Is the CEH Certification Worth the Cost?
It is no surprise that the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to grow. In fact, according to Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally by 2021. This means that if you’re considering a career in cybersecurity, you’ve chosen an industry that is in high demand, and will only remain so for years to come. Many individuals seeking to enter the field and advance their careers consider certifications to break through the barrier of entry. One popular choice is to become a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). However, the cost of obtaining a certification can be a significant barrier for some. In this blog post, we will explore the cost of the CEH certification, discuss funding options, and the weigh that with its value in the industry.
What is a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)?
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is a highly recognized credential that validates the skills and knowledge of professionals in the field of ethical hacking. Ethical hackers, also known as white hat hackers, operate in the realm of offensive security. These are individuals authorized to exploit vulnerabilities in systems and networks to identify weaknesses before malicious actors can exploit them. The CEH certification equips professionals with the necessary tools and techniques to legally and ethically assess the security posture of organizations. This allows them to proactively identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Certified Ethical Hackers play a crucial role in enhancing cybersecurity by helping organizations strengthen their defenses against cyber threats. They simulate real-world hacking scenarios, employing penetration testing techniques to identify vulnerabilities and potential entry points for attacks. By conducting thorough assessments, Certified Ethical Hackers help organizations identify security gaps. That enables them to implement appropriate measures to protect sensitive data, systems, and networks. Their expertise is instrumental in mitigating risks, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and maintaining customer trust.
Who is it fit for?
Becoming a certified ethical hacker is a path embraced by individuals with a genuine passion for cybersecurity and perhaps a knack for solving puzzles. These aspiring professionals are driven by an insatiable curiosity to solve a problem— in this case, vulnerabilities in systems and networks. They may also be guided by an ethical compass to protect. With a keen eye for problem-solving and attention to detail they are well-suited for the dynamic challenges they will face. Ethical hackers must be good at taking the perspective of an attacker to the organization they are trying to protect. It is a job that may be difficult, but certainly exciting and rewarding.
The Cost of the CEH Certification
The cost of the CEH certification varies depending on the training provider and the delivery method. As of the writing of this post, the cost of the official EC-Council CEH exam is $950. However, additional costs such as study materials, practice exams, and training courses may be necessary to adequately prepare for the exam.
When considering the cost of the CEH certification, it is important to weigh the potential benefits. The CEH certification is a widely recognized credential in the cybersecurity industry and can demonstrate to employers that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to perform ethical hacking and penetration testing. This can lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.
Cost Comparison to Other Certification Bootcamps
While the CEH certification may be considered expensive by some, it is important to consider the cost in comparison to other certification bootcamps. For example, the cost of the Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification, which is widely regarded as one of the most difficult and prestigious certifications in the industry, is $1,150 for the exam alone. Additionally, many training providers offer CEH certification bootcamps that include study materials, practice exams, and hands-on training for a total cost of around $3,000.
Funding Options for CISSP Certification
For those who may not have the resources to pay for the CEH certification out of pocket, there are several funding options available. One option is to pursue employer sponsorship. Many employers are willing to pay for employee training and certification. This is especially possible if it is directly related to their job responsibilities.
Another option is to seek out scholarships or grants. The EC-Council Foundation, for example, offers scholarships to individuals seeking to obtain EC-Council certifications such as the CEH. Additionally, there may be government programs or non-profit organizations that offer funding for training and certification in the cybersecurity field.
Value of CEH Certification
Having a CEH certification holds immense long-term value in the cybersecurity industry. It signifies a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking techniques and methodologies. This makes professionals highly sought after by organizations aiming to fortify their defenses. The CEH certification demonstrates practical knowledge in identifying vulnerabilities, conducting penetration tests, and assessing security risks. With this credential, professionals gain credibility, showcasing their expertise in protecting systems and networks from potential threats. The CEH certification serves as a testament to their commitment to staying ahead of emerging cybersecurity challenges. That enables them to contribute effectively in roles such as penetration testers, security analysts, or cybersecurity consultants.
Salary and Career Prospects
With all these attributes employers need, the pay for CEH-certified professionals can prove to be very high. According to Comparably, the average Certified Ethical Hacker in the US makes $168,000. This makes the return on investment for obtaining certification very high. Furthermore, the path of a certified ethical hacker can lead to an array of career opportunities. From penetration testers to security consultants, vulnerability analysts to security researchers, these are only some of the roles a CEH-certified professional can expect to perform. Their responsibility will revolve around actively assessing and fortifying security measures, identifying potential risks, and providing recommendations to bolster organizations’ overall security posture. A successful CEH-certified professional will stay up to date to protect organizations from ever-evolving threats.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether the CEH certification is worth the cost depends on individual circumstances and career goals. If an individual is seeking to enter the cybersecurity field or advance their career, the CEH certification can provide a significant advantage in terms of job opportunities and salary. However, it is important to carefully consider the cost and weigh it against other certification bootcamps and funding options. While the cost may be a barrier for some, there are funding options available and the potential benefits can make it a worthwhile expense.
Consider looking into programs offered at Fusion Cyber. We offer online boot camps taught by practitioners. Many integrate the curriculum into existing associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree academic programs through the specific course/program articulation agreements. The Cybersecurity Program creates professionals that can rapidly advance their cybersecurity career. We combine certifications that validate their experience and cybersecurity knowledge to employers. Our mission to educate diverse groups of learners from varying backgrounds and build a generational impact looks directly to tackle the cyber talent gap while providing opportunities to individuals looking to join the industry.
