Top Cybersecurity Certifications for Arizona Workers

by | Aug 23, 2016 | Cyber Security, Cybersecurity Certifications, Cybersecurity Jobs, Ethical Hacker, News |

Best CyberSecurity 5 Day Classes to Earn Certifications

As companies find themselves becoming more and more vulnerable to data breaches, employers in Arizona are increasingly looking within to hire or promote employees who have obtained cybersecurity certifications to ward off future potential attacks. Corporations like Target, who have recently fell victim to a data breach not only pay millions in costly fines but also lose consumer trust and future goodwill.

CompTIA Security +

Job seekers within the growing technology trade in Phoenix who wish to obtain a commercial cybersecurity job or land a coveted IT security position within the defense industry must receive certification as a prerequisite from a state certified school. Depending on the position desired, candidates can start their career with a basic CompTIA certification in network security while top-tier candidates seek the coveted Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). CompTIA certification gives candidates a good overview of best practices in troubleshooting, networking and security across a broad array of devices. Although the CompTIA certification is seen as a stepping stone for more advanced levels of certification, it’s important to note its relevancy as it is required by all employees of the U.S. Department of Defense.

Certified Ethical Hacker

An industry in Arizona that is rapidly growing in popularity is “Ethical Hacking” or “White Hat Hacking.” Ethical hackers must be properly trained and certified because of the high level of trust that is commanded by these positions. Ethical hackers are a unique breed whose main job is to think like a malicious cybercriminal while using that information to protect its employer. In order to properly train individuals to perform this job function, candidates are encouraged to obtain a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification. Certified Ethical Hackers are often referred to as “penetration testers” and are actually encouraged to attempt to penetrate a company’s network without physically stealing any data. Those who are able to successfully balance this mental game are also well rewarded as salaries start within the six figure range.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional

One of the most popular certifications prospective job seekers can obtain is that of a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Generally obtained by experienced IT professionals, consultants and auditor and risk management professionals, this certification serves as a base requirement for employees securing a company’s network. While the certification doesn’t focus on a single vendor, it does cover a wide array of topics from physical security to cryptography. Those who fully capitalize on the CISSP certification can make in excess of $150,000 per year.

Certified Information Security Manager

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification is a top-tier certification for those who have at least five years of experience within the network security industry. The CISM classes are very rigorous and will demand every bit of your five years’ background in IT. Those completing this advanced certification will learn about the following four area of cybersecurity:

  • > Information security program development and management
  • > Information security management
  • > Information security incident management
  • > Information risk management and compliance

Completion of this certification has the potential to roll out an invitation to the C-suite as CISM’s often obtain Chief Information Security Officer positions and command in excess of $200,000 annually.