CEH vs CompTIA Security+: A Guide to Choosing the Best Cybersecurity Certification – IT Exams Training

In today’s increasingly digital world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Every day, businesses face a wide range of cyber threats, including hacking attempts, data breaches, ransomware, phishing attacks, and more. With the growing reliance on technology, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals has skyrocketed, and this trend is expected to continue as cyber threats become more sophisticated and pervasive.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a staggering 35 percent growth in the employment of information security analysts by 2031, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This rapid growth highlights the urgency for companies to secure their networks, protect sensitive data, and safeguard their digital infrastructure. Consequently, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in cybersecurity. For aspiring IT professionals looking to enter the field or advance their careers, earning cybersecurity certifications can be a valuable step toward achieving success.

Cybersecurity certifications serve as a benchmark of expertise, enabling professionals to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in a competitive job market. These certifications are recognized globally and are often required by employers to ensure that their staff possesses the necessary technical skills to handle the evolving threats to their digital environments. Among the most recognized certifications are the CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credentials.

Both of these certifications are highly regarded in the cybersecurity industry, but they cater to different levels of expertise and specialization. Understanding the differences between these two certifications is crucial for anyone considering a career in cybersecurity, as it will help determine which path is best suited to your skills, career goals, and experience level.

This article will compare and contrast the CompTIA Security+ and CEH certifications, covering their key features, benefits, target audiences, career paths, salary potential, and more. By the end of this discussion, you will have a clearer understanding of which certification aligns best with your career aspirations and how it can help you achieve your goals in the cybersecurity field.

The Importance of Cybersecurity in Today’s Digital World

Before diving into the details of the certifications, it’s important to recognize why cybersecurity is such a critical field. As businesses continue to digitize their operations, cyber threats have evolved into one of the most significant challenges they face. Hackers and cybercriminals are constantly developing new methods to exploit vulnerabilities in systems, and the consequences of successful attacks can be catastrophic.

A successful cyberattack can lead to data breaches, financial losses, damage to a company’s reputation, legal consequences, and a loss of customer trust. As a result, businesses are investing heavily in cybersecurity measures and are seeking professionals who are equipped with the skills to defend against these threats. From small businesses to large enterprises, the need for cybersecurity experts is universal.

Cybersecurity professionals are responsible for implementing measures to protect systems, networks, and data. They identify potential vulnerabilities, create strategies to mitigate risks, and respond to security incidents when they occur. The roles within cybersecurity are diverse, including positions such as penetration testers, security analysts, security engineers, and incident responders. Each of these positions requires a different set of skills, and the certifications that professionals pursue can help define their career trajectory.

Given the increasing complexity of cyber threats, specialized knowledge in certain areas of cybersecurity has become essential. This is where certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CEH come into play. These certifications validate that professionals have the expertise to handle specific aspects of cybersecurity and are well-equipped to protect their organizations from potential attacks.

As organizations recognize the critical role cybersecurity plays in safeguarding their operations, the demand for certified cybersecurity professionals continues to grow. This presents an exciting opportunity for IT professionals to pursue a career in cybersecurity and secure high-paying roles in a field that offers job security and career advancement.

Cybersecurity Certifications – A Key to Career Advancement

The global demand for cybersecurity professionals has made obtaining certifications an important step for those entering the field. Certifications demonstrate a level of expertise that employers value and can serve as a distinguishing factor in the hiring process. For IT professionals looking to specialize in cybersecurity, obtaining certifications is essential to advancing their careers and gaining credibility in the industry.

There are a wide range of certifications available in the cybersecurity space, each designed to validate different sets of skills and knowledge. These certifications can range from entry-level to expert-level credentials, and choosing the right certification depends on your current skill level, career goals, and areas of interest. Among the most popular and widely recognized certifications in the cybersecurity field are CompTIA Security+ and CEH.

Both of these certifications are highly respected and can open the door to a variety of roles in cybersecurity. However, they differ in their scope, level of difficulty, and areas of focus. For instance, CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level certification designed for individuals who are just starting in the cybersecurity field, while CEH is an advanced certification for those who have significant experience and want to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing.

