Top 11 Information Security Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for an information security engineer in the job market because they offer proof of expertise and knowledge in a particular area. They demonstrate to employers that the engineer has the necessary skills and qualifications to perform the job effectively. Additionally, certifications can help an engineer stand out from other applicants and may even be required for certain positions. Finally, certifications can open up more opportunities for career advancement by allowing the engineer to specialize in a particular area of security or attain higher-level roles within their organization.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available to Information Security Engineers and explain how these certifications can help enhance their career prospects.

What are Information Security Engineer Certifications?

Information security engineer certification is a professional certification designed to help validate the knowledge and skills of information security engineers. It is intended to demonstrate that the individual has a solid understanding of the principles, practices, and technologies related to information security engineering. The certification consists of an in-depth examination that tests a person's knowledge of topics such as risk management, cryptography, authentication, access control, system design and architecture, network security, application security, data protection, vulnerability assessment and management.

Having this certification can be beneficial for both employers and employees. For employers it demonstrates that an individual is knowledgeable in the field of information security engineering and can be trusted to protect their systems from malicious attacks. For employees it shows that they have taken the time to learn about information security engineering principles and have dedicated themselves to becoming experts in the field. It also gives them a competitive edge when applying for jobs in the field or negotiating higher salaries. Finally, having this certification can increase an individual's credibility when giving advice or making recommendations on how best to secure enterprise systems.

Pro tip: It is important to research the requirements for the certification you are interested in before applying. Make sure that you meet all prerequisites and understand the content covered in the exam. Additionally, practice for the exam with sample questions and mock tests to ensure that you are adequately prepared.

Related: What does an Information Security Engineer do?

Top 11 Information Security Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Information Security Engineers today.

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an information security certification developed by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². It is an independent, non-profit organization that provides a globally recognized standard of achievement for information security professionals.

The CISSP certification is designed to demonstrate knowledge and experience in designing, implementing, and managing a secure network infrastructure. The certification requires passing an exam that covers eight distinct domains of information security: Access Control, Telecommunications and Network Security, Cryptography, Security Architecture and Design, Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Planning, Legal Issues, Physical Security and Operations Security.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CISSP exam. Preparation can include taking classes or self-study with books or online resources. To become certified you must pass the exam which consists of 250 multiple choice questions that must be completed in six hours.

The cost of the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $700-$1000 USD. Additionally there are annual membership fees associated with maintaining your certification which range from $125-$225 USD per year depending on your membership level.

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in the field of ethical hacking. It is designed to provide individuals with the tools they need to identify vulnerabilities, assess risks, and protect information systems from malicious attacks. The CEH certification is offered by the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council).

The CEH program takes approximately 18-24 months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, individuals must pass a four-hour exam consisting of 125 multiple choice questions. The exam covers topics such as network security, cryptography, system security, malware threats, and legal issues related to hacking.

In order to become certified, individuals must pay the EC-Council's fee of $500 USD for the exam and $100 USD for each subsequent re-certification every three years. Additionally, individuals may choose to take an online training course from an accredited provider which can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on the provider and length of course.

Overall, becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker requires dedication and commitment as it can take up to two years to complete all requirements for certification. However, once achieved it provides individuals with a valuable credential that can help them secure employment in IT security or advance their career in ethical hacking.

3. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an industry-leading certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of information security. It is designed to ensure that individuals have the necessary skills to secure a network and protect data from threats.

The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions, which must be completed in 90 minutes. To pass the exam, you must score a minimum of 750 out of 900 possible points. The exam covers topics such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, application and host security, access control and identity management, cryptography, risk management, and more.

To get CompTIA Security+, you must first meet the prerequisites for taking the exam. These include having at least two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security or having earned other certifications such as Network+ or A+. You can then register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

The cost of CompTIA Security+ varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $250 to $300 USD. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with training materials or study guides if you choose to use them during your preparation for the exam.

4. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is a certification program offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC). It is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively secure an organization’s information systems. This certification is designed for individuals who are responsible for protecting their organization’s critical data, networks, and applications from malicious attacks.

The GSEC certification requires successful completion of a single exam, which typically takes four hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as network security, cryptography, authentication and authorization, system security, incident response and forensics, security architecture and design, risk management and legal issues.

To obtain the GSEC certification you must first register for the exam through GIAC’s website. Upon registration you will be given access to online training materials that can help you prepare for the exam. Once you have completed your training materials you can then schedule an appointment to take the exam at one of GIAC’s testing centers.

The cost of obtaining the GSEC certification varies depending on where you take the exam but typically ranges from $1,000-$1,500 USD.

5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is a certification offered by ISACA, an international professional association focusing on information security, assurance, and governance. It is designed for experienced IT professionals who are responsible for managing, designing, overseeing and assessing an enterprise’s information security. CISM focuses on the management of information security programs and provides a framework for understanding the roles and responsibilities of a successful information security manager.

It typically takes 1-2 years to prepare for the CISM exam depending on how much time you have available to study. Generally speaking, it is recommended that you have at least 5 years of experience in the field of information security prior to taking the exam.

To get certified as a CISM, you must pass an exam administered by ISACA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers four domains: Information Security Governance (25%), Risk Management (30%), Information Security Program Development & Management (25%), and Information Security Incident Management (20%). The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but usually ranges from $575-$695 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also agree to abide by ISACA's Code of Professional Ethics and complete an experience verification form. Once all requirements are met, applicants will be awarded their CISM certification which is valid for 3 years before needing to be renewed.

6. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a certification program developed by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA). The CCSP credential is designed to recognize IT professionals who have demonstrated expertise in cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to obtain the CCSP certification. To get the CCSP certification, individuals must first complete a CSA approved training program or demonstrate equivalent experience. After that, applicants must pass an exam administered by Pearson VUE Testing Centers. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 3 hours.

