Tolulope MichaelCertified in Cybersecurity vs Security+: A Comprehensive Review
In a nutshell, the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) certification by ISC2 is ideal for beginners in cybersecurity, offering basic knowledge without prior experience. On the other hand, CompTIA’s Security+ targets IT professionals with some experience, providing a broader and deeper dive into cybersecurity principles and practices. Choose based on your skill level and career aspirations.
This article on certified in cybersecurity vs security+ has been developed specially to ensure that cybersecurity professionals can make the best career decisions.
Cybersecurity is now an essential element of IT systems, defending valuable information from advanced cyber threats. With the increasing need for skilled cybersecurity experts, certifications such as “Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2” and “Security+ by CompTIA” have become essential for verifying the knowledge of newcomers in this industry.
We will examine the details of each certification, including its requirements, materials, expenses, and unique benefits.
Certified in Cybersecurity vs Security+: Table Comparison
| Target Audience | Beginners, career changers, recent graduates | IT professionals with some experience |
| Prerequisites | None | No specific prerequisites, recommended: 2 years of IT administration with a security focus |
| Exam Focus | Fundamental cybersecurity principles and entry-level skills | Broad coverage of core security functions and technologies |
| Cost | Free training and examination for a limited time under specific initiatives | Approximately $381 for the exam |
| Global Recognition | Quickly gaining recognition due to ISC2’s reputation | Widely recognized and respected globally |
| Career Impact | Entry-level positions in cybersecurity | Mid-level cybersecurity roles |
| Training Options | Free online self-paced training available | Multiple options: eLearning, virtual labs, instructor-led |
| Accreditation | ANAB Accredited, complies with ISO/IEC STANDARD 17024 | Compliant with ISO 17024 standards, approved by U.S. DoD |
| Certification Requirements | No experience required, exam covers 5 domains | Experience recommended, exam covers 5 domains |
| Renewal | Not specified | Requires continuing education credits every 3 years |
| Special Initiative | ISC2’s One Million Certified in Cybersecurity initiative offers free training and exams globally | N/A |
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Certified in Cybersecurity vs Security+: What You Need to Know About Each Certification
Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium, or ISC2, is a leading organization specializing in training and certifications for cybersecurity professionals. The “Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)” is one of their entry-level certifications designed to kickstart a career in this field. Key aspects of the CC certification include:
- Target Audience: This certification is aimed at beginners, including those changing careers, college students, and recent graduates who wish to enter the cybersecurity field.
- Prerequisites and Eligibility: No prior experience or specific educational background in cybersecurity is necessary, making it highly accessible to a broad audience.
- Exam Format and Domains: The exam covers foundational topics across five domains: Security Principles, Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery & Incident Response Concepts, Access Controls Concepts, Network Security, and Security Operations.
- Costs and Resources: The certification offers free online training and examination for a limited time under certain initiatives, making it a cost-effective option for many.
- Recognition and Benefits: Holding a CC certification can open doors to various entry-level job roles in cybersecurity and is recognized globally for establishing a foundational understanding of core security principles.
Security+ by CompTIA
CompTIA is a globally recognized provider of vendor-neutral IT certifications, among which Security+ stands out as a popular choice for professionals looking to validate their baseline cybersecurity skills. Here are the key features of the Security+ certification:
- Target Audience: Security+ is intended for IT professionals with at least two years of IT administration experience with a security focus.
- Prerequisites and Eligibility: While there are no strict prerequisites, CompTIA recommends that candidates have prior network and security experience or hold the Network+ certification.
- Exam Format and Domains: The exam assesses core security functions across various domains, such as threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities, technology and tools, architecture and design, risk management, and identity and access management.
- Costs and Training Options: The examination fee is approximately $381, and CompTIA offers multiple training options, including eLearning, virtual labs, and instructor-led courses.
- Recognition and Benefits: Security+ is widely recognized across industries and is often a requirement for IT security positions within many organizations, including the U.S. Department of Defense.
READ ALSO: How Long Does It Take to Get a Cybersecurity Certificate Online?
Comparison of Certified in Cybersecurity and Security+
When choosing between Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2 and Security+ by CompTIA, several factors come into play, such as your current skill level, career aspirations, and the specific requirements of potential employers. Here’s how these two certifications stack up against each other:
Eligibility and Prerequisites
- Certified in Cybersecurity (CC): This certification is highly accessible, requiring no previous work experience or formal education in cybersecurity. It is ideal for beginners and those looking to make a career switch into cybersecurity.
- Security+: Although there are no formal prerequisites, CompTIA recommends candidates have at least two years of IT administration experience with a security focus, making it slightly less accessible for complete novices.
Exam Content and Focus Areas
- CC: The exam is focused on foundational knowledge across five domains, covering basic security principles and preparatory skills necessary for entry-level roles.
- Security+: Offers a broader and deeper exploration of cybersecurity topics, suitable for those already familiar with basic IT and security concepts. It covers new threats, technologies, regulations, and compliance issues, making it comprehensive for progressing beyond entry-level positions.
Training and Preparation
- CC: ISC2 provides free online training for the CC certification as part of its initiative to fill the cybersecurity skills gap, making it financially accessible to a wide audience.
- Security+: CompTIA provides a variety of training options, including online self-paced courses, live virtual classrooms, and extensive study materials, though these come at various costs.
Global Recognition and Accreditation
- CC: As a newer certification, CC is quickly gaining recognition for its practical and foundational focus, endorsed by a respected body like ISC2.
- Security+: This certification is widely recognized and respected across the IT industry globally, often serving as a requirement for jobs in government and military IT roles due to its compliance with DoD 8140/8570 requirements.