Understanding the differences between these certifications is crucial for determining which one aligns best with your career aspirations. In the following sections, we will explore each certification in detail, discussing the skills and knowledge they cover, their target audiences, the types of careers they support, and the job prospects and salary potential for certified professionals.

What is CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA Security+ is an entry-level cybersecurity certification offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). It is recognized globally as a foundational certification for IT professionals who want to specialize in cybersecurity. The certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills required to secure computer networks, manage security risks, and protect information systems from cyber threats. Security+ is considered one of the most widely respected and valuable certifications for individuals looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity or those who want to expand their knowledge in the field.

Key Areas Covered by CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification covers a broad range of foundational cybersecurity concepts, ensuring that candidates have a solid understanding of how to manage and secure IT environments. The certification exam tests candidates on their ability to identify security vulnerabilities, implement network security measures, manage risks, and respond to security incidents.

The following are the primary domains covered by the CompTIA Security+ certification exam:

Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities: This domain focuses on understanding different types of cyber threats and attacks, such as malware, social engineering, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and phishing. Candidates learn how to identify potential risks and vulnerabilities in network systems and how to mitigate them effectively.
Architecture and Design: This section covers security principles related to network design, including secure network architecture, security zones, and the implementation of network controls. Candidates also learn about secure systems design and best practices for ensuring the integrity of a network infrastructure.
Implementation: This domain tests candidates’ knowledge of how to implement secure network solutions, such as configuring firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS). It also covers how to apply security protocols and perform secure system installations.
Operations and Incident Response: In this section, candidates learn how to handle security incidents, including identifying and responding to security breaches, maintaining data privacy, and implementing incident response strategies. The goal is to prepare professionals to react appropriately when a security event occurs.
Governance, Risk, and Compliance: This domain covers the policies, regulations, and laws related to cybersecurity, such as HIPAA, GDPR, and NIST standards. Candidates learn how to manage security governance, conduct risk assessments, and ensure compliance with industry standards and legal requirements.
Cryptography and PKI (Public Key Infrastructure): This section covers encryption methods, cryptographic protocols, and key management techniques used to secure communication channels and sensitive data. Candidates are taught how to implement cryptographic solutions to ensure confidentiality and integrity of data in transit.

Who Should Pursue CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA Security+ is ideal for individuals who are new to cybersecurity or those looking to shift into a cybersecurity-focused role. It is an entry-level certification, so it does not require extensive experience in the field, making it a perfect starting point for those who want to break into the cybersecurity industry.

Candidates with a background in IT support, network administration, or systems administration are typically the best fit for Security+, as it builds on their foundational IT knowledge and enhances their understanding of security practices. The certification is also suitable for professionals in other IT roles who wish to expand their expertise in security to enhance their career prospects.

Many employers consider Security+ a minimum qualification for IT security roles, and it is often a requirement for positions such as:

Security Administrator
Network Administrator
Systems Administrator
Security Consultant
IT Auditor
Risk Analyst

The certification provides a comprehensive introduction to cybersecurity concepts, ensuring that individuals are prepared for intermediate-level roles in the cybersecurity field. It is also a great foundation for pursuing more advanced certifications in the future, such as CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).

CompTIA Security+ Exam Details

To earn the CompTIA Security+ certification, candidates must pass the SY0-601 exam, which consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions. The exam covers the six domains mentioned earlier and typically takes 90 minutes to complete. The passing score for the exam is 750 on a scale of 100-900.

The exam is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application of cybersecurity concepts. Performance-based questions require candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply security measures in real-world scenarios, such as configuring firewalls or responding to a simulated security breach. This ensures that certified professionals not only understand security principles but also have the practical skills to implement them in IT environments.

The cost of the CompTIA Security+ exam is typically around $392, and there are various study resources available to help candidates prepare, including official study guides, online courses, practice exams, and hands-on labs. While the certification does not have any formal prerequisites, it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience working in IT with a focus on security before attempting the exam.

Why Choose CompTIA Security+?

