Top 10 Security Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a security analyst in the job market because they demonstrate that the analyst has achieved a certain level of expertise in their field. Certifications show employers that the analyst has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform security-related tasks effectively. Additionally, certifications can help an analyst stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs. Many employers view certifications as an indication that the candidate is knowledgeable and qualified for the position. Finally, certifications provide analysts with opportunities to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. This helps them stay ahead of potential threats and strengthens their overall skillset.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Security Analysts and explains how they can help to advance a security analyst's career.

What are Security Analyst Certifications?

Security analyst certification is a designation awarded to professionals who demonstrate expertise in the field of cyber security. It provides an individual with a credential that can be used to gain employment and/or advance their career within the cyber security industry.

The certification is designed to help individuals validate and demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as risk management, incident response, ethical hacking, malware analysis, cryptography, digital forensics and other related topics. A successful candidate must pass a series of rigorous exams which cover topics from the most basic concepts to more advanced material.

Having this certification can give employers confidence that the individual has not only been tested on their knowledge but also has practical experience in the field of cyber security. This can help them make better hiring decisions when it comes to filling positions related to cyber security. Furthermore, it can serve as proof of an individual’s commitment to staying up-to-date in this rapidly changing field by continually improving their skillset. Additionally, having a security analyst certification may lead to increased salary potential or even higher job titles within an organization or industry.

Pro Tip: When considering a security analyst certification, make sure to do your research and ensure that the program is accredited by an organization such as the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). This will ensure that you are receiving quality training and certification that is recognized by industry standards.

Related: What does a Security Analyst do?

Top 10 Security Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification for information security professionals. It is an independent information security certification developed and governed by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). The CISSP certification validates an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program.

It typically takes about 6 to 12 months to prepare for the CISSP exam. The amount of time required to prepare depends on your experience level, study habits, and commitment to pass the exam. To get started, you will need to register for the exam with ISC2 and purchase the Official (ISC)2 Guide to the CISSP CBK. This guide provides an overview of the 8 domains covered on the exam as well as sample questions and recommended reading material. You can also find online training courses or attend a classroom course offered by a third party provider.

The cost of taking the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it, but generally ranges from $699 - $1,499 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual maintenance fee of $125 USD per year which must be paid in order to maintain your active status as a CISSP certified professional.

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a professional certification program that teaches individuals how to identify, assess, and mitigate security vulnerabilities in computer systems. It is an intensive course that covers the latest tools and techniques used by hackers to gain access to sensitive information. It takes approximately five days of classroom instruction and hands-on lab experience to complete the CEH certification program. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider offering it, but typically ranges from $1,500 to $4,000.

In order to become certified as a CEH, individuals must pass an exam administered by EC-Council. This exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions and requires a minimum score of 70% in order to pass. After passing the exam, individuals will be awarded their Certified Ethical Hacker certificate.

The CEH certification is highly sought after by employers due to its comprehensive coverage of security topics such as network security, cryptography, application security, system hacking, cloud computing security and more. The certification also demonstrates an individual’s commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest security technologies and best practices.

3. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally-recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in IT security. It is designed to demonstrate competency in the areas of network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, cryptography, and more.

The exam for CompTIA Security+ takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To get the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale from 100 to 900.

In order to be eligible for the exam you must have at least two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security or have earned another CompTIA certification such as A+, Network+, or Linux+.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $320-$350 USD. You can purchase vouchers directly from CompTIA or through their authorized training partners.

4. GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)

GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC) is a certification program designed to provide security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect their organization’s information assets. It is an entry-level certification that focuses on the fundamentals of information security, such as network security, cryptography, system hardening, and incident response.

The GSEC exam can be taken online or in-person at a Pearson VUE testing center. The exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete. To pass the exam, candidates must score a minimum of 70%.

In order to become certified, individuals must first register for the GSEC program through GIAC's website. The cost of registration is $1,699 USD for members and $2,099 USD for non-members. Once registered, candidates can access the online course materials which include videos and practice exams.

Once all course materials have been completed and the exam has been passed with a score of 70% or higher, individuals will receive their official GSEC certification from GIAC. This certification is valid for 4 years after which time it must be renewed by taking another GSEC exam or completing continuing education courses offered by GIAC.

5. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in cloud security. It is designed to help organizations protect their data and applications from cyber threats, as well as meet compliance requirements. The CCSP credential is offered by (ISC)2, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the information security field.

The CCSP requires professionals to have at least five years of cumulative, paid work experience in information technology, with three years of information security and one year of cloud security experience. Professionals are also required to pass an exam that covers topics such as cloud computing concepts and models, legal and regulatory compliance, risk management, identity and access management, data protection, architecture and operations.

The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $549 USD. To prepare for the exam, applicants can take advantage of online resources such as practice exams or study guides offered by (ISC)2 or third-party vendors. Additionally, some employers may offer training programs or other resources to help employees prepare for the exam.

Once certified, professionals must maintain their credentials by earning continuing education credits every three years. This requirement helps ensure that CCSPs stay up-to-date on the latest developments in cloud security.

6. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) is an industry-recognized certification for IT professionals who specialize in designing, managing, and assessing an organization’s information security program. This certification is administered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).

To become a CISM certified professional, you must have at least five years of experience in information security management, as well as pass the CISM exam. The exam consists of four domains: information security governance, risk management and compliance, information security program development and management, and incident management.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete. It costs $575 for ISACA members or $760 for non-members. You can register online or by mail. After passing the exam, you will need to submit an application to receive your official certification from ISACA.

