When it is about a career in information technology (IT), you have a variety of paths to choose from. One of the highly famous options is to be a cybersecurity expert. And in cybersecurity, the two most famous certification exams are the CEH and Security+.
CEH and Security+ is the two highly famous options available, but which one is right for you? In this article, we will look at the main similarities and differences present in these two certificates in detail so that you can make the right decision. We will begin by discussing what is included in each certificate and then discussing the benefits for all. After going to this blog post, you can better understand which certification is right for you.
CEH, or Certified Ethical Hacker, is a certification program designed to make you learn how to find vulnerabilities to protect systems and networks and how to exploit them. The CEH certification 2022 is globally acknowledged and is considered one of the most prestigious certifications in the industry. Candidates must have to finish the training course and clear the exam to be CEH. The curriculum covers a variety of topics, including networking, cryptography, network security and ethical hacking methods. Upon successfully finishing the syllabus and examination, the candidates get CEH certificate.
The CEH credential has validity for three years and it must be renewed every three years to keep the status active. For the certification renewal, applicants must retake the CEH exam or obtain a continuing academic credit. In the comparison between CEH and Security +, companies are looking for candidates with CEH certification because they have the skills and knowledge needed to protect systems and networks from hacker's attacks.
Security+ is a credential that is recognized worldwide and that testifies the person's knowledge regarding cybersecurity. A candidate who is Security+ certified has understanding and knowledge for implementing and managing the network security in the organization. This credential covers the syllabus or topics based on network security, risk management, cryptography and so on. It is indeed one the highly famous credentials in the information technology domain as well as it also caters the demand in various jobs related to cybersecurity. This credential is managed by the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).
For becoming certified, candidates must need to pass an exam that has the five domains in Security+ credential. These domains are:
As with CEH vs. Security+, the Security+ exam has 90 multiple-choice and merit-based questions. No prior experience is needed for the Security+ exam but it is suggested that aspiring candidates should have knowledge and experience of two years in IT before attempting the exam.
Above certification shows that an individual has the skills and understanding how to implement and manage network security inside the company. With the growing demand for the good cyber security professionals, Security+ is a highly recommended certification to initiate in the IT industry.
Comparison between CompTIA Security+ and CEH:
CompTIA Security+ | CEH |
Covers fundamental knowledge of cybersecurity | More focused content, consists ethical hacking and penetration testing |
Vendor-neutral certification | In-demand skills in the industry |
Best for beginners or those who are aiming to enhance their knowledge. | Can go ahead as an ethical hacker or penetration tester in career. |
As stated above, CEH is a better level of certification, while CompTIA Security + includes basic knowledge of cyber security. If you are just initiating your career in this field, or if you are aiming for vendor-neutral credential, CompTIA Security + is indeed the best option. Well, if you have experience in your career and aim for highly specialized credentials, CEH is for you.
Test Factor Comparison:
The two most famous options in the IT industry are CompTIA Security+ and CEH, but which fits perfectly for you? Well here is the side-by-side differentiation of two examinations that can help you in making the right decision.
Factor | CompTIA Security+ | CEH |
Cost | Around $699 | Around $950 |
Difficulty | 750/900 | 70% |
Topics | 6 Domains | 5 Modules |
Job Hunting | Vendor-neutral certification, which makes it easier to find a job in IT security. | More specialized certification, which makes it easier to find a job in ethical hacking or penetration testing |
Exam Format | 1.5 hours, 100 questions | 4 hours, 125 questions |
Recommended Experience:
CEH vs. Security+ needs a diversified experience. CompTIA Security+ is aimed at beginners and advanced users in the cybersecurity field. The exams cover a vast topics range, which includes risk management, network security and incident response. For ensuring the eligibility for Security+, applicants must have a minimum of two years of IT or security experience.
Certified Ethical Hacker Certification, on the other hand, caters to experienced ethical hackers. The exam covers the topics such as social engineering, fingerprinting and intelligence, and service attacks denial. Applicants should have five minimum of five years of experience in security or IT domain.
Focus Area:
Aspiring IT security professionals or ethical hackers may wonder about the differences between CompTIA Security + and CEH credential. There are both qualifications at beginner level that help candidates to gain traction in the eyes of employers, but everyone’s attention is different.
CompTIA Security+ certification covers a vast range of topics that consists of network security, compliance and operational security. On the other hand, CEH, is focused on ethical hacking, consisting of topics like SQL injection, social engineering, scanning networks, enumeration, footprints and reconnaissance and so on.
If you are just at entry-level and choose CompTIA Security+ vs. Certified Ethical Hacker, then Security+ is a good choice as it enables you with a vast view of the IT security landscape for your career. However, if you are aiming to master yourself in ethical hacking, then signing-up in the best cybersecurity training courses is a good option. Whichever path you choose, both qualifications will advance your career.
Job Roles:
CompTIA Security+ is a certification that demonstrates a fundamental understanding of cybersecurity concepts and skills. Candidates who have earned this certification typically execute the tasks in beginner or junior positions in cybersecurity. The CEH Position needs a higher level of experience and understanding on the other hand. CEH certified candidates usually work as lead analysts or senior-level security admin.
So, the question arises here is what is the difference between CEH and Security+ job designations? Well, the core difference is the experience and the knowledge depth required. CompTIA Security+ covers vast topics but does not need in-detail understanding in any one domain.
On the other hand, CEH aims on specific subgroups of hacking techniques. Candidates with these certifications should have an in-depth knowledge of how to use these tools to be effective in their work.
Summing up:
It is indeed a fact that both CEH and Security+ are highly respected credentials in the industry, and it will be a great choice for the individuals who are aiming to initiate their career in the field of cybersecurity. Well, if you want to pursue a beginner level of certification which can lay down a robust foundation in fundamental security concepts, then CompTIA Security+ Training will be the best option.
On the other hand, if your objective is to be Certified Ethical Hacker and achieve more learning and experience with best hacking methodologies, then Vinsys ethical hacking training will assist you and train you that will help you grow.
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