What do you do as an IT technician?

it technician salary

What Is an IT Job?

Information technology (IT) technicians maintain computer systems, provide technical support, and teach their clients the basic skills they need to operate newly installed programs. Aspiring technicians can find certificate and degree programs in information technology and acquire industry-recognized certifications.

Required Education	Associate's or bachelor's degree or certificate
Certification	Voluntary; options include A+ certification, Linux+ certification, Microsoft certified IT professional certification, Cisco certified network associate certification, International information systems security certification consortium certification
Projected Job Growth (2016-2026)*	11% for all computer support specialists
Average Salary (2018)*	$26.46 per hour for all computer user support specialists

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

IT Technician Job Description

More specifically, IT technicians diagnose computer problems, monitor computer processing systems, install software, and perform tests on computer equipment and programs. Technicians may also set up computer equipment, schedule maintenance, and teach clients to use programs. Other job duties can include minor repairs and computer parts ordering.

IT job requirements include strong knowledge of computers and how they operate, which includes having a broad understanding of hardware and software, operating systems, and basic computer programming. Familiarity with electronic equipment, Internet applications, and security may also be required. Technicians may also need good communication skills because this position requires frequent interaction with clients.

IT Education Requirements

Many employers prefer to hire an IT technician who has some level of formal training. Future IT technicians can find certificate, associate, and bachelor's degree programs in computer science, information technology, or computer information systems. Coursework in these programs may cover computer security, hardware configuration, and technical support. Students can also learn about database programming, operating systems, and software installation.

Certification

While not all companies require IT technicians to be certified, taking the extra step to earn a certification can show employers that technicians have the required skills and training to fulfill job requirements. Common certifications for IT technicians include A+ and Linux+ certifications offered by CompTIA. IT technicians can also pursue Microsoft Certified IT Professional and Cisco Certified Network Associate credentials. The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium offers a variety of certifications for IT professionals pursuing information security positions. The certification process may include passing an exam and completing continuing education courses to maintain or renew credentials.

Career Outlook and Salary Information

According to the most recent information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer support specialists could see employment growth of 11% between 2016 and 2026 (www.bls.gov). Upgrades to existing systems should play a major part in this employment growth. In May 2018, the BLS reported that computer user support specialists earned an average wage of $26.46 per hour.

An information technology technician is a computer support person who can work for various companies. They should have an associate's degree, bachelor's degree, or certificate in a computer field. IT technicians may look into obtaining certifications to promote job potentiality.

Wireless Security Basics

wireless network security

With the deployment of wireless LANs in almost any type of environment, the risk of attacks occurring on wireless networks goes up. A number of different reasons are behind this, but it mainly stems from a lack of wireless network knowledge.

Unlike a wired network which requires physical access to a device, a wireless network can be targeted and exploited from a distance. This article reviews some basic wireless security fundamentals and reviews some of the most common threats that exist when deploying wireless networks.

Wireless Security Basics

There are a number of basic fundamentals that a person or company needs to be aware of when deploying a wireless network. The first is a basic understanding of what frequencies will be used by the equipment being deployed; this is very important when deploying a wireless network as it affects the amount of interference that the network will be subject to depending on the specific environment.

At this point in time, there are two main frequency bands that are used for wireless LANs (802.11); these include the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. From a security perspective, the choice of frequency does not greatly affect the security risk of the network. What it does affect is the number of available non-overlapping channels that are available on the network; for the most part this will not affect security except when an attacker is attempting to jam or block a specific frequency to force wireless endpoints to switch Access Points (AP).

Endpoint devices identify wireless networks using a service set identifier (SSID) along with a set of security parameters. On most wireless deployments, the SSID is broadcast from the APs allowing the clients the ability to easily associate. It is possible to not broadcast the SSID which provides a little protection from those wireless network attackers with little operating knowledge; however for an experienced wireless attacker this is not a very effective security measure.

The real security for a wireless network comes from the selection of a proven security technique, there have been a number of different security techniques deployed that have been broken. As of this writing the most secure technique is IEEE 802.11i which is also known as WPA2. This standard provides two different modes of operation including one typically referred to as Personal or Pre-Shared Key (PSK) and Enterprise:

• WPA2-Personal - utilizes a shared key that is communicated to both sides (AP and client) before establishing a wireless connection; this key is then used to secure the traffic.
• WPA2-Enterprise - utilizes the IEEE 802.1x protocol to authenticate a wireless client using an authentication server before traffic is allowed.