7. Certified Network Defender (CND)

Certified Network Defender (CND) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals build the knowledge and skills necessary to protect, detect, respond, and recover from network attacks. The CND program provides an in-depth understanding of network security concepts and technologies. It covers topics such as network security architecture, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, virtual private networks (VPNs), system hardening, patch management, incident response and forensics.

The CND certification consists of two exams: the CND Foundation exam and the CND Practical exam. The Foundation exam is a multiple-choice test that covers basic network security concepts and technologies. The Practical exam is a hands-on lab exam that requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to configure and troubleshoot various network security components.

It typically takes four to six months of study time to prepare for the CND certification exams. Candidates must have at least one year of experience working with networks before they can take the exams.

The cost for the CND program varies depending on which training provider you choose. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $1,500-$2,000 for the entire program including both exams.

8. Certified Incident Handler (GCIH)

Certified Incident Handler (GCIH) is a certification program offered by the SANS Institute. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively respond to and manage computer security incidents. The GCIH certification focuses on incident handling, forensics, malware analysis, intrusion detection, and network security monitoring.

The GCIH certification requires passing an exam that consists of multiple choice questions. The exam covers topics such as incident response processes, digital forensics principles and techniques, malware analysis, intrusion detection systems, and network security monitoring. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the GCIH certification program, applicants must have at least two years of experience in information security or a related field. Additionally, applicants must have completed either the SANS SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, Exploits and Incident Handling course or the SANS SEC560: Network Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking course prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the GCIH certification program varies depending on whether you are a member of the SANS Institute or not. For non-members, the cost is $599 USD for the exam alone; however if you purchase both courses together it will cost $3199 USD. For members of the SANS Institute, the cost is $449 USD for just the exam or $2149 USD for both courses together.

9. Microsoft Technology Associate: Security Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate: Security Fundamentals (MTA: SF) is an entry-level certification designed to help individuals gain a basic understanding of security fundamentals. It is intended for those with little or no experience in the field of information technology and security, and provides a foundation for further study and exploration. The certification covers topics such as authentication, authorization, access control, encryption, vulnerability management, and risk management. MTA: SF also includes an assessment that tests knowledge of these concepts.

The MTA: SF certification can be obtained by taking an online exam offered through Microsoft’s Learning Portal. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 700 out of 1000 points.

The cost of the MTA: SF exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken; however, it typically costs around $99 USD. Additionally, some countries may offer discounts or special offers for students or other groups.

Overall, obtaining the MTA: SF certification should take around 2 hours including preparation time and taking the exam itself.

10. EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)

EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA) is an advanced certification program from the International Council of Electronic Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). It is designed to provide a comprehensive and practical hands-on approach to security analysis. The ECSA program takes a holistic approach to security analysis, covering topics such as vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, malware analysis, and incident response.

The ECSA certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in information security and/or related fields. Candidates must also pass an online exam that covers the five modules of the ECSA program: Introduction to Information Security, Vulnerability Assessment & Penetration Testing, Malware Analysis & Incident Response, Network Defense & Countermeasures, and Legal Issues & Compliance.

The ECSA certification can be obtained by taking an official training course offered by the EC-Council. The course typically takes around 5 days to complete and includes both lectures and hands-on labs. The cost for the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD. After completing the coursework and passing the online exam with a score of 70% or higher, candidates will receive their ECSA certification.

Do You Really Need a Security Analyst Certificate?

Security analyst certificates can be beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in the field of information security. However, it is important to consider whether or not such a certificate is necessary for your particular goals.

For those who are already employed in the field of information security, a security analyst certificate may help to demonstrate competency and increase job advancement opportunities. Those with a security analyst certification are seen as being more knowledgeable and experienced in the field, which can make them more desirable candidates when seeking new positions or promotions. It may also be useful for those who wish to pursue further education in the field, as some postgraduate courses may require applicants to have certain qualifications or certifications.

On the other hand, if you are just starting out in the field of information security and don’t yet have any experience or knowledge of the subject, then obtaining a security analyst certificate is likely not necessary. In this case, it would be better to focus on gaining experience through internships or volunteer work before investing time and money into a certification program. Additionally, if you do not plan on pursuing a career in information security then obtaining a security analyst certificate is likely unnecessary.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a security analyst certificate depends on your current level of knowledge and experience as well as your future plans within the field of information security. If you already have some background knowledge and experience and plan on pursuing further education or employment opportunities in this area then it could be beneficial to obtain one. However, if you lack any background knowledge or experience then it may be best to gain that first before considering certification programs.

Related: Security Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Security Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Security Analyst Certification?

Answer: A Security Analyst Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of security analysis. It demonstrates the individual's ability to identify, analyze, and respond to security threats.

Q2. How long does it take to become certified as a Security Analyst?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain a Security Analyst Certification can vary depending on the specific certification program chosen. Generally, it takes anywhere from one month to one year of study and practice to become certified.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Security Analyst?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a Security Analyst Certification include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater credibility in the industry, and more respect from peers and employers.

Q4. What are the requirements for obtaining a Security Analyst Certification?

Answer: Requirements for obtaining a Security Analyst Certification typically include passing an exam or multiple exams, completing coursework or training programs related to security analysis, and having at least two years of experience in the security field.

Q5. Is there any way to renew my Security Analyst Certification?

Answer: Yes, many certifying organizations offer continuing education courses or other activities that can be completed in order to maintain your certification status. Additionally, some organizations may require you to retake the certification exam after a certain period of time in order to keep your certification current.