Top Ethical Hacking Certifications for Beginners in 2025 | A Comprehensive Guide to Building Your Cybersecurity Career

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Ethical Hacking Certifications Matter
• Top Ethical Hacking Certifications for Beginners in 2025
• How to Choose the Right Ethical Hacking Certification
• Conclusion
• FAQs:

Introduction

The demand for ethical hackers continues to grow as organizations increasingly prioritize cybersecurity. The increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks make ethical hacking a crucial role in safeguarding systems and sensitive data. For beginners aspiring to break into this field, obtaining the right certifications is a great way to prove your skills and knowledge.

In this blog, we will explore the best ethical hacking certifications for beginners in 2025, covering their key features, advantages, and how to choose the one that aligns with your career goals. These certifications are designed to provide the foundational knowledge required to excel in ethical hacking roles, making them valuable assets for anyone looking to embark on a cybersecurity career.

Why Ethical Hacking Certifications Matter

Ethical hacking certifications are essential for several reasons:

• Validation of Skills: Certifications validate your expertise and demonstrate to employers that you have the required skills to perform ethical hacking tasks.
• Career Advancement: They increase your chances of landing a job or a promotion within the cybersecurity domain, particularly in penetration testing, network security, and vulnerability assessments.
• Structured Learning Path: Certifications provide a structured learning path, covering core ethical hacking principles, tools, and techniques.
• Industry Recognition: Certifications like CEH and OSCP are globally recognized, which helps to establish your credibility within the cybersecurity community.
• Increased Earning Potential: Certified ethical hackers are generally offered higher salaries compared to non-certified professionals due to their proven skillset.

If you’re a beginner, choosing the right entry-level certification is critical for setting a strong foundation in the field of ethical hacking.

Top Ethical Hacking Certifications for Beginners in 2025

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) - EC-Council

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification by the EC-Council is one of the most popular and globally recognized credentials in the cybersecurity industry. The CEH program focuses on teaching the tools and techniques used by hackers and cybersecurity professionals to secure systems and networks.

Key Features:

• Covers various hacking techniques, including footprinting, reconnaissance, malware threats, and network attacks.
• Includes real-world labs that allow students to practice their skills on virtual machines.
• Offers a comprehensive understanding of ethical hacking and cybersecurity concepts.
• Requires 2 years of work experience in the information security field, or completion of an EC-Council approved training course.

Best For: Beginners looking to validate their ethical hacking skills in a globally recognized program.

2. CompTIA PenTest+

CompTIA PenTest+ is another great certification for beginners interested in penetration testing. This vendor-neutral certification is designed for professionals who are looking to build skills in vulnerability scanning, network penetration testing, and security auditing. It focuses on real-world scenarios, making it a great starting point for ethical hackers.

Key Features:

• Covers topics such as penetration testing, vulnerability management, and cloud security.
• Features practical scenario-based questions to evaluate real-world problem-solving skills.
• Ideal for those who want to learn vulnerability assessment and penetration testing in depth.
• No specific prerequisites, although Security+ knowledge is recommended.

Best For: Beginners who want to dive into penetration testing and develop a strong foundation in ethical hacking techniques.

3. eJPT (eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester)

The eJPT certification by eLearnSecurity is an entry-level penetration testing certification that focuses on real-world scenarios. It is one of the most affordable certifications for beginners and is widely respected in the industry. The exam consists entirely of practical challenges where candidates need to complete a penetration test within a simulated network environment.

Key Features:

• Focuses on network penetration testing, web security, and exploitation techniques.
• Exam is 100% practical, with no multiple-choice questions.
• Ideal for beginners who want to gain hands-on experience.
• Offers great value for the price, providing solid foundational knowledge.

Best For: Those who want an affordable, hands-on certification that focuses on penetration testing.

4. GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

The GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification is an entry-level certification offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC). It is a comprehensive cybersecurity certification that covers topics such as network security, cryptography, and access control. While not specifically focused on ethical hacking, it provides a solid foundation in security concepts that are essential for ethical hackers.

Key Features:

• Covers fundamental topics like network security, operating system security, and incident response.
• Offers both theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on learning.
• Recognized by top cybersecurity firms as a foundational cybersecurity certification.

Best For: Beginners looking for a well-rounded, foundational certification in cybersecurity.

5. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

The OSCP certification, offered by Offensive Security, is a well-known certification for penetration testing and ethical hacking. While the OSCP is typically aimed at intermediate to advanced hackers, beginners can start by learning the basics through Offensive Security’s PWK (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux) course. This certification is hands-on and includes a practical exam where candidates are required to exploit machines within a 24-hour period.

Key Features:

• Offers a completely hands-on, practical exam where you need to exploit vulnerabilities.
• Requires knowledge of penetration testing techniques, including buffer overflow exploitation and web application attacks.
• Highly regarded in the industry and is often a requirement for advanced security positions.

Best For: Those looking to build advanced penetration testing skills and stand out in the cybersecurity field.

How to Choose the Right Ethical Hacking Certification

When deciding which ethical hacking certification to pursue, consider the following factors:

• Career Goals: Do you want to specialize in penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, or network security?
• Hands-On vs. Theoretical Knowledge: Some certifications (e.g., eJPT, OSCP) focus heavily on practical application, while others (e.g., CEH, GSEC) include more theoretical learning.
• Budget: Certifications can range in price from $200 (eJPT) to over $1500 (OSCP, GSEC).
• Prerequisites: Some certifications require prior experience, while others are perfect for beginners.

Conclusion

Ethical hacking certifications are a great way to start your journey into cybersecurity. Whether you're interested in penetration testing, network security, or vulnerability management, obtaining the right certification will equip you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to thrive in the field.

