The Top 10 IT Certifications of 2019: Boost Your Career with Industry-Leading Credentials
As the IT industry continues to evolve rapidly, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data protection, and networking have become critical pillars of success for businesses. Whether you’re just starting in your IT career or looking to level up, earning the right certifications can propel you ahead in the job market. This list of the top 10 IT certifications for 2019, drawn from ExamSnap’s expertise and insider data, spans across essential areas like cloud technology, cybersecurity, networking, and data protection. Let’s dive into the certifications that are set to enhance your professional profile and provide long-term career benefits.
The field of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, driven by increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks and the expanding digital landscape. As organizations continue to embrace digital transformation, the need for highly skilled cybersecurity professionals has reached unprecedented heights. One certification that stands out among the rest is the (ISC)2 CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), a credential that signifies expertise in both the technical and managerial aspects of information security. This certification is not only respected but is also regarded as the gold standard for IT security professionals across the globe. In this article, we’ll explore why CISSP is essential for cybersecurity experts, delve into its key components, and discuss how ExamSnap’s training can help professionals achieve certification in a short period.
In recent years, the rise of high-profile data breaches, including those involving large organizations like Facebook, Google+, and the National Health Service (NHS), has highlighted the critical importance of robust cybersecurity measures. These incidents have underscored the need for highly skilled cybersecurity professionals who can not only detect threats but also respond effectively to mitigate risks. With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, companies are increasingly investing in cybersecurity to protect their sensitive data, intellectual property, and customer trust.
This growing reliance on information security professionals creates an enormous demand for qualified individuals. However, merely having technical knowledge isn’t enough in today’s rapidly changing threat landscape. Employers are looking for professionals who can combine technical expertise with strategic management skills, making CISSP one of the most sought-after certifications in the industry.
The CISSP certification from (ISC)2 is recognized worldwide as a benchmark for IT security professionals. It validates an individual’s ability to effectively design, implement, and manage a cybersecurity program that safeguards the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information assets. The certification is tailored for professionals who have at least five years of full-time work experience in information security and covers a broad range of topics that are essential to understanding the complexities of enterprise security.
CISSP provides in-depth coverage of eight domains of knowledge, all of which are critical for the implementation of a comprehensive security program. These domains include:
By mastering these domains, professionals who obtain the CISSP certification are equipped with the necessary tools to take on a leadership role in an organization’s cybersecurity strategy.
The CISSP certification is designed to demonstrate expertise in the areas most critical to an organization’s security needs. To earn this certification, candidates must pass a rigorous exam that tests their understanding of these eight domains. This challenging exam is known for its in-depth coverage and its focus on real-world cybersecurity scenarios.
To ensure you are adequately prepared for the CISSP exam, it is essential to engage in comprehensive training. ExamSnap’s accelerated training programs provide candidates with the tools they need to achieve certification in just six days. This intensive course includes a curriculum designed to help professionals gain a solid understanding of all eight domains, as well as the latest industry best practices, risk management strategies, and security protocols. By focusing on real-world application, ExamSnap ensures that candidates are ready to tackle the challenges they will face on the exam and in their future careers.
In an era where cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, the demand for qualified information security professionals is growing exponentially. Organizations across industries need skilled professionals who can manage, design, and assess their information security programs to safeguard sensitive data, comply with regulations, and mitigate potential threats. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), awarded by ISACA, is one of the most prestigious and in-demand certifications in the cybersecurity landscape, specifically tailored for individuals aiming for managerial positions in information security. In this article, we’ll explore why CISM is a critical credential for cybersecurity leaders, delve into the core competencies it covers, and examine how ExamSnap’s specialized training can prepare you to obtain this valuable certification.
With organizations continuously expanding their digital presence, the need for robust cybersecurity management has never been more important. Cyberattacks, data breaches, and regulatory violations can severely damage an organization’s reputation, operational efficiency, and financial health. This reality has driven businesses to prioritize cybersecurity, resulting in an increasing demand for qualified individuals who can oversee their information security programs. Cybersecurity managers are now considered pivotal in building comprehensive, scalable security frameworks that prevent, detect, and respond to threats.
To succeed in these roles, professionals must possess not only technical expertise but also managerial skills to align security initiatives with organizational goals and regulatory compliance requirements. CISM provides this essential blend of technical and managerial knowledge, making it one of the most sought-after certifications for those aspiring to lead in the field of cybersecurity.