CompTIA Security+ is an excellent certification for individuals who want to start their cybersecurity careers or expand their knowledge of IT security. Here are several reasons why Security+ is an excellent choice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals:

Industry Recognition: CompTIA Security+ is one of the most respected and recognized certifications in the cybersecurity industry. It is often required by employers looking to hire IT security professionals, making it an important credential for job seekers.
Vendor-Neutral: CompTIA Security+ is a vendor-neutral certification, meaning it is applicable across various technologies, platforms, and vendors. This gives certified professionals the flexibility to work with a wide range of systems and technologies, unlike certifications tied to specific vendors like Cisco or Microsoft.
Foundation for Further Certifications: Security+ serves as a strong foundation for pursuing more advanced cybersecurity certifications. Many professionals use it as a stepping stone to more specialized certifications, such as CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+), or even the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).
Job Opportunities: Security+ opens the door to a variety of cybersecurity roles, including positions in network security, risk management, and compliance. It is often the first certification listed in job postings for entry-level IT security positions.
Improves Marketability: With cybersecurity threats becoming more prevalent, employers are increasingly seeking professionals who have validated their knowledge with certifications. Security+ boosts a candidate’s marketability and increases their chances of securing a cybersecurity role.
Broad Scope: Security+ covers a wide range of cybersecurity topics, ensuring that professionals are well-rounded and prepared to handle various security challenges. It is a comprehensive certification that addresses multiple aspects of cybersecurity, from network security to incident response.

Salary Potential with CompTIA Security+

The salary potential for professionals holding a CompTIA Security+ certification varies depending on their role, experience, and location. However, it is generally well-regarded in the industry and can lead to competitive salaries. Here are some average salaries for roles commonly held by Security+ certified professionals:

Security Administrator: Median salary of around $91,562 per year.
Security Specialist: Median salary of around $61,090 per year.
Security Systems Engineer: Median salary of around $88,932 per year.

While these positions are often entry-level or intermediate roles, they offer competitive salaries and provide an excellent starting point for further career development in the cybersecurity field. As professionals gain experience and pursue additional certifications, such as CEH or CISSP, their earning potential can increase significantly.

The Value of CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a highly respected and valuable certification for anyone looking to pursue a career in cybersecurity. It provides a broad foundation of knowledge that is applicable to a wide range of IT security roles and offers the opportunity to advance into more specialized areas of cybersecurity. Security+ is recognized by employers worldwide, making it an excellent credential for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. By obtaining this certification, you not only enhance your job prospects but also position yourself for long-term career growth in an increasingly important and lucrative field.

The demand for cybersecurity professionals is only expected to grow, and the need for certified experts to protect organizations from cyber threats will remain high. CompTIA Security+ offers the skills and credibility needed to succeed in the dynamic world of cybersecurity and serves as a springboard to more advanced certifications and career opportunities. Whether you are new to cybersecurity or looking to expand your expertise, CompTIA Security+ is an essential certification that can help you achieve your career goals.

Understanding CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is an advanced credential offered by the EC-Council (International Council of E-Commerce Consultants), one of the most recognized organizations in the cybersecurity space. The CEH certification is specifically designed for IT professionals who wish to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing. Unlike CompTIA Security+, which provides foundational knowledge in cybersecurity, CEH focuses on the more advanced and specialized skills required for ethical hacking, where the primary goal is to find vulnerabilities and fix them before malicious hackers can exploit them.

Ethical hacking involves simulating the techniques and tactics used by cybercriminals in order to identify weaknesses in a system. Ethical hackers (also known as penetration testers) use their knowledge of hacking methods to assess the security of IT systems, networks, and applications. By doing so, they help organizations strengthen their defenses against potential attacks. The CEH certification provides professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to carry out penetration tests and vulnerability assessments in a legal, ethical, and controlled manner.

What is Covered in the CEH Certification?

