Top Cybersecurity Courses for Aspiring Ethical Hackers

Key takeaways

• CEH from EC-Council is a popular starting certificate.
• Ask for lab access and exam support details.
• Combine a course with self-study labs.

Introduction

Cybersecurity and ethical hacking have grown significantly over the past few years. With the increasing number of cyber threats, ethical hackers are in high demand to protect systems, networks, and sensitive data. Whether you want to break into the field of cybersecurity or enhance your existing skills, you should take a certified ethical hacking course.

Here are some of the best hacking courses available today, to help you make an informed decision based on your goals and skill level.

What Are the Types of Hacking Courses?

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) by EC-Council

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) course is one of the most recognized certifications in the cybersecurity world. It covers ethical hacking, penetration testing, network security, and vulnerability assessments.

Course Highlights:

• Introduction to ethical hacking.
• Penetration testing and vulnerability analysis.
• Exploit writing and evasion techniques.
• Hands-on experience in simulated environments.

Why Choose CEH?

The CEH certification is highly respected by employers and provides a solid foundation for individuals seeking to become ethical hackers or penetration testers.

2. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

Offensive Security's OSCP is one of the most respected certifications in the ethical hacking community. Known for its challenging exam, OSCP focuses on practical penetration testing and requires candidates to exploit systems within a controlled environment.

Course Highlights:

• Exploit development and system vulnerabilities.
• Real-world penetration testing scenarios.
• OSCP labs and exercises for hands-on practice.

Why Choose OSCP?

The OSCP course is ideal for individuals who want to study ethical hacking in depth. It provides hands-on experience and a challenging exam, ensuring candidates are ready for real-world cybersecurity jobs.

3. CompTIA Security+

While not specifically focused on hacking, CompTIA Security+ is a great foundational course for those looking to start a career in cybersecurity. It covers essential cybersecurity concepts, including encryption, risk management, and network security.

Course Highlights:

• Network and internet security.
• Cryptography and disaster recovery.
• Security infrastructure and tools.

Why Choose Security+?

Security+ is an entry-level certification that provides a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity. It’s ideal for beginners who want to build a foundation before diving into more advanced ethical hacking courses.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

The CISSP is a globally recognized certification for security professionals, focusing on advanced cybersecurity topics. While it’s not focused on ethical hacking directly, it offers an in-depth understanding of security management, risk assessment, and network defense.

Course Highlights:

• Security and risk management.
• Asset security and security engineering.
• Communication and network security.

Why Choose CISSP?

The CISSP is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in cybersecurity management or become a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). It's a more advanced certification compared to CEH and is great for those with a few years of experience in the field.

5. SANS GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)

The GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) course offered by SANS is a highly regarded certification that focuses on penetration testing techniques and methodologies. The course is designed for those who want to specialize in ethical hacking.

Course Highlights:

• Exploiting web applications.
• Assessing system vulnerabilities.
• Practical penetration testing skills.

Why Choose GPEN?

The GPEN certification is recognized worldwide and provides in-depth knowledge of penetration testing, network security, and system analysis, making it ideal for cybersecurity professionals.

Choosing the Best Course for You

Consider Your Skill Level

When selecting a course, consider your current skill level. If you’re new to cybersecurity, you might want to start with basic courses like CompTIA Security+ or CEH. For those with more experience, advanced courses like OSCP or CISSP might be better suited.

How Do You Determine Your Career Goals?

If your goal is to become an ethical hacker or penetration tester, then CEH or OSCP would be excellent choices. If you’re more interested in overall cybersecurity management, CISSP or Security+ might be more appropriate.

Hands-on Experience vs. Theory

While theoretical knowledge is important, hands-on experience matters most in ethical hacking. Look for courses that offer practical labs and real-world scenarios, such as OSCP or GPEN.

To take this further with guided labs and an instructor, see our preparing for CEH Practical.

Related reading

• What Certifications Can Help Me Get a Job as a Penetration Tester?
• Top 7 Ethical Hacking Certifications for Cybersecurity Professionals
• Top Ethical Hacking Certifications to Advance Your Cybersecurity Career

Reference

For the authoritative details, see EC-Council CEH.