Im just starting out in school to study Network and Info Security. I know this i
ID: 658407 • Letter: I
Question
Im just starting out in school to study Network and Info Security. I know this is the field I want to invest my time and study into. Well over 200k security jobs went unfulfilled last year. My question is this - I know that real work experience is the most important factor that companies look at when comparing applicants. After factoring that in, what are the certifications that can not only help advance a career but aid in the work, itself, where security and entry-level is concerned? Again, I'm very new to this so certifications that would be available to someone fresh out of school.
Explanation / Answer
Just check the job sites and see what employers are asking for. My opinion -- seems like for Management type positions the CISSP is favored among others. For Analysts and Techs probably any cert that includes practical working knowledge (EC Council CEH) or lab components (Sans GIAC certs). How much money you have and are willing to spend on a certification will also determine your options. If you only can afford a few hundred dollars then the CEH is good place to start. On the other hand, if you have a few thousand dollars then nothing is probably better than a Sans GIAC cert -- any of them.