Which Cybersecurity Certification Is Best for Beginners? A Complete Guide

Introduction

With cyber threats increasing globally, the demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals is higher than ever. Many aspiring individuals wonder: Which cybersecurity certification is best for beginners? Certifications help validate your cybersecurity skills and improve your chances of landing a high-paying job in the field.

For beginners, choosing the right certification can be confusing. Some focus on general cybersecurity concepts, while others dive into ethical hacking, security operations, or risk management. In this blog, we will explore the top cybersecurity certifications for beginners, their benefits, job prospects, and how you can prepare for them.

If you're looking for an industry-recognized cybersecurity training provider, WebAsha Technologies offers hands-on training and certification guidance to help you build a strong foundation in cybersecurity.

Why Should Beginners Get a Cybersecurity Certification?

Earning a cybersecurity certification as a beginner provides several advantages:

• Validates Your Skills: Proves your knowledge and expertise in cybersecurity.
• Enhances Job Opportunities: Helps you qualify for entry-level cybersecurity jobs like SOC analyst, security administrator, or ethical hacker.
• Industry Recognition: Certifications from vendors like CompTIA, EC-Council, and ISC² are globally recognized.
• Boosts Career Growth: Opens doors to higher-paying roles as you gain experience.
• No Prior Experience Needed: Many beginner-friendly certifications do not require an IT background.

Top Cybersecurity Certifications for Beginners

Here are some of the best cybersecurity certifications that beginners can pursue:

1. CompTIA Security+

Best for: General cybersecurity knowledge and entry-level jobs

• Covers network security, cryptography, risk management, and threats
• No prerequisites required
• Ideal for SOC analysts, IT security specialists, and network administrators
• Exam Fee: $392

2. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Best for: Beginners interested in ethical hacking and penetration testing

• Focuses on hacking techniques, penetration testing, and cyber defense
• Recommended for ethical hackers, penetration testers, and security analysts
• Exam Fee: $1,199

3. Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate

Best for: Complete beginners looking for an affordable cybersecurity certification

• Covers cybersecurity fundamentals, risk management, and security tools
• Self-paced online course with no prior experience required
• Cost: $39 per month (Coursera)

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP - Associate Level)

Best for: Beginners aiming for a long-term career in cybersecurity

• Covers security and risk management, identity access management, and security architecture
• Requires no prior experience if applying as an Associate of ISC²
• Exam Fee: $749

5. CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)

Best for: Those interested in cybersecurity operations and threat detection

• Focuses on threat detection, vulnerability analysis, and incident response
• Suitable for SOC analysts, security engineers, and cybersecurity specialists
• Exam Fee: $392

6. Microsoft SC-900: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals

Best for: Beginners looking to specialize in cloud security

• Covers Microsoft security concepts, identity management, and compliance
• Great for entry-level cloud security roles
• Exam Fee: $99

7. Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate

Best for: Those interested in SOC operations and network security

• Focuses on monitoring security systems, incident response, and network security fundamentals
• Ideal for SOC analysts and security operations professionals
• Exam Fee: $300

Which Cybersecurity Certification Should You Choose?

The best certification for beginners depends on your career goals. Here’s a quick guide:

If you are completely new to cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+ or Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate are great starting points. If you’re interested in ethical hacking, CEH is the best option.

How to Prepare for a Cybersecurity Certification?

Follow these steps to successfully earn your cybersecurity certification:

1. Choose the Right Certification: Based on your career goals.
2. Enroll in a Training Program: WebAsha Technologies offers industry-focused training with hands-on labs.
3. Study the Official Materials: Use books, online courses, and practice tests.
4. Gain Hands-on Experience: Set up a home lab, use Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges, and practice with cybersecurity tools.
5. Take Practice Exams: Helps you identify weak areas before attempting the real exam.
6. Schedule and Pass the Exam: Once confident, schedule your certification exam with the respective vendor.

Why Choose WebAsha Technologies for Cybersecurity Training?

WebAsha Technologies provides:

• Expert-led training for cybersecurity certifications
• Hands-on labs and real-world scenarios
• Job placement assistance for students
• Flexible learning options (online and classroom)
• Affordable fees for beginners

If you want to start your cybersecurity career, WebAsha Technologies offers structured training programs that help beginners gain practical skills and certifications.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity certifications are an excellent way for beginners to validate their skills, improve job prospects, and enter the cybersecurity industry. The best certification depends on your career goals—CompTIA Security+ is great for general cybersecurity knowledge, CEH for ethical hacking, and Google Cybersecurity Certificate for an affordable learning path.

