How to Get Your EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification - A Guide to Success

  • Ethical Hacker Certification
  • Published by: André Hammer on Feb 06, 2024
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Are you interested in a career in cybersecurity or already working in the field and looking to upskill? Becoming an EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker is a great way to enhance your knowledge and credentials.

This certification will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to identify and address potential security risks in computer systems and networks. With the increasing threat of cyber attacks, the demand for ethical hackers is at an all-time high.

Read on to find out how you can get certified in Ethical Hacking.

Introduction - the Importance of certification for Ethical hackers

Ethical hackers are important in cybersecurity. Getting certified in ethical hacking boosts their credibility and opens up IT opportunities.

For example, having a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification can advance a professional's career by validating their ability to prevent cyber-attacks and prioritize compliance and security. Aspiring ethical hackers aiming for this certification need at least two years of experience in information security or must complete EC-Council training. This shows their dedication and ensures they have the needed expertise for ethical hacking. Compared to other certifications like CISSP and OSCP, the CEH certification stands out for its emphasis on offensive security techniques, including footprinting and network scanning. So, holding a CEH certification gives ethical hackers a competitive advantage and showcases their skills in various ethical hacking methods.

Scope and demand in the IT career landscape

Ethical hacking certification opens up many job opportunities in the IT industry, especially for certified professionals. Industries like finance, healthcare, and government agencies are looking for experts with ethical hacking skills to boost their cybersecurity. Specific skills like penetration testing, network security, and vulnerability assessment are in high demand in IT careers.

Having the Certified Ethical Hacker credential shows expertise in finding and fixing vulnerabilities in network infrastructures, making individuals valuable to organizations focused on cybersecurity. The CEH certification is relevant for a wide audience, including IT auditors, site administrators, and security professionals aiming to advance in cybersecurity. The demand for professionals who can identify and address security risks in today's digital world highlights the importance of ethical hacking certifications.

Understanding the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Credential

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) website

The CEH certification was created in the early 2000s. It has changed over time to keep up with cybersecurity and the need for ethical hackers.

This certification is important for the growth of ethical hacking. It focuses on practical skills like finding vulnerabilities, testing for weaknesses, and securing networks.

Since it started, the CEH certification has been updated to match new technologies and threats. For instance, newer versions now cover cloud security, IoT devices, and mobile security, showing the changing digital world and potential attack methods.

These updates make sure that certified ethical hackers have the most relevant knowledge for modern cybersecurity challenges.

Overview of the Certified Ethical Hacker Competencies

Certified ethical hackers have a wide range of skills. These include network security, vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and ethical hacking techniques.

These skills help them identify and address security vulnerabilities in information systems and networks.

They play a crucial role in ensuring that sensitive data remains protected from cyber threats.

Their unique ability to think like malicious hackers and identify security weaknesses sets them apart from other IT professionals.

This makes them valuable assets to organizations in finance, healthcare, government, and technology.

The demand for professionals with these competencies is growing as businesses and organizations aim to protect their digital assets and sensitive information from cyber-attacks.

Prerequisites for the CEH Exam

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is recognized globally as a benchmark for professionals in the cybersecurity field. Aspiring ethical hackers who aim to obtain this esteemed certification must first understand the prerequisites required to embark on this journey. While there are no strict prerequisites set in stone, there are certain foundational knowledge areas and skills that can significantly enhance the chances of success in the CEH exam.

Educational background and professional experience

The candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science with a focus on Network Security. This has given them a strong foundation in programming, networking, and cybersecurity principles.

In addition to their educational background, the candidate has over five years of experience in the IT industry. They have practical experience in system administration, network monitoring, and incident response.

Their combination of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise equips them to approach cybersecurity challenges with a well-rounded perspective. This includes identifying vulnerabilities, conducting penetration tests, and implementing security measures.

Age requirements for prospective ethical hackers

To take the Certified Ethical Hacker certification exam, individuals must be at least 18 years old. There are no rules against minors taking the exam, but they need to be of legal age to sign the paperwork and agreements. Age is important for aspiring ethical hackers to ensure they are mature enough to handle the information responsibly. This requirement upholds the highest ethical standards in the cybersecurity industry.

Policies regarding minors undertaking the certification

Minors who want to get the Ethical Hacker Certification have to follow specific rules. There are strict age limits and requirements in place to make sure minors are ready for the exam.

For example, those under 18 might need parental consent to register. The certification board also enforces safety measures, like supervision during the exam and clear guidelines on ethical hacking. These rules are important to keep minors safe and to make sure the certification stays credible. They also help minors use their knowledge and skills responsibly in the cybersecurity community.

Target Audience for the Ethical Hacker Certification

In an age where cybersecurity threats loom large and data breaches make headlines with alarming frequency, the demand for skilled professionals who can defend against cyber attacks has never been higher. Among these professionals, ethical hackers play a crucial role in identifying vulnerabilities in systems, networks, and applications before malicious actors can exploit them. But who exactly is the target audience for ethical hacker certification, and why should individuals consider pursuing this credential?

Professionals who benefit from becoming a certified ethical hacker

Becoming a certified ethical hacker is beneficial for professionals like IT professionals, cybersecurity specialists, and network administrators.

The demand for certified ethical hackers has led to higher earning potential, job security, and career advancement in the IT sector.

Sectors like finance, healthcare, and government agencies highly value certified ethical hackers for protecting data and preventing cyber-attacks.

Certification as an ethical hacker gives professionals a competitive edge in the job market and helps enhance the overall security of their respective organizations.

Industry sectors that value CEH holders

Professionals with the Certified Ethical Hacker credential are highly valued in different industry sectors like finance, healthcare, government, and technology. The demand for individuals with CEH certification can vary across sectors within the IT industry. Sectors like finance and healthcare place a premium on the skills and knowledge that CEH holders bring to cybersecurity. In these sectors, CEH holders play a crucial role in understanding and combating evolving cyber threats.

