Top 11 Security Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for security administrators in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications demonstrate to potential employers that the security administrator has the necessary technical skills and experience to handle their security needs. Additionally, certifications give employers confidence that the applicant is qualified to perform the job duties and will be able to keep up with changes in technology. Certifications also give employers assurance that their data will remain safe, as certified professionals have been trained on the latest security protocols and best practices. In short, certifications show potential employers that a security administrator is knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of protecting their networks from cyber threats.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Security Administrators and explain how they can help to further a security administrator's career.

What are Security Administrator Certifications?

Security administrator certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person's knowledge and skills in the areas of system security and information assurance. Security administrators are responsible for protecting data from unauthorized access, malicious attacks, and other security threats. They must have an in-depth understanding of system security principles, technologies, and processes to effectively manage IT systems.

The certification provides proof of knowledge and experience in the field of system security and information assurance. It shows employers that the individual is knowledgeable about the fundamentals of system security, such as authentication, encryption, access control, patch management, malware prevention, policy development and enforcement, risk assessment, auditing, incident response procedures, etc. Having this certification can help individuals stand out to potential employers by demonstrating their commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest security technologies. It also serves as an indication that they possess the technical skills necessary to be successful in a system administrator role. By obtaining this certification, individuals can prove their competency in system security matters and give themselves an edge over non-certified applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a security administrator certification, make sure to look for certifications that are industry-recognized and have been accredited by an independent authority. This will ensure that your certification is up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Related: What does a Security Administrator do?

Top 11 Security Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Security Administrators 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. The CISSP certification is globally recognized and provides assurance that a professional has the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage an effective information security program.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 6 hours. It covers a broad range of topics related to information security including access control systems, cryptography, risk management, physical security, software development security, operations security, business continuity planning, and legal issues.

To become certified as a CISSP one must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the (ISC)² Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Alternatively, if you do not meet this requirement you can become an Associate of (ISC)² which requires four years of work experience in one or more domains of the CBK.

The cost for the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $699-$899 USD. Additionally there are membership fees associated with becoming an Associate or full member of (ISC)² which range from $50-$125 USD per year.

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is an information security certification offered by the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). It is designed to teach IT professionals and security experts how to identify, assess, and prevent malicious attacks in a network environment. The CEH certification is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the field of information security.

The CEH certification requires that applicants have at least two years of experience in IT security or related fields. The course itself takes approximately five days to complete and includes lectures, labs, and hands-on exercises. It covers topics such as hacking techniques, system vulnerabilities, malware threats, cryptography, social engineering, and penetration testing.

To obtain the CEH certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by EC-Council. The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. Applicants must score at least 70% on the exam to receive their certification.

The cost for taking the CEH exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

3. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of information security. It is an industry-leading certification that covers the essential principles for network security and risk management, making it a valuable asset for any IT professional working in today’s digital world.

The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and takes up to 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, cryptography, and more.

In order to get your CompTIA Security+ certification, you will need to pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900. You can prepare for the exam by taking an authorized training course or studying independently using study materials from CompTIA or other sources.

The cost of the CompTIA Security+ exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $320-$400 USD.

4. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is a globally recognized certification for IT security professionals. It is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of information security, risk management, and incident response. The GSEC certification is offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC) organization, which is part of the SANS Institute.

The GSEC exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 4 hours. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a score of 74% or higher. The exam covers topics such as network security, system hardening, cryptography, authentication and authorization, secure communications, and vulnerability assessment.

To get certified with GSEC, applicants must first purchase the GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) Exam from GIAC's website. After purchasing the exam voucher, applicants can register for an online proctored exam at their convenience through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of the GSEC certification varies depending on where you take the exam; however it typically costs around $1,499 USD for both the exam voucher and proctoring fees.

5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and experience in information security management. It is offered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). The CISM certification is designed to recognize professionals who have the expertise to manage, design, and oversee an organization’s information security.

The CISM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have five years of cumulative experience in information security management within the past 10 years. This experience must include three out of the four job practice areas: Information Security Governance, Risk Management and Compliance, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.

To obtain the CISM certification, applicants must pass the CISM exam as well as agree to abide by ISACA's Code of Professional Ethics. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ISACA; members pay $575 while non-members pay $760. Additionally, there is a one-time registration fee of $50 for all applicants regardless of membership status.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Security

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Security is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual's ability to design, implement, and maintain secure IT infrastructures. The MCSE: Security credential demonstrates that an individual has the skills necessary to protect networks from security threats and vulnerabilities.

How long does it take to get it? The MCSE: Security certification requires the completion of five exams, which can be completed in as little as six months. However, the amount of time required will vary depending on the individual’s experience and knowledge level.

How to get it? To become certified, individuals must pass five exams: Exam 70-290: Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment; Exam 70-291: Implementing, Managing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure; Exam 70-293: Planning and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network Infrastructure; Exam 70-294: Planning, Implementing, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Infrastructure; and Exam 70-299: Implementing and Administering Security in a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Network.

How much does it cost? The cost of each exam varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $125-$150 USD per exam. Therefore, the total cost of obtaining the MCSE: Security certification is approximately $625-$750 USD.

7. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s ability to secure cloud computing environments. It is designed for IT and security professionals who have experience with cloud technologies and want to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in cloud security. The CCSP certification is offered by the Cloud Security Alliance (CSA).

It typically takes about six months of study and preparation to get the CCSP certification. To get the CCSP, you must first pass an exam administered by the CSA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as cloud architecture, data protection, identity management, risk management, and compliance.