Pathways for Career Progression
- CC: Primarily serves as a stepping stone into the field of cybersecurity, offering holders a foundation to pursue more advanced certifications like the CISSP.
- Security+: Recognized as a foundational certification, it also provides a solid base for pursuing higher-level certifications but with a broader recognition that can directly lead to mid-level cybersecurity positions.
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Case Studies/Testimonials
Exploring real-world applications and testimonials can provide deeper insight into how both the Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2 and Security+ by CompTIA certifications impact career trajectories and professional development. Here are a few examples:
Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2
Rickhard Alén, a Security Solutions Lead at Norcloud in Helsinki, shares that the foundational topics covered in the CC course prepared him well as a starting point in the cybersecurity field. His transition from an unrelated field was facilitated by the broad foundational knowledge the CC certification provided, enabling a smoother entry into cybersecurity.
Radhika Gopalan, a Product Management Consultant in Alpharetta, GA, found the CC certification ideal for shifting careers from product management to information security. The certification gave her the necessary credentials to demonstrate her new capabilities in cybersecurity while she prepared for more advanced certifications.
Security+ by CompTIA
Eric Turner, a Cybersecurity Analyst at First Merchants Bank in Daleville, IN, used the Security+ certification to validate his knowledge and skills in cybersecurity, significantly contributing to his career progression within the IT security field. His certification was instrumental in gaining promotion and is recognized by his employer as a key qualification.
Testimonials from various professionals indicate that Security+ is often regarded as a crucial stepping-stone for IT professionals looking to solidify their understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals and advance their careers in more specialized roles.
Certified in Cybersecurity vs Security+: Pros and Cons
Each certification, Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2 and Security+ by CompTIA, offers unique advantages and faces certain challenges depending on the individual’s circumstances and career goals. Understanding these can help prospective candidates make a more informed decision.
Pros of Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2
- Accessibility: One of the most significant advantages is its accessibility to individuals without any prior experience or specific educational background in cybersecurity.
- Cost-effective: Offers free training and examination for a limited period under the “One Million Certified in Cybersecurity” initiative, making it financially attractive.
- Global Recognition: As part of the ISC2’s offerings, it benefits from the organization’s strong global presence and reputation.
Cons of Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) by ISC2
- Newer Certification: Being relatively new, it may not yet be as recognized or valued by all employers compared to more established certifications.
- Foundational Level: It might not suffice for those looking to immediately enter more advanced roles without further education or certifications.
Pros of Security+ by CompTIA
- Broad Industry Recognition: Widely recognized and respected across the IT industry, including meeting U.S. Department of Defense job requirements.
- Comprehensive Coverage: This covers a broader range of topics that provide a deep dive into the practical aspects of IT security, making it ideal for those with some experience.
- Career Advancement: Often seen as a stepping stone to higher-level roles and other advanced certifications.
Cons of Security+ by CompTIA
- Cost: Security+ can be more expensive when considering training and exam fees compared to CC.
- Experience Recommended: Although it has no formal prerequisites, the recommended two years of experience can make it less accessible to beginners.
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Conclusion
Deciding between “Certified in Cybersecurity vs Security+” largely hinges on your existing skills, career goals, and the job market requirements. Both certifications provide valuable opportunities to enter the cybersecurity industry, although they target slightly varied audiences and career trajectories.
The CC certification is designed for beginners in cybersecurity, providing a basic understanding even without prior experience, making it ideal for career changers or newcomers to the field.
Alternatively, Security+ by CompTIA is perfect for individuals with a basic understanding of IT who want to expand their knowledge and advance their careers in cybersecurity positions that demand a stronger grasp of security principles and practices.
In the end, your choice should be based on thoroughly thinking about your career objectives, the specific demands of possible employers in your field of choice, and how each certification fits with your personal and professional growth strategies.
FAQ
What is the difference between CCT and SEC+?
If “CCT” refers to a particular technical certification, it would be beneficial to specify which certification is meant as “CCT” is not a typical acronym for well-known cybersecurity certifications.
But if you actually meant “CC” as in “Certified in Cybersecurity” from ISC2 instead of a typo, then the main distinction between “CC” and CompTIA’s Security+ (SEC+) lies in their intended audience and coverage. “CC” is designed for those new to cybersecurity, requiring no prior experience, and offering essential knowledge.
However, Security+ is designed for IT professionals who have some experience, providing a wider and more technical scope of cybersecurity principles and practices.
Is Security+ a cybersecurity certification?
Security+ is a cybersecurity certification offered by CompTIA. It validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue a career in IT security. It’s globally recognized and widely respected in the industry, particularly useful for individuals looking to establish themselves in various cybersecurity roles.
What is the difference between CompTIA Security+ and cybersecurity?
CompTIA Security+ is a certification that individuals can earn to prove their understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals. However, cybersecurity is a broad field encompassing the technologies, processes, and practices designed to protect networks, devices, programs, and data from attack, damage, or unauthorized access. Security+ provides foundational knowledge and skills that are part of the larger domain of cybersecurity.
Is ISC2 CC the same as Security+?
ISC2’s Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) and CompTIA’s Security+ vary in terms of certification. Various organizations offer distinct certifications, each tailored to specific focuses and audiences.
ISC2 CC is a certification for beginners in cybersecurity, aimed at those new to the field or switching from a different career with no experience necessary.
CompTIA Security+ is considered fundamental but targets individuals with prior IT experience, especially in positions with security responsibilities. It delves into deeper technical and comprehensive cybersecurity aspects in comparison to ISC2 CC.
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