They also implement security measures to protect sensitive data and information. CEH holders contribute to cybersecurity needs by assessing and addressing vulnerabilities in digital systems, conducting penetration testing, and developing robust security protocols.

Additionally, they ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations and standards related to data protection and security.

Detailed Exam Information & Syllabus for Aspiring Ethical Hackers

The CEH exam covers ethical hacking techniques, security testing methodologies, information security legislation, and standards, and security controls. It also assesses skills in penetration testing, footprinting, reconnaissance, and enumeration.

It consists of 125 multiple-choice questions and candidates have four hours to complete it. The questions are based on real-world scenarios and practical examples to test the candidate's application of knowledge and skills.

To pass the CEH exam, candidates need a score of 70% or higher. This ensures that certified ethical hackers have the knowledge to identify vulnerabilities and enhance an organization's security.

Types of questions and format details

The CEH exam has different types of questions: multiple-choice, scenario-based, and code-revision. These test the candidate's understanding of ethical hacking. The questions need the examinee to apply knowledge in real-world situations and think critically about potential threats and vulnerabilities.

The exam questions may include examples of security breaches, network configurations, or system vulnerabilities. This tests the candidate's ability to identify and address security risks. They may also need to analyze lines of code to find vulnerabilities.

The question format is important for evaluating the candidate's knowledge, analytical skills, and practical application of ethical hacking concepts. It helps the certification body assess the individual's competency in protecting against cybersecurity threats.

Passing criteria for CEH candidates

Candidates seeking the CEH certification must meet specific criteria to obtain the designation. Factors considered in determining a candidate's success in the examination include their knowledge and understanding of ethical hacking, and their ability to apply this knowledge in practical scenarios.

The exam evaluates multiple skills, including knowledge of security controls, tools and techniques used in ethical hacking, and the ability to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in systems. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that certified individuals have a well-rounded skill set essential for a career in ethical hacking.

While there are no specific benchmarks or thresholds for passing score, candidates must achieve a high enough overall score to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field. Ethical hackers are required to be well-versed in areas such as network, web and cloud security, cryptography, and risk management in order to effectively identify and manage security risks.

Registration process and associated costs

To register for the CEH exam, you need to:

  • Complete the application form on the official website.
  • Provide personal information, educational background, and work experience.
  • Pay an exam fee of £800.
  • Consider costs for study materials, practice exams, and training courses.

It's important to verify eligibility requirements before starting the registration process.

Comparison with other top certifications such as CompTIA PenTest+ and Offensive Security OSCP

The Certified Ethical Hacker certification is highly valued by industry professionals. It's in great demand because it covers threat management, intrusion detection, and incident handling comprehensively.

In contrast, CompTIA PenTest+ and Offensive Security OSCP certifications focus more on penetration testing and advanced hacking techniques. This makes them more suitable for individuals seeking specialized knowledge in those areas.

For CEH, candidates need at least two years of professional security experience. However, CompTIA PenTest+ allows candidates to substitute this requirement with additional education or other certifications. Offensive Security OSCP doesn't have any prerequisites.

CEH emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded understanding of cybersecurity concepts. On the other hand, the other certifications may focus more on practical skills and hands-on experience.

As a result, CEH is often considered a more generalist certification suitable for individuals with a background in information technology or cybersecurity management. CompTIA PenTest+ and Offensive Security OSCP are more focused on hands-on application and mastery of specific hacking techniques.

Role of the CEH among ethical hackers' certifications

The Certified Ethical Hacker certification is highly valued by IT professionals. It covers a wide range of ethical hacking techniques and methodologies. CEH includes essential skills like information security threats, network scanning, system hacking, and cryptography. Its flexibility and comprehensiveness appeal to cybersecurity professionals at different levels and roles.

Industries such as finance, healthcare, and government sectors highly value CEH credentials due to the increasing need for strong cybersecurity measures. The CEH exam evaluates candidates on ethical hacking methodologies, penetration testing, and security analysis. To pass, candidates need a solid understanding of these core concepts and practical proficiency in ethical hacking techniques.

Summary

Get your EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification now to show off your skills in spotting and dealing with security threats. This certification proves your expertise in ethical hacking techniques and can benefit any organization aiming to boost its cybersecurity. As the need for cybersecurity experts grows, getting this certification can lead to well-paying job options in the field. Don't hesitate to enhance your qualifications and progress in your cybersecurity career.

 

Readynez offers a 5-day EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker Course and Certification Program, providing you with all the learning and support you need to successfully prepare for the exam and certification. The CEH course, and all our other EC-Council courses, are also included in our unique Unlimited Security Training offer, where you can attend the CEH and 60+ other Security courses for just €249 per month, the most flexible and affordable way to get your Security Certifications. 

FAQ

What are the prerequisites for obtaining the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification?

To obtain the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification, candidates must have two years of work experience in the Information Security domain and complete the official EC-Council training program or have two years of experience as a security professional.

How can I register for the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam?

To register for the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam, visit the EC-Council website, create an account, and then schedule your exam through their online portal. You can also contact an approved EC-Council testing center to register and schedule your exam.

What topics are covered in the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam?

The EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam covers topics such as network security, web application security, and penetration testing. It also includes areas like cryptography, incident response, and ethical hacking methodology.

Is there a time limit for completing the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam?

Yes, there is a time limit of 4 hours to complete the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification exam.

What are the benefits of obtaining the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification?

The benefits of obtaining the EC-Council Ethical Hacker Certification include gaining in-demand cybersecurity skills, increasing job prospects and earning potential, and being recognized as a trusted professional in the industry.

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