What Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First?

Table of Contents

• Why Start with a Cybersecurity Certification?
• What Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First?
  • 1. CompTIA Security+
  • 2. CompTIA Network+
  • 3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
  • 4. ACSMI Cybersecurity Certification
• How to Choose the Right Certification for You
• Benefits of Earning Your First Cybersecurity Certification
• Certification Comparison Table
• FAQs About What Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First
• Final Thoughts

If you’re venturing into the fast-paced world of cybersecurity, you’ve probably asked yourself, what cybersecurity certification should I get first? Choosing the right starting point sets the foundation for your career, helping you build essential skills, gain credibility, and open doors to exciting opportunities.

With countless certification options available, navigating the best path can feel overwhelming, especially as each certification serves distinct career goals. This guide simplifies the process by walking you through the top certifications for beginners, providing insight into how they align with job roles, and showcasing training programs like ACSMI certification for supplemental knowledge and hands-on expertise.

Why Start with a Cybersecurity Certification?

A cybersecurity certification is your entry ticket into the industry. It demonstrates your skills, shows commitment to learning, and often serves as a baseline requirement for employers. Starting with the right certification ensures you gain foundational knowledge while keeping future career goals in focus.

Benefits of getting certified early include:

• Skill validation: Prove your knowledge to potential employers.
• Higher earning potential: Certified professionals earn more than those without credentials.
• Job eligibility: Many roles require at least one recognized certification.
• Career clarity: Entry-level certifications help you discover which aspects of cybersecurity energize you most, whether it’s network security, compliance, or ethical hacking.

What Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First?

1. CompTIA Security+

If you’re new to the industry and asking what cybersecurity certification should I get first, CompTIA Security+ is widely considered the ideal starting point.

Why Choose Security+?

• Beginner-friendly: It’s designed for individuals who are new to cybersecurity but have a basic understanding of IT concepts.
• Broad coverage: Teaches you about network security, risk management, cryptography, and compliance.
• DoD Approved: Security+ is recognized under the DoD 8570 directive, making it essential for government roles.

Who is it for?

• IT professionals transitioning into cybersecurity.
• Students exploring entry-level careers like Security Analyst or IT Administrator.

2. CompTIA Network+

For those asking what cybersecurity certification should I get first, Network+ often complements or precedes Security+.

Why Choose Network+?

• Focus on networks: It lays a strong foundation for understanding how networks operate and how to secure them, essential knowledge for advanced cybersecurity roles.
• Flexible prerequisites: No prior certifications are needed, but some IT fundamentals can help.

Who is it for?

• Aspiring Network Security Specialists.
• Cyber professionals interested in roles with a focus on network integrity.

3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Although CEH is not an entry-level certification, individuals with some IT experience often start here to explore cybersecurity’s offensive side.

Why Choose CEH?

• Learn hacking techniques: Gain insights into how attackers exploit weaknesses and how to defend against them.
• Hands-on focus: It combines theory with practical ethical hacking scenarios.

Who is it for?

• Those pursuing penetration testing, ethical hacking, or vulnerability analysis roles.

4. ACSMI Cybersecurity Certification

If you’re asking what cybersecurity certification should I get first but want a program that boosts confidence with practical skills, consider the ACSMI certification.

Why ACSMI Stands Out

• 400+ comprehensive modules covering critical topics like malware analysis, cloud security, and breach investigation.
• Hands-on labs offering practical learning beyond theory.
• Future-proof training updated with the latest threats and tools.

Pairing a foundational certification like Security+ with a program like ACSMI strengthens your job-readiness and ability to excel in real-world scenarios.

How to Choose the Right Certification for You

The best certification depends on your background, interests, and career aspirations. Ask yourself the following questions before deciding:

• Do you have IT experience, or are you starting from scratch?
  • If you’re a beginner, CompTIA Security+ is a great choice.
• Are you looking for a niche specialization, such as ethical hacking?
  • CEH may be worth exploring.

Regardless of your choice, it’s essential to pick a certification that aligns with your current skills and future goals.

Benefits of Earning Your First Cybersecurity Certification

Securing your first cybersecurity certification offers more than just a credential to enhance your resume—it opens doors to countless opportunities that shape your career trajectory. Here’s how it can empower you:

• Establish Credibility
  Earning a recognized certification proves you meet industry standards, making you a trustworthy and skilled candidate. Employers prioritize certified individuals, as it guarantees they possess verified knowledge and practical capability to tackle cybersecurity challenges.

• Unlock Career Flexibility
  Many beginner certifications are vendor-neutral, allowing you to work across various industries and environments without being locked into specific technologies. This broad applicability helps you explore diverse roles, from government to private sector jobs.

• Increase Your Earning Potential
  Certified professionals consistently earn higher salaries than their uncertified counterparts. Even in entry-level roles, certifications make you stand out, giving you leverage when negotiating compensation.

• Expand Networking Opportunities
  Joining the community linked to your certification connects you with industry professionals, mentors, and trainers. From study groups to professional events, these connections can lead to job prospects, collaborations, and continuous growth in your field.

Certification Comparison Table

The ACSMI certification program stands out as one of the most comprehensive training avenues in the cybersecurity landscape. With over 400 modules covering a vast array of topics—from foundational cybersecurity principles to advanced threat mitigation techniques—this certification offers professionals an unparalleled learning experience. Whether you’re starting your career or looking to deepen your expertise, the ACSMI program equips you with the hands-on knowledge and real-world skills required to excel in today’s rapidly evolving cybersecurity field.

FAQs About What Cybersecurity Certification Should I Get First

1. Do I Need IT Experience to Start a Cybersecurity Certification?
While experience helps, certifications like CompTIA Security+ and ACSMI are beginner-friendly and don’t require an IT background.

2. How Long Does It Take to Earn My First Certification?
Most entry-level certifications, such as Security+, can be completed within 3–6 months of study.

3. Is Cybersecurity Certification Expensive?
Certifications range from $300–$600. Programs like ACSMI certification, while comprehensive, offer long-term value through hands-on skill-building.

4. Do Certifications Expire?
Yes, most cybersecurity certifications require renewal every 2–3 years. Renewal typically involves continuing education or re-examination.

5. Can I Get Multiple Certifications?
Absolutely. Certifications like Security+ and CEH complement each other and offer diverse skill sets to broaden job opportunities.

Final Thoughts

When deciding what cybersecurity certification should I get first, consider your starting point and desired career trajectory. For most beginners, certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Network+ offer the perfect balance of foundational knowledge and industry relevance. Pairing these with a hands-on program like the ACSMI certification ensures you gain practical experience that sets you apart in a competitive job market.