced certification enables an opportunity to connect with other cybersecurity professionals, thought leaders and mentors in the field and stay current with industry trends and insights.

Another benefit of pursuing an advanced security certification is the potential for increased earning potential. Many employers offer higher salaries to employees who hold advanced certifications, as they demonstrate a higher level of expertise and dedication to the field.

Additionally, pursuing an advanced certification can lead to opportunities for specialization within the cybersecurity field. For example, certifications in areas such as cloud security, network security, or ethical hacking can help professionals stand out in a crowded job market and pursue specific career paths.

Top 5 advanced security certifications to consider after Security+

Based on current industry needs, the top five advanced security certifications to consider after Security+ include:

While Security+ is a great starting point for those interested in a career in cybersecurity, it is important to continue to develop your skills and knowledge in the field. Pursuing advanced security certifications can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your earning potential.

Some other advanced security certifications to consider include the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), and the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP). Each of these certifications focuses on a specific area of cybersecurity and can help you specialize in a particular field.

Tips for preparing and passing your chosen advanced security certification exam

Preparation for advanced security certification requires commitment, hard work and dedication. Some valuable tips for succeeding on your chosen advanced security certification exam include:

Budget for study materials and exam fees
Use credible and up-to-date study materials
Join study groups and online communities
Consistently practice your knowledge and skills through hackathons or virtual labs
Attend advanced level training programs before attempting the exam
Take practice tests

Another important tip for preparing and passing your advanced security certification exam is to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments. This can be achieved by attending conferences, reading industry publications, and following thought leaders in the field. By staying informed, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for any new challenges that may arise on the exam.

It is also important to maintain a healthy work-life balance while preparing for your advanced security certification exam. While it may be tempting to spend all your time studying, it is important to take breaks and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. This can include exercise, spending time with friends and family, or pursuing hobbies and interests outside of work.

How to leverage your advanced security certification for career advancement

Advanced security certification can enhance your career position, opening up opportunities for career growth. Consider the following techniques for leveraging your advanced security certification:

Include certifications on your resume
Stay up-to-date with cybersecurity news and insights
Attend cybersecurity conferences and events to network with other professionals
Conduct research and publish whitepapers or blogs on the latest cybersecurity trends and issues
Consider volunteering as a cybersecurity advisor or mentor for charitable organizations or local community groups

Another way to leverage your advanced security certification is to seek out opportunities for professional development. Look for training programs or courses that can help you expand your knowledge and skills in the field of cybersecurity. This can help you stay ahead of the curve and position yourself as a valuable asset to your organization.

Additionally, consider joining professional organizations or associations related to cybersecurity. These groups can provide valuable networking opportunities, as well as access to resources and information that can help you stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

Career prospects and salary expectations with an advanced security certification

Salary for advanced cybersecurity certification varies depending on the certification and experience level. However, generally speaking, an individual with advanced security credentials under their belt is significantly more marketable than those without and can command higher salaries. The average salary for CISSP ranges from $75k to $169k while the CEH certification offers an average salary ranging between $70K to $122K.

Moreover, having an advanced security certification can open up a wide range of career prospects for individuals. With the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, companies are constantly seeking individuals with advanced security credentials to fill various roles such as security analysts, security architects, and security engineers. These roles offer not only high salaries but also opportunities for career growth and development.

Furthermore, an advanced security certification can also provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to start their own cybersecurity consulting business. With the rise of cyber threats and attacks, businesses are increasingly seeking the services of cybersecurity consultants to help them secure their networks and systems. This presents a lucrative opportunity for individuals with advanced security credentials to start their own consulting business and offer their services to businesses in need.

Frequently asked questions about pursuing an advanced security certification after Security+

Some of the frequently asked questions regarding the pursuit of advanced security certification after obtaining Security+ certification are:

Are the advanced certification exams different from Security+?
How long is the validity period of an advanced security certification?
Does an advanced security certification require recertification?
What if I fail the exam, what’s the retake policy?
Do I have to renew my Security+ certification before taking the advanced security certification?

One important thing to consider when pursuing an advanced security certification after Security+ is the level of difficulty. While Security+ is an entry-level certification, advanced certifications are designed for experienced professionals and may require more in-depth knowledge and skills.

Another factor to keep in mind is the cost of pursuing an advanced security certification. These exams can be more expensive than Security+ and may require additional training or study materials. It’s important to budget accordingly and ensure that you have the necessary resources to succeed.

Conclusion

Pursuing an advanced security certification after obtaining Security+ certification is an excellent way to advance your career and knowledge in cybersecurity. It enhances your skills, provides opportunities for career growth, and positions you strategically in the job market. We hope this article provides valuable insights into the different advanced security certifications and helps you make an informed decision as you pursue your career goals in cybersecurity.

It is important to note that obtaining an advanced security certification requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to ongoing learning. It is not a quick or easy process, but the rewards are well worth the effort. In addition to the benefits mentioned earlier, advanced security certifications also demonstrate to employers and colleagues that you are committed to staying current with the latest trends and technologies in cybersecurity. This can lead to increased respect, recognition, and opportunities for leadership roles within your organization.