Cyber-
security.
Security+, CySA+, CEH, CISSP, CISM — in the right order. From SOC analyst to security architect. Start here if networking is already solid.
CompTIA Security+
The baseline. Required by DoD 8570, referenced in almost every entry-level security job posting. Study free with Professor Messer on YouTube.
CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003)
✦ HIREABLE HEREHireable checkpoint. Blue team analytics, threat detection, incident response. Security+ → CySA+ is the fastest path to a SOC role.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Red team fundamentals. Recon, exploitation, post-exploitation. TCM Security offers cheaper prep. Gets you into penetration testing roles.
CISSP
The senior-level cert. Requires 5 years of experience. Covers all 8 security domains. Opens CISO and security architect tracks.
CISM (Certified Info Security Manager)
Management track. Best if you want to lead security programs, not just run them. Pairs with CISSP for senior roles.
Aggregated from Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Payscale, ZipRecruiter. Government and defense roles often pay higher with clearance.
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