Cybersecurity certifications play a crucial role in highlighting existing expertise, increasing credibility, and opening up career advancement opportunities for senior cybersecurity professionals. These certifications also help keep leading cybersecurity experts informed about evolving threats and facilitate networking. Additionally, they demonstrate skills in compliance and risk management.
Rebecca Herold, an IEEE member and founder of The Privacy Professor consultancy, explains that certifications cover all cybersecurity areas and skills, ranging from physical, technical, administrative, and operational aspects to a strong focus on specific hardware manufacturers or technologies like ransomware. Before embarking on the journey to collect certifications, it is essential to determine the specific cybersecurity area in which one wants to work, advises Herold.
The benefits offered by cybersecurity certifications, according to Herold, include validating cybersecurity skills, building professional credibility, accelerating career progression, gaining recognition within the industry, creating networking opportunities, demonstrating knowledge of standardized cybersecurity concepts, proving a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, and supporting negotiations for salary increases.
Five cybersecurity certifications that can boost a career include:
1. CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): This certification, offered by ISC2, is highly recognized for professionals aiming to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of IT security concepts and best practices. It covers a wide range of security topics and requires extensive work experience and recommendations from reputable sources.
2. CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional): Another valuable certification from ISC2 focusing on cloud security, essential for CISOs supporting or extensively utilizing cloud technologies.
3. CISM (Certified Information Security Manager): Offered by ISACA, this certification is specifically designed for professionals responsible for managing and monitoring information security programs. It emphasizes developing effective information security strategies aligned with company objectives.
4. CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor): Also provided by ISACA, this certification is crucial for professionals tasked with examining, monitoring, and evaluating information security and business systems within their organizations.
5. GIAC Strategic Planning, Policy, and Leadership (GSTRT): Offered by the SANS Institute, this certification showcases the ability to create strategic plans aligned with business objectives and effectively lead teams.
In Germany, these certifications are highly regarded and often demanded as proof of expertise in corporate environments. While not mandatory for a cybersecurity career, certifications provide valuable insights to navigate the industry effectively. It is important for CISOs to complement certifications with other qualities, strengths, and attributes to succeed in the field.
Overall, cybersecurity certifications play a vital role in enhancing career opportunities, credibility, and knowledge in the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. They are valuable assets for professionals looking to advance their careers and make a significant impact in the industry. It is essential to choose certifications carefully based on individual career goals and aspirations.