Cybersecurity Certifications 

Getting cyber security certifications can be worth it for individuals and organizations.  For employers, the benefits of cyber security certifications include:  

• Improved security posture. Certified professionals have the skills and knowledge to defend organizations against cyber threats, improving the organization’s security posture.  

• Enhanced talent retention. Employers who offer certification opportunities can increase their likelihood of attracting and retaining top talent.  
• Better work quality. Certified cyber security professionals follow best practices and are up-to-date on industry trends, improving work quality and operating efficiency.  

According to GIAC.org, the benefits of cyber security certifications include:  

• Career advancement.  Having sought-after cyber security certifications can help you stand out in a competitive job market. In fact, 27% of candidates with cyber security certifications receive job promotions. 
• Skill and knowledge validation. Cyber security certifications validate your skills and knowledge, demonstrating to employers you’re well-versed in specialized areas.  
• Networking opportunities. Certain certification training programs offer networking opportunities, allowing you to exchange knowledge with your peers.   
• Higher earning potential. 58% of professionals received a salary increase within three months of obtaining cyber security certifications, making it a worthwhile investment.  

There are a few things to consider when choosing a cyber security certification, including:  

• Where you are in your cyber security career. If you’re just starting your cyber security career, look for introductory courses. These courses will provide the foundational knowledge you need to work in cyber security. Beginner training courses will also help you identify the cyber security domains that interest you.   
• Experience level. If you have cyber security experience, you may have already found your niche and want to develop your skills further. In this case, choose certifications that align with your cyber discipline.  
• Find a reputable cyber security certification provider. The best way to find a reputable certification provider is to do your research. One of the most reputable cyber security certification organizations is GIAC, the administrators of some of the most valued and coveted cyber security certifications in the world. 

Most SANS cyber security courses take five to six days to complete, and the certification exam typically takes two to five hours, depending on the type of test.  

In many cases, it’s the preparation for the certification test that takes the most time. Those pursuing a GIAC certification spend an average of 55+ hours studying and take an average of two practice tests before taking the certification exam.  

There are many certifications available for people new to cyber security. The following introductory certifications are some of the most popular and well-respected: 

• The GIAC Foundational Cybersecurity Technologies (GFACT) validates your foundational cyber security knowledge.  

• The GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF) tests your expertise in networking, cryptography, understanding threats and risks, and identifying best practices for protecting resources and data.  

• The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) tests your knowledge beyond the foundational cyber security concepts. Taking the GSEC will demonstrate your capacity to handle hands-on security roles and tasks.  

If you’re a cyber security manager interested in getting your team certified, SANS provides a group voucher program that will allow your organization to establish a training and certification budget. Upon opening your organization’s account, you can enroll your employees in SANS training courses, GIAC certifications, and certification renewals. You’ll also have access to employee certification status and course progress. 

Another team certification option is SANS Institute’s private training. Available Live Online or In-Person, SANS’s private training offers customized training from anywhere in the world, confidential discussions about sensitive issues relevant to your organization, and options to add GIAC certification testing to the training course.