By pursuing any of these beginner-friendly certifications, such as CEH, eJPT, or PenTest+, you will be better prepared for a successful career in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise in 2025, these certifications will prove to be a valuable asset in securing high-paying and rewarding job opportunities.

FAQs:

What is Ethical Hacking?

Ethical hacking refers to the practice of legally and ethically hacking systems to identify and fix vulnerabilities before malicious hackers can exploit them.

Why should I get an ethical hacking certification?

An ethical hacking certification validates your skills and knowledge, making you more attractive to employers and increasing your career opportunities in the cybersecurity field.

What are the most popular ethical hacking certifications for beginners in 2025?

The top certifications for beginners include Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), CompTIA PenTest+, eJPT, GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), and Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP).

What is the CEH certification?

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a globally recognized certification that focuses on ethical hacking techniques, tools, and methodologies.

How difficult is the CEH exam?

The CEH exam can be challenging, as it requires a solid understanding of ethical hacking tools and techniques, but proper training and practice can help you succeed.

Do I need prior experience to take the CEH exam?

While the CEH exam requires two years of work experience in information security, beginners can also take official EC-Council training to bypass this requirement.

What is the CompTIA PenTest+ certification?

CompTIA PenTest+ is a vendor-neutral certification that focuses on penetration testing, vulnerability management, and network security assessments.

Is the CompTIA PenTest+ certification suitable for beginners?

Yes, CompTIA PenTest+ is ideal for beginners who want to develop a strong foundation in penetration testing and network security.

What is the eJPT certification?

The eJPT (eLearnSecurity Junior Penetration Tester) certification is a beginner-level credential focusing on practical penetration testing and security analysis skills.

How long is the eJPT exam?

The eJPT exam is a practical test where candidates are required to complete penetration testing exercises within a simulated network environment.

What is the GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) certification?

The GSEC certification covers foundational cybersecurity concepts such as network security, cryptography, and incident response. It is an entry-level certification ideal for beginners.

How long does it take to prepare for the GSEC exam?

The preparation time for the GSEC exam depends on your prior knowledge, but typically, it takes about 3-6 months of study for beginners.

What is the OSCP certification?

The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certification is a hands-on, practical certification focused on advanced penetration testing and ethical hacking.

How hard is the OSCP certification?

The OSCP exam is known to be difficult, as it is entirely practical and requires candidates to exploit vulnerabilities in a 24-hour exam period.

Do I need to complete a training course to take the OSCP exam?

While no formal training is required for the OSCP exam, it is highly recommended to take the Offensive Security’s PWK (Penetration Testing with Kali Linux) course to build practical skills.

How much does the CEH certification cost?

The CEH exam costs around $1,199 if you take the official EC-Council exam, though training fees may add additional costs.

How much does the CompTIA PenTest+ certification cost?

The CompTIA PenTest+ exam costs about $370, but prices may vary depending on your region or training options.

How long does it take to earn the eJPT certification?

The eJPT certification typically takes 2-3 months to prepare for, depending on your pace and learning method.

How much does the GSEC certification cost?

The GSEC exam costs around $2,499 for the exam, but you may find discounts or bundle deals with training materials.

How much does the OSCP certification cost?

The OSCP exam costs between $800 and $1,400, depending on the training package and exam attempt.

Do ethical hacking certifications expire?

Some ethical hacking certifications, like CEH and CompTIA PenTest+, require you to renew them every 3 years to maintain their validity.

Which ethical hacking certification is best for beginners?

For beginners, CompTIA PenTest+, eJPT, and GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC) are the best certifications, as they offer comprehensive coverage of essential ethical hacking concepts.

Can I take ethical hacking certification exams online?

Yes, many ethical hacking certifications, such as CEH and CompTIA PenTest+, offer online proctored exams, allowing you to take them from home.

How long does it take to complete ethical hacking certification courses?

The length of time varies depending on the certification, but most programs range from 2-6 months of study time.

Is there any prior knowledge required for ethical hacking certifications?

Most certifications do not require prior ethical hacking experience, but some foundational knowledge of networking, programming, or IT security may be helpful.

What are the prerequisites for the CEH certification?

To take the CEH exam, you need two years of work experience in information security, or you can complete an official EC-Council training course.

Can ethical hacking certifications be pursued online?

Yes, there are various online platforms, such as EC-Council and CompTIA, that offer online courses for ethical hacking certifications.

What job opportunities can I get with ethical hacking certifications?

Ethical hacking certifications open doors to roles like penetration tester, security analyst, vulnerability assessor, and network security engineer.

What programming languages should I know for ethical hacking?

For ethical hacking, it is useful to know programming languages like Python, C/C++, and JavaScript, as well as scripting languages like Bash or PowerShell.

Are there any free ethical hacking certifications?

Some organizations offer free resources and training for ethical hacking, but recognized certifications usually come with a cost. However, many offer discounts or financial aid.

How do I choose the right ethical hacking certification?

Choose the certification based on your career goals and interests. For example, PenTest+ is good for beginners, while OSCP is ideal for those seeking advanced penetration testing skills.

Can I pursue multiple ethical hacking certifications?

Yes, it’s often recommended to pursue multiple certifications to enhance your skills and increase your chances of securing a high-level role in ethical hacking.

Is the CEH certification globally recognized?

Yes, the CEH certification is globally recognized and highly regarded in the cybersecurity industry.

What is the passing score for the CEH exam?

The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and requires a passing score of around 70%.

Is hands-on experience required for the OSCP certification?

Yes, the OSCP exam is practical, so hands-on experience in penetration testing and exploitation is essential to succeed.

What is the career growth potential with ethical hacking certifications?

Ethical hacking certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects, with potential roles in high-demand areas such as penetration testing, cybersecurity consulting, and network defense.