Are you contemplating a career in cybersecurity? Or perhaps you’re already in the field and looking to level up your skills? In either case, selecting the right cybersecurity course is a critical decision that can shape your future.
We believe that a well-chosen course can be your ticket to a rewarding and secure job in the cybersecurity industry.
Why Cybersecurity Matters
We live in a digital age where data is the new oil. Yet, this valuable resource is under constant threat from hackers, cybercriminals, and even nation-states.
Don’t you think it’s vital to safeguard our digital assets? The increasing number of cyberattacks has led to a soaring demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.
Key Elements of a Good Cybersecurity Course
Before you dive into the sea of courses available, let’s look at some key elements that make a cybersecurity course worth your time and money.
Curriculum
A robust curriculum is the backbone of a good cybersecurity course. It should cover all essential topics like network security, ethical hacking, and risk management.
Accreditation
We think it’s crucial to select a course that’s accredited by a renowned institution. This gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
Hands-On Experience
Theoretical knowledge is good, but practical skills are invaluable. Make sure the course offers hands-on training and real-world scenarios.
Instructors
An experienced instructor can make all the difference. Look for courses taught by professionals who have a proven track record in cybersecurity.
To help you out, we’ve summarized these key elements in a table below.
| Key Element | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Curriculum | Covers all essential topics |
| Accreditation | Adds credibility and value |
| Hands-On Experience | Builds practical skills |
| Instructors | Provides expert guidance |
Types of Cybersecurity Courses
Depending on your current skill level and career goals, you can choose from a variety of course types.
Beginner Courses
If you’re new to the field, start with a foundational course that covers the basics.
Intermediate and Advanced Courses
For those who already have some experience, consider courses that delve into specialized topics like cloud security or ethical hacking.
Certification Programs
You can also opt for courses that prepare you for industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CISM.
New to cybersecurity? We got you covered
There is a big chance you are new to cybersecurity, and that is all ok. We have made a series specially for you – it will guide you step by step on how to choose a cybersecurity course that works for you, what to expect and what to look for.
- The Best Guide to Cybersecurity Beginner Courses (2023)
- Picking the Right Cybersecurity Course: Recommendations, Workload, and Career Transition (2023)
- Keeping Up and Leveling Up: Staying Current and Advanced Courses in Cybersecurity
- What to Expect from Intermediate and Advanced Cybersecurity Courses
- 10 Compelling Reasons to Enroll in Cybersecurity Courses
- 10 Fields Within Cybersecurity You Can Follow or Combine for an Exciting Career
Study Cybersecurity with Google
We found some awesome free cybersecurity courses given by Google. Learn cybersecurity fundamentals and more.
More from Google
Study Cybersecurity with Microsoft
Yes, Microsoft also has free cybersecurity courses. Follow these guides to get started in cybersecurity with Microsoft.
Here is a list of MSFT courses from their official website
A collection of MSFT courses on Coursera
Study Cybersecurity with Universities
You got to love the internet, universities are sharing public available courses on cybersecurity. You can enroll immediately and study at your own pace. The best thing of it all, you can actually choose a course from an university to your liking.
Rochester Institute of Technology
University of Denver
- The Ultimate Guide to CompTIA Security+: Is It Worth the Hype?
- Unpacking the CISSP Certification: Your Ticket to a High-Flying Cybersecurity Career?
- CISM Certification: The Golden Key to Becoming a Security Manager?
Top 5 Entry Level Cybersecurity Certifications
- 10 Mistakes to Avoid While Learning Cybersecurity Online
- 25 Compelling Reasons to Keep an Eye on Cybersecurity News and Trends
- How to Save Money on Cybersecurity Courses
1. Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals
Ideal for Beginners
This Microsoft certification is a fantastic starting point for students, business users, and even IT professionals. It tests your understanding of Microsoft 365, Azure, and general IT concepts.
Exam and Cost
To get this certification, you need to pass just one exam, and it’ll cost you $99.
How to Prepare?
Microsoft suggests using its self-paced learning content and also recommends attending events and practicing with real-world scenarios.
Did You Know? Microsoft offers a wide range of certifications catering to various roles such as network engineers and security analysts.
2. ISACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals
A Name to Reckon With
ISACA is well-known for its advanced certifications like CISM and CISA. However, their Cybersecurity Fundamentals certificate is tailored for beginners.
Exam and Domains
The exam costs $150 for ISACA members and $199 for nonmembers. It covers four domains:
- Threat landscape
- Information security fundamentals
- Securing access
- Security operations and response
No Recertification Needed
The best part? The certificate doesn’t expire, saving you from the hassle of periodic recertification.
3. CompTIA Security+
The Crowd Favorite
This is perhaps the most recognized entry-level certification. It encompasses topics like network security, risk management, and cryptography.
Exam and Cost
The exam costs $392 and is compliant with U.S. Department of Defense and Federal Information Security Management Act requirements.
Who Should Consider It?
CompTIA recommends having two years of relevant experience and the Network+ credential before attempting this exam.
Tip CompTIA is known for its vendor-neutral approach, focusing on the essential skills needed in IT.
4. GIAC Information Security Fundamentals (GISF)
For the Ambitious
This certification is considered more challenging than CompTIA Security+. It’s ideal for system administrators and managers.
Exam and Cost
The exam will set you back $949, making it one of the pricier options.
What’s Next?
After GISF, you can aim for the GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), an intermediate-level certification.
5. (ISC)² Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
Beyond CISSP
While CISSP is the most popular certification from (ISC)², the SSCP is their entry-level offering.
Exam and Domains
The exam costs a whopping $2,490 and covers seven domains, including Access Controls, Risk Identification, and Cryptography.
Recommended Preparation
(ISC)² advises attending training courses, webinars, and reading extensively to prepare for the exam.
Did You Know? There are several niche cybersecurity certifications to explore as you advance in your career, such as big data and digital forensics certifications.
We hope that all of these resources have helped you forward. Come back from time to time to see if there are new updates to this page as we will continue to add more resources.