The CISM certification is designed to equip professionals with a deep understanding of information security management and the critical skills needed to oversee complex security infrastructures. It is built around four key domains, which are essential for professionals aiming to enhance their career trajectory within the cybersecurity management field. These domains are:
The first domain focuses on the governance of information security, ensuring that organizations manage and oversee their information security initiatives effectively. Professionals learn how to establish and maintain a security governance framework that aligns with business objectives and regulatory compliance requirements. Governance includes defining roles, responsibilities, and security policies that ensure the effective management of information security across the organization.
CISM-certified professionals are trained to understand governance structures, develop strategic security plans, and implement frameworks that balance risk management with the business’s overall mission. A solid governance framework is essential for organizations to avoid potential data breaches, cyber threats, and non-compliance penalties.
The second domain covers information risk management, which is crucial for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with the organization’s data and assets. Information risk management helps organizations prioritize risks based on their potential impact and likelihood, enabling them to implement effective security controls and strategies.
CISM professionals are trained to conduct risk assessments, evaluate the effectiveness of existing controls, and ensure that risk management practices are integrated into the organization’s overall strategy. This domain also addresses the concept of risk appetite and ensures that security measures are commensurate with the potential risks the organization faces.
The third domain focuses on the development and management of information security programs. This includes designing, implementing, and maintaining security initiatives that address the identified risks and comply with industry standards and regulations. Security programs must be continuously monitored, evaluated, and updated to keep pace with emerging threats and technological advancements.
Certified Information Security Managers are equipped to develop comprehensive security programs that span the entire organization. They are also responsible for aligning security strategies with business goals and objectives, ensuring that both are seamlessly integrated to achieve optimal results.
The final domain deals with incident management, which is essential for preparing organizations to respond effectively to security incidents and breaches. CISM professionals learn how to design and implement incident response strategies that minimize the impact of security breaches and ensure rapid recovery.
Effective incident management includes identifying, responding to, and recovering from security incidents, ensuring that organizations are not only prepared to handle breaches but can also learn from them to improve future security posture. The CISM certification prepares professionals to lead security incident management teams and implement best practices that minimize operational downtime and reputational damage.
The CISM certification is tailored for professionals who are already working in cybersecurity roles and are looking to elevate their careers by taking on managerial positions. While technical certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CISSP focus on the technical aspects of cybersecurity, CISM is centered around managing and securing information systems from a business and operational perspective.
For professionals seeking to take the next step in their careers, CISM opens doors to high-paying, senior-level positions, such as:
One of the primary advantages of CISM is its focus on security management, leadership, and strategy—skills that are in high demand as organizations continue to prioritize cybersecurity as a core business function. Professionals with CISM are well-positioned to make critical decisions, lead teams, and contribute to the organization’s long-term security strategy.
The CISM certification is a recognized credential that can significantly increase your earning potential. According to various reports, professionals with CISM can earn between £65,000 and £160,000 annually, depending on their experience and location. This salary range is indicative of the high demand for skilled information security managers who can drive business objectives while safeguarding sensitive data.
CISM is recognized globally as a gold standard for information security management. Earning this certification provides instant credibility and demonstrates to employers, colleagues, and clients that you have the expertise to oversee information security strategies, manage risks, and respond to incidents effectively.
The demand for CISM-certified professionals spans across industries and geographical boundaries. Whether you are in the healthcare, finance, government, or technology sector, CISM provides the flexibility to work in any organization that requires robust cybersecurity measures. This global recognition offers endless career opportunities and positions professionals to work for top-tier companies worldwide.
Becoming CISM certified opens up numerous opportunities for professional development. ISACA, the organization behind CISM, offers a range of resources, including forums, seminars, and networking events, where certified professionals can collaborate, share knowledge, and stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in cybersecurity.
For professionals looking to fast-track their journey to CISM certification, ExamSnap offers an intensive 4-day training course designed to prepare you for the CISM exam. This accelerated course is tailored to help you grasp the four key domains of information security management quickly, ensuring that you gain the expertise needed to manage and assess information security programs effectively.
By participating in ExamSnap’s CISM training, you will:
In an era where cyberattacks are increasingly sophisticated, businesses and organizations are faced with the growing challenge of defending their digital assets from malicious actors. As a result, cybersecurity professionals are now more critical than ever, and those who specialize in ethical hacking play a crucial role in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, offered by EC-Council, is one of the most respected credentials in the cybersecurity industry. This certification empowers IT professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to think like hackers and defend systems from cyberattacks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why CEH is a must-have certification for aspiring ethical hackers, the skills it covers, and how ExamSnap’s 5-day accelerated course can help you become a Certified Ethical Hacker quickly and efficiently.