The CEH certification is an in-depth program that covers a broad array of topics, each of which is crucial to the skillset of an ethical hacker. The primary goal of the CEH exam is to assess a candidate’s ability to think like a hacker, identify system vulnerabilities, and use penetration testing techniques to exploit weaknesses. The CEH curriculum includes the following key areas:

Introduction to Ethical Hacking: This module introduces ethical hacking concepts, the legal and ethical guidelines that govern ethical hacking, and the tools and methodologies used by ethical hackers to assess systems.
Footprinting and Reconnaissance: In this section, candidates learn how to gather information about a target system through open-source intelligence (OSINT), scanning tools, and social engineering techniques.
Scanning Networks: This module teaches professionals how to detect live systems, identify open ports, and map network topologies. It also covers how to use tools like Nmap to scan for vulnerabilities in networks.
Enumeration: Enumeration refers to the process of extracting valuable information from systems. CEH covers techniques for enumerating users, groups, services, and shares from networks and systems.
System Hacking: This section delves into how to compromise systems, escalate privileges, avoid detection, and maintain access after hacking a target. It teaches penetration testers how to access systems, crack passwords, and hide their activities.
Malware Threats: In this module, candidates learn about various types of malware, including viruses, worms, Trojans, and ransomware. They also cover how malware is delivered and how to detect and defend against malware attacks.
Sniffing: Sniffing refers to intercepting data packets as they travel through networks. Ethical hackers learn how to use sniffing tools to capture network traffic and analyze communication for sensitive information.
Social Engineering: One of the most powerful tools in a hacker’s arsenal is social engineering. CEH teaches how hackers manipulate individuals to disclose confidential information or provide unauthorized access to systems.
Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attacks: This module teaches how DoS and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks work, as well as techniques for protecting systems against these types of attacks.
Session Hijacking: Session hijacking involves taking control of a user’s active session in a system or application. The CEH certification covers methods for intercepting and exploiting sessions to gain unauthorized access.
Hacking Web Servers and Web Applications: Ethical hackers must know how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in web applications and servers. This module teaches penetration testing techniques for web servers, including SQL injection, cross-site scripting (XSS), and cross-site request forgery (CSRF).
Wireless Networks and Mobile Platforms: As wireless networks and mobile platforms become more widely used, securing these systems has become essential. The CEH certification includes techniques for attacking and securing wireless networks and mobile devices.
Cloud Computing: As more businesses shift to cloud-based infrastructure, ethical hackers must understand the unique risks and vulnerabilities associated with cloud services. This module covers the security challenges and techniques for securing cloud environments.
Cryptography: Cryptography plays a vital role in securing communication and protecting sensitive data. CEH teaches candidates how encryption and cryptographic protocols can be exploited or bypassed by hackers.
Penetration Testing and Reporting: The final module of CEH focuses on the practical application of the skills learned throughout the course. Candidates are taught how to conduct penetration tests, write reports for clients, and provide recommendations for improving security.

Who Should Pursue the CEH Certification?

The CEH certification is intended for experienced IT professionals who already have a solid foundation in cybersecurity and are looking to specialize in ethical hacking. The certification is best suited for individuals who want to take on advanced roles in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and network security.

Typically, candidates for the CEH certification include:

Penetration Testers: Professionals who want to learn how to simulate cyberattacks on systems to uncover weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
Network Security Professionals: IT professionals who specialize in securing networks and want to gain a deeper understanding of offensive security techniques.
Security Analysts: Cybersecurity analysts who want to enhance their skills in identifying and responding to attacks by understanding the tactics used by hackers.
System Administrators: Professionals who are responsible for maintaining and securing IT infrastructure and want to learn how to secure systems against cyberattacks.
IT Auditors: Individuals responsible for evaluating security controls and compliance in organizations. CEH provides auditors with the knowledge of how hackers exploit vulnerabilities, which helps in identifying and preventing these risks.
Security Consultants: Cybersecurity consultants who wish to specialize in ethical hacking and provide security assessments and testing for their clients.

The CEH certification is typically pursued by individuals who already have significant experience in IT security. EC-Council recommends that candidates have at least two years of work experience in the information security domain before attempting the CEH exam. However, if a candidate lacks the required experience, they can take an official EC-Council training course to qualify for the exam.

The CEH Exam

The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. The exam tests candidates on their ability to identify, exploit, and defend against various cybersecurity threats. The exam is designed to simulate the real-world challenges faced by penetration testers and ethical hackers and assess candidates’ knowledge of hacking techniques, attack vectors, and countermeasures.

