Understanding CEH: Is It Suitable for Beginners?

  • Is CEH an entry level certification?
  • Published by: André Hammer on Jan 30, 2024
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Would you like to pursue a career in ethical hacking? If yes, you might have heard of "CEH" and wondered if it's suitable for beginners. CEH stands for Certified Ethical Hacker. It's a certification that confirms your ability to understand and identify potential vulnerabilities in computer systems.

In this article, we'll discuss what CEH entails and if it's a good starting point for newcomers in ethical hacking. If you're keen on entering the cybersecurity field, read on to discover if CEH is the right choice for you.

CEH: A Glimpse into Ethical Hacking

CEH, provided by EC-Council, is a well-known certification for ethical hacking. EC-Council offers cybersecurity training with a focus on practical skills and real-world applicability.

CEH covers topics such as footprinting and reconnaissance, scanning networks, system hacking, and malware threats. It is suitable for both entry-level and experienced professionals. The certification exam ensures individuals have the knowledge and skills to identify and address vulnerabilities in systems.

CEH is sought after by individuals interested in ethical hacking and cybersecurity, regardless of their level of experience.

The Role of EC-Council in Cybersecurity Training

EC-Council is significant in the field of cybersecurity training as it offers a wide range of programs tailored to meet the needs of professionals at various stages of their careers. The organization provides both entry-level and advanced certification courses, which contribute to the development of professionals in the cybersecurity industry.

These programs cover fundamental concepts as well as more specialized areas of study, ensuring that professionals are well-equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge. What makes EC-Council stand out is its focus on practical, hands-on training, which allows individuals to gain real-world experience and apply their skills in a professional setting. Moreover, the organization's emphasis on industry relevance ensures that its certification programs stay up-to-date with current trends and technologies.

This approach distinguishes EC-Council from other providers, making it a preferred choice for individuals seeking cybersecurity training and certification.

Variety of Certifications Available in Cybersecurity

There are different types of cybersecurity certifications available. They range from entry-level to advanced and cover various areas of expertise, such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, and network security.

For instance, the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and CompTIA Security+ certifications have varying prerequisites and focus areas. CEH usually requires more practical experience and knowledge of hacking tools, while CompTIA Security+ is more general and has no specific experience prerequisites.

When considering the CEH certification, it is advisable to have at least two years of work experience in the information security domain and a strong understanding of networking and security concepts. This ensures that individuals attempting the CEH certification are well-prepared for the comprehensive nature of the exam.

There are numerous cybersecurity certifications catering to different skill levels and areas of interest. This allows individuals to pursue credentials that align with their career goals and level of experience.

Is CEH an Entry Level Certification?

Comparison with CompTIA Security+

CEH and CompTIA Security+ are well-known certifications in cybersecurity. However, their prerequisites differ. CEH requires a minimum of two years of work experience in information security, while CompTIA Security+ has no mandatory work experience requirements.

In terms of focus, CEH emphasizes penetration testing and ethical hacking, while CompTIA Security+ covers a wider range of security concepts, including network and organizational security.

It's recommended to have prior IT industry experience or a basic understanding of IT concepts before attempting CEH, unlike CompTIA Security+.

These differences indicate that CEH is not an entry-level certification compared to CompTIA Security+ due to its requirements and specific focus areas.

Prerequisites of CEH vs CompTIA Security+

To obtain the CEH certification, you need to have some cybersecurity experience and finish an official training program.

The CompTIA Security+ certification doesn't have mandatory prerequisites but is recommended for those with 2 years of IT administration experience, focusing on security.

CEH is for ethical hacking and penetration testing, while CompTIA Security+ covers network security and risk management.

For CEH, it's best for those with several years of security-related work experience, while CompTIA Security+ is suitable for beginners or those with less experience.

Consider your experience level and career goals when deciding which certification to pursue.

Area of Focus for Each Certification

The CEH certification focuses on practical aspects of ethical hacking. This includes identifying system vulnerabilities, executing attack methodologies, and developing countermeasures.

This is different from other cybersecurity certifications which may focus more on theoretical knowledge or specific technologies.

The EC-Council Essentials Series certifications highlight practical skills and knowledge related to key cybersecurity areas. These include encryption, incident response, and network security.

These certifications aim to equip professionals with hands-on abilities necessary to navigate the complex and ever-changing cybersecurity landscape. They are valuable for individuals pursuing entry-level positions in the industry.

Recommended Experience before Attempting CEH

Before attempting the CEH certification, individuals should have strong technical skills. It's important to have a solid understanding of cybersecurity concepts, including networking, operating systems, and programming. Practical experience in cybersecurity is highly recommended, with at least two years of relevant work experience.

Specific industry certifications or training programs are not required prerequisites for the CEH. However, having certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) can provide a strong foundation and help individuals better prepare for the CEH exam.

In addition, hands-on experience with penetration testing tools and techniques is essential for success in the CEH certification.

Essentials for Beginners: Launches from EC-Council

EC-Council Essentials Series: A Starting Point

The EC-Council trains beginners in cybersecurity. The Certified Ethical Hacker certification is an entry level certification. It teaches essential knowledge and skills to identify and prevent cyber threats.

The EC-Council Essentials Series is a starting point for those interested in cybersecurity. It covers fundamental concepts such as network security, ethical hacking, and risk management. These essentials help beginners understand cybersecurity principles and gain practical experience in identifying vulnerabilities and implementing security measures.

Conclusion

The Certified Ethical Hacker is a professional certification for people with limited IT knowledge. It includes topics such as hacking methodology, footprinting, scanning, and enumeration. To pursue CEH, it is important to have a good understanding of networking and some prior experience in IT. Beginners should consider gaining foundational knowledge and experience before pursuing this certification.

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 is CEH and what does it stand for?

CEH stands for Certified Ethical Hacker. It is a professional certification for ethical hackers who penetrate networks and computer systems to test and assess their security. It is a valuable credential for information security professionals.

Is CEH suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Certified Ethical Hacker certification is suitable for beginners who are interested in pursuing a career in ethical hacking and cybersecurity. The CEH training provides foundational knowledge and practical skills for beginners to understand and assess vulnerabilities and address security threats.

What are the prerequisites for taking the CEH exam?

To take the CEH exam, candidates must have at least two years of work experience in the information security domain. Alternatively, they can attend official EC-Council training, like the CEH course, to fulfill this requirement.

What are the benefits of obtaining a CEH certification for beginners?

Obtaining a CEH certification for beginners can lead to career advancement, higher salary potential, and increased job opportunities in the field of cybersecurity. It demonstrates proficiency in ethical hacking and opens doors to positions such as security analyst, penetration tester, and network security specialist.

What resources are available to help beginners prepare for the CEH exam?

There are various resources available to help beginners prepare for the CEH exam, such as official study guides, practice exams, online training courses, and virtual labs. Examples include the "CEH Certified Ethical Hacker All-in-One Exam Guide" by Matt Walker and online courses from Cybrary and Udemy.

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