Common Wireless Threats

There are a number of main threats that exist to wireless LANS, these include:

• Rogue Access Points/Ad-Hoc Networks
• Denial of Service
• Configuration Problems (Mis-Configurations/Incomplete Configurations)
• Passive Capturing

Let's go through each of these in more detail

What it takes to become a CWSP

Secure new opportunities.

Do you know how to assess the vulnerability of a network and help prevent attacks before they happen? Do you know how to perform WLAN security audits and implement compliance monitoring solutions? Do you have experience setting up Wireless Intrusion Prevention Systems (WIPS)?

Today’s wireless network security professionals need to have a deep understanding of the latest software, tools, trends and technologies available. Security professionals are often counted on to advise on security policies (i.e. password and acceptable use). Plus, these experts are responsible for configuring an entire network’s Security Design and Architecture.

Measure your skills and knowledge with this professional-level certification and get on track toward ultimately earning your Certified Wireless Network Expert (CWNE) certification. Those that pass the CWSP exam earn credit towards a CWNE certification.

What it takes to become a CWSP:

The CWSP certification is a professional level wireless LAN certification for the CWNP Program. To earn a CWSP certification, you must hold a current and valid CWNA credential. You must take the CWSP exam at a Pearson Vue Testing Center and pass with a 70% or higher. Instructors must pass with a 80% or higher. However you choose to prepare for the CWSP exam, you should start with the exam objectives, which cover the full list of skills tested on the exam.  The CWSP certification is valid for three (3) years. To recertify, you must have a current CWNA credential and pass the current CWSP exam.  By passing the CWSP exam, your CWNA certificate will be renewed for another three years.

Main areas covered by CWSP

• WLAN Discovery Techniques
• Intrusion and Attack Techniques
• 802.11 Protocol Analysis
• Wireless Intrusion Prevention Systems (WIPS) Implementation
• Layer 2 and 3 VPNs used over 802.11 networks
• Enterprise/SMB/SOHO/Public-Network Security design models
• Managed Endpoint Security Systems802.11 Authentication and Key
• 205 Exam Objectives
• CWSP-206 Exam Objectives 2019 (CWSP-206 Exam will replace CWSP-205 in September of 2019)

Management Protocols

• Enterprise/SMB/SOHO/Public-Network Security Solution Implementation
• Building Robust Security Networks from the ground up
• Fast BSS Transition (aka. Fast/Secure Roaming) Techniques
• Thorough coverage of all 802.1X/EAP types used in WLANs
• Wireless LAN Management Systems (WNMS)
• Authentication Infrastructure Design Models
• Using Secure Applications
• 802.11 Design Architectures
• Implementing a Thorough Wireless Security Policy

CWSP Exam Summary:

• Exam Number: CWSP-206
• Cost: $275.00 (USD) - Exam Voucher
• Availability: Pearson Vue Testing Centers
• Duration: 90 Minutes
• Questions: 60 multiple choice
• Language: English

4 Cybersecurity Career Paths (And the Training to Get You There)

information security profession

Cybersecurity professionals work in every size company and industry to protect organizations from data breaches and attacks. And the demand for cybersecurity professionals is growing at a breakneck speed. Job postings for cybersecurity positions have grown three times faster than openings for IT jobs overall.

Before you jump headfirst into this specialized field, you should know what a typical cybersecurity career path entails. In this blog, we’ll cover four popular security careers and the recommended training you need to be successful:

• Security Architect
• Security Consultant
• Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

How to Start Your Cybersecurity Career Path

There is no one linear path to a successful career in cybersecurity. Some people enter the security field straight out of college, while others transition from another IT role.

No matter where you start, all cybersecurity careers begin with general IT experience. You need to understand how technology works before you can learn how to secure and protect it.

Entry-level IT jobs that pave the way for a cybersecurity career include:

• Systems administrator
• Database administrator
• Web administrator
• Web developer
• Network administrator
• IT technician
• Security administrator
• Network engineer
• Computer software engineer

You’ll also need to supplement what you learn on the job with outside training and education. In fact, 35 percent of cybersecurity jobs require an industry certification, compared to 23 percent of IT jobs overall.

