Compare 15+ IT security certifications by salary, difficulty, and career impact. Find the perfect security certification for your experience level and goals.
Explore security certifications organized by specialization area.
Ethical hacking and penetration testing certifications
Security operations and threat defense
Leadership and governance certifications
Cloud-specific security certifications
Expert ranking based on ROI, career impact, and industry demand.
Certified Ethical Hacker
The world's most recognized ethical hacking certification with AI-powered modules.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Gold standard for security management and architecture roles.
CompTIA Security+
Best entry-level security certification for IT professionals.
Offensive Security Certified Professional
Elite hands-on penetration testing certification.
Certified Cloud Security Professional
Premier cloud security certification for cloud architects.
Follow proven certification paths to reach your career goals.
For most security professionals, CEH v13 offers the best combination of practical skills, industry recognition, and career ROI. It's the ideal middle ground between entry-level and advanced certifications.
Common questions about IT security certifications.
The best security certifications depend on your career goals. For ethical hacking and penetration testing, CEH v13 is the top choice. For management roles, CISSP is the gold standard. For beginners, CompTIA Security+ provides an excellent foundation. CEH v13 offers the best ROI for most professionals.
CISSP and OSCP command the highest salaries ($130K-$180K average). However, CEH v13 offers the best return on investment - professionals typically see a $20-30K salary increase with only 40-60 hours of study time.
If you're new to security, start with CompTIA Security+ for fundamentals. If you have some IT experience and want hands-on hacking skills, go directly to CEH v13. The CEH covers Security+ concepts and adds practical penetration testing skills.
Quality over quantity. 2-3 strategic certifications are optimal: one entry-level (Security+), one specialized (CEH for offensive, CySA+ for defensive), and optionally one advanced (CISSP/OSCP). Experience matters more than collecting certifications.
Yes. Certified security professionals earn 15-25% more than non-certified peers. Over 70% of cybersecurity job postings require or prefer certifications. The ROI on CEH certification is typically 6-12 months.
ISC² CC (Certified in Cybersecurity) is the easiest and currently free. CompTIA Security+ (30-40 study hours) is next. CEH v13 (40-60 hours) has medium difficulty but offers much higher salary impact.
Start with the most recommended security certification - CEH v13. Our complete bundle includes everything you need to pass on your first attempt.