Are There Any Free Cybersecurity Certifications? Find Out The Top Three

The demand for cybersecurity professionals has never been higher. As businesses and governments worldwide grapple with increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, the need for skilled individuals to protect sensitive data and secure IT systems is growing fast. In fact, the cybersecurity job market is expected to expand significantly over the next few years.

However, despite the demand, a significant skills gap remains, with many organizations unable to fill cybersecurity roles due to a shortage of trained professionals. According to a report, 82% of employers face a cybersecurity talent pool shortage, making now the perfect time for individuals to enter the field.

For those considering a career in cybersecurity, one of the best ways to start is by obtaining certifications. While many cybersecurity certification programs come with a hefty price tag, there are several free options available that can help you gain essential skills without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ll answer the question are there any free cybersecurity certifications. We will look deep into some of the top free cybersecurity certifications and training courses that can help you kickstart your career in cybersecurity or enhance your existing skillset.

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Are There Any Free Cybersecurity Certifications? Comparison Table

Certification Program	Free?	Eligibility	Key Skills Covered	Where to Access	Certification Cost	Target Audience
ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity	Yes, with a voucher for the exam	Available to all, through ISC2’s initiative to train 1 million people	Cybersecurity fundamentals, network security, risk management, security operations	ISC2 website (free voucher program)	Free with voucher (training is free, exam is covered by ISC2 voucher)	Beginner professionals seeking foundational cybersecurity knowledge
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)	No, costs associated with training and exam	Requires completion of official training (paid)	Ethical hacking, penetration testing, network security, security vulnerabilities	EC-Council website (paid training and certification)	Paid (costs depend on the training provider)	Professionals looking to become certified ethical hackers
Cisco Cybersecurity Course	Yes, free courses available through Networking Academy	Anyone, especially beginners looking to break into cybersecurity	Network security, threat defense, basic cybersecurity concepts	Cisco Networking Academy	Free (no cost for courses, certification exams may have fees)	Beginners who want to start a career in network security

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The Growing Need for Cybersecurity Professionals

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, organizations across all sectors, private and public, are increasing their investment in cybersecurity to safeguard their critical data and systems. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is projected to grow by 32% over the next decade, much faster than the average for other professions. This surge in demand is largely due to the growing number of cyberattacks, data breaches, and threats that organizations face daily.

Cybersecurity roles include everything from protecting networks and systems to responding to cyberattacks and ensuring that an organization’s data is secure. The industry’s rapid growth, combined with a significant shortage of trained professionals, means that now is the perfect time to break into the field. 

However, to stand out and land a job in cybersecurity, individuals must gain the right knowledge and skills, often validated through certifications.

While certifications can be costly, many employers consider them essential, making it crucial for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to pursue certifications that are recognized by the industry. Fortunately, there are several free certification options available that can help individuals gain credibility and increase their chances of success in this fast growing field.

Free Cybersecurity Certifications

Free certifications offer a cost-effective way to gain recognized credentials in cybersecurity, which is especially beneficial for individuals just starting their careers or those looking to pivot into the field. 

These certifications allow learners to develop valuable skills and demonstrate their competence to potential employers, all without incurring the significant costs typically associated with professional certifications.

When exploring free cybersecurity certifications, it’s important to consider both the level of the certification and the areas of expertise it covers. While many free certifications are aimed at beginners, some advanced options are also available for those looking to deepen their knowledge or specialize in a specific area of cybersecurity.

Moreover, many of these free certifications are offered by respected organizations and tech giants, making them highly valuable to your resume. In addition to offering knowledge and practical skills, these certifications can also help build confidence, as they allow you to prove your abilities in areas like network security, ethical hacking, cloud security, and more.

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Free Government Cybersecurity Training with Certificate

One of the most valuable resources for aspiring cybersecurity professionals is the availability of free government cybersecurity training with certificate. Many governments worldwide offer free cybersecurity courses as part of initiatives to close the skills gap in the sector. 

These courses often come with a certification upon completion, which is a great way to demonstrate your expertise to employers.

In the United States, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) offers free cybersecurity training through its National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers and Studies (NICCS). 

This initiative provides a variety of free, self-paced courses across multiple cybersecurity domains, such as network security, risk management, and incident response. These courses are ideal for beginners looking to break into the field and for professionals wanting to upskill.

Additionally, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), another branch of the DHS, offers several free online courses designed to enhance the cybersecurity workforce. 

These courses cover essential topics like threat analysis, vulnerability management, and secure communication practices. By completing these courses, learners not only gain valuable knowledge but also receive certificates that are widely recognized in the industry.

These free government-backed certifications provide credibility and are especially useful for those looking to enter the public sector or any organization that values government-supported training programs.