Most management-level cybersecurity jobs are highly specialized. The more you can focus your expertise by seeking out specific industries and certifications, the more attractive you’ll appear to companies looking for those particular skill sets.

Security Architect Career Path

If you’re passionate about problem-solving and creating big-picture strategies, the security architect career path is for you.

A security architect is tasked with designing, building and implementing network and computer security for an organization. Security architects are responsible for creating complex security structures and ensuring that they function properly. They design security systems to combat malware, hacker intrusions and DDoS attacks.

In the United States, the average salary for this position is $118,681. Security architects are expected to have 5-10 years of relevant experience, with 3-5 of those years dedicated to security.

To become a security architect, you might follow a career path similar to this:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity or a related field. Or, gain equivalent experience with relevant industry certifications.
• Enter the IT field as a security administrator, systems administrator or network administrator.
• Get promoted to a mid-level role as a security engineer or analyst.
• Enter a security architect role.

As a security architect, you’ll be required to:

• Plan, research and design durable security architectures for various IT projects.
• Develop requirements for networks, firewalls, routers and related network devices.
• Perform vulnerability testing, security assessments and risk analysis.
• Research and implement the latest security standards, systems and best practices.

Recommended Training for Security Architects

Because the security architect role is a senior-level position, employers will look for accredited security certifications on your résumé.

Professional cybersecurity training and certifications will help you accelerate your career path and stand out to potential employers. These certifications reinforce the essential skills required for the security architect role, such as network security and architecture, vulnerability testing and risk management.

Beginner:

• CompTIA Security+

Intermediate:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Advanced:

• EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)

Expert:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Security Consultant

A security consultant is a catch-all cybersecurity expert. They assess cybersecurity risks, problems and solutions for different organizations and guide them in protecting and securing their physical capital and data. The position might also be referred to as an information security consultant, computer security consultant, database security consultant or network security consultant.

Security consultants need to be flexible and savvy – they deal with a wide range of variables when assessing security systems across diverse companies and industries.

The salary range for IT security consultants is broad depending on experience, but a senior security consultant earns an average of $106,190 in the U.S. Security consultants are expected to have 3-5 years of professional experience.

To become a security consultant, you might follow a career path similar to this:

• Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, cybersecurity or a related field. Or, gain equivalent experience with relevant industry certifications.
• Pursue an entry-level position in general IT or security.
• Earn a mid-level role as a security administrator, analyst, engineer or auditor.
• Sharpen your cybersecurity skills with advanced training and certifications.
• Enter a security consultant role.

As a security consultant, your daily tasks may include:

• Determining the best way to protect computers, networks, data and information systems from potential attacks
• Performing vulnerability tests and security assessments
• Interviewing staff and department heads to uncover security issues
• Testing security solutions using industry standard analysis methods
• Providing technical supervision and guidance to a security team

What is wireless security techniques?

wireless security certification

Wireless security is the prevention of unauthorized access or damage to computers or data using wireless networks, which include Wi-Fi networks. The most common type is Wi-Fi security, which includes Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) and Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA). WEP is a notoriously weak security standard^{[citation needed]}: the password it uses can often be cracked in a few minutes with a basic laptop computer and widely available software tools. WEP is an old IEEE 802.11 standard from 1997 which was superseded in 2003 by WPA, or Wi-Fi Protected Access. WPA was a quick alternative to improve security over WEP. The current standard is WPA2; some hardware cannot support WPA2 without firmware upgrade or replacement. WPA2 uses an encryption device that encrypts the network with a 256-bit key; the longer key length improves security over WEP. Enterprises often enforce security using a certificate-based system to authenticate the connecting device, following the standard 802.1X.

Many laptop computers have wireless cards pre-installed. The ability to enter a network while mobile has great benefits. However, wireless networking is prone to some security issues. Hackers have found wireless networks relatively easy to break into, and even use wireless technology to hack into wired networks. As a result, it is very important that enterprises define effective wireless security policies that guard against unauthorized access to important resources. Wireless Intrusion Prevention Systems (WIPS) or Wireless Intrusion Detection Systems (WIDS) are commonly used to enforce wireless security policies.