With structured training, hands-on practice, and the right certification, you can start a successful cybersecurity career even without prior IT experience. WebAsha Technologies provides industry-recognized cybersecurity training to help beginners get certified and secure their first cybersecurity job.

FAQs

What is the best cybersecurity certification for beginners?

CompTIA Security+ is considered the best cybersecurity certification for beginners because it covers fundamental security concepts and is widely recognized by employers.

Is a cybersecurity certification necessary to get a job?

While not mandatory, a cybersecurity certification increases job opportunities and helps beginners prove their skills to employers.

Which certification is best for ethical hacking?

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is the most popular for those interested in ethical hacking and penetration testing.

Can I get a cybersecurity job with just a certification?

Yes, many employers hire candidates with cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+ or CEH for entry-level positions.

Do I need prior IT experience for a cybersecurity certification?

No, many beginner certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate require no prior IT experience.

How long does it take to prepare for a cybersecurity certification?

On average, it takes 2-3 months of study to prepare for an entry-level cybersecurity certification.

Which cybersecurity certification is the easiest to pass?

The Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate and CompTIA Security+ are considered easier for beginners compared to more advanced certifications like CISSP.

What is the cost of a cybersecurity certification?

The cost varies by certification:

• CompTIA Security+ – $392
• CEH – $1,199
• Google Cybersecurity Certificate – $39/month
• CISSP (Associate Level) – $749

Are online cybersecurity certifications valuable?

Yes, online cybersecurity certifications from reputable organizations like CompTIA, EC-Council, and Google are highly valuable.

Which cybersecurity certification has the highest salary potential?

Certifications like CISSP, CEH, and OSCP lead to high-paying cybersecurity roles.

What cybersecurity certification should I get if I want to work in a SOC?

CompTIA CySA+ and Cisco CyberOps Associate are great certifications for SOC analyst roles.

Can I take a cybersecurity certification exam without a training course?

Yes, you can self-study and take certification exams, but training courses help improve your chances of passing.

Is CEH better than Security+?

CEH is focused on ethical hacking, while Security+ covers general cybersecurity concepts. Choose based on your career goals.

What is the first cybersecurity certification I should get?

CompTIA Security+ is often recommended as the first certification for cybersecurity beginners.

Is CISSP good for beginners?

CISSP is an advanced certification, but beginners can apply for the Associate of ISC² status while gaining experience.

Are cybersecurity certifications better than degrees?

A degree provides a broad education, while certifications focus on practical skills and can help you get a job faster.

Which certification is best for cloud security?

Microsoft SC-900 is a great beginner-friendly certification for cloud security fundamentals.

What is the best certification for penetration testing?

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is the most recognized certification for penetration testing.

Can I work in cybersecurity without coding knowledge?

Yes, many cybersecurity roles, like SOC analyst and security auditor, do not require coding knowledge.

Do cybersecurity certifications expire?

Yes, most certifications require renewal every 2-3 years, either by retaking the exam or earning continuing education credits.

Which cybersecurity certification is best for government jobs?

Certifications like CISSP, Security+, and CEH are preferred for government and defense-related cybersecurity roles.

How difficult is the Security+ exam?

The Security+ exam is considered moderately difficult but can be passed with proper study and practice tests.

Do employers value Google’s Cybersecurity Certificate?

Yes, the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate is recognized by major companies and is a good entry-level certification.

Can I start a cybersecurity career with just online certifications?

Yes, many professionals start with certifications and practical experience before securing a cybersecurity job.

Which cybersecurity certification is best for risk management?

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are best for risk management roles.

Do cybersecurity certifications require practical experience?

Some certifications, like CISSP, require work experience, but beginner certifications like Security+ and Google Cybersecurity Certificate do not.

What is the best way to prepare for a cybersecurity certification?

Study official guides, take online courses, practice with hands-on labs, and complete mock exams before attempting the real test.

Which certification is best for a beginner interested in network security?

CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CyberOps Associate are good options for beginners interested in network security.

Are cybersecurity certifications worth it?

Yes, cybersecurity certifications can help you get a job, increase your salary, and advance your career faster than traditional degrees alone.

Where can I get cybersecurity training for certifications?

You can enroll in WebAsha Technologies' cybersecurity training programs, which provide hands-on experience, expert guidance, and certification preparation.