As organizations become increasingly reliant on digital platforms for their operations, the threat of cyberattacks grows exponentially. The rapid development of new technologies and the expanding use of the internet have provided cybercriminals with countless attack vectors to exploit. From data breaches and ransomware to advanced persistent threats (APTs), the stakes are high for businesses that fail to secure their networks and systems.
This is where ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, come in. These skilled professionals are hired to proactively test the security of an organization’s systems by attempting to exploit vulnerabilities in the same way that malicious hackers would. The goal of ethical hacking is to identify weaknesses before they can be used for nefarious purposes, allowing organizations to patch these vulnerabilities and strengthen their defenses.
Ethical hackers must possess a deep understanding of how hackers operate, including the tools and techniques they use to gain unauthorized access to systems. This knowledge is crucial for identifying potential risks and vulnerabilities in a proactive manner. The CEH certification is designed to provide professionals with this expertise, allowing them to think like hackers while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is offered by EC-Council and is one of the most recognized certifications for cybersecurity professionals. The certification focuses on ethical hacking techniques and methodologies that are used to identify, assess, and mitigate security vulnerabilities in systems. It covers over 2,500 hacking tools and techniques, including topics such as network scanning, web application security, and system exploitation.
The CEH certification is widely regarded as a benchmark for ethical hacking professionals and is recognized globally across various industries. It provides individuals with the skills needed to conduct penetration tests, assess security risks, and ensure that security measures are in place to protect sensitive data and business assets.
The CEH certification is divided into several core domains that cover a broad spectrum of hacking techniques, security tools, and ethical hacking practices. Here’s a look at the key areas covered by the CEH exam:
The CEH certification is a comprehensive credential that equips professionals with the skills needed to identify vulnerabilities, perform penetration testing, and safeguard critical information. Ethical hackers are often the first line of defense against cyber threats, and organizations rely on their expertise to proactively identify and fix security issues.
Here are a few key reasons why the CEH certification is essential for professionals aiming to become ethical hackers:
For professionals looking to fast-track their path to becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker, ExamSnap offers an accelerated 5-day training course designed to provide in-depth knowledge of all the core domains of the CEH certification. This intensive course is structured to give you the tools, strategies, and expertise needed to become proficient in ethical hacking techniques and security management.
By enrolling in ExamSnap’s CEH training course, you will:
In today’s increasingly digital world, cybersecurity is one of the most critical aspects of any organization. As businesses and individuals continue to rely on interconnected systems and technologies, the need for cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high. For those looking to establish a solid foundation in this field, CompTIA Security+ is one of the most recognized and respected certifications available. This certification validates the knowledge and skills necessary to protect systems, networks, and devices from evolving cyber threats. With its wide recognition, Security+ offers professionals a solid stepping stone toward a successful career in cybersecurity.
This article will delve into the CompTIA Security+ certification, explaining what it is, why it’s important, the key competencies it covers, and how ExamSnap’s accelerated 3-day course helps you quickly and effectively prepare for the certification exam.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is a globally recognized credential designed to validate the foundational skills needed to secure networks, devices, and applications. Offered by CompTIA, a leading provider of IT certifications, Security+ is ideal for professionals who want to prove their ability to handle a wide range of cybersecurity tasks, including risk analysis, threat mitigation, security measures implementation, and compliance management.
One of the most significant advantages of Security+ is its broad applicability. Unlike other certifications that focus on specific aspects of cybersecurity, Security+ covers a wide range of fundamental security topics that are relevant to IT professionals in various roles. Whether you’re a system administrator, network engineer, or security analyst, Security+ provides the essential skills needed to protect an organization’s infrastructure against an ever-growing array of cyber threats.
There are numerous reasons why CompTIA Security+ is a vital certification for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Here are some key reasons why it is often considered the first certification to pursue in the cybersecurity field:
The CompTIA Security+ certification provides foundational knowledge that every cybersecurity professional should have. Unlike specialized certifications that focus on niche areas of security, Security+ covers the basics of cybersecurity, making it an ideal starting point for anyone entering the field. It addresses core concepts such as encryption, network security, threat management, and risk analysis, ensuring that professionals can effectively secure information systems.