Security settings panel for a DD-WRT router

The risks to users of wireless technology have increased as the service has become more popular. There were relatively few dangers when wireless technology was first introduced. Hackers had not yet had time to latch on to the new technology, and wireless networks were not commonly found in the work place. However, there are many security risks associated with the current wireless protocols and encryption methods, and in the carelessness and ignorance that exists at the user and corporate IT level.^[4] Hacking methods have become much more sophisticated and innovative with wireless access. Hacking has also become much easier and more accessible with easy-to-use Windows- or Linux-based tools being made available on the web at no charge.

Some organizations that have no wireless access points installed do not feel that they need to address wireless security concerns. In-Stat MDR and META Group have estimated that 95% of all corporate laptop computers that were planned to be purchased in 2005 were equipped with wireless cards. Issues can arise in a supposedly non-wireless organization when a wireless laptop is plugged into the corporate network. A hacker could sit out in the parking lot and gather information from it through laptops and/or other devices, or even break in through this wireless card–equipped laptop and gain access to the wired network.

What actually is WLAN?

what is wireless security

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) is a wireless local network and is generally used when the network device can’t be wired or is difficult to implement, requiring a lot of effort. A wireless network can also exist for convenience reasons. Wireless connections are particularly widespread in the private sector, since they are a good solution for implementing internet access through entire living quarters without having to rely on cables. Radio networks are also useful in offices, especially when a variety of portable devices such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones are in use.

There are three different modes for operating wireless networks:

• Infrastructure mode: the structure of this mode is similar to the mobile network. A wireless access point takes care of the coordination of all network users and sends them small packets, at adjustable intervals, with information about the network name, the supported transmission rates, or the type of encryption. The access point is often a router.

• Wireless distribution system: since WLAN networks use the same addressing mode as Ethernet, you can easily connect to wired networks (or other wireless networks) via the access point. This is how networks are linked together and the range is increased, which is why this is known as a wireless distribution system.

• Ad-hoc mode: in ad-hoc networks, the central control unit is missing, which means that the coordination must be taken over by the respective terminals. These networks are used for fast, direct communication between individual participants. However, this WLAN mode isn’t used as frequently – alternative techniques, such as Bluetooth, are much more common.

These are the disadvantages of wireless networks

The outline data for communication in radio networks is specified in IEEE 802.11 from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) near New York. At the beginning, however, not much emphasis was placed on security: unencrypted transmission and no user authentication requirements meant that anyone within the appropriate area had access to a wireless network. Ultimately, the requirement of WLAN security promoted the development of the following encryption and authentication methods:

• Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP): WEP is the oldest standard for WLAN encryption and dates back to 1997. It offers two authentication methods: Open System Authentication (enabled for all clients) and Shared Key Authentication (activated by password). In addition, WEP includes the encryption methods RC4. Due to various weaknesses, WEP is today considered unsafe and outdated.

• WLAN Protected Access (WPA): WPA builds on the WEP architecture and is designed to eradicate weaknesses in the same process. To ensure this, WPA operates with a dynamic key based on the Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP). Since WPA also has certain security deficiencies, new wireless access points (since 2011) and all WLAN-enabled devices (since 2012) are no longer allowed to support this protocol.

• WLAN Protected Access 2 (WPA2): the current, safest WLAN encryption and authentication method WPA2 was released in 2004 with the IEEE 802.11i standard. Instead of TKIP, WPA2 uses the much more modern AES encryption method. Therefore, if you set up a WLAN, you should always use the older WEP and WPA standards of WPA2.

• WLAN Protected Setup (WPS): the standard WPS is not a transmission nor encryption technique, but is rather an automatic configuration feature, which aims to make WLAN configuration easier for new network users. The authentication is carried out at the push of a button (WPS PBC) – physically at the access point or virtually via a software-implemented button – or by entering a PIN (WPS PIN). Alternatively, you can change the network settings via USB stick or via NFC (Near Field Communication).