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ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity Free Voucher

For those interested in pursuing ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity credentials, there’s great news, ISC2 offers free vouchers for their certification exam, making it accessible for individuals who might otherwise find the exam cost prohibitive. 

ISC2, a leading nonprofit organization in cybersecurity certification, is offering a free voucher for their Certified in Cybersecurity exam as part of their initiative to help bridge the skills gap in the cybersecurity industry.

The ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity certification is an entry-level credential designed for individuals who are new to the field. 

The certification is ideal for those looking to start their careers as cybersecurity professionals, offering a solid foundation in key cybersecurity concepts, including security principles, network security, security operations, and risk management.

To access the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity free voucher, individuals need to meet certain criteria, such as completing specific training or proving their eligibility through the ISC2 scholarship or voucher program. These vouchers allow candidates to sit for the certification exam at no cost, offering an affordable pathway into the cybersecurity industry.

With this free certification, candidates can enhance their resumes and significantly increase their chances of landing an entry-level cybersecurity role. Whether you’re transitioning into cybersecurity or looking to formalize your knowledge, this voucher can be a career transformer.

SEE ALSO: Google Cybersecurity Certification: A Complete Guide

Free Google Cybersecurity Certification

Another valuable free cybersecurity certification comes from Google, offering a Cybersecurity Professional Certificate on Coursera. This certification is especially well-suited for beginners, as it is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in cybersecurity practices and principles. 

With this course, Google aims to help learners gain the essential skills necessary to start a career in cybersecurity.

The Google Cybersecurity certification free covers a variety of important topics, including cybersecurity practices, threats, vulnerabilities, network security, and more. It also introduces learners to practical tools used in the industry, such as Python, Linux, and SQL, to help them better understand how to protect systems from potential threats.

What sets this certification apart is that it’s designed for individuals with no prior experience in cybersecurity. The course is accessible and structured to gradually build up knowledge, making it an excellent starting point for those looking to break into the field. 

Upon completion, you will receive a certificate that can be shared on your LinkedIn profile or resume, showing potential employers that you have the necessary foundational knowledge to succeed in a cybersecurity role.

Additionally, Google offers free financial assistance for those who meet the eligibility criteria, ensuring that even those with financial constraints can take advantage of this fantastic learning opportunity.

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Fortinet NSE Certification Free

Fortinet offers an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to deepen their understanding of network security through its Fortinet NSE (Network Security Expert) Certification program. What’s remarkable is that Fortinet offers these certifications for free, making it an ideal choice for anyone interested in specializing in network security.

The Fortinet NSE Certification free includes multiple levels of certification, starting with the foundational NSE 1 and going up to NSE 8, each catering to different levels of expertise. Fortinet’s NSE certification is recognized globally and equips professionals with the skills needed to protect enterprise networks and systems from cyber threats.

The NSE 1 certification introduces basic concepts related to network security, while the NSE 2 and NSE 3 levels delve deeper into Fortinet’s network security products and solutions. 

These certifications are perfect for professionals who wish to work with Fortinet security solutions in particular, as it provides hands-on knowledge and practical experience in configuring firewalls, monitoring threats, and implementing network security protocols.

Getting Fortinet NSE certified for free offers not only a cost-effective solution but also a pathway to build credibility in the cybersecurity field, especially for individuals looking to specialize in network security. The free access to Fortinet’s online training and certification exams makes it accessible to anyone interested in building a career in network security.

MORE: CompTIA Security+ Vs Google Cybersecurity Certification

Free Cybersecurity Courses for Beginners

For those just starting out in the world of cybersecurity, there are several free cybersecurity courses for beginners that provide valuable foundational knowledge. These courses are designed to introduce the essential concepts and skills necessary to pursue a career in cybersecurity, and they are perfect for individuals with little to no experience in the field.

Some of the most popular free cybersecurity courses for beginners include:

• MIT Cybersecurity Course Free Online: MIT offers an online, free cybersecurity course that covers the basics of information security, network security, and cyber threats. This course is a great starting point for anyone looking to understand the foundational principles of cybersecurity, and it is taught by some of the top experts in the field. The course is available through MIT OpenCourseWare, making it accessible to anyone with an internet connection.
  
• Palo Alto Networks Free Cybersecurity Courses: Palo Alto Networks offers free training on network security, cloud security, and Security Operations Center (SOC) fundamentals. These courses help beginners get a firm grasp on network defense strategies, cybersecurity tools, and threat management.
  
• Introduction to Cyber Security by Cisco: Cisco provides a series of free courses designed for beginners. Their Introduction to Cyber Security course gives a comprehensive overview of the different domains of cybersecurity, such as network security, cryptography, and identity management. Cisco’s courses are highly respected in the industry, and their certifications are often considered a benchmark for cybersecurity professionals.