Security+ is one of the most widely recognized cybersecurity certifications in the industry. It is often required for entry-level positions in cybersecurity and is recognized by a vast number of employers across the globe. Having Security+ on your resume increases your chances of being hired for positions such as security administrator, network security engineer, and security consultant.
Many industries, particularly those handling sensitive or regulated data, require compliance with specific security standards. Security+ helps professionals understand key regulatory frameworks such as HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and GDPR, ensuring that they can implement security measures that meet these requirements. Earning this certification demonstrates your ability to protect both corporate and personal data while adhering to industry regulations.
As the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks continue to rise, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is growing rapidly. Security+ acts as a gateway to many opportunities within the cybersecurity field, offering career advancement in roles such as cybersecurity analyst, network administrator, and IT auditor. According to various reports, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is expected to increase by nearly 30% over the next decade, making Security+ an essential credential for those looking to build a career in this high-demand field.
The CompTIA Security+ certification exam covers a wide array of fundamental cybersecurity topics. Here are the core domains covered in the Security+ exam:
This domain focuses on identifying and mitigating various types of cybersecurity threats, including malware, phishing attacks, ransomware, and social engineering techniques. Professionals must understand the methods used by attackers to exploit vulnerabilities and how to implement defenses to protect systems.
The architecture and design domain focuses on creating secure systems and networks. This includes understanding secure network architecture, designing secure systems, and implementing various security controls to protect against attacks. It also covers concepts like cloud computing and virtualization security.
In this domain, professionals learn how to implement various security solutions, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and encryption protocols. Additionally, it covers the configuration of secure networks, secure applications, and multi-factor authentication systems to protect critical assets.
This domain involves the processes for monitoring and responding to security incidents. Professionals are trained to identify and respond to cybersecurity incidents in real time, manage security events, and conduct investigations after security breaches. Incident response and reporting are key components in ensuring an organization’s resilience to cyberattacks.
Governance, risk management, and compliance are essential for understanding how cybersecurity fits into an organization’s overall business strategy. Professionals learn how to evaluate risks, implement risk mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
Cryptography is a critical aspect of securing data, especially when it is transmitted over networks. This domain covers encryption algorithms, hashing techniques, and public key infrastructure (PKI), teaching professionals how to secure communications and protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.
Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification offers numerous benefits to professionals looking to advance in the cybersecurity field. Here are a few key advantages:
As an entry-level certification, Security+ provides professionals with the foundational skills necessary to transition into more advanced roles within cybersecurity. It is the perfect stepping stone to certifications such as CISSP or CISM, which are required for senior positions like Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or cybersecurity manager.
Professionals with Security+ certification are highly sought after in the cybersecurity job market. According to industry salary surveys, individuals holding Security+ can earn an average salary of $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on their experience and role. This earning potential increases as professionals gain experience and pursue advanced certifications.
Unlike theoretical certifications, Security+ offers practical knowledge and hands-on experience with security tools and techniques. From configuring firewalls to securing networks and systems, Security+ prepares professionals to tackle real-world challenges they’ll face in their roles.
The CompTIA Security+ certification is recognized worldwide, making it a valuable credential for those looking to work in cybersecurity across various countries and industries. Employers across the globe trust Security+ to validate the skills of their security teams and ensure that they can effectively protect systems from cyber threats.
For those looking to achieve CompTIA Security+ certification quickly and effectively, ExamSnap offers an intensive 3-day training course. The ExamSnap program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to pass the Security+ exam and gain a solid understanding of core cybersecurity concepts.
The course covers all of the key domains outlined in the Security+ exam and is tailored to help candidates rapidly acquire the skills needed to excel. With expert instructors, a comprehensive curriculum, and practical exercises, the ExamSnap training program ensures that professionals are well-prepared for the certification exam and can confidently tackle the challenges of securing networks, systems, and applications.
With cloud computing at the forefront of business transformation, Microsoft Azure certifications are now more relevant than ever. These certifications focus on key aspects of cloud infrastructure, including management, development, and architecture. Microsoft revamped its certification offerings in 2019, introducing role-based Azure certifications, such as the Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate, Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate, and Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert. Each of these credentials ensures professionals have the skills to deploy, manage, and optimize cloud-based solutions. ExamSnap offers role-based training in Azure certifications, enabling professionals to quickly master Azure’s complex features.