Although WEP and WPA with WPA2 have a legitimate, more secure successor, some operators are still using these outdated standards – as long as they are supported by the wireless action point in order to encrypt their WLAN. Whether this is unintentional or for compatibility reasons (to grant access to older devices) is incidental. What is clear is that networks like this are at a high risk of unauthorized access – one of the main reasons for the critical assessment of WLAN security. Additional errors that make it easier for attackers to intercept data include:

• Having standard user names and passwords for wireless access points

• Having unsafe basic configurations for wireless access points

• Implementing WPA2 and WPS incorrectly

In addition, wireless networks are vulnerable to common DoS or DDoS attacks as well as so-called evil twin attacks. With the latter, malicious attackers plant fake wireless access points in the network with special firmware. Network users believe these to be real and then connect to them. The evil twin responds with its own authentication request and receives the WLAN access data from the unsuspecting network device. It also takes over the MAC address of the client (MAC spoofing), gaining all necessary data to establish the connection. Publicly accessible WLAN points are particularly at risk from this kind of attack.

What is the best entry-level IT certification?

entry level it certification

Start a career in it technology

The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification is an entry-level credential that validates fundamental technology skills and knowledge among students and job-seekers who are pursuing a career in technology.  MTA addresses a wide range of critical technology concepts with exams that are designed to assess and validate core technical concepts in three primary areas: Developer, Database, and IT Professional.

As the preferred path to Microsoft’s Certified Professional exams, such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD), MTA is the ideal starting point for anyone interested in starting a career in technology.

As businesses continue to rely on increasingly complex information systems, the need for experienced IT professionals continues to grow. Individuals with particular IT certifications are even more sought-after since the rigorous exams and certification prerequisites showcase both deep knowledge and real-world experience.

There’s also evidence that IT certifications can boost earning potential. A recent survey showed that 23% of IT professionals experienced a 20% salary increase after getting certified.1 According to CompTIA, 72% of employers actually require IT certifications for certain positions, and 92% believe IT certifications help ensure the credibility of their IT staff.2          

We looked at over a dozen popular IT certifications and chose the best—those with the highest demand, earning potential, and opportunities for advancement. These are our top picks. 

The Smartest Way to Get Hired

cwsp salary

Introduction

If looking for a good niche in the information technology sector, a professional might want to explore opportunities in the growing market for wireless-related positions and the kind of certifications and job roles in high demand right now. With the long-lasting ‘wireless skills gap,’ the Wi-Fi industry is in search of qualified talents, as users demand more support for mobility to expand the capabilities of networks already in place and to build on evolving mobile technologies that are having such an impact on many aspects of our daily life, from personal activities to work-related tasks. Moreover, with the increasing pressure to do more about wireless security and not enough technical talents and skills in the trade to fill employment gaps, salaries are on the rise.

As mobility efforts expand, companies will need to hire the expertise of certified wireless security specialists (CWSS) who can develop the technology needed for consumers to benefit from such products and services by addressing the security issues that could leave a number of users vulnerable to attacks on their systems connected remotely. A CWSSs can keep data secure on every network-enabled Wi-Fi device.

What Is CWSS?

Just a few days ago, the United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team Coordination Center (CERT/CC) has released information on Wi-Fi Protected Access II (WPA2) protocol vulnerabilities that were able to allow a malicious hacker to take control of affected systems.

“The vulnerabilities are in the WPA2 protocol, not within individual WPA2 implementations, which means that all WPA2 wireless networking may be affected,” warned the group. The frequency of cyber-attacks to wireless devices is on the rise as the technology is rapidly spreading and mobile devices are often less protected than their wired counterparts. Users tend to let their guards down when it comes to cell phones, wearable tech devices, and tablets. Wireless security specialists are expected to be in demand in the next few years to help secure the many connected devices our future will employ including, for example, medical IoT or connected automobiles. These professionals will be expected to be able to move in diverse environments as they protect a variety of wireless and mobile technologies.

So, you want to be a CWSS. Do you know what a CWSS does? They have an essential role in defending wireless networks against attacks and, therefore, are required to be familiar with the tools and defenses of the trade and technologies including the family of IEEE 802.11 protocols, WPA/WPA2, and WIPS/WIDS. They are also expected to detect or prevent intrusions effectively or accurately pinpoint the presence of unauthorized access points or identify threats; these professionals must know how to plan, design, and manage a secure wireless LAN (WLAN) that will safeguard every computing device connected to it.

