8 Best Cybersecurity Certifications to Upskill Yourself in 2023

Cyberattacks and data breaches are on the rise, with no signs of slowing down. In 2021, cybercrime costs hit $6 trillion globally, fueling strong demand for qualified cybersecurity professionals to help organizations defend their systems and data.

Infosec certifications are more valuable than ever for IT professionals looking to launch or advance their cybersecurity careers and earn higher salaries. Let‘s review some of the top cybersecurity certifications available in 2023.

Overview of Major Cybersecurity Certifications

There are many reputable cybersecurity certifications to choose from, depending on your experience level and career goals. Here‘s a brief overview of some of the most widely-recognized and in-demand cyber certifications:

CompTIA Security+: CompTIA‘s Security+ is a foundational cybersecurity certification that covers core skills like threat management, architecture and design, implementation, and more. It‘s an excellent starting point for cyber careers.
CISSP: The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is considered the "gold standard" advanced certification for senior cyber roles. CISSPs prove expertise in security operations, risk management, and governance.
CISM: Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification is designed for experienced pros managing enterprise cybersecurity programs. CISM holders possess technical expertise plus leadership and strategic skills.
CISA: Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification validates capabilities in infosec auditing, monitoring compliance, and cyber incident response. Popular for government and regulatory cyber roles.
CCSP: The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) cert is ideal for careers focused on cloud security architecture, operations, and compliance.
OSCP: The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) cert involves an intensive hands-on exam proving penetration testing and ethical hacking skills. Ideal for penetration testing roles.

There are also many vendor-specific cybersecurity certifications like those offered by AWS, Microsoft, Cisco, ISACA, (ISC)2, CompTIA and more. Each validates expertise with that vendor‘s specific cybersecurity products and services.

Most In-Demand Certifications

The most in-demand and valuable cybersecurity certifications can vary depending on your experience level and specific career goals or specialty.

For entry-level cybersecurity roles, the CompTIA Security+ certification is the most popular starting point and a pre-requisite for many jobs. Cisco‘s CCNA CyberOps is another great foundational cyber cert covering networking, monitoring, and defense basics.

Mid-career cyber professionals should consider advanced certifications like the CISSP to qualify for managerial or engineering roles. CISM, CISA, and CCSP are other good options for specialized skills in governance, auditing, or cloud security.

Senior-level cybersecurity leaders are better served with advanced certifications that reflect deep technical expertise like the CISSP-ISSAP (architecture), CISSP-ISSEP (engineering), or CISM (management).

Choosing the Right Certifications

When choosing which cyber certifications to pursue, start by identifying your specific career goals and experience level. Entry-level professionals should start with foundational certs like Security+ before specializing.

Think about combining complementary certifications – like CompTIA‘s Security+ and CySA+ or ISACA‘s CISA and CISM – to show well-rounded expertise.

Also, research the certifications and training required for your target job roles and companies. Pursuing the right certs can help you qualify for coveted cyber positions and higher salaries.

Preparing for Cybersecurity Certification Exams

Once you‘ve selected your target certification(s), create an effective study plan and prep strategy. Most cyber certs involve challenging exams testing your technical skills and knowledge.

Hands-on cyber training and labs are crucial to pass the exams. Many top cyber bootcamps like InfoSec Institute offer exam-aligned training courses to prepare you thoroughly.

Books, video courses, practice tests and flashcards are also useful exam prep resources. Join online cyber communities to get study tips and advice from others pursuing the same certifications.

Schedule your exam as soon as you complete prep training. Arrive well-rested and focused to perform your best.

Maintaining Your Certifications

Many top cybersecurity certifications like the CISSP and CISM require ongoing education and renewals to maintain your credentials.

Earning Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits by taking additional cyber training allows you to renew your certs on schedule. This helps you stay current on the latest cyber threats, technologies, tools, and best practices.

Make time each year to take CPE courses and keep your cyber certifications active. Updated certs reflect your ongoing commitment to learning in this fast-changing field.

Getting Hired After Earning Certifications

Once you‘ve earned those coveted cybersecurity certifications, it‘s time to leverage them to land a new job or earn a promotion.

Update your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your new certifications and cyber skills.
Advertise your enhanced credentials on job sites when applying for cyber roles.
Ask for a raise or promotion citing your expanded qualifications. Employers want cyber pros who stay ahead of the curve.

According to Global Knowledge‘s 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report, certified IT professionals earn an average of 8% more than those without certifications. Cybersecurity certs in particular offer strong salary-boosting power and career advancement potential.

Hot Cybersecurity Certifications for 2023

Some new or recently updated cybersecurity certifications are gaining popularity for 2023:

Palo Alto Networks PCCET: Validates skills securing networks with next-gen firewalls.
ISACA CSX Practitioner: Focuses on cybersecurity fundamentals and best practices. Replaced CISM/CISA.
GIAC Cyber Threat Intelligence: Proves abilities in threat intel gathering and analysis.
AWS Certified Security – Specialty: Shows expertise securing cloud environments on AWS.
Microsoft Cybersecurity Engineer Expert: Validates skills securing Microsoft identities, data, and infrastructure.

Conclusion

Earning the right cybersecurity certifications can turbo-charge your IT career and unlock higher salaries and leadership roles. Choose certs that align to your experience level and career path. Combine foundational and specialized credentials for expanded skills. Then maintain your certs through CPE training and renewals. In the booming cybersecurity field, holding the latest certifications will always give your resume an edge.