For most beginners, the best cyber security certification path is one foundation certificate (such as ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity or the Google Cybersecurity Certificate), then CompTIA Security+, then a role-specific certification once you know which area you enjoy. This guide compares the main entry-level cyber security certifications, who each one suits, what it covers, and how to choose without spending money on the wrong exam.
Certification bodies update exam versions, prices and offers regularly. Check the official website of each certification before you register.
Do you need a certification to start in cyber security?
Not strictly, but certifications help in three ways when you have no experience:
- they give you a structured syllabus instead of random videos;
- they help your resume pass HR filters, because many job listings name them;
- they show commitment when you are switching from a non-security role.
What they cannot do is replace hands-on skill. Pair every certificate with labs and small projects you can talk about in an interview.
Entry-level certifications compared
| Certification | Provider | Level | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) | ISC2 | Foundation | Complete beginners who want a recognised first credential |
| Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate | Google, on Coursera | Foundation | Self-paced learners who want practical labs with Linux, SQL, Python and SIEM tools |
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA | Foundation | People who need networking basics before security |
| CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA | Entry to junior | The most widely requested entry-level security certification |
| CompTIA CySA+ | CompTIA | Intermediate | SOC analysts and threat detection roles |
| Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) | EC-Council | Intermediate | Roles where clients or employers ask for it by name |
| eJPT (Junior Penetration Tester) | INE | Entry, practical | Aspiring penetration testers who want a hands-on exam |
| Microsoft SC-900 | Microsoft | Foundation | Beginners targeting cloud security in Microsoft environments |
The main options in detail
ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
CC covers security principles, incident response and business continuity, access control, network security and security operations. It is designed for people with no work experience. ISC2 has run offers that include free online training and a free first exam attempt for many candidates; check whether such an offer is currently available. A yearly maintenance fee applies after you pass.
Choose it if: you want a low-cost first credential from a respected body, the same organisation behind the senior CISSP certification.
Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
A self-paced online programme with videos, quizzes and labs. It covers security frameworks, networks, Linux, SQL, Python basics, SIEM tools and incident response. You pay a monthly subscription on Coursera, and financial aid is available.
Choose it if: you learn best with guided practice and want to build basic technical skills, not just theory. Note that it is a certificate of course completion rather than a proctored exam.
CompTIA Security+
Security+ is the most commonly listed entry-level security certification in job descriptions. It covers threats and vulnerabilities, security architecture, operations, identity and access management, cryptography basics, and governance and compliance. The exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions where you complete tasks in a simulated environment.
It is more expensive than the foundation options, and the exam is valid for three years, with renewal through continuing education.
Choose it if: you are serious about a security job and ready for a broader, harder exam. Many people take it after CC or the Google certificate.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CEH is well known, especially among employers and clients in India and the Middle East, and covers the phases of ethical hacking and common attack techniques. It is relatively expensive, and some practitioners prefer more hands-on exams for penetration testing.
Choose it if: the jobs you are targeting ask for it by name. Otherwise, build penetration testing skills through labs first.
eJPT
A practical exam where you perform a penetration test in a lab environment and answer questions about what you found. It is a good stepping stone towards advanced practical certifications such as OSCP.
Choose it if: you want to become a penetration tester and prefer proving skills by doing rather than by multiple-choice questions.
Which certification should you take first?
| Your situation | Suggested path |
|---|---|
| Non-IT background, total beginner | Google Cybersecurity Certificate or ISC2 CC, then Security+ |
| IT support or networking experience | Security+ directly, then CySA+ |
| Want to work in a SOC (security operations centre) | CC or Security+, then CySA+, plus SIEM practice |
| Want to become a penetration tester | Security+ or eJPT, then advanced practical certifications |
| Want cloud security | Security+ plus a cloud provider certification (for example SC-900 or an AWS security path) |
Skills to build alongside your certification
- Networking: TCP/IP, ports and protocols, DNS, subnetting, how firewalls work.
- Linux and Windows basics: command line, users and permissions, logs, services.
- Security tools: Wireshark, Nmap, a SIEM such as Splunk or an open-source alternative, and Burp Suite for web testing.
- Scripting: basic Python or PowerShell to automate small tasks.
- Communication: writing a clear incident report is a core skill in every security role.
Practise on legal training platforms and capture-the-flag challenges, and only ever test systems you own or have written permission to test.
A 4-month plan for a beginner
- Month 1: networking and Linux fundamentals; start a foundation course.
- Month 2: finish the foundation certificate; set up a home lab with virtual machines.
- Month 3: study for Security+ with one course and one practice-exam set; analyse traffic with Wireshark.
- Month 4: take Security+; write up two lab projects, such as analysing a phishing email or detecting a brute-force attack in logs.
For the bigger picture, read our guide on how to start a cyber security career with no experience.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the easiest cyber security certification for beginners?
ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity and the Google Cybersecurity Certificate are the most beginner-friendly. Both assume no prior experience.
Is Security+ enough to get a job?
It helps a lot for entry-level roles, but most employers also want to see hands-on practice, so combine it with labs, projects and good networking basics.
CEH or Security+: which should I do first?
Security+ for most beginners, because it builds broad fundamentals. Take CEH later if your target employers ask for it.
Can I get a cyber security job without a degree?
Yes. Many entry-level roles accept candidates with certifications and demonstrable skills, although some large companies still filter by degree.
How long do cyber security certifications last?
Most have a validity of about three years and require continuing education credits and an annual fee to keep them active. Check each provider’s current rules.
Prepare for interviews with our cyber security interview questions, and explore more cyber security tutorials.