The employment for these specialists is projected to grow at a faster-than-average rate for the next few years, as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that tells about the need for more specialists who can implement security measures to protect organizations’ WLAN networks and Wi-Fi systems from viruses and cyber-threats (e.g. hacking, data breaches). However, employers are already finding some difficulty in locating well-qualified specialists with a valid certification who have a good grasp regarding wireless anatomy and the knowledge necessary to deploy secure mobile solutions using appropriate technologies to deter outsiders hacking wireless networks and smartphones, tablets, laptops, or desktop PCs using Wi-Fi. As a result, some ICT companies are often willing to pay more for professionals that can demonstrate their expertise in the wireless realm.

Which security certification is best?

security professional certifications

Cyberattacks are the fastest growing crime in the U.S., and they continue to grow in size and sophistication. Companies like Facebook, Panera Bread, Under Armour and Uber made headlines after having customer information stolen. With each breach, administrative fears and the demand for cybersecurity certifications increase.

These fears are not unfounded. Centrify found that 66 percent of customers in the U.S. would likely halt any interaction with a business that's officially been hacked.

As a company, you might find yourself scrambling to hire top cybersecurity talent or equip your IT team with cybersecurity certifications. As an IT professional, the demand for cybersecurity skills presents a huge opportunity to boost your résumé, stand out among candidates and increase your earning potential.

Ready to jumpstart your IT career? Explore cybersecurity certifications here.

But with so many IT security certifications out there, where do you start?

As the leading IT training company, we compiled the top cybersecurity certifications IT professionals need to earn in 2019:

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
2. CompTIA Security+
3. Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)
4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
6. NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NCSF)
7. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)
8. Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)
9. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

To stop a hacker, you must be able to think like one. It's an interesting balance between toeing the line of moral actions and processing the malicious thoughts the average cybercriminal would have. This kind of mentality isn't easy to come by, which is why the Certified Ethical Hacker course was created.

This class teaches the skills you need to think and act like a hacker.

Topics include:

• Hacking technologies that target cloud computing technology, mobile platforms and the latest operating systems
• Coverage of the latest vulnerabilities, malware and viruses
• Information security laws and standards

CEH students go through real-time scenarios where they are exposed to different ways hackers penetrate networks and steal information. Students learn how to scan, test and hack and protect their systems.

IT professionals who complete this course have many positions to choose from, the most notorious being penetration testing. Penetration testing jobs require you to hack into a network without actually stealing any data. This job function demands a high level of trust, which is well rewarded. Penetration tester salaries often top out at just over $130,000 annually, according to PayScale.

The CEH certification benefits security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators and anyone concerned about network infrastructure security.

Earn Your CEH Certification

2. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a base-level certification for IT professionals new to cybersecurity. You only need two years of IT experience to complete it. The CompTIA Security+ certification is regarded as a general cybersecurity certification because it doesn't focus on a single vendor product line.

In this course, you learn about broader IT security concepts, including:

• Network attack strategies and defenses
• Elements of effective security policies
• Network- and host-based security best practices
• Business continuity and disaster recovery
• Encryption standards and products

CompTIA Security+ is great for anyone looking to gain basic IT security knowledge. It helps build a solid foundation that you can enhance with other courses. The certification is so well-respected that the U.S. Department of Defense mandates it for all employees.

Because security applies to all levels and job roles, this course will also benefit application developers, PC support analysts and senior managers in accounting, sales and marketing roles.

Earn Your CompTIA Security+ Certification

3. Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)

Another popular certification for general cybersecurity knowledge is the Certified Information System Security Professional course. Many IT companies consider CISSP a base requirement for employees responsible for network security.

This course challenges you in various cybersecurity domains, including:

• Access Control
• Cryptography
• Telecommunications
• Networking

Like CompTIA Security+, this certification is not vendor-specific, so the knowledge can be applied to a variety of setups.

To take this exam, you need at least three to five years of field experience. The CISSP is considered the “crown jewel” of cybersecurity certifications, and passing the exam can lead to some incredibly lucrative positions. Security architects, for example, can make more than $150,000 annually.

The CISSP certification is a must-have for people looking to move into a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) role. But it’s also a salary-booster for analysts, systems engineers, consultants and IT security managers.

Earn Your CISSP Certification

4. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The Certified Information Security Manager certification is revered as one of the best cybersecurity courses out there, and for good reason. You need at least five years of experience in the field to even apply.

Over the course of this management-focused certification, you will learn about four sections of cybersecurity:

• Information security program development and management
• Information security management
• Information security incident management
• Information risk management and compliance

The exam is incredibly rigorous and demands a lot of time and knowledge, but the end result is worth it. Many CISM certification holders pursue a CISO title, a position that earns an average of $160,000 per year, according to PayScale.