The passing score for the CEH exam is typically 70 percent, although this can vary slightly depending on the difficulty of the exam. The cost of the exam varies, but it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000, depending on the location and whether the candidate is taking the exam through EC-Council directly or a third-party testing center.

Why Choose CEH?

CEH is a highly respected certification that is often required for specialized cybersecurity roles, particularly in penetration testing and ethical hacking. The certification demonstrates advanced technical skills and is ideal for those looking to work as ethical hackers, security consultants, or penetration testers. Here are some reasons why CEH is a great choice for cybersecurity professionals:

Specialized Knowledge: CEH provides in-depth knowledge of offensive security techniques and teaches professionals how to think like hackers in order to defend against them. This specialized knowledge is highly valuable for organizations looking to bolster their security defenses.
Industry Recognition: EC-Council is one of the most respected certification bodies in the cybersecurity industry, and CEH is recognized worldwide as a leading credential for ethical hackers and penetration testers.
Higher Salary Potential: Due to its specialized focus and advanced level of knowledge, CEH tends to command higher salaries compared to entry-level certifications like CompTIA Security+. Professionals with CEH certification are often able to secure higher-paying positions in cybersecurity.
Career Advancement: CEH is a key credential for those looking to advance their careers in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and other cybersecurity roles. It is a stepping stone for further certifications and specialized training in the field.
Hands-On Skills: The CEH certification emphasizes practical, hands-on skills and provides professionals with the ability to conduct penetration tests, assess network vulnerabilities, and apply defense measures in real-world scenarios.

Salary Potential with CEH

Professionals with the CEH certification generally earn higher salaries compared to those with entry-level certifications like Security+. The average salaries for CEH-certified professionals vary depending on the role, location, and experience level, but here are some examples of average salaries:

Ethical Hacker: Median salary of $105,331 per year.
Junior Penetration Tester: Median salary of $116,104 per year.
Vulnerability Analyst: Median salary of $109,287 per year.
Information Security Auditor: Median salary of $116,306 per year.
Information Security Analyst: Median salary of $102,600 per year.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): Median salary of $236,318 per year.

As you can see, the salary potential for CEH-certified professionals is significant, especially in more senior roles such as information security auditors and CISOs.

The Power of CEH Certification

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is a powerful credential for experienced cybersecurity professionals who want to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing. It provides in-depth knowledge of offensive security techniques and equips professionals with the skills to identify vulnerabilities and protect against cyber threats. As the cybersecurity landscape becomes increasingly complex, the demand for ethical hackers continues to grow, making CEH a valuable asset for anyone pursuing a career in this field.

While CEH is a more advanced certification compared to CompTIA Security+, it offers significant career benefits, including higher earning potential and the opportunity to specialize in one of the most sought-after areas of cybersecurity. Whether you are already working in cybersecurity or are looking to take your career to the next level, CEH can help you gain the expertise needed to succeed in this dynamic and high-demand field.

Comparing CEH and CompTIA Security+ – Making the Right Choice

When it comes to pursuing a career in cybersecurity, selecting the right certification is a crucial step in defining your professional path. Both CompTIA Security+ and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly respected certifications in the cybersecurity field, but they serve different purposes and cater to different levels of expertise. Understanding the key differences between these two certifications will help you make an informed decision about which one aligns best with your career goals, experience level, and the type of work you want to pursue in the field of cybersecurity.

Key Differences in Focus

The most fundamental difference between CompTIA Security+ and CEH is the focus of each certification. Security+ is an entry-level certification that provides a broad understanding of cybersecurity concepts and is designed to lay the groundwork for further specialization. It covers the fundamentals of network security, risk management, cryptography, and identity management, making it a great choice for those who are new to the cybersecurity field or looking to transition from a different area of IT.

CEH, on the other hand, is a specialized certification that focuses specifically on ethical hacking and penetration testing. It is designed for professionals who already have a solid understanding of cybersecurity and want to specialize in offensive security. The CEH certification teaches candidates how to think like a hacker to better defend against cyber threats, using penetration testing tools and techniques to assess vulnerabilities in systems and networks. This makes CEH an advanced credential that requires a higher level of expertise compared to Security+.