The CCNA is one of the most well-respected networking certifications, making it ideal for individuals working with Cisco technologies. Cisco’s extensive suite of products powers global networks, and CCNA provides the foundational knowledge necessary for networking professionals to install, configure, and troubleshoot network infrastructures. The certification covers topics such as network security, IP addressing, and routing protocols. With ExamSnap’s intensive 7-day course, professionals can prepare for the exam efficiently, arming themselves with the knowledge required to thrive in the networking space.
As businesses increasingly migrate their operations to the cloud, expertise in Amazon Web Services (AWS) has become a significant competitive advantage. AWS Certified Solutions Architect professionals design, implement, and manage scalable applications in the AWS cloud environment. This certification is particularly valuable, with average salaries reaching £85,000 for certified professionals. ExamSnap’s 6-day training program prepares you for the Solutions Architect exam, equipping you with the skills needed to deploy secure and efficient cloud-based applications.
The CCSP certification focuses on securing cloud environments and protecting cloud-based data. As organizations continue to adopt cloud services, the need for cloud security professionals has surged. The CCSP certifies that professionals can manage and safeguard cloud systems from potential vulnerabilities and threats. If you’re already CISSP certified, the CCSP serves as a natural progression. ExamSnap’s 6-day accelerated course provides comprehensive training in cloud security, making it easier for you to master the complexities of cloud-based infrastructure and achieve this valuable certification.
Enterprise architecture is integral to the efficient operation of large organizations. TOGAF (The Open Group Architecture Framework) is the de facto standard for designing and managing enterprise architectures. Achieving the TOGAF 9 certification demonstrates your ability to create frameworks that improve business processes and increase productivity. With ExamSnap’s 3-day course, professionals can quickly grasp the principles of enterprise architecture and master TOGAF 9, ensuring they are well-equipped to oversee architecture in large organizations.
Data privacy and protection have become crucial areas of focus due to regulations like GDPR. The CIPP/E and CIPM certifications are globally recognized in Europe for data privacy professionals. The CIPP/E focuses on privacy laws and regulations across the European Union, while the CIPM certification validates skills in managing privacy programs within organizations. ExamSnap’s 4-day course equips professionals with the knowledge to meet the demands of the evolving data privacy landscape, enabling them to stay ahead of regulatory changes and manage privacy policies effectively.
Achieving a top-tier IT certification is a pivotal step in advancing your career in the ever-evolving world of technology. Whether your goal is to specialize in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or data protection, certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CEH, and CompTIA Security+ can significantly enhance your professional profile. These credentials not only demonstrate your expertise in essential areas like cloud infrastructure, network security, and enterprise architecture but also position you as a highly sought-after professional in today’s competitive job market.
For cybersecurity professionals, the CISSP certification is a game-changer. Whether you are just starting your career or are an experienced security manager, CISSP opens doors to leadership roles and higher-paying job opportunities. With its broad coverage of security domains, this certification ensures that professionals are equipped to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity challenges. With ExamSnap’s accelerated 6-day training program, you can quickly gain the tools and knowledge needed to excel and stay ahead of the competition in this rapidly growing field.
For those aspiring to take on managerial roles in cybersecurity, CISM is the key credential. This certification equips professionals with the ability to design, implement, and manage enterprise-level security programs. With the growing demand for information security managers, CISM offers the opportunity to advance your career and increase your earning potential. ExamSnap’s specialized 4-day CISM course provides the perfect platform to fast-track your certification, ensuring you are prepared to lead organizations through the evolving landscape of cybersecurity risks and compliance requirements.
CEH, or Certified Ethical Hacker, is another critical certification for anyone interested in ethical hacking and penetration testing. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, the need for skilled ethical hackers continues to rise. CEH provides professionals with the tools and expertise to protect sensitive data and prevent cyberattacks before they can cause damage. ExamSnap’s 5-day focused training helps you gain the skills you need to achieve CEH certification quickly, positioning you as a leader in the field of ethical hacking.
For those just starting out in cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+ is a foundational certification that provides the essential knowledge needed to secure applications, networks, and devices. Whether you’re entering the industry or looking to build on existing skills, Security+ opens the door to a wide range of career opportunities. With ExamSnap’s 3-day accelerated course, you can quickly prepare for the exam, giving you the expertise needed to protect critical assets in today’s digital world.
No matter where you are in your career, these certifications can accelerate your growth, increase your earning potential, and open doors to exciting opportunities. Through ExamSnap’s specialized training programs, you can fast-track your certification journey and gain the skills needed to succeed in the ever-evolving IT landscape.