In order to be eligible for the exam, you must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in information technology or information security within the past 10 years. You must also have at least one year of direct full-time professional security experience in one or more of the six domains covered by the exam: Cloud Architecture & Design; Cloud Data Security; Cloud Platform & Infrastructure Security; Cloud Application Security; Operations; and Legal & Compliance.

The cost for taking the CCSP exam varies depending on where you take it, but it typically costs around $600 USD.

8. ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

ISACA Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and experience required to implement, manage, monitor, and assess an organization’s information security program. This certification provides assurance that the individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively lead an information security team or function.

The CISM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions divided into four domains: Information Security Governance, Risk Management and Compliance, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CISM exam, candidates must have five years of cumulative work experience in three out of the four domains covered by the exam. Candidates must also have a minimum of three years of experience in a leadership role managing an information security program within the last ten years.

The cost for the CISM exam is $575 for ISACA members or $760 for non-members. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 that must be paid when registering for the exam. Once you have passed the exam you will need to pay an annual maintenance fee of $45 in order to maintain your certification status.

9. EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND)

EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND) is an industry-leading certification program designed to provide network security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect, detect, and respond to network threats. The CND certification validates a professional’s ability to identify, analyze, and mitigate network security threats.

The CND certification program consists of two parts: the Certified Network Defender course and the Certified Network Defender exam. The course is a hands-on, instructor-led training program that covers topics such as network security fundamentals, vulnerability assessment and management, intrusion detection systems, firewalls, cryptography basics, secure remote access solutions, wireless networks security, incident response planning and procedures, as well as physical security considerations. The exam tests a candidate’s knowledge on these topics.

The CND certification typically takes around five days of classroom instruction or 40 hours of online instruction to complete. To get certified in this program you must attend an approved training provider or take the online version of the course. Once you have completed the course you can register for the exam through EC-Council's website.

The cost of getting certified in this program depends on where you take the course from and whether it is online or in a traditional classroom setting. Generally speaking though it will cost anywhere from $1,000 - $2,000 USD depending on which provider you choose.

10. Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) is a certification program offered by Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Check Point Security Gateway systems. The certification covers topics such as basic networking, security policies, user authentication, VPNs, IPSec, and more.

The CCSA certification exam typically takes about two hours to complete. To get certified, you must pass an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but is typically around $200 USD.

In order to prepare for the CCSA exam, you should have a working knowledge of network security concepts as well as experience in configuring and managing Check Point Security Gateways. You can find study materials from various sources such as books or online courses. Additionally, Check Point offers an official course called “Check Point Certified Security Administrator R80” which will help you prepare for the exam.

11. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate – Junos (JNCIA-Junos).

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate – Junos (JNCIA-Junos) is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s knowledge of the Juniper Networks Junos operating system and related technologies. It is designed to demonstrate a fundamental understanding of networking technologies, including routing, switching, security, and network services.

The JNCIA-Junos exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 65 multiple choice questions. The exam covers topics such as routing fundamentals, switching fundamentals, security fundamentals, IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and subnetting, Layer 2 switching protocols, routing protocols (including OSPF, BGP), firewall filters and NATs.

In order to obtain the JNCIA-Junos certification, candidates must pass the JN0-103 exam. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through Pearson VUE's website. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

Candidates who successfully pass the JN0-103 exam will receive their official JNCIA-Junos certification from Juniper Networks. This certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed by taking the current version of the JN0-103 exam again.

Do You Really Need a Security Administrator Certificate?

In today’s digital world, having a Security Administrator Certificate is becoming increasingly important. With the rise of cyber-attacks, organizations are looking for qualified individuals to help protect their networks and data. A Security Administrator Certificate is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and skill in this field.

Having a Security Administrator Certificate gives you an edge over other job candidates who don’t have the same level of expertise. It will demonstrate that you have the necessary technical skills and experience to manage security systems effectively. It also indicates that you have received formal training in the area, which can be incredibly valuable when it comes to troubleshooting issues or developing new security protocols.

In addition, having a Security Administrator Certificate can open up more career opportunities for you. Many employers prefer candidates with this type of certification because it shows that you have taken the time to develop your skills in this area and are committed to keeping up with the latest developments in security technology. This can be especially beneficial if you’re looking for an entry-level position or want to move up in your current organization.

Overall, having a Security Administrator Certificate can be extremely beneficial when it comes to advancing your career in information security. It demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge and skills required to protect an organization’s network and information assets from malicious attacks. If you’re considering pursuing a career in security, obtaining this certificate is definitely worth considering.

Related: Security Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Security Administrator Certifications

1. What are the most common Security Administrator certifications?

Answer: The most common Security Administrator certifications include CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), SANS GIAC, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and ISC2 Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP).

2. How long do Security Administrator certifications last?

Answer: Most Security Administrator certifications are valid for three years, but some may require periodic recertification or continuing education courses to stay current.

3. What is the cost of a Security Administrator certification?

Answer: The cost of a Security Administrator certification varies depending on the type of certification and the provider, but typically ranges from $500 to $5,000 or more.

4. How long does it take to get a Security Administrator certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain a security administrator certification depends on the type of certification and the provider, but typically takes anywhere from one month to several months to complete all requirements.

5. What are the benefits of having a Security Administrator certification?

Answer: Benefits of having a security administrator certification include increased job opportunities and higher salary potential, enhanced credibility among peers, greater understanding of industry best practices, and improved job performance due to staying up-to-date with technology trends.