While Security+ provides a broad overview of cybersecurity concepts, CEH delves deeper into the tactics, techniques, and procedures used by hackers to exploit vulnerabilities. As a result, CEH is best suited for professionals looking to specialize in ethical hacking or penetration testing, while Security+ is ideal for those seeking foundational knowledge in cybersecurity.

Difficulty Level and Prerequisites

CompTIA Security+ is considered an entry-level certification, and it does not have any formal prerequisites, although it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience working in IT with a focus on security. The exam is designed to test fundamental cybersecurity knowledge and is relatively accessible for individuals who are new to the field. The exam covers a wide range of topics, including network security, access control, cryptography, and risk management, making it an excellent certification for anyone looking to get started in cybersecurity.

In contrast, CEH is a more advanced certification, and while it does not have mandatory prerequisites, it is highly recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience in the information security domain before attempting the exam. EC-Council also recommends that candidates complete the CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ certifications before pursuing CEH. This ensures that candidates have the necessary background knowledge to succeed in the CEH program. The CEH exam itself is more challenging, as it focuses on specialized hacking techniques, penetration testing methodologies, and advanced network vulnerabilities. Candidates are expected to have a deeper understanding of ethical hacking concepts and practical security skills.

For individuals with limited experience in cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+ is a more approachable starting point, whereas CEH is best suited for those who are already familiar with IT security principles and want to specialize further in ethical hacking.

Career Paths and Job Roles

Both Security+ and CEH open the door to career opportunities in cybersecurity, but the types of roles and job responsibilities differ significantly between the two certifications.

CompTIA Security+ is ideal for individuals who are looking to start their careers in cybersecurity or who want to enhance their existing IT security knowledge. With Security+, professionals can pursue entry-level roles in cybersecurity, such as:

Security Administrator: Responsible for implementing and managing security measures to protect an organization’s network and systems.
Network Administrator: Manages and secures computer networks, ensuring that the infrastructure is running smoothly and securely.
Systems Administrator: Handles system configurations, patches, and updates to keep an organization’s IT infrastructure secure.
IT Security Specialist: Focuses on securing and monitoring IT systems, detecting threats, and responding to security incidents.

Security+ is typically the first cybersecurity certification that IT professionals pursue and serves as a stepping stone for more advanced certifications and career growth. With Security+, candidates are well-prepared for intermediate-level roles in cybersecurity and can later pursue additional certifications, such as CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP).

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a more specialized certification and is designed for professionals who want to focus on offensive security, specifically penetration testing and ethical hacking. CEH-certified professionals can pursue roles such as:

Penetration Tester (Ethical Hacker): Conducts simulated attacks on systems to identify and exploit vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can do so.
Vulnerability Analyst: Identifies weaknesses in networks, systems, and applications and works to remediate them.
Security Consultant: Provides guidance and expertise to organizations on how to secure their IT infrastructure and defend against potential attacks.
Information Security Auditor: Assesses the security measures of an organization to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Incident Responder: Responds to and mitigates the effects of cybersecurity incidents, such as data breaches or cyberattacks.

CEH is ideal for individuals who are interested in working as penetration testers, ethical hackers, or security consultants. It is often required for more advanced and specialized roles in cybersecurity, and professionals who hold the CEH certification typically earn higher salaries compared to those with entry-level credentials like Security+.

Salary Potential

Due to its more specialized focus, CEH tends to offer higher salary potential compared to Security+. Professionals with CEH certification are in high demand, especially in roles such as penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and security consulting. The average salaries for CEH-certified professionals are significantly higher than those for professionals with only Security+ certification.

Here are some average salaries for roles held by CEH-certified professionals:

Ethical Hacker: Median salary of $105,331 per year.
Junior Penetration Tester: Median salary of $116,104 per year.
Vulnerability Analyst: Median salary of $109,287 per year.
Information Security Auditor: Median salary of $116,306 per year.
Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): Median salary of $236,318 per year.

