Lucrative IT Certifications to Pursue in 2023
The world of cybersecurity is constantly evolving, and for professionals seeking to stay ahead, certifications are a valuable asset. One such certification is the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Security, the highest paying IT certification in this field. This article will guide you through the requirements, process, and tips for obtaining the CCIE Security certification.
Requirements for CCIE Security Certification
The CCIE Security certification does not have formal prerequisites, but it is recommended that you have a deep understanding of networking concepts and security principles, equivalent to at least having a CCNA Security certification or equivalent experience.
The journey to becoming a CCIE Security certified professional involves passing a written exam and a lab exam. The structure of the written exam may change over time, so it's important to check the current requirements. After passing the written exam, you must pass the CCIE Security lab exam, which is hands-on and requires configuring and troubleshooting various security devices and technologies within a set timeframe.
It's worth noting that CCIE certifications must be recertified every two years by passing a core exam or a combination of exams that are part of the professional-level certifications.
Process for Obtaining CCIE Security Certification
- Study and Preparation: Begin by studying the most current CCIE Security lab blueprint and the technologies covered (e.g., ASA, Firepower, ISE, WSA/ESA, WLC, DNA Center). Practice hands-on with these technologies to develop deep technical skills. Use online resources, study groups, and practice labs to reinforce your learning.
- Pass the Written Exam: Register for and pass the CCIE Security written exam. This exam assesses your theoretical knowledge of security technologies and architectures.
- Schedule the Lab Exam: Once you have passed the written exam, schedule the lab exam. Lab exams are typically conducted at Cisco-approved testing locations.
- Pass the Lab Exam: The CCIE Security lab exam is divided into two sections: Design and Hands-On. The Design section involves sketching security solutions, while the Hands-On section requires configuring and troubleshooting security devices and networks.
- Recertification: After obtaining the CCIE Security certification, ensure you recertify every two years by passing a qualifying exam to maintain your certification status.
Additional Tips
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with the latest technologies and trends in network security.
- Practice with Real Equipment: Use real devices or virtual labs to practice configuring and troubleshooting.
- Join Study Groups: Participating in study groups can provide valuable insights and help you stay motivated.
Other Notable Cybersecurity Certifications and Their Average Annual Salaries
- CompTIA Security: An entry-level cybersecurity certification that validates knowledge of security concepts, including network security, threats and vulnerabilities, and compliance and operational security. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $74,000.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): One of the most widely recognized certifications in cybersecurity. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $141,452.
- GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): A cybersecurity certification that covers the fundamentals of security essentials, such as network security, access control, and cryptography. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $101,851.
- Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC): Teaches one how to identify and manage risks related to information systems. It covers risk identification and assessment, risk response, and risk monitoring and reporting. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $111,049.
- Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP): Validates knowledge of cloud security and can help one earn an average annual salary of $141,589.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Covers network security, system hacking, and web application security. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $106,375.
- Certified Information Security Auditor (CISA): Focuses on evaluating and auditing information systems. It covers IT governance, system and infrastructure life cycle management, and information asset protection. It can help one earn an average annual salary of $111,039.
By following these steps and dedicating time to thorough preparation, you can successfully achieve the CCIE Security certification, opening doors to a rewarding career in cybersecurity.
The encyclopedia of cybersecurity certifications includes the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Security, with an average annual salary of around $141,452. To obtain the CCIE Security certification, it's recommended to have equal knowledge to a CCNA Security certification or equivalent experience. The process involves passing a written exam and a lab exam. Regular updates on the most current blueprint and technologies are essential for study and preparation, including ASA, Firepower, ISE, WSA/ESA, WLC, and DNA Center.
Once the written exam is passed, the lab exam must be scheduled and completed, divided into two sections: Design and Hands-On. After obtaining the CCIE Security certification, it must be recertified every two years by passing a qualifying exam to maintain the certification status.
Other notable cybersecurity certifications include CompTIA Security, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and Certified Information Security Auditor (CISA). These certifications cover various aspects of information security, cloud security, risk management, audit, access control, cybersecurity, network security, technology, and data-and-cloud-computing and offer average annual salaries ranging from $74,000 to $141,589.
By diligently following the steps and investing time in comprehensive preparation, aspirants can achieve the CCIE Security certification and pursue a fulfilling career in cybersecurity. Keep yourself up-to-date with the latest advancements in cloud security, network security, and technology by regular practice, online resources, study groups, and involvement in certified training programs.