These free cybersecurity courses for beginners provide an excellent introduction to the industry and allow individuals to build the skills they need to pursue entry-level cybersecurity positions. By completing these courses, learners not only gain valuable knowledge but also earn certifications that can boost their resumes and help them stand out to potential employers.

MIT Cybersecurity Course Free Online

For individuals looking to take a deeper dive into cybersecurity, MIT offers a free online course that is particularly beneficial for beginners who are eager to learn from one of the top educational institutions in the world. 

This MIT Cybersecurity course free online provides an in-depth introduction to cybersecurity fundamentals and is designed to give learners a strong understanding of the challenges and solutions in the information security space.

The course, available through MIT OpenCourseWare, covers topics such as:

• Cryptography: Understanding encryption techniques and how they are used to protect data.
• Risk Management: Learning about assessing and managing risks in the digital world.
• Network Security: Gaining insight into securing network infrastructures and preventing attacks.
• Incident Response: Exploring how to respond to and recover from cyberattacks.

One of the key benefits of this course is its accessibility, anyone with an internet connection can enroll and learn from MIT’s expert instructors, absolutely free. The course materials are available for download, allowing learners to study at their own pace.

While the course does not provide a formal certification, it is an excellent way to gain foundational knowledge and to bolster your understanding of the key principles that govern cybersecurity. Moreover, completing such a course from MIT can enhance your credibility and demonstrate a strong commitment to cybersecurity, making it a great addition to any resume.

ALSO: Google Cybersecurity Certification Cost

How Free Cybersecurity Certifications Can Help Advance Your Career

While earning a free cybersecurity certification is a great way to build foundational knowledge, it also serves as a powerful tool for career advancement. Many individuals wonder if these free certifications hold enough value in the competitive job market, and the answer is yes.

Here’s how free certifications can positively impact your cybersecurity career:

• Enhance Employability: Having a certification, whether free or paid, validates your knowledge and skills. It shows potential employers that you are serious about the field and that you possess the necessary foundational knowledge to perform in a cybersecurity role. For entry-level positions, these free certifications are a strong signal that you are ready to take on the responsibilities of the role.
  
• Build a Professional Network: Many certification programs, such as those offered by Google, ISC2, and Fortinet, come with access to professional communities. These networks allow you to connect with other professionals in the field, share insights, ask questions, and stay updated on industry trends. Networking is crucial in cybersecurity, and free certifications can give you access to valuable connections and job opportunities.
  
• Increase Your Earning Potential: While free certifications may be entry-level, they can still play a key role in helping you break into higher-paying positions. Cybersecurity roles, such as ethical hackers, penetration testers, and incident responders, often come with attractive salaries. Starting with a free certification can be the stepping stone toward advancing your career and moving into higher-paying positions as you gain more experience and expertise.
  
• Build a Portfolio: As you complete these free courses and certifications, you can begin building a portfolio of completed projects and certifications. This will help you demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities to employers, further increasing your attractiveness as a candidate. Having certifications like ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity, Google Cybersecurity Certification, or Fortinet NSE on your resume can give you an edge over other applicants who may not have pursued these opportunities.
  
• Career Growth and Specialization: Free cybersecurity certifications often serve as a starting point, but they can also lead to more advanced, specialized training. Once you’ve gained foundational knowledge, you can pursue more advanced, paid certifications or even specialize in specific areas of cybersecurity like cloud security, network defense, or ethical hacking.

Free cybersecurity certifications provide the foundation needed to start a career in cybersecurity. They not only help you get your foot in the door but also pave the way for career advancement, skill-building, and networking opportunities.

Conclusion

Today, cybersecurity professionals are in high demand, and securing a free cybersecurity certification can be the perfect stepping stone toward a successful career. 

Whether you are a beginner looking to break into the field or a professional aiming to enhance your skillset, these free certifications provide a cost-effective and valuable way to build foundational knowledge, gain industry-recognized credentials, and improve your job prospects.

We’ve explored several outstanding free cybersecurity certifications, such as the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity free voucher, Google Cybersecurity certification free, and the Fortinet NSE Certification free, along with free government cybersecurity training and beginner-friendly courses like the MIT Cybersecurity course free online. 

Each of these opportunities offers a unique set of skills and practical knowledge that can help you stand out in the competitive cybersecurity job market.

As the cybersecurity industry continues to grow, there has never been a better time to start your journey, and with the availability of these free certifications, you can do so without significant financial investment. 

So, whether you’re just starting or looking to specialize in a particular area, take advantage of these free resources, enhance your resume, and open the door to exciting career opportunities in the cybersecurity field.

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