In contrast, professionals with CompTIA Security+ certification typically earn more modest salaries, as the certification is aimed at entry-level positions. Here are some average salaries for Security+-certified professionals:

Security Administrator: Median salary of $91,562 per year.
Security Specialist: Median salary of $61,090 per year.
Security Systems Engineer: Median salary of $88,932 per year.

Although the salaries for Security+ roles may be lower on average compared to CEH, Security+ serves as a great entry point into the field of cybersecurity and offers significant opportunities for career advancement. With experience and additional certifications, professionals with Security+ can move into higher-paying roles over time.

Exam Difficulty and Study Time

The difficulty of the CEH and Security+ exams differs significantly due to the level of expertise required for each certification.

CompTIA Security+ is generally considered an entry-level exam that tests fundamental cybersecurity knowledge. Although the exam can be challenging, it is designed to be more accessible for candidates who are new to the field or have limited experience. On average, candidates need around 30-45 days of study time to prepare for the Security+ exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, and candidates typically have 90 minutes to complete it.

CEH, on the other hand, is a more advanced exam that requires candidates to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of penetration testing techniques, ethical hacking tools, and advanced security vulnerabilities. It is designed for experienced professionals with a background in cybersecurity, and the exam is more difficult compared to Security+. Candidates typically need several months of preparation to master the material, with most spending anywhere from 60 to 90 days studying for the CEH exam. The exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and lasts for four hours.

Which Certification Should You Pursue?

Choosing between CompTIA Security+ and CEH depends largely on your current experience, career goals, and the level of specialization you seek in the cybersecurity field. Here is a summary of key points to help you decide:

Choose CompTIA Security+ if you are new to cybersecurity or want to build a strong foundation of knowledge in network security, cryptography, and risk management. It is ideal for those starting their careers in IT security or looking to enhance their knowledge before moving into specialized areas.
Choose CEH if you already have a solid understanding of cybersecurity concepts and want to specialize in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and offensive security. It is best suited for experienced professionals who want to pursue more advanced roles, such as penetration tester or security consultant.

Both certifications are highly respected and recognized in the industry, and each offers valuable career opportunities. Whether you choose Security+ or CEH, both certifications will provide the knowledge and skills necessary to help you succeed in the ever-growing field of cybersecurity.

Final Thoughts

As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, pursuing a certification like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is an excellent way to validate your skills and open doors to rewarding career opportunities. While both certifications are highly respected in the industry, they serve different purposes and are geared toward distinct levels of expertise.

CompTIA Security+ is a great starting point for those who are new to the cybersecurity field or want to establish a strong foundation in network security, risk management, and overall IT security principles. Its broad scope makes it an ideal choice for entry-level positions, allowing professionals to break into the industry and pursue a variety of roles in cybersecurity. Security+ serves as a stepping stone for more advanced certifications and specialized career paths, offering flexibility in terms of career growth and opportunities.

On the other hand, the CEH certification is for those who want to dive deeper into the world of ethical hacking and penetration testing. It is designed for experienced IT security professionals who are already familiar with the basics of cybersecurity and are ready to specialize in offensive security techniques. CEH allows you to think like a hacker, identify vulnerabilities in systems, and develop strategies to prevent malicious attacks. As a specialized credential, CEH opens the door to higher-paying, more specialized roles in cybersecurity and can lead to significant career advancement.

When deciding between Security+ and CEH, it’s important to consider your current experience level, career goals, and the type of work you want to pursue in cybersecurity. If you’re starting out and want to build a broad skill set that will allow you to grow into various cybersecurity roles, Security+ is the right choice. If you have more experience and want to specialize in penetration testing or ethical hacking, CEH will provide the advanced knowledge and tools you need to succeed in these areas.

Ultimately, both certifications offer immense value in the cybersecurity industry, and both can help you achieve long-term career success. Whether you start with CompTIA Security+ or jump into the world of ethical hacking with CEH, the key is to continue learning and evolving as the cybersecurity landscape shifts. With the right certification and dedication to professional growth, you can position yourself as a valuable asset in the high-demand cybersecurity field.