Any IT professional interested in managing enterprise information security can increase their earning potential by taking this course.

Earn Your CISM Certification

5. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The CISA certification focuses on information auditing. As an IT professional, being CISA-certified demonstrates that you have rigorous audit experience and are capable of managing vulnerabilities and instituting controls at an enterprise level.

Like its sibling test CISM, CISA requires applicants to have five years of experience before registering. Students learn about information systems control and monitoring skills, including:

• The process of auditing information systems
• IT management and governance
• Protection of information assets

A globally recognized certification, CISA is the main requirement for high-level IS audit, assurance and control positions.

Earn Your CISA Certification

6. NIST Cybersecurity Framework (NCSF)

The new NCSF certifications are built around the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, released in 2014.

By 2015, 30 percent of U.S. organizations were using the NCSF Framework, and adoption has only increased across enterprises, the public-sector and SMBs.

NCSF certifications validate that cybersecurity professionals have the baseline skills to design, build, test and manage a cybersecurity program using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.

NCSF Foundation Certification

This program is for executives, business professionals or information technology professionals who need a basic understanding of NCSF to perform their jobs. NCSF Foundation training and certification helps establish a common NCSF vocabulary across an organization.

NCSF Practitioner Certification

This program teaches you the best approach to designing and building a comprehensive technology-focused cybersecurity program. You’ll learn how to operationalize a business-focused cybersecurity risk management program that will minimize risks and protect critical assets.

By earning your NCSF Practitioner certification, you’ll develop a deep understanding of NCSF and come away with a methodology for adapting and operationalizing it.

Earn Your NCSF Certifications

7. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Traditional IT security practices don’t transfer well to the cloud — 84 percent of organizations say traditional security solutions don’t work in a cloud environment.

The CCSP certification ensures that IT professionals have hands-on experience and a deep understanding of cloud security architecture, design, operations and services. It’s designed for security professionals with extensive experience in information technology, IT architecture, governance, cloud and web security engineering.

The certification covers a range of topics, including:

• Cloud architecture and design concepts
• Cloud data security
• Platform and infrastructure security
• Cloud operations
• Legal and compliance

It's an ideal certification for systems architects, systems engineers, security managers, security administrators and enterprise architects.

Candidates must have a minimum of five years’ experience of security-related work in a cloud-computing environment.

Earn your CCSP Certification

8. Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator (CHFI)

More than 4,000 ransomware attacks occur every day, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

A hacking forensic investigator is tasked with analyzing attacks and extricating information to report hacking crimes and conducting audits to prevent future attacks.

Forensic investigators explore everything from theft of intellectual property and corporate IT usage violations to IT system fraud and misuse.

The CHFI is an advanced certification for forensic network security investigators. It validates your ability to gather necessary evidence and prosecute offenders in a court of law.

The certification covers topics including:

• Incident response and forensics
• Recovering deleted, encrypted or damaged file information
• Technical examination, analysis and reporting of computer-based evidence

Earn your CHFI Certification

9. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Security

The CCNA validates that you have the applicable knowledge and hands-on skills to protect Cisco networks.

If your organization utilizes Cisco technology or you’re interested in developing your Cisco skills, the CCNA is a strong associate-level certification that can propel your Cisco security career forward.

The CCNA certification demonstrates your ability to:

• Recognize threats and vulnerabilities in a Cisco network
• Mitigate security threats
• Develop an effective security infrastructure

The CCNA certification establishes a strong foundation for job roles including network security specialist, network support engineer and security administrator.

Earn your CCNA Certification

Choosing the Best Cybersecurity Certification for You

These top cybersecurity certifications will keep your IT staff up to date on the latest techniques and security best practices or help elevate your income and marketability.

But being security-aware is not only for IT professionals. All business staff should have a foundational understanding of cybersecurity and the risks technology poses.

So why aren’t more IT professionals investing in these skills? The biggest hurdle to earning a cybersecurity certification is time. Whether you prefer instructor-led or online learning, New Horizons can provide the right cybersecurity training experience for you.

Unsure which course you should take first? See which cybersecurity certification path is right for you using the New Horizons cybersecurity roadmap.