The cost of obtaining the CCSP certification varies depending on the provider of the training course and/or exam. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2000 USD for all associated costs.

7. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a certification offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security.

The CISA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The exam covers five domains:

1. The Process of Auditing Information Systems

2. Governance and Management of IT

3. Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation

4. Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Support

5. Protection of Information Assets

In order to become certified, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Have at least five years of cumulative professional work experience in information systems auditing, control or security; OR • Have an approved combination of education and work experience that meets ISACA’s requirements; AND • Pass the CISA exam with a score of at least 450 out of 800 points; AND • Agree to abide by ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics.

The cost for taking the CISA exam varies depending on your geographic location but generally ranges from $450-$550 USD. Additionally, you will need to pay an annual membership fee to maintain your certification which is currently $45 USD per year.

8. CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+ (CySA+)

CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst+ (CySA+) is an intermediate-level certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in threat management, vulnerability management, incident response, security architecture and tool sets. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals have the skills necessary to protect an organization’s networks and systems from cyber threats.

It typically takes around three to six months of studying and preparation to pass the CySA+ exam. To get the certification, you must pass one exam: CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-001). The cost of the exam is $349 USD.

The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and requires a minimum score of 750 points out of 900 points to pass. The topics covered on the exam include system security, network security, cryptography, risk management, identity and access management, security operations and software development security.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take a CompTIA authorized training course or use self-study materials such as practice exams or online courses. There are also several resources available online such as blogs and forums where you can find helpful information about taking the exam.

9. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Enterprise Mobility and Security (MCSE: EMS)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Enterprise Mobility and Security (MCSE: EMS) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in deploying, managing, and supporting Microsoft enterprise mobility solutions. This certification focuses on the skills needed to deploy, configure, manage, and troubleshoot the Microsoft Enterprise Mobility Suite (EMS).

The MCSE: EMS certification requires passing three exams. The first exam covers Windows 10 configuration and deployment. The second exam covers identity management with Azure Active Directory, and the third exam focuses on device management with Intune. To earn the MCSE: EMS certification, you must pass all three exams within a 12-month period.

To get started on your path to earning an MCSE: EMS certification you need to purchase an exam voucher from Microsoft or an authorized testing center. Exam vouchers cost around $165 USD per exam. Once you have purchased a voucher you can register for your exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers.

In terms of time commitment, it takes approximately 3 months of study time to prepare for each of the three exams required for the MCSE: EMS certification. However, this timeframe may vary depending on your experience level with Microsoft technologies and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each day or week.

10. ISACA Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

ISACA Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) is a certification program provided by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to manage IT risk and implement information systems controls. The CRISC certification validates an individual’s ability to identify, assess, control, and monitor IT risks within an organization.

The CRISC certification requires candidates to pass a four-hour exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have at least three years of professional experience in two or more of the four domains covered by the CRISC exam: Risk Identification, Risk Assessment, Risk Response & Mitigation, and Risk & Control Monitoring & Reporting.

In order to get certified as a CRISC professional, you need to register with ISACA and pay an application fee of $100. You will also need to purchase study materials from ISACA or other vendors in order to prepare for the exam. Once you have registered with ISACA and purchased your study materials, you can schedule your exam at any Prometric testing center worldwide. The cost of taking the exam is $575 for members of ISACA and $760 for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official certificate from ISACA within 8 weeks. You will also be required to complete continuing education requirements every three years in order to maintain your certification status.

11. EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH)

EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH) is a certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to detect, respond, and manage security incidents. This certification is suitable for anyone who works in an IT environment that deals with cyber security threats, such as network administrators, system administrators, security analysts, incident responders, and other IT professionals.

The ECIH certification exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as incident response processes, malware analysis, digital forensics, log analysis and reporting. It takes about three hours to complete the exam.

To obtain the ECIH certification you must first pass the exam. The exam fee is $500 USD. After passing the exam you will be awarded your ECIH certification. You can also take additional training courses offered by EC-Council which will help you prepare for the exam and improve your knowledge of incident response processes and techniques.

The ECIH certification is valid for three years after which time you must renew it by taking a refresher course or re-taking the exam.

Do You Really Need a Information Security Engineer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is “it depends.” The need for an information security engineer certificate will depend on your individual goals and circumstances. It may be necessary if you are looking to advance your career in the field of information security engineering, or if you plan to pursue a certification such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). In many cases, employers may look favorably upon job applicants who have certifications in the field.

However, it is important to remember that having a certificate does not guarantee success in a particular role. Your knowledge and expertise are far more important than any certification. If you have experience in the field and understand the concepts of information security engineering, then you may not need a certificate in order to secure a position.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not an information security engineer certificate is right for you. Consider all of your options before making a decision and make sure that whatever route you choose will help you reach your long-term goals.

Related: Information Security Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Information Security Engineer Certifications

Q1: What certifications are available for Information Security Engineers?

A1: There are a number of certifications available for Information Security Engineers, including Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), SANS GIAC Certifications, CompTIA Security+, and ISACA’s CISM certification.

Q2: How do I become an Information Security Engineer?

A2: To become an Information Security Engineer, you typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in information security or related field as well as experience working in the field. You may also need to obtain professional certifications such as CISSP, CEH or other industry-recognized qualifications.

Q3: How long does it take to get certified as an Information Security Engineer?

A3: The time required to become certified can vary depending on the certification program and your level of experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from three months to two years to complete the necessary training and exams.

Q4: What is the cost of getting certified?

A4: The cost of getting certified can vary depending on the certification program you choose and the provider offering the courses. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500 - $3000 USD.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for becoming an Information Security Engineer?

A5: Yes, typically you need to have a bachelor's degree in information security or related field as well as experience working in the field before you can apply for a certification program.